A PETITION is set to be launched by a police sergeant to give Sir Captain Tom Moore a military state funeral to honour his achievements.

Second World War veteran Sir Captain Tom melted hearts across the world last year after walking 100 laps of his garden to mark his 100th birthday to raise money for the NHS during the first lockdown.

He set a goal of raising £1,000 but such was the publicity that the challenge generated more than £32m was amassed.

Sir Captain Tom was knighted by the Queen in July.

His health took a turn for the worse in January, and after suffering with pneumonia and Covid-19, he died yesterday, surrounded by his family.

Following his death Greater Manchester Police police sergeant Gary Watters has lodged a bid to set up a petition to hold a state military funeral for Sir Captain Tom.

It is in the process of being approved.

Sgt Watters' friend Anthony Bonney also supports the work.

Mr Bonney said: "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 out military regardless if its 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.

"This funeral should not be at the family's expense."