Bradley Lowery dead: Mother of terminally ill child confirms his passing 'surrounded by family'

Bradley Lowery, the six-year-old football fan who captured the hearts of thousands as he fought a rare form of cancer, has died, his family has confirmed.

Bradley, a Sunderland AFC supporter, became a household name after his parents documented his battle with neuroblastoma – a rare form of cancer which primarily affects children.

In a statement on his Facebook page, his family wrote: "My brave boy has went with the angels today 07/07/17 at 13:35, in mammy and daddies arms surrounded by his family.

"He was our little superhero and put the biggest fight up but he was needed else where.There are no words to describe how heart broken we are.

"Thank you everyone for all your support and kind words. Sleep tight baby boy and fly high with them angels."

Bradley, from Blackhall Colliery in County Durham, was first diagnosed when he was just 18 months old and fought the cancer for two years before going into remission.

But in July 2016 his family received the devastating news that the cancer had returned and began campaigning to raise money for treatment abroad.

Unfortunately Bradley's condition deteriorated beyond the point of a cure but not before he garnered the support of the nation – particularly due to his friendship with then Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe.

Defoe, who has since transferred to AFC Bournemouth, became Bradley's "best friend" and would frequently visit him in hospital along with other Sunderland players.

Bradley was mascot for Sunderland several times and also led England out on the pitch when they played Lithuania in a World Cup qualifier in March. Defoe scored during the match, which marked his return to international duty.

On Thursday evening, Bradley's parents said he had become "unresponsive" but was still listening to everything they said.

Speaking at a press conference earlier that day, Defoe broke down in tears when asked about Bradley saying he "only has a matter of days" but "will always be in my heart for the rest of my life".

He said: "It has been hard because I've been keeping this in for so long, trying to be strong for my family and his family.

"I don't really know how to put into words how I feel. It has been a special time having that relationship with Brad.

"I speak to the family every day, I was with them a few days ago and it was tough to see him suffer like that.

"I felt I was prepared for it after what I went through with my dad but it was so tough to see a kid of that age who has been going through this for so long and got to the stage where he is obviously struggling.”

A statement released by Sunderland said that Defoe was "heartbroken".

The club said: “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 family had close links with Everton after the club pledged £200,000 towards his treatment and he was mascot for the match between the Blues and Sunderland in January.

He later 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: “Bradley was an inspiration to everyone.

“Our thoughts are with you all at this sad time. May he rest in peace.”

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 BBC 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.”

Jordan Pickford, who played in goal for Sunderland in the past season, posted on Instagram: “Rest in peace Bradley Lowery, such an inspiration to us all #theresonlyone.”

Former Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright praised the Lowery family, saying: “God bless you, you've done a magnificent job through the plight of your brave boy to bring awareness to this disease. May he rest in peace.X”

Dr Guy Blanchard, chair of Neuroblastoma UK, said: “All in the neuroblastoma community will be saddened to hear the news of Bradley's death.

”Bradley's story raised significant awareness of a disease that is responsible for one in six of all children's cancer deaths.

“Through the world-leading research funded by Neuroblastoma UK, into improving both diagnosis and treatment of the disease, we will find a cure for neuroblastoma.”

Former England captain and Match Of The Day pundit Alan Shearer tweeted: “So sorry that little @Bradleysfight has passed away. An inspirational life cut way too short. Thoughts with his amazing family & friends RIP.”