Captain Tom Moore racks up another incredible victory in his quest to raise money for the NHS as his rendition of 'You’ll Never Walk Alone' debuts at Number 1 on the UK’s Official Singles Chart just in time for the 99 year-old war veteran’s 100th birthday, the Official Charts Company can confirm.

The song, with Michael Ball and The NHS Voices Of Care Choir, was released last week on Decca Records, in his continued efforts to help the NHS during the coronavirus crisis.

Having already raised over £28 million [$35 million], Captain Tom has become a symbol of hope and unity across the UK during these uncertain times.

After taking an early lead at the start of the week it looked as if Captain Tom’s closest competitor, The Weeknd’s 'Blinding Lights', would overtake him at the end of the week – until a tweet from the Canadian star last night asking his fans to support the 99-year-old war veteran just hours before the final whistle helped keep the captain’s chart dreams on course.

'You’ll Never Walk Alone' clinches this week’s Number 1 spot with combined chart sales of 82,000 units, with The Weeknd’s 'Blinding Lights' trailing in second place with a tally of 69,000. Proceeds from the single go to NHS Charities Together.

Tom Moore found out he was officially Number 1 from Scott Mills, host of Radio 1’s Official Chart show.

Captain Tom Moore celebrates his Official Chart Number 1:

"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!

"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. And this just proves 'You’ll Never Walk Alone'."

Michael Ball tells OfficialCharts.com:

"This is the most extraordinary thing, 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 ya."

Martin Talbot, chief executive Official Charts Company comments:

"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. 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"