A NUMBER of events have taken place over the weekend to celebrate the life of former MP Jo Cox, just over a year since she was murdered in Birstall.

Schools and communities took part in the Great Get Together, where events were held to bring people together through Jo Cox’s message that we have “more in common”.

The former Labour Batley & Spen MP was murdered in Birstall on June 16, 2016, by Thomas Mair.

In City Park, Bradford Council held a picnic and fun day today, with families invited along to have picnics while enjoying an afternoon of music, games and activities.

It is being held by the Council in partnership with Touchstone, Bradford Volunteering, Wellsprings Together, Bradford Council for Mosques, Muslim Women’s Council and the Martin House Hospice.

Street entertainers wowed the crowds with their performances, the Speakers Corner Collective gave addresses to the crowds, and in the evening a spiritual Big Iftar is being held to mark the breaking of fast during Ramadan.

Councillor Abdul Jabar, executive member for neighbourhoods and community safety, said: “It is great to see all these massive community picnics being held in the city and throughout the district.

“They took inspiration from Jo Cox’s quote when she said we have more in common than that which divides us, and it is so true in Bradford. We have such a strong community spirit here.”

Elsewhere in the district, on Saturday a picnic in the park for local families was held at The Green in Heckmondwike, the town where Mrs Cox was raised and educated.

All Saints CE Primary School in Little Horton also held a street party on Saturday in Kennion Street.

Attractions included the chance to try on police and fire service gear, music, and stalls, which all took place in glorious sunshine.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Abid Hussain, who attended the event, said: “I really enjoyed the party, it was fantastic to see everyone gathering here in the beautiful weather, especially the young people.

“The school deserve a lot of credit for organising this.

“Jo Cox was a fantastic MP who stood for the community and events like this will ensure her memory will never fade.”

A community picnic involving games, and live entertainment is also taking place today, organised by Friends of Ilkley Lido at the outdoor pool, and in Keighley, an Iftar party is being held from 9.30pm at Sigh Airedale in Highfield Lane.