'Captain Tom Moore, we salute you': Builder shares poem dedicated to fundraising hero on 100th birthday
A Port Talbot builder-turned amateur poet has dedicated a heartfelt poem to Captain Tom Moore to mark the fundraising hero's 100th birthday.
Derek Davies, of Baglan Moor, said he felt compelled to share his thoughts on Captain Moore, who he described as "a national treasure".
The war veteran has raised almost £30m for NHS charities by walking 100 laps of his garden in Bedfordshire.
His birthday will be marked by an RAF flypast. This week Royal Mail have stamped all letters with a birthday message to the 100-year-old.
Captain Tom Moore completed the last of the 25-metre laps on Thursday 16 April and was cheered as he finished the 100th lap.
His achievements, which started at a modest target of £1,000 last week, have been praised by thousands including the prime minister and Prince Harry.
Derek Davies felt inspired to share his feelings about Captain Moore.
He said: "I think we were all amazed that this elderly gentlemen undertaken such a difficult challenge for one so old.
"His courage and determination saw him through with a nation watching is every step on TV.
"The guy is quite a remarkable person and fully deserves the accolade is receiving right now.
"He is the people’s champion and a national treasure."
Mr Davies, a self-employed builder, started writing poems after being left unable to work due to the lockdown.
The 60-year-old shared another poem urging people to stay at home and protect the NHS.
"I felt I needed to help in some way so I wrote the poem in support of the NHS and everyone who is playing their part in this," he said.
"We all need to stay at home to give the emergency services the time and space to help others."
Captain Tom MooreBy Derek Davies
Raise a glass for our hero,Captain Tom MooreHis goal to raise some moneyFor our NHS that we adore.This former army veteranSet out boldly on that questOne hundred laps around his gardenWould he stand up to the test?One hundred laps aged ninety nineWith his birthday looming fastOne thousand pounds his targetBut that target soon was past.On and on he boldly walkedWith a nation by his sideMillions and millions of pounds laterThat nation's now filled with pride.So much pride in one so caringSo much love for our NHSCaptain Tom Moore we salute youYou’re our hero and you’re the best.