A BRONZE statue of Keighley fundraising hero Captain Sir Tom Moore has been given a new permanent home.

The piece, produced by sculptor Andrian Melka, had spent a few months on display at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

Now it has been installed outside the main entrance to Chapel Allerton Hospital, in Leeds.

Andrian raised over £32,000 through online crowdfunding to bring his vision to life.

The crowdfunding project was set-up a year ago and reached its target early last May, with the help of 265 supporters.

"Captain Tom inspired so many people during the pandemic – not only with his incredible fundraising for the NHS but with his positive outlook and desire to be of service to others," said Andrian.

"Even at the age of 99, when most people would be sitting back, he wanted to do what he could to help others and to contribute."

Captain Tom, who was born and brought-up in Keighley, captured the nation's hearts and raised over £38 million for NHS Charities Together after walking laps of his garden during the pandemic to mark his 100th birthday.

He received a string of accolades, including a knighthood and the freedom of Keighley, in recognition of his efforts. He died in February last year.

His daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore, her husband Colin and children Benjie and Georgia travelled from their home in Bedfordshire to take part in an unveiling of the statue in its new position.

Mrs Ingram-Moore said: "It means so much to my family and me to visit this wonderful statue in its new home.

"My father was Yorkshire born and bred, so he would be enormously proud to be here. Andrian has done a fabulous job capturing my father’s sense of determination to make a difference. I hope he can inspire others to do the same as they walk into this hospital each day."

Leeds hospitals are among many that have benefited from the money raised by Captain Sir Tom.

Esther Wakeman, chief executive of Leeds Hospitals Charity, said: "We know first-hand how hard our NHS colleagues have worked during the pandemic, and that they always prioritise their patients. Thanks to Captain Sir Tom’s admirable fundraising efforts, we have been able to help staff at our hospitals and provide the extra dedicated support they deserve. We’re honoured that thanks to this tribute from Andrian staff, patients and visitors can continue to be inspired by him."