Colonel Tom Moore, who became a national hero in Britain after raising 33 million pounds ($61.8 million AUD) for the National Health Service in the run-up to his 100th birthday, is to be knighted.
He becomes “Sir Tom” after a special nomination from Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The World War Two veteran raised the world record sum by painstakingly completing 100 laps of his garden with the aid of a walking frame.
“Colonel Tom’s fantastic fundraising broke records, inspired the whole country and provided us all with a beacon of light through the fog of coronavirus,” Mr Johnson said on Tuesday.
“On behalf of everyone who has been moved by his incredible story, I want to say a huge ‘thank you.’ He’s a true national treasure.”
The honour is the latest bestowed on the 100-year-old. For his 100th birthday last month, Queen Elizabeth agreed that he should be made an honorary colonel and he was also made an honorary member of the England cricket team.
He holds the Guinness World Record for the most money raised by an individual through a walk.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits.
Testing for coronavirus is now widely available across Australia. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
The federal government's coronavirus tracing app COVIDSafe is available for download from your phone's app store.
SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments. News and information is available in 63 languages at sbs.com.au/coronavirus
Share
