A BOY who touched people’s hearts with his cheeky smile will be remembered by his cousins when they switch on Christmas lights this week.

The three cousins of Bradley Lowery, who died this year following a battle against neuroblastoma, will be lighting up County Hall in Durham.

Jorja Stonebank, 8, seven-year-old Lasey and Harley Jay, 6, will join Durham County Council chairman Bill Kellett to light up the tree on Friday, following in the footsteps of Bradley, who had the honour last year.

David Stonebank, Jorja and Lasey’s dad, said: “The children are so excited to be turning on the Christmas lights in Bradley’s honour. They haven’t stopped talking about it since I told them. They love and miss Bradley so much, and can’t wait for the switch on.”

Cllr Kellett said: “Bradley was such an inspiring boy and I know he really enjoyed turning the Christmas lights on last year. Wherever he went, he made everyone smile. This year I’m happy to be switching the Christmas lights on with his cousins in his memory.”

Kelly Richardson, Harley Jay’s mum, added: “When I told Harley Jay he was turning the Christmas lights on at County Hall with Jorja and Lasey, he kept jumping up and down with excitement and he asked why.

“I explained that Bradley did it last year, and this year his cousins are doing it in memory of him. He replied he wishes Bradley was here to do it. I know Bradley will be watching over all his cousins and he will be very proud of them.”