Lonely World War II veteran, 101, receives more than 7,000 Christmas cards from around the world after he sobbed in ITV interview as he told how he lost his 92-year-old wife to Covid
- John Lister served as a gunner in World War II and caught coronavirus in March
- His wife Ella, 92, died of the disease in hospital after 70 years of marriage
- He has now been sent more than 7,000 Christmas cards from across the world
A 101-year-old war veteran left lonely and grieving after losing his wife to coronavirus has received more than 7,000 Christmas cards from well-wishers after he cried during a TV interview.
John Lister from Griston in Norfolk, who served as a gunner in World War II, caught coronavirus in March alongside his wife Ella, 92.
Days after testing positive, his childhood sweetheart and companion for more than 70 years died in hospital.
Grief-stricken Mr Lister told of loneliness in a local TV interview as he wiped away his tears and said: ‘It’s being lonely.
‘Sometimes I’m in my room and the only time I see anyone is when they bring my meals.’
Mr Lister has previously told the Eastern Daily Press that coronavirus is ‘worse than war’.
A 101-year-old war veteran (pictured, John Lister) left lonely and grieving after losing his wife to coronavirus has received more than 7,000 Christmas cards from well-wishers after he cried during a TV interview
John Lister from Griston in Norfolk, who served as a gunner in World War II, caught coronavirus in March alongside his wife Ella, 92, (pictured together)
Grief-stricken Mr Lister told of loneliness in a local TV interview as he wiped away his tears and said: ‘It’s being lonely.’ He has now been sent more than 7,000 Christmas cards (pictured)
Within hours of his story appearing on Anglia TV, people pledged to send Christmas greetings to Thorp House Nursing Home from all over the UK as well as Canada, America and Australia.
Hayley Attew, wrote: ‘My children decorated a card today and sent it. I really hope he doesn’t feel lonely with what will hopefully be an influx of well wishes and kindness sent to him by everyone.
‘This story has made us think about things, so my family are going to write to a few care homes asking if they have anyone that would like to become our penpal/friend. No one should feel lonely.’
Mr Lister has previously said that coronavirus is ‘worse than war’
Mr Lister, who is a lifelong Norwich City fan, has also received a Christmas treat from his favourite team – a shirt signed by all the players.
Goalkeeper Tim Krul said: ‘We have to be reminded sometimes how many people are going through stuff like this.
‘Hopefully with a little gesture, we can make it a little better.’