Getty ImagesThe sporting community has paid its respects to the six-year-old Sunderland fan, Bradley Lowery, who today lost his brave battle with Neuroblastoma.
Heartfelt messages have poured in from sporting clubs, stars and fans alike after Bradley’s mother Gemma announced his tragic death earlier today.
It is clear that despite his young years, Bradley affected everybody he met with his positive attitude and bright smile.
Would love to think @FA and @premierleague could mark @Bradleysfight by way of a trophy or award to commemorate an incredible life. pic.twitter.com/tDkKvhzh1B
— Stan Collymore (@StanCollymore) July 7, 2017
Terrible news. Rest in Peace ??
— Dom Telford (@DomTelford9) July 7, 2017
R.I.P inspirational little boy ❤️??!
— santi gomes (@agomes_47) July 7, 2017
His favourite team Sunderland made an emotional tribute over Twitter to the heroic little boy who showed such loyalty to them throughout his short life.
Other football clubs have also rallied round to offer words of support to Bradley’s devastated family, including Stoke City FC and Chelsea .
The thoughts of all at #SAFC are with the Lowery family following this afternoon's sad news.#OneBradleyLowery ?
➡️https://t.co/EtrhMlpbqt pic.twitter.com/MeYOey4d3v
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) July 7, 2017
❤️️❤️️❤️️
You touched all of our hearts with your remarkable strength and courage. RIP Bradley Lowery.
❤️️❤️️❤️️ pic.twitter.com/BsTKg135D2
— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) July 7, 2017
All at Chelsea are deeply saddened to learn of Bradley Lowery's passing. He touched all of us with his bravery and winning smile. pic.twitter.com/aZneoHlFBf
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 7, 2017
Bradley had the chance to meet some of his footballing heroes before he passed away. He was best friends with former Sunderland player Jermaine Defoe, ever since Bradley first stepped out as a mascot with the footballer before a performance.
Jermaine visited Bradley regularly throughout his illness and only yesterday broke down in tears at a press conference when discussing Bradley’s deteriorating condition.
My brave boy has went with the angels today 07/07/17 at 13:35, in mammy and daddies arms surrounded by his family. 💔💔💔…
Posted by Bradley lowery's fight against neuroblastoma on Friday, 7 July 2017
Speaking at the press conference, Jermaine made the following statement:
I don’t really know how to put into words how I feel. It has been a special time having that relationship with Brad.
Jermaine has yet to give a statement about Bradley’s death.
UNILAD have made the following video as a tribute to Bradley and his inspirational life:
Bradley Lowery and Jermain Defoe were best mates with a special bond…
Rest in peace Bradley. You showed the world how to fight ♥ pic.twitter.com/oxuVoZ46ow
— UNILAD (@UNILAD) July 7, 2017
Our thoughts are with Bradley’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.