THE family of Bradley Lowery said tonight they are heartbroken at news his cancer is spreading at a very fast rate.

The young Sunderland AFC fan from Blackhall Colliery, County Durham, who turned six last week, is suffering from neuroblastoma.

His bravery has touched people around the world, and he has become ‘best friends’ with striker Jermain Defoe.

Tonight his family posted on Facebook: “Bradley had a scan on Monday and it showed what we feared.

“Bradley’s cancer is spreading at a very fast rate and he has now got lots of new tumours including in his lungs.

“The lump that was causing pain (which) was originally thought to be an abscess has got bigger and they now believe it’s a tumour. We are heartbroken this is happening so fast.

“Bradley is now receiving palliative care at home. He is going for radio therapy at the end of this week and next week but this is to control the pain in the hope we get him comfortable.”

The family added that all money raised for Bradley’s treatment will go towards helping other children.