Union Jack flying in Watford in respect of Captain Tom Moore

The 100-year-old’s death on Tuesday has prompted reaction from around the world, after he raised more than £30 million for the NHS during the first coronavirus lockdown.

Watford Borough Council says Captain Moore “was a beacon of hope who lifted the nation when we needed it most and inspired people all over the world”.

Out of respect for Captain Moore, the Union Flag is flying at half-mast outside the council today (February 3).

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said Captain Moore was a “source of inspiration” in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.

He said: “On behalf on the whole town and even as far as the whole world, we are all deeply saddened of Captain Sir Tom Moore passing away. 

Tributes at the plaque in Town Hall Square, Keighley in tribute to 100-year-old charity fundraiser Captain Sir Tom Moore (photo PA)

“Captain Moore became an unlikely role model this year at the age of 100, but through his kindness and never-ending determination, Tom - supported generously by so many people - raised over £33million for the NHS, which undoubtedly benefited their vital work to keep people safe and save lives."

He added: “I know that so many of us will be forever grateful for his positivity, service and kindness throughout his extraordinary life.

“From becoming a captain in the British Army during the Second World War fighting for freedom to walking 100 lengths in his back garden before reaching his 100th birthday, there was no end to his determination and selflessness.”

The Union Jack is being flown at half mast in Watford today

Cllr Aga Dychton, Chairman of Watford Borough Council said Captain Moore’s passing has meant the loss of a “great hero”.

She said: “Captain Sir Tom demonstrated how individual acts, as well as people working together, can help us to build strong, compassionate and courageous communities when we put others first and refuse to give up - even from their own back garden.

“This year he also set up the also set up 'The Captain Tom Foundation', which focuses on combating loneliness, championing education and equality, and continued support for the wonderful NHS. It will be great to see his legacy continued and inspiring a new generation of Captain Toms.

“Captain Tom was the very best of us, the best of British. We have lost a great hero, but because of you tomorrow will be a good day for so many more.

“Whilst we mourn his loss, we celebrate his life, so this is Ground Control to Captain Tom you really made the grade!”

Three Rivers District Council has also paid tribute to Captain Tom Moore, with chairman Cllr Keith Martin and leader of the council Cllr Sarah Nelmes issuing a joint statement.

It read: "He was the hero of the hour who inspired us all.

"In our darkest hour at the height of the Covid pandemic, we all needed someone to give us hope. Captain Sir Tom Moore was that person.

"He had lived his life to the full and served his country during the Second World War with great courage

"And when the world locked down for the pandemic, Captain Tom fought again, despite having in previous years broken his hip and been treated for skin cancer, to raise an astonishing £32m for the NHS.

"It is fitting that only yesterday we heard that three local charities, Watford Community Housing Trust, Community Learning Partnership, and the Peace Hospice have all been awarded funding directly raised by Captain Tom.

"Above all else, it was Captain Tom’s sense of public duty and his never-failing sense of optimism that tomorrow will be a better day that will continue to inspire us and live on in our hearts.

"As Captain Tom’s daughters have said: "The last year of our father’s life was nothing short of remarkable.”

"It’s fair to say, it was his finest hour.

"Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and with everyone who has so sadly lost a loved one in recent times."