A developer which has named two streets after a boy who captured the nation’s heart has raised almost £9,000 in his memory.

Over the last 12 months, Gleeson Homes staff have raised funds in several ways, including a walk of the distance equivalent from Land’s End to John O’Groats, a skydive from 15,000 feet and various tuck shops, bake sales, and dress down days.

A total of £8,940 has been raised for the Bradley Lowery Foundation, which supports families of patients with any condition requiring treatment not covered by the NHS.

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It also supports research into childhood cancers and is currently building a £600,000 holiday home in Scarborough for unwell children to enjoy with their families.

The Northern Echo: Bradley Lowery was a huge Sunderland fan. Picture: PABradley Lowery was a huge Sunderland fan. Picture: PA (Image: PRESS ASSOCIATION)

The charity was formed in August 2017 by Gemma Lowery, mother of Bradley, who died at the age of six years old following a long battle with stage four high risk neuroblastoma.

Gemma said: “Gleeson has been a fantastic support to the Bradley Lowery Foundation.

“When I was initially contacted by Gleeson they explained they wanted to name a street after Bradley; I was completely overwhelmed.

“It is an incredible gesture, and keeps Bradley’s name and legacy alive for years to come.

“The Gleeson team have taken part in lots of different fundraising activities for the foundation, and go above and beyond to help us.”

Gleeson has also named two streets in remembrance of Bradley on its Hardwicke Place development in Blackhall Colliery, which is opposite where Bradley lived with his family.

The Northern Echo: Bradley Lowery with his mum and dad Gemma and Carl at The Brave Hearts of the North East Awards at St James' Park. Picture: TOM BANKS.Bradley Lowery with his mum and dad Gemma and Carl at The Brave Hearts of the North East Awards at St James' Park. Picture: TOM BANKS. (Image: Tom Banks)

The roads are named Bradley Lowery Way and Sunshine Place, sunshine being the nickname that Gemma and her husband Carl gave Bradley, thanks to his sunny disposition despite the pain and discomfort he was suffering throughout his illness.

A memorial tree with a plaque commemorating Bradley has been planted in the garden of the show homes on the development.

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The Northern Echo: Gemma Lowery on the street named after her son. Picture: GLEESON HOMESGemma Lowery on the street named after her son. Picture: GLEESON HOMES (Image: Gleeson Homes)

Andrew Davies, north eastern divisional managing director said: “I am so proud of what we have achieved for such a fantastic cause.

“The Bradley Lowery Foundation is a charity close the hearts of all in the North East and I am incredibly proud of the team involved for raising such an incredible amount for the foundation.

“At Gleeson we are keen to offer our support wherever we can, giving back to local charities and the communities where we operate.

“This is a meaningful amount of money, and will help the foundation to provide care to those in need.”

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