Little Bradley Lowery touched the hearts of many during his brief life, including several celebrities. The youngster even became close pals with footballer Jermain Defoe after Bradley acted as a mascot for Sunderland Football Club.
Bradley’s family have kindly opened his funeral to the public but have asked anyone wishing to pay their respects not to approach any fellow mourners for autographs or photos.
Bradley’s mum Gemma wrote on Facebook today: “Can I ask people not to approach anyone tomorrow for autographs or photos. Everyone is at the funeral to pay their respects and say goodbye.
“Thank you for your co-operation and I’ll try to speak to as many as I can at the wake.”
Bradley’s funeral is due to take place tomorrow at St Joseph’s Church in his home village of Blackhall Colliery in County Durham.
A private cremation will be held afterwards. Bradley’s family have asked the media not to attend, unless it is not in a work capacity and have also requested for mourners to donate to the Bradley Lowery Foundation rather than bring flowers.
A huge crowd is expected to attend and speakers will be placed outside the church to allow those cannot get inside to listen to the ceremony.
Mourners have been told they can wear any colour they wish to the funeral as “cancer has no colours” or instead can don their favourite football shirt in honour of football fan Bradley.
Bradley’s family told those who could not attend but would like to pay their respects that if they wished, they could hold a casual Friday at work or school and wear their favourite football shirt or team colours in honour of Bradley. Those wishing to take part are encouraged to pay £1 to the Bradley Lowery Foundation.
The family have also set up a special Facebook page called Remembering Bradley for those who wished to pay tribute to the little boy. They have asked the public to leave a message here rather than sending cards to them.
Meanwhile, mourners have been placing cards, teddies and flowers at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light in honour of the brave youngster, according to The Metro.
A petition has also been started to call the east stand of the stadium after Bradley. It already has 40,000 signatories.
We would like to express our heartfelt condolences to Bradley’s family as they prepare to say goodbye to their beloved son.
