THOUSANDS of people have lined the streets of a former pit village to honour a boy who led an inspirational fight against a rare form of cancer.

Friends and family, celebrities and large numbers of supporters attended the funeral of Bradley Lowery in Blackhall Colliery, where the boy spent his short life.

Mourners gathered in large numbers, many of them wearing Sunderland football shirts - Bradley's favourite team - some carrying Bradley's name on the back.

The Northern Echo: File photo dated 14/12/16 of Bradley Lowery, the six-year-old football mascot who touched the nation's heart with his battle against the childhood cancer neuroblastoma, has died, his family said. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Friday July 7, 201

Blue balloons have been tied to houses and railings, waiting to greet the cortege.

There was also a large media presence, with several satellite TV camera vans and members of the press to cover an event the likes of which this small community has never before seen.

Among the mourners was former Black Cats striker Jermain Defoe, who left the pre-season training camp in Spain of his new club, Bournemouth, yesterday to travel to attend the funeral of the courageous six-year-old, who the footballer described as his best friend after Bradley's death last Friday.

The boy’s battle attracted attention across the country as his family raised money for his ongoing treatment and the young football fan ran out as a mascot for Sunderland, Everton and England, as well making a guest appearance at the Grand National this year.

The service started at 11.15am and was being held at St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church.

A piper led the cortege and the crowd applauded as Bradley was brought to the church in a white carriage drawn by two white horses.

There were chants of 'One Bradley Lowery' and balloons were released as the procession passed.

People could be heard crying as the coffin passed by.

As mourners prepared to enter the church, Elvis' 'Can't Help Falling In Love' was played.

Bradley Lowery, the boy who touched the hearts of millions

Father Ian Jackson said: "Brad was a bright, brave, loving,cheeky little monkey.

"He loved cuddles. He was warm and embracing. He touched the lives of us all.

"Because of Sunderland Football Club, Bradley and his family have experienced some wonderful memories for which they will always be grateful."

A poem was read out by Bradley's mother, Gemma, during the service, her voice cracking with emotion.

Father Marc Lyden-Smith, Sunderland FC's chaplain, told the congregation that Bradley taught others not to quit.

He said: "He has brought out the best in people. He has been an inspiration and a friend to sports stars.

"He has been much more than a mascot for Sunderland football club. He has been an encouragement to many and a loving smile to all of us.

"Bradley has done much more than touched the hearts of people

"He has brought people together. We will always remember the lessons we have learned from this little boy. He has been an inspiration."

After the service, as his loved ones left the church, Smile, was played over the speakers, before a hearse, led by a bagpiper playing Scotland the Brave led the procession for a private cremation.