Bradley’s sixth birthday lift
A HERO-THEMED party was the perfect way to honour one of the North East’s bravest, as Bradley Lowery celebrated turning six surrounded by friends, family and a few special guests.
The cancer-battling youngster spent his birthday in hospital on Wednesday, but last night enjoyed a dream party in the cricket club of his village, Blackhall Colliery.
No party would be complete without the birthday boy’s best friend, so it was no surprise when Sunderland footballer Jermain Defoe dropped in.
Jermain wasn’t the only Sunderland legend in attendance: keeper Vito Mannone joined him, along with the club’s larger-than-life mascots, Samson and Delilah.
Most importantly, though, were the hundreds of Bradley’s close friends and family who came along, many of the youngsters dressed in fantastic costumes to match the theme.
Although Bradley’s been very ill, his excitement was obvious as he greeted family, accepted presents, and shared a cuddle with his young ‘girlfriend,’ Poppy Moore, who had dressed up as Wonder Woman.
Mum Gemma said: “He’s stayed in bed all day watching films and resting, so he’s in good spirits so he will be able to enjoy the night.”
The celebration marks what was an extra special day for Bradley and his family, the age of six having become a milestone he was eager to reach.
Gemma said: “He’s always said ‘I want to be six,’ so when he woke up on his birthday morning he went ‘mammy mammy I’m six!’ — and for us, it’s majorly important, we would want to see him turn 66, 86.”
The party, which took months to plan, looked set to be a fantastic occasion, with a disco in full swing, a trampoline and fairground ride, and fireworks set to dazzle into the night.
The grounds of the club were decked out in red and white balloons, in honour of Bradley’s love of Sunderland, as well as the figures of comic book heroes, including the lad’s favourite character, Spiderman. And Gemma, along with dad Carl, marked the day with a few special gifts.
“He’s always pinching my rings, so we got him one of his own, with boxing gloves on because he’s such a fighter”, said Gemma, “and we’re going to do our garden out with a play area for him.”