Haghill Park Primary pays tribute to Captain Sir Tom Moore

The centenarian veteran captured the hearts of the nation as he raised money for charity during the coronavirus pandemic.

When he died last month after falling ill with Covid-19, a plan was hatched to honour his memory.

Jim Watson of The Friends of Dennistoun War Memorial and Paula Grant, head teacher of Haghill Park Primary School and Nursery Class, decided to launch 100 For Captain Tom.

Pupils and their families are completing 100 tasks and asking for sponsorship.

This might be 100 laps of the playground or garden, 100 star jumps or 100 circuits.

Some youngsters are even running along ever street between Dennistoun and Haghill.

Paula said: "During lockdown we spent a lot of time encouraging the kids to think about their superheroes.

"A man of Captain Tom's age who lived through everything he did is a real life superhero who showed that, no matter your age, you can achieve anything, and it's important the children keep his memory alive.

Pupils at Haghill Primary help raise funds for Sir Captain Tom Picture: Gordon Terris

"I was genuinely upset when he passed away; his story really tugged at my heartstrings.

"So we though this would be a lovely way to honour him.

Paula took the post of head teacher at Haghill Park in January last year and was keen to build on the close connections the school has in the community.

So she invited other local schools to join in with St Denis' and and Alexander Parade primaries taking on the challenge.

They are being helped by the Bluevale Community Club, which is carrying out fitness exercises with youngsters.

Money raised will pay for a permanent memorial to Captain Tom in each school as well as being divided between Poppy Scotland and the Emmie Smillie Charity Foundation.

At Haghill Park primary and nursery, a mural will be painted on a gable wall of Captain Tom in silhouette with a cherry blossom tree planted nearby.

Jim added: "Captain Tom was a wonderful man and this is a fitting way to honour him."