In the wake of Captain Sir Tom Moore’s death on Tuesday, many have called for a nationwide round of applause in his honour.
The World War Two hero united the nation throughout the pandemic in his efforts to raise money for the NHS during the first spike in coronavirus.
He completed 100 laps of his garden, raising of £32m for NHS charities – it became one of the most remarkable fundraising exercises the country has ever seen.
Now Boris Johnson has asked Britain to clap for Captain Tom and other NHS heroes tonight at 6pm.
He died in Bedford Hospital yesterday aged 100, after he was admitted after contracting coronavirus.
Many people took to social media to call for a nationwide round of applause to pay tribute, similar to the Clap for Carers that was popular during the first lockdown.
#ClapForTom is already circulating on social media with one user writing: “Lots of people calling for #ClapForTom on Thursday evening. What a great idea and fitting tribute for this extraordinary man. Spread the word.”
Additionally, a Facebook group has been created which already has 70,000 members to spread the word about the idea.
Captain Sir Tom’s death sparked a wave of emotional messages from adoring fans, celebrities and even The Queen paid tribute.
While some organisers were planning a clap at 7pm on Thursday evening, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the Commons he will lead a clap from 10 Downing Street this evening at 6pm.
Mr Johnson said: “Captain Sir Tom Moore dedicated his life to serving his country and others.
“His was a long life, lived well. As Captain Tom repeatedly reminded us: Tomorrow will be a good day. He inspired the very best in us all and his legacy will continue to do so for generations to come.
“We now all have the opportunity to show our appreciation for him and all that he stood for and believed in.
“That’s why I encourage everyone to join in a national clap for Captain Tom and all those health workers for whom he raised money at 6pm this evening.”
