HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a young Newport County AFC supporter “with a big heart” who died following his battle with cancer.

Kieran Sanges, a much-loved figure within the fan community and the County ranks, died over the August Bank Holiday weekend at the age of 14.

Before his illness, Kieran was a regular both at Rodney Parade and away fixtures where he attended matches with his father Matt.

Since being diagnosed with the illness, the club had maintained regular contact with Kieran and his family and Exiles players had visited him at the Ty Hafan Hospice before the start of the season.

Supporters will have recognised Kieran and his family as being the guests of the club during County’s pre-season match against Barry Town in July.

County officials had hoped that Kieran would be well enough to watch the side’s homecoming win against Chesterfield at Rodney Parade on August 27 but he was sadly unable to do so.

To mark Kieran’s passing, the players wore black armbands during their visit to Football League new boys Forest Green Rovers.

Supporters then held a minute’s applause for him in the 14th minute of their away game against Exeter City on Saturday.

On Friday, the players, staff and directors of County will be joining the Sanges family and the Amber Army at St John’s Church for Kieran’s funeral.

Six of County’s players will also be taking on the honour of carrying Kieran’s coffin at the family’s request.

Numerous supporters are also expected to attend the open funeral, which starts at midday before the procession will move to Christchurch Cemetery at 1.30pm for the burial. The wake will then follow at the Windsor Club.

One of Kieran’s wishes for everyone attending his funeral wear Newport County AFC shirts, amber tops or bright colours.

A spokeswoman for Newport County AFC said: “The club is devastated to hear the news that young supporter Kieran Sanges has passed away after losing his battle with cancer.

“One of the younger members of the County family, Kieran was a fantastic young man with a big heart and displayed an incredible attitude and fight in the face of his illness.

“All the staff, players, volunteers and everyone associated with Newport County AFC’s thoughts are with Kieran’s family at this incredibly difficult time.”