Calls for 100 roads on Hayling Island to join in singing for Captain Tom Moore's 100th birthday

Last Thursday, the residents of Fernhurst Close took part in the 8pm Clap for Our Carers while singing Captain Tom’s number one hit You’ll Never Walk Alone.

Hayling Helper Caroline Thompson and her neighbours wanted to help get Captain Tom to number one but by Thursday he had already reached the top spot, becoming the oldest artist to top the UK charts.

Instead, they played his song, which also features Michael Ball and the NHS Voices of Care Choir, through loudspeakers and all joined in singing the tune.

Caroline wants to make it even bigger and better this week and hopes 100 of the island’s 255 streets will get involved, as Thursday’s clap coincides with the charity star’s birthday.

She said: ‘If we can bring the community together and get 100 roads or more to join us in singing along on Thursday to celebrate his 100th birthday and to mark his phenomenal fundraising achievement it will be our small way of thanking him, the NHS and all key workers for everything they continue to do at this difficult time.’

Helping others through the island’s support network has given Caroline a purpose while she cannot visit clients from her soft furnishings business, and she has noticed a difference in the community at this time.

‘People are far more talkative now and chatty than before,’ Caroline told The News.

‘It seems to have got everyone’s minds focused on being nice to each other in the circumstances.’

Wendy Ball, founder of the Hayling Helpers which supports people all around the island, said: ‘A big thank you to Caroline Thompson for the great idea and organisation of this brilliant celebration for Captain Tom.

‘I am proud to share my birthday with such an inspiration. Happy 100th birthday Captain Tom and thank you on behalf of all the Hayling Helpers and our community.’

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