A CHERRY tree has been planted at the three main hospital sites of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust to remember Captain Sir Tom Moore, on what would have been his 101st birthday today (Friday, 30 April).

It was something repeated at hospitals up and down the country, thanking Captain Sir Tom for the £38.9 million he raised for the NHS Covid-19 Appeal.

Local hospitals have already seen what a difference some of that money has made.

Funds received by Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity have meant it has been able to buy patient communication devices to support those who were in hospital and unable to see loved ones. Staff wellbeing has been supported through wellbeing hubs and the continuation of long term initiatives such as counselling services and mental health first aid training.

Captain Sir Tom Moore's money has also supported 40 wards and departments across the Trust, providing items from staff room furniture to Makaton training, a language programme that allows communication through signs, with speech and symbols.

Clare Panniker, the Trust's chief executive, who was on tree planting duties at Broomfield Hospital, said: "The planting of these trees at our main Broomfield, Southend and Basildon hospital sites is a lasting legacy to an incredible man. His amazing fundraising has shown us that one person can make a real difference, just as our staff working together have all made a huge difference throughout the pandemic."