Blackpool lightning strike: Liverpool players wear shirts for Jordan Banks

Liverpool players wore shirts with Jordan's name on the back while warming up at Old Trafford

Liverpool FC's players have paid tribute to a nine-year-old boy who died after being struck by lightning by wearing shirts with his name on.

Jordan Banks was injured when a thunderstorm hit while playing football on a field in Blackpool on Tuesday.

The Premier League footballers wore shirts in memory of Jordan, who was a keen Reds fan, while warming up for their match against Manchester United.

Lancashire's Sunday league clubs are to hold a minute's silence for him.

Jordan's family said he was "the brightest star" and "our worlds stopped" when "we lost our beautiful boy".

Jordan Banks was "caring, considerate, generous and so loving", his family says

Two crowdfunding pages which have been set up in Jordan's memory have raised more than £65,000.

Jordan was taken to hospital with serious injuries after being struck by lightning at about 17:00 BST on Tuesday but died a short time later, Lancashire Police said.

Flowers, football boots and messages of condolence have been placed on the field

Lancashire Sunday League invited clubs, players and officials to remember Jordan with a minute's silence "as a sign of respect following his tragic death".

Flowers, footballs, football shirts and messages of condolence have been left at the playing field on Common Edge Road.

People have also been posting nine footballs on social media in honour of the keen Liverpool FC fan, using the hashtag #RIPLittleMan.

Police said the youngster had "cheered up" officers after leaving them sweets on police vehicles in January.

A post on the Blackpool Police Facebook page said: "Back in January when the country was in lockdown, Jordan was secretly leaving sweets and chocolates on police cars in Blackpool to cheer up our police officers.

"We are eternally grateful to him for the care he showed us during challenging times throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

"Jordan's actions touched the hearts of our officers and we will always remember his kindness."

The England football team also paid tribute to Jordan, describing what happened as "so sad".

It tweeted: "We would like to offer our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to Jordan Banks's family and all those affected by this terrible tragedy."

Blackpool Tower was lit up in red to remember Jordan and his beloved Liverpool FC

He was also praised for his fundraising efforts after raising £3,000 for a mental health charity in memory of his uncle earlier this year, by running 30 miles in 10 days.

Jordan played for Clifton Rangers Junior Football Club, who described him as "an extraordinary young man".

The flag at Blackpool town hall flew at half-mast in tribute to Jordan and Blackpool Tower and the Illuminations arches were lit up in red in homage to his beloved Liverpool FC.

Training on the playing fields, which are owned by the council, was cancelled until further notice.

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