Ryan Reynolds thanks charity for helping teenager

Aiden Waller became friends with Ryan Reynolds before his death in February

Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds has thanked charity workers for the support they gave to a 15-year-old who died from a rare bone cancer.

Aiden Waller, from Benfleet, Essex, died in February after living with osteosarcoma for the previous three years.

The Wrexham AFC fan and his family were helped by Leigh-on-Sea charity Gold Geese since his diagnosis.

In a surprise video sent to the charity, Reynolds said: "I just want to say thank you for all you do for childhood cancers and fighting the good fight."

The Deadpool actor struck up a friendship with Aiden through their love of Wrexham, the club Reynolds co-owns.

Reynolds said osteosarcoma was "an awful and unjust disease" and paid tribute to Gold Geese's work.

"Aiden Waller was a friend of mine, a friend to Wrexham and a friend to many, and he will never be forgotten," he said in the selfie video.

"I'm sending you all my love and all my gratitude for everything that you guys do."

Aiden supported Wrexham, which is co-owned by Reynolds and Rob McElhenney

The special message was inspired by Aiden's mother, Sarah, who described Reynolds as a "good friend".

"Ryan appreciated everyone that helped get Aiden through his darkest days and was very happy to do a shout out," she added.

Aiden's ashes were scattered on Wrexham's pitch after his death and the family were presented with a tribute.

Katie Southgate, the founder of Gold Geese, said she "couldn't believe" it when she saw Reynolds' message.

"Aiden was an absolute legend of a person. He was kind and funny and really into his gaming and loved Wrexham AFC," she said.

"I know he would have absolutely loved to see my jaw drop when I got a video message from Ryan Reynolds."

"Aiden's legacy and memory live on, forever," she added.