PHOTOS: Jermain Defoe, thousands of others troupe out as Bradley Lowery is buried

Thousands of mourners, including a tearful Jermain Defoe, watched as Bradley Lowery was buried. The youngster who lost his battle last week to childhood cancer neuroblastoma was given a superhero burial.

His mum Gemma was comforted by family members as she made her way into St Joseph’s Church, where Bradley was baptised six years ago, after the horse and carriage procession through their hometown of Blackhall, County Durham.

Bradley’s father, Carl carried the coffin, which included the picture of the inside of Sunderland’s Stadium of Light, while thousands lined the streets to pay their respects.

Gemma read a touching poem to Bradley, saying: “A smile so big and beautiful it could brighten any room, a real life superhero who left us far too soon.

“Although your life with us was short, you must have a job to do in heaven with the angels as God has chosen you.

“We will meet again – our superhero up in the sky.”

Bradley ad his mum, Gemma during his battle with cancer

Bradley Lowery’s mum Gemma is consoled by family members as they walk into church for the service

Sunderland fan Bradley Lowery touched the hearts of millions across the country during his fight with childhood cancer neuroblastoma

Jermain Defoe broke down as he left the service for the tragic six-year-old today

Former Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe struck up a close friendship with Bradley during his cancer fight

David Moyes, second left, and Ellis Short, right, outside St Joseph’s Church in Blackhall, County Durham

May his soul rest in peace

Credit: Press Association