A young Clarets fan, who is battling cancer, has stolen the hearts of the UK after he was seen in tears of celebration at last night’s East Lancashire derby.

Burnley FC clinched the Sky Bet Championship title with a gritty 1-0 win against Blackburn Rovers.

A videos of Hughie Higginson, from Burnley, is going viral on Twitter. In the video, which was broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event, the 12-year-old can be seen in tears and cheering passionately after Manuel Benson’s winning goal.

The commentator can heard saying: “Just look what it means to that young supporter.

"That is why we all love football, to feel like that.”

 

 

(Credit: Sky/ David Hynds)

Hughie’s dad, Keiron Higginson, said moments like this are extra special for the Ribblesdale High School pupil, as he has been battling leukaemia since 2020.

Keiron said: “What an amazing night and what a moment. It is just crazy that Hughie and his friend Freddie Xavi were the faces the cameras picked up on.

“Hughie continues to fight the battle of his life as he continues his treatment for leukaemia - but I think you can see just how much this means to him tonight and with Freddie right by his side.

“Burnley FC did us proud.”

Lancashire Telegraph: Hughie Higginson and Keiron Higginson Hughie Higginson and Keiron Higginson (Image: Keiron Higginson)

Since sharing the video, it has received support from football fans around the UK online, who even despite rivalries on the pitch, were able to connect with the raw emotion Hughie was experiencing and were inspired by his bravery.

A Rovers supporter said: “So much respect here - what a brave little lad facing all that and yet able to fully get behind his team.

“Whatever his colours, respect bravery and passion, here in abundance, goes way beyond football and put tonight's result into perspective, at least someone enjoyed the game.”

Another said: “Far more important things in life than football and rivalries. All the best to Hughie in his fight.”

A third said: “Incredible scene. Let Hughie know he brought a massive smile on the face of a fellow Claret across the pond. Gained a fan and supporter in me aswell.”

“Possibly my favourite moment from tonight, seeing Hughie and Freddie in ecstasy after the Benson goal,” said another.

“Just look what it means! So happy they got to experience that in their first away East Lancashire Derby, memories to last a lifetime.”

Hughie was diagnosed with ALL (acute lymphoblastic leukaemia) in 2020 and began urgent treatment at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

Since then Hughie and his friend Freddie have raised hundreds of thousands for charity.

In 2021, they were even given a Pride of Britain award for raising more than £200,000 Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity and were announced as Good Morning Britain Young Fundraisers.

They are currently undertaking a running challenge together which sees them touring the UK to run 1km around each of the 92 Premier League and English Football League clubs, raising money for Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity as well as other oncology wards around the country.

The young authors have even written a book about friendship called ‘Friends Are Amazing’.

To donate to their fundraiser click here.