Thousands turn out for Bradley Lowery charity match

Bradley Lowery's mother said she was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support as thousands of people attended a football match in honour of the six-year-old after he lost his battle with cancer.

The keen football fan was remembered at a charity match at Everton's Goodison Park stadium, with two celebrity teams headed by former Everton star player Peter Reid and model Katie Price.

Bradley's mother Gemma Lowery told ITV Tyne Tees that she wanted to thank all of those who had made "an unbearable time slightly more bearable".

Bradley was diagnosed with neuroblastoma - a rare type of childhood cancer - when he was 18 months old.

Despite intensive efforts to save him, his condition became terminal and the Durham six-year-old died in the arms of his parents eight weeks ago.

Bradley had become a well-known face in the footballing world after acting as a mascot for the Everton, Sunderland and England teams last year.

The youngster also developed an especially close friendship with Jermain Defoe.

After his death, supporters decided to hold the charity football match in his memory.

The teams included a host of celebrities including former England player and Sunderland boss Peter Reid, singer Olly Murs and Coronation Street actor Shayne Ward.

Both sides lined up in front of a portrait of Bradley at the emotional event.

Olly Murs said Bradley was a "very inspirational kid".

"Six years old, going through something so traumatic...He dealt with it with a smile and a happy face. And he loved his football like we do, so it's really fitting that we get to do this today."

The game took place at Goodison Park on Sunday and saw The Lowery Legends beat Bradley's Blues 7-3.

All profits from the match will go to the Bradley Lowery Foundation, which will support the families of other children who are seriously ill.