Dale Houghton faces jail for mocking football fans with Bradley Lowery pic for ‘banter’ as mum slams ‘unforgivable’ act
A "DEPLORABLE" football fan is facing jail for using a picture of tragic Bradley Lowery to mock Sunderland supporters for "banter".
Dale Houghton was one of two men seen smiling as they held up the image of Bradley, who died from cancer aged six, during the Sheffield Wednesday vs Sunderland match on Friday.
The 31-year-old appeared at Sheffield Magistrates' Court today where he admitted causing harassment, alarm and distress.
The disgraced fan now faces a maximum of six months in prison for the Public Order offence when he sentenced on November 17.
Houghton was slammed by Bradley's mum Gemma today for the "unforgivable" act, which drew criticism from all football supporters.
In a victim impact statement, she said: "This image made me feel so many emotions. I find it hard to put into words.
"It is not just disrespectful to Bradley but also to other people who are going through the emotional trauma of dealing with cancer.
"This image portrays negatively. I feel upset that these two men used this image to get a reaction from Sunderland fans. It was unforgivable.
"I have nothing but loving memories of Bradley."
Prosecutor Jade Short said Houghton's antics caused a "huge public revulsion".
She told the court the shamed football fan found it "enjoyable banter" as he was smiling throughout.
The court was also told Houghton has lost his job as a window fitter following the sick act and is facing a ban from attending matches.
Connie Combs, defending, said Houghton realised he was "out of line" and was "disgusted" by his actions.
Judge James Gould warned Houghton he faces jail as he bailed him on the condition he does not attend any games.
He will be made to attend a drug intervention programme after testing positive for cocaine, the court heard.
Houghton is also banned from going within a mile of Hillsborough on match days.
South Yorkshire Police have applied for a football banning order.
A 27-year-old man who was also arrested has been released on bail while investigations continue.
Football fans were left horrified after the pictures from the game were circulated on X, formerly Twitter, on Friday.
Brave Bradley's battle with against rare childhood cancer neuroblastoma captured the nation's hearts.
He was diagnosed with the aggressive disease when he was just 18 months old, and tumours spread through his chest, lungs, lymph nodes, bone and bone marrow.
After major surgery and gruelling chemotherapy, he pulled through and went into remission for 18 months.
But the cancer returned in 2016, with his family dealt the crushing blow his disease was terminal.
The footie-mad youngster had struck up a close bond with Sunderland captain Jermain Defoe, who led him out on to the pitch before several matches.
Tragically, Bradley died in July 2017 in his devastated parents' arms, with Defoe paying an emotional tribute to his "best pal".
Speaking after Houghton pleaded guilty today, the ex-England star said he was "appalled and saddened".
Defoe said: "My thoughts at this time go out to Gemma and Carl [Bradley's parents], who shouldn't have to deal with incidents like this, but rather be praised for the amazing work they are doing with the Bradley Lowery Foundation in their son's memory.
";I urge the public to stand behind the family and continue support the Foundation and its projects.
"Bradley was one of the most inspirational children this world has ever seen, and he will never stop inspiring us.
"We love and miss you Brad. Love, your best friend forever."