A COURAGEOUS former cage fighter has lost his life to bowel cancer at the age of 24.

Tributes have been paid to Wil Handford who compiled a moving video diary of his battle against the disease.

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Former Fisher More student Wil, who inspired countless people with his blog, will be remembered as a fighter right up until his death on Wednesday night.

The mixed martial artist, who also attended Accrington and Rossendale College, was in peak physical condition when he was struck by crippling stomach pains while attending a training camp in Thailand in 2014.

His return to the UK saw doctors confirm he had bowel cancer, which had spread to his abdomen and colon, and he was initially told he only had between three and six months to live.

Chemotherapy courses reduced Wil’s tumours, and his condition improved briefly. But the cancer returned and therapy was ceased around five weeks ago, when it was no longer judged to be beneficial.

His father Philippe said: “He had such a fighting spirit, a huge personality and an amazing soul. Many people were inspired by him and he made so many friends through talking about what he was going through.

“He never gave up and always remained positive - I was a very proud father.”

Wil, from Colne, who had began a college plumbing apprenticeship, was supported by girlfriend Rose Barrowclough through his battle and also leaves mum Karen, twin sister Cat and younger brother Eduard (corr).

His determination, one of his mottos was ‘you’ve got to keep fighting’, led to a number of fundraising efforts marshalled by his sister and friends.

Fourteen-year-old Lucy Halstead from Accrington, whose older brother and sister knew Wil closely, had her head shaved while the cage fighter’s friends at the Illuminai bar in Burnley collected more than £2,300 after a bank holiday bash.

Formerly a member of Sinclair MMA in Burnley, Wil had fought at Colne Muni and admitted he was in ‘the best shape of his life’ at the time of his original diagnosis.

Online tributes have also flooded in for Wil, including several from friends in Australia.

Elaine Coetzer, in Perth, said: “Absolutely gutted to hear. He was one of life’s treasures.”

And Jason Garrad, in Sydney, added: “The world has lost an amazing lad. Heartbroken with this news Wil. You seriously were one of the biggest personalities I’ve ever met.”

Beth Abbott said: “You will be missed so dearly honey, an absolute pleasure knowing such a strong person! Your time was short but you sure as hell had an amazing time for as long as you could, and overcame obstacle after obstacle.”

And Abbie Cooper, in Barrowford, added: “You were one of the funniest people I’ve ever known. You always told stories in the best way and always had everyone laughing and with a smile on their face.You will be missed by so many people and you were such an inspiration and an amazing person.”

Details of Wil’s funeral are still to be arranged.