Bradley Lowery, the football mascot whose beaming smile touched thousands of people around the world, has died after a battle with a rare cancer.
The six-year-old Sunderland fan struck up a close friendship with star striker, Jermain Defoe, after he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma.
Bradley was mascot for the Black Cats on several occasions 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 also an England mascot at Wembley when Defoe scored on his return to the Three Lions side, and the striker was guest of honour at a huge party thrown for Bradley’s sixth birthday in May.
In a statement on the family’s Facebook page, Bradley’s mother Gemma Lowery said: “My brave boy has gone 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 elsewhere.
“There are no words to describe how heartbroken we are.
“Thank you everyone for all your support and kind words. Sleep tight baby boy and fly high with them angel.”
Sunderland led the sporting tributes to their young fan, describing him as “an inspiration”.
The club said they extended their love to his parents Gemma and Carl and his brother Kieran.
A statement 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 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 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.
