Captain Tom Moore Honoured as NHS Nightingale Hospital Opens in Harrogate
War Hero to Open New Nightingale Hospital
The legendary Captain Tom Moore, the 99-year-old war veteran who raised a staggering £23 million for the NHS, has been invited to be the guest of honour at the official launch of the NHS Nightingale Yorkshire and Humber hospital in Harrogate next Tuesday (21st April).
Though he won’t be there in person, Captain Tom will praise NHS staff via video link as the new facility opens its doors, celebrating frontline heroes in his distinctive style.
From 100 Garden Laps to National Hero
Captain Tom’s fundraising journey started as a modest challenge – to walk 100 laps of his garden before turning 100, aiming to raise just £1,000 for NHS charities. The nation rallied behind him, pushing donations past £23 million from over a million supporters.
Reflecting on his achievement, Captain Tom said: “I am still amazed by the kindness and generosity of the UK public, especially during such uncertain times. This shows how much we all value the dedication and sacrifices of our NHS workers. I have fought during a war, and they are now fighting in a war too.”
NHS Boss Praises Captain Tom’s ‘Inspiring Service’
Sir Simon Stevens, NHS chief executive, applauded Captain Tom’s efforts: “On behalf of the NHS, our heartfelt thanks go to Captain Tom Moore for his remarkable fundraising and to the public for their generosity. Inviting him as our guest of honour is the least we can do to thank him for his inspiring service and example.”
He added: “The NHS Nightingales symbolise the nationwide effort to prepare for the greatest health emergency in over a century. However, we all hope these hospitals won’t be needed as much thanks to the public staying home to save lives.”
Nightingale Hospitals: The NHS’s Lifeline During Crisis
The newly opened Nightingale hospital in Harrogate is one of seven across the UK, set up as part of an unprecedented NHS mobilisation to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.
- 33,000 extra beds have been freed up nationwide – the equivalent of building 50 new hospitals.
- An additional 8,000 beds are available through deals with the private sector.
- Nightingale hospitals stand ready to boost local services if coronavirus cases surge.
Thanks to these measures, NHS capacity remains robust, ensuring care for both COVID-19 patients and those with other urgent needs.
