“This funeral should not be at the family’s expense.”
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GMP officer launches petition to give Captain Sir Tom Moore a military state funeral
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A petition is set to be launched by a Greater Manchester Police sergeant to give Captain Sir Tom Moore a military state funeral to honour his achievements throughout the pandemic.
Following the Second World War veteran’s death, GMP sergeant Gary Watters, a former Bury response officer, has lodged a bid to set up a petition to hold a state funeral for Captain Tom.
Sir Winston Churchill was the last person to receive a state funeral in the UK back in 1965 with other non-monarch funerals including Lord Palmerston, Charles Darwin and William Gladstone.
The petition is currently in the process of being approved.
Sgt Watters’ friend Anthony Bonney also supports the work. Mr Bonney told Bolton News: “Sir Captain Tom touched a nation with the wonderful work he has done in the communities best interest.
“He gave us something to smile about even though it was a dark time for us with Covid-19.
“As a former member of the Maritime Volunteer Service and a former Air Cadet (SDRN 440 1st Manx), I love our members of our community that have served for us whether in the past or the present and I’m sure our military regardless if it’s British Army, Royal Navy or Air Force would want to stand shoulder to shoulder to give Sir Tom Moore who is a British hero the send-off he deserves.
It comes after prime minister Boris Johnson announced a national clap to honour Captain Tom and other NHS heroes this evening.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the Commons he will lead a clap from 10 Downing Street this evening at 6pm.
Mr Johnson said: “Captain Sir Tom Moore dedicated his life to serving his country and others.
“His was a long life, lived well. As Captain Tom repeatedly reminded us: Tomorrow will be a good day. He inspired the very best in us all and his legacy will continue to do so for generations to come.
“We now all have the opportunity to show our appreciation for him and all that he stood for and believed in.
“That’s why I encourage everyone to join in a national clap for Captain Tom and all those health workers for whom he raised money at 6pm this evening.”