85 cyclists have raised over £20,000 for The Jo Cox Foundation after completing an epic five-day ride in memory of Jo Cox.
Now in its ninth year, The Jo Cox Way is a five day cycle from Batley & Spen – Jo’s hometown and constituency – to London. This inspiring ride brings together people from all backgrounds through a love of cycling and a shared goal, while also supporting the work of the Jo Cox Foundation.
All funds raised through the event go to support the Foundation’s work to bring people together. This includes events like our annual Great Get Together. This year’s event marked what would have been Jo’s 50th birthday, and saw people across the UK come together to celebrate their communities.
Sarfraz Mian, one of the organisers of The Jo Cox Way said, ‘This year has seen a spectacularly wonderful Jo Cox Way; we have had the greatest number of participants, the largest age spread, highest ever number of female participants and the take up of all places in just 4 days. The fun and camaraderie amongst the teams of riders was delightful to witness. The organising committee would like to express huge thanks to all of the riders who came together from across the UK to participate in this year’s ride and embraced the More in Common philosophy so beautiful. The riders have been incredible in raising support and record funds for the Jo Cox Foundation. Enormous thanks to everyone that generously donated and also to the amazing sponsors without whose support we could not deliver the event.’
Professor Scarlett McNally, from Eastbourne, raised more than £1,500:
‘I was a first-time rider on the Jo Cox Way 2024 and was amazed by the spirit of ‘we have more in common that that which divides us’. The cycle ride meant five days of conversations as well as the physical and mental challenge. I’m a surgeon and very grateful to many nurses and other colleagues and friends who donated. Four years ago, I had a stem cell transplant for myeloma (blood cancer) and I have written about exercise being a great way of improving health and connecting people. The Jo Cox Foundation supports respect, connections, community and health – the riders benefit as well as the charity.’
Steve Fox, from Leeds, raised £1,400 while riding with an unusual companion:
‘2024 was my third year undertaking The Jo Cox Way. This year I chose to have a friend accompany me, to prove we have more in common than that which divides us. Clyde, recently turned eight years old, accompanied me on a heavy old Post Office bike and was my navigator and cheerleader riding companion. Clyde is a 6kg fluffy gorilla, who sat in the basket at the front of the bike for the whole 293 mile journey. Many passers-by stopped to greet, hug and kiss Clyde and each received a small pack of complimentary love hearts. Clyde and I managed to raise £1400 for the Jo Cox foundation, an achievement which neither of us expected!’
