COMMENT: The legacy of these brave boys lives on

Leon Rendle, who lost his long fight with cancer, had touched the hearts of thousands through the Leon’s Light campaign. His death provoked an outpouring of tributes and grief on social media from those he had reached through sharing his story.

The supporters of his favourite club burst into applause in the 16th minute of their match against Alloa yesterday in what has now become a customary and always emotional matchday tribute.

A similar honour was bestowed on Jak Trueman by Rangers fans as the teenager battled cancer last year.

Jak, who was just 15, famously raised tens of thousands of pounds for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research in his final days.

And as Hibs fans were paying tribute to Leon at the game yesterday, players were taking to the field for the second annual charity fundraising match in memory of Jak.

The total raised by the Team Jak Foundation since last February now sits at just under £180,000.

Two very special young men who showed bravery, dignity and selflessness beyond their years and whose impact will be felt for years to come.

Every death from cancer is tragic, but when it hits the young it is all the more cruel.

Today, our thoughts are with the families of Leon, Jak and all the other brave youngsters who have been indiscriminately hit by this ruthless disease.

With their bravery in their final days, public awareness has never been higher and vital funds for research and support have been raised.

Social media along with the traditional media brought these incredible individual stories to public attention and ensured their names will never be forgotten.

Their legacy will live on.

Rest in peace.