WHAT Captain Tom Moore has achieved surpassed all expectations.

The world is not short of shocking sights right now, with uncertain times providing unforeseen twists and turns each day.

But, even in the midst of these unprecedented times, the willpower of one man to walk 100 laps of his garden at 99 years old and single-handedly raise £30 million (and counting) for the National Health Service beggars belief.

Today, as you celebrate an incredible century of life Captain Tom, we salute you and wish you the happiest of birthdays.

And we are not alone. Second World War sweetheart Dame Vera Lynn, of Ditchling, praised Captain Moore for his actions and said she had been “inspired by his incredible achievement over the past few weeks”.

Kind words also came from our healthcare services who may well benefit from the awe-inspiring sum he has raised.

The Argus: Captain Tom Moore at his home in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire

A spokesman for the South East Coast Ambulance Service said: “Secamb would like to thank Captain Moore for his tremendous fundraising effort.

“It is an amazing amount of money to go to NHS Charities Together. Thank you to everyone who donated and we wish Captain Moore a very happy 100th birthday.”

MPs joined the ambulance service in sending a message to the Second World War veteran.

Kemptown’s Lloyd Russell-Moyle said: “Captain Tom’s story has captured the imagination of the nation and in what has been a dark time he has shown us a sense of resilience and good spirits.

"A huge happy birthday to Tom, I hope the Queen sends him an extra special birthday card for his 100th birthday.”

Hove MP Peter Kyle said: “Captain Tom inspired us all with his quiet, determined and dignified efforts.

"Seeing someone of his age push their limits with understatement and good humour put a face to what we often call the ‘best of British’.

"I’m so pleased he’s found time to talk to all of us in Brighton and Hove via The Argus, he’s captured all our hearts here.”

  • The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal. Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund