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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Kyle O'Sullivan

Captain Tom Moore given emotional surprise amid heartbreak of being separated from family

Captain Tom Moore was given a special surprise on his 100th birthday while separated from his family.

The inspirational hero, who has raised more than £29 million for NHS Charities Together by walking laps of his garden, lives with his daughter Hannah.

But Captain Tom has been unable to see his other daughter, Lucy, and many members of his family due to the UK lockdown amid the coronavirus outbreak.

However, the NHS fundraiser did receive a special video call from Lucy and his grandson Max on BBC Breakfast before another huge surprise.

Calling in from Reading, Lucy praised her incredible "Daddy" for ticking off another impressive milestone.

The hero was excited to see his absent family (BBC)

Lucy said: "Daddy, another milestone ticked off, I’m so impressed. As your daughter I can’t believe it.

"You've reached your 100th year, amazing. You've raised nearly £30 million for the NHs, a number one single, and and encouraged and inspired so many people around the world to raise money.

"Well done! And I’m wondering what your next milestone will be."

In addition, grandson Max said he felt proud "beyond belief" as he labelled his grandfather "truly heroic".

Captain Tom was thrilled with his massive cake (BBC)

Emotional Captain Tom replied: "Thank you Lucy, thank you Max. It's a shame you can't be here."

The generous war veteran was then surprised with a massive birthday cake with a Spitfire on top.

He added: "Thank you all very much. It's difficult to say.

"But to have so many kind people like you who have made an effort and those standing in the cold thank you very much. It's very kind of you all."

Boris Johnson sent a special message to Captain Tom (BBC)

After receiving a special message from the Prime Minister, Captain Tom congratulated Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds on welcoming their baby boy.

Mr Johnson said his "heroic efforts have lifted the spirits of the entire nation" as he labelled Captain Tom a "point of light"

Captain Tom was thrilled to get a video message from Downing Street and admitted he was delighted they had a baby boy.

He said: "To get a message from the Prime Minister is really outstanding. He’s been doing so well. Look what he’s produced, or what Carrie has produced, another boy into the country.

"Well done Prime Minister and thank you for your message."

Captain Tom told Boris Johnson 'well done' (BBC)

Captain Tom has delivered an emotional message to the nation after reaching the incredible age of 100.

In a letter, he wrote: "Reaching 100 is quite something. Reaching 100 with such interest in me and huge generosity from the public is very overwhelming.

"People keep saying what I have done is remarkable, however it’s actually what you have done for me which is remarkable.

"I felt a little frustrated and disappointed after I broke my hip and it knocked my confidence. However, the past three weeks have put a spring back in my step. I have renewed purpose and have thoroughly enjoyed every second of this exciting adventure, but I can’t keep walking forever.

"The donations page will close at midnight this evening. NHS Charities Together still have their urgent appeal, so people can donate to them that way.

"I am going to spend my birthday with my family, both here in person and with my daughter remotely, and then I am going to have a few days’ rest. My legs may be tired, but my mind is racing and I’m hoping to be back very soon with other ways in which I can help people, help others.

"Please always remember, Tomorrow Will Be A Good Day."

"With my sincerest gratitude,

"Captain Tom Moore."

*BBC Breakfast airs on BBC One at 6am

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