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SUNDERLAND and Derby fans erupted into a minute's applause for six-year-old cancer victim Bradley Lowery before tonight's Championship opener at the Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats supporter, who died of neuroblastoma on July 7, touched the world of football with his spirit, smile and close bond to England striker Jermain Defoe.

Supporters come together to remember the life and fight of Bradley Lowery, who died aged six from a rare form of cancer
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 Supporters come together to remember the life and fight of Bradley Lowery, who died aged six from a rare form of cancerCredit: Rex Features
Bradley Lowery was a well-known face to Sunderland fans and was often a match-day mascot
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Bradley Lowery was a well-known face to Sunderland fans and was often a match-day mascotCredit: Reuters

And this evening fans produced a fitting tribute, with rousing applause for a toddler who won love and support across the country and throughout the leagues.

Bradley's parents, Gemma and Carl Lowery, were there to hear the noisy salute.

Sunderland chief executive Martin Bain earlier said: “Bradley had the most amazing impact on our club and the wider football community.

“It is fitting that we can come together at our first league game of the new season to pay tribute to this wonderful little boy, whose love for Sunderland was evident for all to see.”

Black Cats legend Defoe, 34, who left for Bournemouth over the summer, tweeted a letter in tribute to Bradley a day after his "best mate" died.

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Bradley Lowery was in the hearts of many fans after battling against cancer for around four and a half years
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Bradley Lowery was in the hearts of many fans after battling against cancer for around four and a half yearsCredit: Rex Features
Black Cats supporters took fellow fan Bradley Lowery to their heart
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Black Cats supporters took fellow fan Bradley Lowery to their heartCredit: Reuters

Defoe said: “Goodbye my friend gonna miss you lots. I feel so blessed God brought you into my life and had some amazing moments with you and for that I’m so grateful.

“Your courage and bravery will continue to inspire me for the rest of my life.

“You will never know what a difference you made to me as a person.. God has you in his arms and I will always carry you in my heart."

Bradley Lowery touched the hearts and minds of fans in and beyond the Stadium of Light
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Bradley Lowery touched the hearts and minds of fans in and beyond the Stadium of LightCredit: Rex Features
Bradley's parents Gemma and Carl Lowery were at the Stadium of Light to hear the tribute
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Bradley's parents Gemma and Carl Lowery were at the Stadium of Light to hear the tributeCredit: Reuters

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