Bradley Lowery's mum has issued a heartbreaking statement and called for action after a Coventry City fan used her late son's photo to taunt rivals

Bradley Lowery's heartbroken mother has called for action to be taken after a Coventry City supporter allegedly used a photograph of her late son to taunt Sunderland fans during their Premier League clash.

Gemma Lowery has issued an emotional statement after footage circulated on social media appearing to show a young Coventry supporter holding up a picture of Bradley, who tragically died from cancer aged just six in July 2017.

The youngster captured the hearts of football supporters across the country during his courageous battle with neuroblastoma, a rare form of childhood cancer, and developed a particularly touching friendship with former Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe.

However, his mother has now spoken of her devastation after seeing her son's image apparently used to mock supporters of the club he adored.

In a statement published by the Bradley Lowery Foundation on Sunday, Gemma said: "My beautiful boy deserves to be remembered with love, not hate.

"Yesterday, a Coventry fan used a photograph of Bradley to taunt Sunderland supporters. As his mam, this breaks my heart. Behind that photo is a little boy who was loved beyond measure."

Gemma went on to explain that the photograph was particularly precious to her family because it captured one of the happiest moments of Bradley's short life.

She recalled how much joy her son had experienced that day, with such occasions especially treasured given the gruelling cancer treatment he had endured throughout his childhood.

The grieving mother also made clear that while she understood the rivalry and banter associated with football, she believed using the image of a child who had died from cancer crossed an unacceptable line.

Calling for Coventry City to address the incident, she added: "I hope the club takes appropriate action and the young lad's family help him understand how hurtful his actions were.

"I don't want hatred directed towards him, so please please don't, just for him to learn from this."

Gemma subsequently urged football supporters to respond with kindness rather than anger, sharing another photograph of Bradley alongside the message: "Instead of such negativity please help us share love and positivity by sharing my beautiful boys picture."

Coventry City have confirmed they are aware of the footage and will work with the relevant authorities to establish what action should be taken.

A club statement read: "Coventry City FC is aware of footage circulating on social media in connection with an incident during our Premier League fixture against Sunderland.

"The club does not tolerate offensive behaviour and will liaise with the relevant authorities to determine the appropriate course of action."

Bradley was diagnosed with neuroblastoma when he was just 18 months old and underwent years of treatment before his death in July 2017.

His bravery and infectious smile made him a hugely popular figure among Sunderland supporters, while his friendship with Defoe touched millions across the footballing world.

The former England international formed a remarkable bond with Bradley, who accompanied him onto the pitch as a mascot and spent time with him away from football during his illness.

Speaking about their relationship in 2023, Defoe said: "He will always be in my heart, for the rest of my life. There's not a day that goes past where I don't wake up and think about little Bradley, because his love is genuine."

Thousands of mourners lined the streets of Blackhall Colliery in County Durham for Bradley's funeral, with football supporters from across the country paying tribute to the youngster.

His legacy continues through the Bradley Lowery Foundation, which raises money to support seriously ill children and their families.

Among its initiatives is Super Brad's Pad, which provides families with an opportunity to spend precious time together away from hospital environments and create lasting memories.

Gemma has stressed that she does not want the latest incident to provoke further hatred, instead hoping it can serve as an opportunity for education and a reminder of the positive impact her son continues to have.

For Bradley's family, the message remains clear: his memory should be defined by the love he inspired and the lives his foundation continues to touch, rather than the actions of a football supporter.