‘These riders are inspirational’: Jo Cox’s sister attends cycle ride in memory of former MP
The sister of the murdered West Yorkshire MP, Jo Cox, praised cyclists who took part in a mammoth bike ride over the weekend, describing their commitment as “inspirational”.
The Jo Cox Way, a 293-mile cycle ride from Batley, Yorkshire, to Bankside, Southwark, has taken place for the past nine years in memory of the former MP for Batley and Spen, who was fatally shot and stabbed by a far-right terrorist in 2016.
About 83 riders of all ages and abilities set off from Princess Mary Athletics Stadium in Cleckheaton on Wednesday and arrived in Bankside on Sunday, with stops in Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Buckinghamshire and Surrey. Amongst the riders this year were Southwark councillors, Michael Situ and Cllr John Batteson.
Jo Cox’s sister, Kim Leadbeater, who is now the MP for Spen Valley, said: “It’s a wonderful five days and it’s everything Jo would have loved.
“Cycling has enormous physical and mental health benefits, and also helps combat loneliness and isolation; causes Jo cared deeply about.
“She was also a passionate campaigner for gender equality so it’s wonderful to see so many women riding this year.
“Cycling isn’t just for middle aged men in Lycra; it’s for everyone. These riders are inspirational.”
The finale was hosted by Living Bankside, a charitable organisation which works with the community in north Southwark.
Joseph Bonner, chairman of Living Bankside said: “For us the late Jo Cox’s famous words – we have more in common than that which divides us – they are more than just positive words, they are a way of life.
“The Jo Cox Way is a beautiful example of people of all backgrounds striving and bonding together to raise funds and support work which supports and serves those in need.”
Each year the ride raises money for the Jo Cox Foundation, which was set up after Mrs Cox’s death.
Pictured top: Jo Cox Way cyclists celebrate the end of their bike ride at Bankside (Picture: Living Bankside )