Family of young Newcastle fan killed in Benwell explosion thank community for support
Two of Archie York's uncles are hoping football fans across the region will show their love for him in a round of applause
Two of Archie York's uncles say they are stunned by the outpouring of support from the community, in the wake of the Benwell house explosion earlier this week.
7 year old Archie was one of 2 people who died in the blast, which rocked Violet Close in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Now, Lewis Briggs has been telling us it has been heart-warming to see the community response;
"All the messages we've been receiving - all the support we've gained has been nothing short of phenomenal
"It just really does show what kind of a close knit community we've got, and how we can bring everyone together at this tough time."
Lewis tells us they want to remember Archie's personality;
"Archie was one of the cheekiest chaps you'll ever meet in your life - absolutely his smile lit up the room as soon as he walked in
"He absolutely loved football - and Newcastle United was his favourite team."
The family are hoping football clubs across the region will join together in remembering Archie this weekend - with a round of applause at the 7th minute of this weekend's games, and they are hoping the message will make it all the way up to Archie's number one love - Newcastle United;
"We just want to ask - anything from junior teams, all the way to Newcastle United Football Club - if they could come together with a round of applause at the 7th minute, it would truly show how much support, and how recognised this little boy is."
Another of Archie's uncles, Chrissy York has also been telling us about Archie's love for Newcastle;
"Over the last few months or so Archie's really got into his football - and he's tarted to really love NEwcastle united
"He had the kits, he loved England, but his favourite player was Bruno
"He didn't really have a favourite position, but he just loved booting the ball, running after it and trying to score goals,
"I couldn't be any more proud of the little person he was - he was the cheekiest little boy with the happiest smile, he lit up any room he went into."
A fundraising page has been set up within the community to support the family.
Northumbria police say an investigation into the explosion is taking place, but is expected to take some time.