BIG names from the world of North-East football are expected to attend a gala ball to celebrate the official launch of a charity foundation in memory of Bradley Lowery.

The event at the Hilton Hotel in Gateshead, which is due to take place tomorrow, will mark the official launch of the Bradley Lowery Foundation, which has been set up in memory of the courageous youngster, who captured the heart of the nation during his fight with neuroblastoma.

The foundation has been set up by Bradley’s parents, Gemma and Carl Lowery and will offer support to the families of other children suffering from serious illnesses.

Mrs Lowery said: “It is still overwhelming how much support we have. Bradley will be so proud of us all for carrying on the great work and awareness he raised.

“We have some big names attending the gala ball and I know people will enjoy all of the entertainment we are putting on for them.”

Among those attending will be ex-Sunderland player Jermain Defoe, who struck up a friendship with Bradley after he appeared as a team mascot for his favourite team.

Sunderland manager Chris Coleman and his wife Charlotte, assistant manager Kit Symons, captain John O’Shea and former skipper Lee Cattermole will also be attending alongside Newcastle United managing director Lee Charnley and former goalkeeper Steve Harper.

Cash raised from the event will help sick youngsters and their families in memory of the six-year-old from Blackhall Colliery, who died in July following a fight against neuroblastoma.

Bradley, who was diagnosed with the childhood cancer when he was 18 months old, was a big football fan and had been a mascot for Sunderland, Everton and England.

Money raised at the event will be divided between the foundation and Sunderland’s For Brad campaign, which aims to create a holiday home for poorly children, where they can enjoy time with their families.

The foundation has already raised thousands of pounds in memory of Bradley and has helped dozens of children with things like buying specialist equipment and raising money for treatment not available on the NHS.

The event on Sunday starts at 6.30pm and also includes an appearance from The X-Factor’s Che Chesterman.

For more information about the charity visit www.bradleyloweryfoundation.com.