Graeme Kerton, known as Hazey on the Sunderland AFC website www.readytogo.net, touched the hearts of supporters with what he called his "dull ramblings" about his illness.

Since he died at the age of 30 in January, many of his admirers decided it would be a fitting tribute to turn his candid blogs into a book called My Dark Friend, as he called his cancer.

The book will be launched at the Stadium of Light later this month, when there will also be a fund-raising race night for charities close to Graeme's heart.

After his death on January 6, his sister Melanie White, 33, organised a charity swim which raised more than £3,000 for the hospice that cared for her brother in Beckenham, Kent.

Graeme remained a Sunderland fan after moving from Wearside to the South East, where he worked as a digital artist.

Melanie said: "People off the message boards have been fantastic and I can't believe the kindness of strangers.

"More than 150 people have said they're coming and we're really looking forward to meeting everyone because the message board and the people from it meant so much to Graeme.

"He was so proud of his blogs and the impression they made on their many readers. We all can't wait to see the finished book and just hope it is a success."

Shortly after his death, his wife Liz and Melanie posted the following message: "This blog and board have meant more to him than words can say and we know he would have wanted all of you to get the news as soon as possible.

"Right up to a few hours before his death he asked us to check the board for new messages from you guys.

"So many of you have said he was inspirational. This gave him great comfort and made him realise what a wonderful person he was."

Graeme had stated that the proceeds of the book should go to Liz as he wanted to help with the setting up of an animal sanctuary.

Information about Graeme and My Dark Friend are on the website www.hazeysbook.co.uk