Captain Sir Tom Moore dead aged 100 – Kane and Beckham leads tributes as sporting world remembers national treasure

HARRY KANE led the sporting tributes to Captain Sir Tom Moore after the national treasure died aged 100.

The war veteran, who raised millions for the NHS during the pandemic, lost his battle with coronavirus.

He was admitted to hospital on Saturday night after struggling with his breathing.

And his heartbroken family today confirmed Captain Tom has tragically passed away.

Tributes have poured in for the fund-raising hero, including from sports stars.

Tottenham and England striker Harry Kane tweeted: "Very sad to hear this news as he was an inspirational man who did so much for others. My thoughts are with his family and friends."

England manager Gareth Southgate said: "Captain Sir Tom Moore demonstrated the very best of England during an extremely difficult time for the nation.

"It is no exaggeration to say he helped bring the country together in a way that few ever could, and he leaves a legacy that will never be forgotten.

"I was especially struck by his dedication to going above and beyond with his personal challenge, his relentless positivity and his good humour.

"It was a wonderful moment to see him chosen to lead England’s Lionhearts squad celebrating 23 individuals who had done so much to help others this past year – one of many deserved honours that came his way.

"He will be missed, but we will remember him."

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David Beckham posted on Instagram: "Today we have lost a true hero, Captain Sir Tom Moore. What he achieved for our NHS will never be forgotten. Tom, you were truly the very best of British.

"When our country and our world was struggling you gave us hope, put a smile on our faces and made us believe that tomorrow would be a good day. Rest in Peace Sir Tom."

Ex-England striker Gary Lineker said: "How terribly sad: Captain Sir Tom Moore has passed away. What an extraordinary life, with the most wonderful finale over the last year. A National treasure and a hero. RIP."

Steph Houghton tweeted: "What an inspirational man, that showed the way for everyone! Thoughts go out to his family and friends!"

Former world heavyweight champion Frank Bruno said: "It is with great sadness I have just learned of the passing of Captain Tom.

"He was an inspiration 2 us all he created a legacy and drew attention to the NHS at their time of financial need. We never met but he was my hero for last year RIP Captain Sir Tom."

England's cricket team added: "RIP Captain Sir Tom Moore. An inspiration to us all."

Captain Tom's daughters Hannah and Lucy said in a touching statement: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear father, Captain Sir Tom Moore.

"We are so grateful that we were with him during the last hours of his life; Hannah, Benjie and Georgia by his bedside and Lucy on FaceTime. We spent hours chatting to him, reminiscing about our childhood and our wonderful mother. We shared laughter and tears together.

"The last year of our father’s life was nothing short of remarkable. He was rejuvenated and experienced things he’d only ever dreamed of.

";Whilst he’d been in so many hearts for just a short time, he was an incredible father and grandfather, and he will stay alive in our hearts forever."

The hero, who became a beacon of hope as coronavirus first gripped the world, fell ill with pneumonia and last week tested positive for the disease.

The war veteran won the hearts of the nation with his bid to raise money for NHS staff before his 100th birthday on April 30 last year.

His aim was to raise £1,000 walking 100 laps of the 25-metre (82ft) loop in his garden with the aid of a frame.

The champ then vowed to keep on walking while people were still donating after he achieved the amazing feat on April 16.

Staggeringly, he went on to raise £32,796,355 for NHS charities and received a knighthood from the Queen.

Captain Tom became a shining light for the nation in the darkest moments of the pandemic.