MESSAGES of support have been left for brave teenager Kieran Maxwell, after it was revealed he has suffered a cancer relapse.

The 14-year-old, from Heighington, near Darlington, had to have his left leg amputated at the knee, after being diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.

After a period of remission, his family said last week that they had received the heartbreaking news that the cancer had returned.

Kieran, a prize-winning gymnast who dreams of one day competing in the Paralympic games, is to undergo two rounds of intense chemotherapy.

Since the announcement was made, dozens of messages of support for the youngster have been left on social media sites, such as the Facebook page of the Kieran Maxwell Fund, set up by his family.

Darlington councillor Linda Hughes wrote: “We are so sorry to read this. Thinking of you x,” while Karen Blakey urged: “Keep strong Kieran xxx.”

Juliette Woolf added: "Kieran - you are such an inspirational role model of triumph over adversity, you will continue to be - you have achieved greatness and must be so proud of yourself.

"We are all willing you to win this next battle, as you have done before - stay strong - sending big hugs."

Stephen Eramo said: "Sorry to hear about your setback, Kieran. Keep fighting - you are one brave and tough guy."

Writing on the fund’s Facebook page, Kieran thanked people for their support, adding: “Thank you everyone for you kind words, it has meant a lot to me. Thank you so much.”

Supportive messages have also been left on The Northern Echo website, beneath the earlier story about Kieran’s health heartache.

One reader, with the username startrite, wrote: “Please God, let Kieran respond well to the treatment, thoughts and prayers with you all.”

Nigel D added: “This young lad has already shown how brave and determined he is. Good luck.”

There was further support from Kieran’s fellow students at Hummersknott Academy, in Darlington, as well as on Twitter.

Earlier this month, Kieran and his gym partner Abbie Ramsey, from Shildon, were named UK champions in a national event in Stoke.

Last year, the teenager captured hearts as he carried the Olympic torch through Bishop Auckland on its journey across the region.