Bradley Lowery had a special bond with football star Jermain Defoe. Photo / Twitter
Bradley Lowery, the football mascot whose beaming smile touched thousands of people around the world, has died after a battle with a rare cancer, his family said.
The six-year-old Sunderland fan struck up a close friendship with star striker Jermain Defoe after he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma.
In a statement on the family's Facebook page, Bradley's mother Gemma Lowery told how her "brave boy" had gone "with the angels":
Bradley and Defoe were pictured snuggled up together at the youngster's home in Blackhall, County Durham last week after the little boy had a party in bed as a way of saying goodbye.
As Bradley continued to fight for life, Defoe broke down in tears on Thursday at a press conference with his new club, Bournemouth, when he was asked about their special bond.
The Premier League star said: "There is not a day that goes past where I do not wake up in the morning and check my phone or think about little Bradley because his love is genuine and I can see it in his eyes. It is special."
Bradley was a mascot for Sunderland several times last season and found a place in the hearts of thousands of football fans around the world.
Supporters of different clubs made banners and chanted his name at games. He was an England mascot at Wembley when Defoe scored on his return to the Three Lions side.
And Defoe was guest of honour at a huge party thrown for Bradley's sixth birthday in May.
— Bradley Lowery Foundation (@Bradleysfight) September 14, 2016
Supporters had hoped a massive fundraising effort last year could get him to the US for pioneering treatment, but his heartbroken family announced at Christmas that his cancer was terminal.
They kept his many well-wishers around the world up to date by using social media and in his final days, his mother, Gemma, revealed that Bradley's health was deteriorating quickly.
Scotland and Stoke City midfielder Charlie Adam paid tribute on Twitter, saying: "He was a little fighter."
Former England striker Stan Collymore said the football authorities should create a lasting tribute to the little boy:
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
Bradley's beloved Sunderland led the tributes to their mascot, describing him as "an inspiration".
The club said it extended its love to his parents, Gemma and Carl, and his brother Kieran in a statement:
"Bradley captured the hearts and minds of everyone at our club with his indomitable spirit, tremendous courage and beautiful smile, which could light up even the darkest of rooms.
"Despite battling neuroblastoma for much of his all too short life, he demonstrated a bravery and fortitude beyond his years that humbled us all.
"He was truly an inspiration. His heart-warming friendship with players and staff alike epitomised the impact this wonderful little boy had on everyone he met.
"He had a special relationship with Jermain Defoe and their feelings for each other were evident for all to see.
"Jermain, naturally, is heartbroken. Bradley's story not only touched our club and our fans, but also the wider football community.
"Football can be a powerful force for good and our sport came together to embrace Bradley's fight in a unique way."
Bradley's family had close links with Everton after the club pledged £200,000 towards his treatment when he was mascot for the match between Sunderland and the Toffees.
He went on to be a mascot for the Merseyside club too.
Chairman Bill Kenwright said: "One of football's all-time greats. We are so privileged to have known him...and will always be proud that he chose us as his second club.
"We send our loving thoughts to his mam and dad and his family...plus those who were inspired by him throughout the world of football.
"Especially our friends the supporters, team and staff at Sunderland AFC. And of course his beloved Jermain. Respect!! Bradley Lowery. There's only one Bradley Lowery."
Liverpool FC tweeted that Bradley "was an inspiration to everyone":
Bradley was an inspiration to everyone. Our thoughts are with you all at this sad time. May he rest in peace.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) July 7, 2017
Bury FC, who are playing against Sunderland in a friendly on Friday night, said there would be a minute's applause for the youngster ahead of kick-off.
Former England striker Gary Lineker, who hosted the Sports Personality Of The Year awards at which Bradley was a special guest last year, said:
Terribly sad to hear that little Bradley Lowery has passed away. A warrior and an inspiration to the end. RIP Bradley.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) July 7, 2017
Former Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright praised the Lowery family on Twitter: