A TEST Valley crematorium is honouring Captain Sir Tom Moore by raising money in his memory on what would have been his 101st birthday.

Test Valley Crematorium site manager, Rob Metcalf, plans on running 100 laps around the site’s car park in a bid to raise money for The Captain Tom Foundation.

The charity was created to ensure Sir Tom's message of hope becomes a lasting legacy by supporting causes that were close to his heart and remain dear to his family.

These include several which combat loneliness, champion education and equality and continue to support the NHS.

Now the 35-year-old hopes the challenge will take around two-and-a-half hours, which should see him cover around 16 miles.

Mr Metcalf said: “The biggest challenge will be the monotony of running around a relatively small car park 100 times, so I think it will be quite tough mentally.”

He won't be short of support during his challenge, because his team plan to cheer him on and give him a wristband at the end of each lap to ensure he completes 100 laps.

The site manager also said he’ll take on the challenge whatever the weather and explained: “I’m doing the run on Monday, 26 April and it’s a fixed date, regardless of the weather.

"Sir Tom would still be out there, so I won’t stop until all 100 laps have been completed, even if I have to crawl the last few.

“I’m honoured to be able to do something to support the Foundation. I remember seeing Sir Tom on television and it blew me away. He’s a national hero and highly inspirational.”

He added the crematorium is keen to support the charity, which he believes could turn into an annual event.

Mr Metcalf explained: "Anyone in the community who has used our crematorium can support our fundraising effort, by making a donation to our new Just Giving page.

"I am hoping this could turn into an annual event, with many more participants in the future, when we won’t have lockdown restrictions. But in the meantime, I’d be very grateful to anyone who makes a donation in support of such a good cause.

“The senior leadership team at Westerleigh has got our fundraising started with a £500 donation.

“Through the efforts of our colleagues and the support of our communities, Westerleigh Group wants to be able to make a meaningful donation to the Captain Tom Foundation to mark what would have been in his 101st birthday.”

To make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/westerleigh-group.