Queen honours Ghana veteran for Covid-19 fundraiser

Ghanaian World War Two veteran Private Joseph Hammond says he is “overwhelmed and filled with joy” by the news that the Queen has honoured his fundraising efforts in the fight against Covid-19.

He has been given the Commonwealth Points of Light award which recognises inspirational volunteers throughout the Commonwealth.

Now 95 years old, the veteran joined the Royal West African Frontier Force aged just 16.

Last month, he set himself a challenge of walking 3.2km (two miles) every day to raise $600,000 (£500,000) to buy protective gear for health workers and vulnerable veterans.

Private Hammond has so far raised $35,000.

He was inspired by British veteran, Captain Sir Tom Moore, who raised more than $35m for the UK’s National Health Service.

The Queen’s grandson, Prince Harry, wrote Private Hammond a letter of encouragement and support earlier this month.