TRANMERE Rovers have paid tribute to a brave little boy whose battle with brain cancer captured the hearts of their supporters.

The football club confirmed today (Monday, February 7) that five-year-old Nathaniel Gidman, known as Nate, had passed away from Medulloblastoma - a cancerous brain tumour found in children.

Nate's dad, Phil, is originally from Woodville Road in Birkenhead, but the family now lives in Lincoln.

 

Nate’s situation came to light for Tranmere supporters after Phil started sharing updates about their struggle on Twitter.

Fans quickly rallied around and started a crowdfunding page which as ut stands has raised over £11,000 for the family. 

A spokesperson for the club said: "Everyone at Tranmere is devastated to hear of the passing of Nate Gidman, a brave little boy who was taken into the hearts of the Super White Army (SWA) as he battled a brain tumour.

 

"Nate’s life may have been cruelly cut short but he packed more love, fun and memories into five brief years than many experience in their lifetime, and whilst that is primarily down to the incredible love and dedication shown by his parents, Phil and Nicola, it was truly heartwarming to see the SWA embrace the family and rally round to help make sure his last months were as fun-packed as possible.

"We hope we all helped to make memories for the family that will help sustain them through these dark times, and endure forever.

"Rest easy, Nate. We won’t forget our little super hero."

The club has confirmed there will be a collection at tomorrow night's game (Tuesday, February 8) against Swindon Town to raise funds for The Children’s Brain Tumour Research Fund, in Nate’s honour.