CAPTAIN Tom Moore has scored the UK’s No1 single with his cover of You’ll Never Walk Alone.
Yesterday he was close to losing his lead until his closest rival, Canadian superstar The Weeknd, urged his fans to back the war veteran’s song – which is raising money for the NHS.
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Tom, 99, is now the oldest ever person to land a No1 song in the Official Charts.
He recorded the song with Michael Ball and the NHS Care Choir.
It means Tom will celebrate his 100th birthday on Thursday at the same time as having the UK’s No1.
He said of the achievement: “What wonderful news to receive today, a No.1 single and a record breaker too – my grandchildren can’t believe I am a chart-topper.
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“I have to thank Michael Ball, the NHS Voices of Care Choir and everyone behind the scenes, who shared their talents and expertise in order to raise money for the NHS, to whom we owe so much.
“And, of course, the public for buying the single and donating – we’re in this together, and I am forever grateful for your support. This just proves ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’””
Michael heaped praise on Tom, who lives in Bedfordshire, and said he was an inspiration to the country.
He added: “This is the most extraordinary thing and one of the most proudest moments of my career.
“But it’s not about me, it’s about Captain Tom. Thank you for giving him a Number 1 on his 100th birthday. You are the best, God bless you.”
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Tom has now raised over £28million for the NHS and has fast become a national treasure.
His cover of You’ll Never Walk Alone sold over 13,000 more copies than The Weeknd – who was on course for his ninth week at No1 with Blinding Lights.
Tom’s feat saw him break a record as he is now the oldest person to land a UK No1 single.
Official Charts chief executive Martin Talbot said: “The sight of Captain Tom Moore and Michael Ball at the top of the Official Singles Chart this week should lift everybody’s spirits in these extraordinary times.
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“We are absolutely delighted to see them at the pinnacle and setting new landmarks as they go – including a record as the oldest Number 1 Singles artist of all time.
“It has been a roller coaster week, starting with a big initial lead for Capt Tom, before The Weeknd closed the gap yesterday to almost nothing – before a massive surge in the final day by Capt Tom.
“Huge thanks to the Weeknd for lending his support at the eleventh hour. But this is Captain Tom’s week – congratulations sir and happy birthday for next week.
“You are a hero to us all.”