Captain Tom Moore’s family removes luxury spa complex, leaving behind a memorial bench in his honour

A metal bench crafted in honour of Captain Tom Moore’s 100th birthday stands alone in the garden of his family’s property in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, following the complete demolition of their controversial £200,000 spa complex.
New aerial photographs reveal the solitary black steel bench amidst the cleared grounds, marking the end of the spa’s presence on the property. Workers have spent the week clearing away debris, including bricks and tiles, after Hannah Ingram-Moore and her husband, Colin, were instructed by Central Bedfordshire Council to demolish the structure and restore the land to its original state.
The metal bench, a gift presented to Captain Tom on his 100th birthday by Lincolnshire businessman Chris Kennedy, remains as the sole remnant of the once-grand spa complex. Originally intended as a hub for the Captain Tom Foundation, established after the veteran fundraiser’s passing in 2021, the spa complex faced challenges due to unauthorized additions, including a pool, spa, and changing facilities.

Despite efforts to obtain retrospective planning permission, which was ultimately rejected, the demolition was initially delayed as the family pursued appeals. However, these appeals were ultimately unsuccessful, leading to the demolition of the spa complex.
During the appeal process, arguments were made in favor of retaining the spa, including proposals for its use in rehabilitation sessions for elderly individuals in the area. However, these arguments were dismissed, with the inspector ruling that the building’s scale and massing had compromised the integrity of the grade II-listed family home.
The demolition of the spa complex marks the end of a chapter for the Moore family, who have faced public scrutiny and criticism throughout the process. Despite the challenges, the legacy of Captain Tom Moore, who rose to fame for his remarkable fundraising efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, lives on through the enduring symbol of the metal bench in his honour.
Captain Tom Moore’s remarkable fundraising efforts, which raised nearly £39 million for NHS charities, captured the hearts of people worldwide. Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions, Captain Tom passed away in February 2021, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and generosity that continues to inspire generations.