The family of young Ashton Hulme are extremely grateful for the response they have received from Crewe supporters, the entire football community and beyond.

They have been overwhelmed with the messages of support and donations made to the set-up JustGiving page following the news that young Ashton has started his treatment for a rare bone cancer.

Crewe Alexandra FC would like to express a sincere thanks to all those clubs, players and former players who have left messages of support. We can’t tell you how much a difference this has already made to Ashton and his family.

Alex boss David Artell told the club’s official website: “When you receive news as devastating as we have in relation to Ashton, it really bring the football family a lot closer. It isn’t just football either but other sports and the community.

“Ashton has had some unbelievable support and for those people to take time out of their day to send him a message of support is fantastic. I know that his family are very grateful and thankful.

“Ashton and his family have a tough few months ahead and he knows that everyone is right behind him.

“He is a great lad. He really has a terrific attitude to everything and he has a bubbly personality. He is a real fighter and hopefully he will be back at Reaseheath and back at the Alexandra Stadium as soon as he can so we can all make a fuss of him in person.

He added: “He will meet this challenge head on and if he does then he will overcome it and he knows that everyone here is right there with him.”

If you would like to make a donation please visit JustGiving 

Or if you would like to leave a message on the club's official twitter page, we know that it has been a comfort to the family.

Our thoughts are with Ashton, his mum and dad...