NORTHERN Echo readers have been giving their reaction to calls for Sunderland football Jermain Defoe to be given an OBE for his support for a young boy suffering from cancer.

The Black Cats striker has become a close friend of Bradley Lowery, from Blackhall Colliery, East Durham, who was first diagnosed with neuroblastoma when he was 19 months old.

A petition was set up after the five-year-old mascot was carried out by his hero and “best friend” at Sunderland’s last home game of the season on Saturday.

Here are some of the responses to the story, why not add yours?

Lyn Gibson: "And so he should I have never known a guy support a little boy so much as he has he is amazing xxx"

Julie Howe: "Will the same go to Bradley's parents, and the parents of every other child with a terminal condition. This isn't about handing out gongs, it's about a little boy. I don't believe for one minute Jermain will need a trophy on his mantle piece to remind him of Bradley and I'm not sure he'd want it."

Allan Finn: "For what it is worth I don't think that Defoe would accept it he is two much of a caring gent who wants an award for caring we should look to the man and dad of this brave little lad and we should all get behind a petition to force the government to."

Luke Graney: "That is what professionals should do it's no hardship is it every footballer who is a icon should do it as it's a very nice thing to do and god bless Bradley amen"

Isobel Forster: "Jermaine Defoe has been amazing and has shown he is a caring person and a great role model. The relationship between Bradley and Jermaine is extra special"

Andrew D Bygate: "Obe for bradley..."

Joyce Oliver:  "I think he deserves an OBE."

Homshaw1: "Certainly been 100% in his support and help for an amazing boy and everybody knows and appreciates what he's done.
Not too sure about awards."

Publicity stunt:  "Defoe's done a great job with the little lad! Awards like these should be earned over a lifetime of doing good for mankind."