Tribute double bill: Captain Sir Tom Moore and Maureen Colquhoun

Yesterday, Captain Sir Tom Moore, famous for raising over £32 million for the NHS during the coronavirus crisis having initially intended to raise the more modest sum of £1000, passed away, from coronavirus.

During the first few months of the initial lockdown in Spring 2020, Captain Sir Tom, knighted for his efforts and also given the honorary rank of colonel, inspired so much hope to so many during that difficult time when he completed those walks to raise money for the NHS, and also when healthcare staff were under so much pressure, and still are. He also became the oldest person to record a UK number one single, when he recorded a cover version of "You'll Never Walk Alone" with Michael Ball.

That same day, Maureen Colquhoun, the first openly lesbian MP in the UK and an important campaigner for women's rights inside and outside of Parliament, passed away as well. Her time as Labour MP for Northampton North was short and colourful to say the least, but she was clearly ahead of her time. Although Britain has not taken significant steps to ensure equality on committees and provisions for working mothers who are MPs, many other European countries have.

Farewell, Captain Sir Tom and also Maureen. Both of you proved inspirations to the nation in your own way, past and present.

Captain Sir Thomas Moore, born 30 April 1920, departed this life on 2 February 2021, aged 100 years.

Maureen Morfydd Colquhoun, born 12 August 1928, departed this life on 2 February 2021, aged 92 years.

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