HEARTBREAK for Luke Bell's family as they struggle to come to terms with the loss of their - 'Our superhero'.

His family have confirmed the sad news that the eight-year-old, from Darlington, passed away last night.

The youngster had been battling neuroblastoma for two years, but his family were told recently that his cancer had spread and he may only have weeks to live.

In a statement issued on the #TeamLuke Facebook page, they wrote: "Last night our world was changed forever.

"This latest battle has been one too many, and our little superhero is no longer with us.

"Luke passed away peacefully, comfortable and in his favourite place surrounded by the people he loved the most.

"Words can’t describe just how devastated and heartbroken we are, though we can take some consolation from the fact he is now free of pain.

The Northern Echo:

Luke Bell, pictured from left, with his mother, Becky, sister, Alysha, and father, Mark. Picture: Sarah Caldecott

"As a family we would like to thank everyone that has been involved with Luke’s journey, whether it’s been donating, fundraising, messages of support or sharing his story. The number of people that have reached out to us over the last 20 months has been a real source of strength and we will always be grateful for that.

"Now is not a time for sadness, for Luke wouldn’t stand for it. Now is the time for focussing on the positives, the amazing memories and the incredible impact he has had on so many lives.

"At only 8 years old Luke has shown such a huge amount of strength, bravery and courage to fight as long as he did. The world seems a darker place today without his infectious smile."

An appeal had been launched to raise the £100,000 needed to fly him to Barcelona to undergo trial treatment.

Among those touched by Luke’s plight was jockey’s valet Steve Charlton from High Etherley, near Bishop Auckland. To raise awareness of Luke’s battle, he dressed as an elf while working at Catterick racecourse on Tuesday and organised a collection.

At the weekend, Scott Mcalister set out to conquer the North Yorkshire hill 27 times in 24 hours on Saturday – the equivalent of reaching the top of Mount Everest – to raise money for the campaign.