AS national hero Captain Tom Moore celebrates his 100th birthday today, Worcester News readers have thanked him for raising almost £30million for the NHS – and the war veteran has thanked them for their support.

The former soldier – whose incredible fundraising efforts during the coronavirus pandemic have made him a national treasure - took time out to deliver a personal message to readers who have donated to his cause.

As he prepared to read goodwill messages in some of the 125,000 birthday cards sent by well-wishers from across the globe, Captain Tom told our readers: "I am so deeply and sincerely grateful to the tremendous British public and especially the readers of the paper for their help. You have shown me so much love.

"When we started off with this exercise, we didn't anticipate we'd get anything near that sort of money. It's really amazing."

Captain Tom, who was born in Keighley and now lives in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, hoped to raise a few thousand pounds for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday.

His efforts proved an inspiration to people coming to terms with the coronavirus pandemic and donations poured in from all over the world.

With the total standing at almost £30m last night, the former Army officer, who served in Burma during the Second World War, holds the record for the largest sum ever raised in by an individual charity walk.

He also holds a second world record as the oldest person to have a number-one single in the UK charts after recording 'You'll Never Walk Alone' with singer Michael Ball.

And he isn't finished yet.

Looking forward, Captain Tom told us: "I'd like to say a big thank you to all the readers who have sent me birthday congratulations.

"The tremendous British public have shown me so much love. You have repurposed and re-energised me, and for that I will be forever grateful."

Worcester MP Robin Walker called Captain Tom's fundraising a "phenomenal achievement" and said he hoped he would have a happy birthday.

Mr Walker said: "What he has achieved has been phenomenal and encompasses the spirit of defiance and stubborn determination our country is very proud of in our veterans.

"It has been great to see what he has done and the public reaction to it has been incredible.

"I wish Captain Tom Moore a very happy birthday indeed."

West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin also sent her best wishes, saying: "Captain Tom Moore has been an inspiration to us all and proof that age is not an obstacle to making a huge difference to many people’s lives.

"I am sure the whole of West Worcestershire will join me in wishing him a happy birthday and hopefully a restful and peaceful day off."

Worcester News readers sent in dozens of birthday messages to Captain Moore, who served in India and Burma during the Second World War.

Sue Gardner wrote: "Happy 100th birthday sir, hope you have a wonderful day and are totally spoilt like you deserve, you're a national treasure."

Sarah P Mann wrote: "What an inspiration you are to us all. Happy 100th birthday, enjoy your day and many days after that.

"You gave us something to show our children, that you should never give up and always think of others."

Robbie Briggs-Zurek wrote: "Happy 100th birthday, Captain Tom Moore. You are an inspiration to us all and we, as a country, owe you a debt of gratitude for your military service but also for raising so much money for the NHS. Have a great time."

Melissa Robinson wrote: "Happy 100th birthday, Captain, you are an incredible man and someone to strive to be like.

"No words can describe the amazing thing you have done. And all I can say is thank you. Wishing you all the best on your special day."

Anita Bradford wrote: "Happy 100th birthday Captain Tom. You are amazing and an inspiration to us all. Enjoy your special day."