FOOTBALL fans will be spreading some sparkle tomorrow in support of Bradford Hospitals' Charity's Christmas fundraising campaign.

Bradford City staff are joining in and wearing something sparkly today as part of the charity's Spread some Sparkle for Axl campaign, in memory of a former patient at Bradford Royal Infirmary.

Little Axl Walker passed away earlier this year, three days before his third birthday.

The club is inviting supporters to wear some sparkle at tomorrow's match when the Bantams face Walsall. Bradford Hospitals' Charity is also urging fans to add their support by raising their phone torches to make the stadium truly sparkle for Axl.

Hayley Collis, head of fundraising for Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, said: “We are thrilled to have the support of Bradford City in our Sparkle for Axl campaign!

"Bradford City is a real family football club and so it’s wonderful that we can join forces to raise money in memory of such popular little boy.

“We would be delighted if City fans would show their support at the Walsall game on Saturday, December 15 - by raising their phone torches to make the stadium sparkle for Axl. Let’s make City sparkle!”

The charity launched its Spread some Sparkle for Axl campaign last month to raise money for Axl’s Toy Fund.

Axl had a rare blood disorder and needed regular blood transfusions at the BRI as well as two bone marrow transplants.

As part of the campaign, people have been urged to wear something sparkly today and donate to the toy fund.

The fund is to pay for toys, specialist play equipment and activities for children receiving treatment throughout the year.

Axl’s mum, Claire Gearie, of Wibsey, is proud to be keeping her son’s memory alive by raising money to help other young people who are in hospital.

The cast of The Alhambra's panto, including Billy Pearce, are also supporting the toy appeal campaign. Axl's brother Lucas visited the Aladdin stars earlier this week, where they pledged to help spread some sparkle too.

The Bantams will be visiting the BRI and St Luke's Hospital in the lead-up to Christmas.

If anyone would like to donate any toys or treats for the players to give to the children when they visit, please contact Bradford City on 01274 773355 or visit the 1911 reception.

To support the Spread some Sparkle for Axl campaign by donating visit justgiving.com/campaign/axlstoyfund