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THE fundraising exploits of Captain Tom Moore have become the stuff of legend.
Now his namesake – 70-year-old Lochwinnoch man Tom Moore – has taken on a marathon charity challenge of his own.
While Captain Tom generated more than £30million for the NHS by completing 100 laps of his Bedfordshire garden by his 100th birthday,
Renfrewshire’s very own version is busy walking the equivalent of a marathon to support St Vincent’s Hospice.
Wearing a wacky costume each day, the dad-of-three has been clocking up the miles in his back garden.
Tom and wife Anne were regular supporters of the Howwood-based hospice for many years before she sadly passed away three years ago.
With a garden exactly 50 yards long – and a neighbour invigilating – Tom is covering 26.2 miles, spread out over seven days.
He originally set a goal of £500 but doubled that before the first step was taken and had passed £6,000 by the time The Gazette went to press.
Tom said: “The challenge is to make sure St Vincent’s continues to be okay.
“Life goes on, virus or not. It’s so important to support the hospice because of the emotional distress people are in when loved ones are dying. The hospice gives comfort.”
Outfits worn by Tom during his fundraising walk have included everything from Frankenstein’s monster to KFC founder Colonel Sanders.
He has also encouraged residents to don their own fancy dress outfits when out for daily exercise or essential trips to the shops.
Through Facebook, Tom has been able to see their efforts.
He has also been supported by grandson Jake, who dressed up as Woody from Toy Story.
Tom is due to complete his final laps today, with The Gazette reliably informed that Santa will be making an appearance.
Louise Strachan, senior fundraiser at St Vincent’s Hospice, said: “Tom and his family have been incredible supporters of the hospice for years now.
“His wife Anne was a beloved volunteer in our Lochwinnoch shop and was cared for at St Vincent’s, so this is a cause which we know is close to their hearts.
“What Tom is doing is absolutely unbelievable. To take on a marathon in your garden is one thing but to do this and keep everyone smiling with his range of fancy dress outfits is fantastic.
“He has so far raised more than £6,000, which is absolutely incredible, and we cannot thank him enough for what he is doing for us.
“If you are able, please support our very own local hero.”
To make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/thomas-moore21.
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