FORMER Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe is to be given an award for the compassion he showed towards Bradley Lowery, the young cancer sufferer who captured the nation’s hearts.

A moving friendship developed between the player and the young boy as he battled neuroblastoma up until his death last July.

Defoe will be recognised at the North-East Football Writers’ Association’s Awards later this month where he will be named the North East Personality of the Year.

The prestigious award is given in recognition of people who use their position in football to benefit the wider community.

A special trophy has been created by Kalki Mansel, a hot glass artist and designer at the National Glass Centre in Sunderland.

Bradley’s Mum, Gemma, from Blackhall Colliery, in County Durham, was added the finishing touches to it by blowing the glass.

She said: “It was fantastic that Jermain became such a friend to Bradley and his continued friendship to us now means a lot.

“He had so much to do with us all in the final weeks of Bradley’s life and he hasn’t just left things there.

“Jermain’s a patron of the Bradley Lowery Foundation and he wants to be involved because that’s where his heart is.”

Defoe first met Bradley, who was diagnosed when he was 18 months old, when he was a mascot for Sunderland AFC in 2016 and a special bond grew between them.

Now a player for Bournemouth, he came back to the North-East to spend time with Bradley at his home just before he died aged six.

A week later, he returned again, to attend Bradley’s funeral and wore his England shirt in honour of his young friend.

Mrs Lowery said: “This award is something to be grateful for and it’s nice that Jermain’s receiving recognition.

“Although, he’s said he doesn’t need that. Everything he’s done came from his kindness and the goodness of his heart.

“Sadly, Bradley’s not here to help but I hope I’m the next best thing and I enjoyed helping make the award. I’m sure Jermain will love it.”

Held annually at Ramside Hall Hotel in Durham on Sunday, February 25, the North-East Football Writers’ Association Awards night, raises funds for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, which helps find more effective ways to detect and treat cancer.

Lady Elsie said: “This award is very important to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and we can’t think of anyone more appropriate to receive it than Jermain.

“Gemma is an extraordinary woman and I admire her positivity and strength during such a difficult time.”

Tickets to the black tie event are £58 per person, which includes a four course meal and entertainment. Call Claire Stephen on 0191-375-3080 to book tickets.