CAPTAIN Sir Tom Moore has tested positive for Covid-19 and is being treated for pneumonia in hospital, his daughter has announced.

The 100-year-old won the hearts of the nation last year for his fundraising efforts to support NHS charities following the outbreak of coronavirus.

By the end of his 100th birthday on April 30, he had raised more than £32 million having begun walking lengths of his garden less than four weeks earlier.

In a statement posted on Twitter, his daughter Hannah said: "I wanted to update everybody that today [Sunday, January 31] my father was admitted to hospital.

“Over the last few weeks he was being treated for pneumonia and last week tested positive for Covid-19.

“He was at home with us until today when he needed additional help with his breathing. He is being treated in a ward although he is not in ICU.

“The medical care he has received in the last few weeks has been remarkable and we know that the wonderful staff at Bedford Hospital will do all they can to make him comfortable and hopefully return home as soon as possible.

“We understand that everyone will be wishing him well. We are of course focussing on my father and will update you when we are able to.”

After the news emerged, Prime Minister Boris Johnson wrote on Twitter: "My thoughts are very much with Captain Tom Moore and his family.

"You’ve inspired the whole nation, and I know we are all wishing you a full recovery."

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer added: "The whole nation hopes you get well soon Captain Tom Moore. You've been an inspiration to us all throughout this crisis."