Cumbrian football clubs have joined in the emotional tributes to Jordan Banks - the nine-year-old who tragically died after being struck by lightning.

The youngster was killed when a thunderstorm hit as he was playing football on Common Edge playing fields in Blackpool on Tuesday.

Jordan's family this week issued a heartbreaking tribute to their "brightest star - our beautiful boy Jordan".

The devastating news has touched the entire football community.

Clubs and individuals have been posting nine football emojis in a row on Twitter as a symbolic tribute to the nine-year-old, who played with Clifton Rangers Bees Under 9s.

The Cumberland FA did so, adding: "Our thoughts are with the family, friends and team mates at this time."

Carlisle United head coach Chris Beech, who was born in Blackpool, has added his own message of sympathy.

Speaking on the Blues' website, he said: "I was born in Blackpool and grew up in Fleetwood, and I was a nine-year-old myself playing football on Common Edge playing fields.

"I have friends and family that live there and I can’t begin to express how sad this is.

"From myself, my family, everyone associated with Carlisle United and the whole of Cumbria, we stand United to offer our deepest condolences to the family, friends and team mates of such a wonderful little boy.

"The football community has come together across the country over the last 24 hours by posting nine football emojis in support and respect, it would be great if we could give it our backing.

"Fly high Jordan, you’re forever in the hearts and minds of everyone."

Workington Reds tweeted nine footballs and added: "Everyone at the club sends their condolences to Jordan Banks’ loved ones."

Barrow player Josh Kay, meanwhile, tweeted that he had been moved to tears after visiting the pitches where he himself had once played when growing up in Blackpool.

"To think this little lad was going to play the game we all love and not return home, it’s brought me to tears," he wrote. "Absolutely devastating."

Flowers, football shirts and messages of condolence have been left at the field in Lancashire where Jordan had been taking part in a coaching session on Tuesday.

Footballers including Liverpool's James Milner have paid tribute to the boy who had recently raised £3,000 for charity by running 30 miles in 10 days in memory of his uncle.

In a statement, Jordan's family described him as "caring, considerate, generous and so loving", adding that their "world had stopped".

The statement added: "We lost the brightest star, our beautiful boy Jordan.

"His laugh, that infectious smile, golden curls, he was our everything."

An online fundraiser in Jordan's memory has already seen more than £60,000 donated. It is here