BIRMINGHAM have paid tribute to supporter of the year Gary Williams after he tragically passed away.

Gary was given the fan accolade by the Blues at the end of last season at the club's annual awards.

Heartbreakingly, less than 12 months on from that special evening, he has now died following a battle with cancer and kidney disease.

A statement on his Twitter account confirmed the news on Monday.

It read: "It is with a heavy heart we announce Gaz sadly passed away on Thursday 9th of March, following his long battle with cancer, as well as kidney disease.

"Anyone who knew Gaz, will know what a fighter he was, overcoming so much that life threw at him. Gaz’s fighting spirit remained till the very end and that strength and determination will always be an inspiration to everyone that knew him.

"Gaz will be sorely missed by us all, however will be remembered always for his strength, love and compassion.

"My mum and myself are currently organising dates for Gaz to be laid to rest, I will post on here when we have a date.

"Thank you all for also supporting Gaz on this platform. And a huge thank you to our beloved Blues who gave us some great memories especially when he won supporter of the year, that was a night we’ll never forget."

Birmingham then released their own statement which read: "The Club are saddened to learn of the passing of lifelong Bluenose and Supporter of the Season, Gary Williams.

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"All of our thoughts are with Gaz’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time. 💙"

Former Birmingham midfielder Jude Bellingham, 19, was one of the first to pay tribute to Gary on social media.

He said: "Kept right on til the end. Proper warrior, proper inspiration, proper Blues.

"Rest in peace Gaz, you’ll never be forgotten.💙"

Football fans also poured in with their own tributes to Gary as they remembered the lifelong Blues fan.

One said: "RIP Gaz. Saddened to hear this. Such a fighter who was given so much encouragement and shown so much warmth by other Blues fans on here. It always appeared to give him a boost when he needed it.

"Respect to the club and others inc Jude Bellingham for their generous actions 🔵⚪️."

Another added: "Gary epitomised our club anthem no matter what; he kept right on. RIP."

And an Aston Villa fan replied: "Many Villa fans connected with Gaz and it’s a sad day across the football divide.

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"Gaz often spoke about his appreciation for the support he got from the 'football family' as he called it. He gave a lot back. And he truly was Blues through and through.

"Missed by us all. RIP Gaz ❤️."

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