Captain Tom Moore receives 100,000 birthday cards after raising millions for NHS

‘He is absolutely blown away and humbled by the support,’ says his daughter

Captain Tom Moore has said he is “blown away” after receiving more than 100,000 birthday cards from members of the public ahead of his 100th birthday on Thursday.

The Second World War veteran became an international celebrity after raising more than £28m for NHS Charities Together by walking laps of his garden.

“He is absolutely blown away and humbled by the support,” his daughter Lucy Teixeira, 51, told The Sunday People.

Ms Teixeira said her father had also been sent at least 1,000 presents including chocolates and flowers.

She added: “I’m going to be singing Happy Birthday to him on BBC Breakfast on Thursday, so I’m looking forward to doing that. And he will have cake – he loves cake.”

The war veteran initially set out to raise £1,000 before his 100th birthday by walking laps of his garden, but his campaign quickly captured the heart of the nation and far exceeded his original target.

Capt Moore, of Bedfordshire, was awarded the Pride of Britain Award for his fundraising efforts.

Earlier this week he became the oldest person to score a UK number one single for his rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” with Michael Ball and The NHS Voices of Care Choir.

His daughter said: “It’s ­amazing. I mean what a journey in less than two weeks – incredible.

“It was such a simple thing to do – we as a family thought £1,000 was perfectly reasonable.

“To watch it all unfold has been thrilling, we are incredibly proud.”

Captain Moore has received messages of appreciation from numerous people, including the prime minister and members of the royal family.

The PM is reportedly keen to honour the veteran for his admirable fundraising efforts.

“From his military contributions to his support for NHS staff, Tom has demonstrated a lifetime of bravery and compassion,” said a Downing Street spokesperson.

“The prime minister will certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom’s heroic efforts.”