Jo Cox’s parents have confirmed that they are the ones responsible for Jo’s murder. “truly amazed”At the record-breaking number of cyclists who took part in a 288-mile ride in memory of their daughter.
The Jo Cox Way will see 75 riders aged between 18 and 76 cycle from Yorkshire to London over five days next week. Organisers say it is the largest turnout ever for their annual Jo Cox Ride.
The event, which is in its seventh year, aims to keep the former Batley & Spen Labour MP’s legacy alive by flying the flag for community spirit and supporting causes that were important to her, the team said.
Jean Leadbeater, her parents, stated that she was a “very special person.” “We are truly amazed at the record number of riders for this year’s event.
It’s fantastic that in our seventh year we have more riders than ever
Sarfraz Mian
“It just seems to go from strength to strength.
“The ride has proved hugely successful in previous years – it encapsulates totally Jo’s principles of fairness, respect and community cohesion and we cannot think of a better way to showcase her ‘More in Common’ values.”
Mrs Cox’s sister Kim Leadbeater, who won a by-election last year in her sister’s old seat, has taken part in every ride since 2016.
She stated that: “The last two years have been tough for us all, with so many people affected by Covid, lockdowns and the cost of living.
“Despite all this, it’s brilliant to see people’s commitment to making a difference has grown stronger, with cyclists joining together for a seventh time to celebrate the fact that we have ‘far more in common than that which divides us’ – words from Jo’s maiden speech in Parliament.”
Sarfraz Mian, a North Yorkshire businessman who is a keen cyclist and founder of the Jo Cox Way, started it in 2016.
The mixed-ability cyclists will depart from Cleckheaton’s Princess Mary Stadium, Cleckheaton on Wednesday, July 27, and continue to Buxton in Derbyshire.
Riders will arrive in London on Sunday, July 31st. They will also make overnight stops at Market Bosworth in Leicestershire and Milton Keynes.
Mr Mian stated: “It’s fantastic that in our seventh year we have more riders than ever.
“Times are tough, but we want to do our bit to bring business to local hotels, cafes and pubs as we cycle from the place Jo loved most to where she worked, in London.
“I never met Jo but her determination to create a fairer, kinder world for all really touched me in 2016 and is more relevant than ever now.”
Organisers say all the places for this year’s ride are now taken but cyclists can join for a day or part of a day by registering at www.letsride.co.uk/rides/the-jo-cox-way-2022-day-1-part-2-horbury-bridge-to-buxton
Anyone wishing to sponsor the riders can go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/thejocoxway2022.