A COMMUNITY picnic will see people across Darlington join the nation in paying tribute to murdered MP Jo Cox this summer.

South Park’s Great Get Together is one of a number of events taking place around the country in memory of the MP for Batley and Spen, who was shot to death by a known racist last year.

The events, supported by The Jo Cox Foundation and The Big Lunch, aim to bring communities together and continue Ms Cox’s fight against intolerance and hatred.

The Darlington picnic - taking place from noon on Sunday, June 18 – has been organised by the town’s White Rose movement and supported by Darlington Assistance for Refugees and multi-faith group Darlington Unity.

White Rose founder Peter Greenwood said: “The white rose was Jo Cox’s flower, hence our name.

“We are a new group which will be campaigning against bigotry and intolerance, as she did.

“When the Great Get Together was announced as aw ay of celebrating her life and work, we knew we had to get involved.

“We are delighted that our friends in Unity and DAR, who work hard to bring people in the town together, are helping us.”

Darlington’s event will see people share picnic food and enjoy a variety of live music at the park’s old bowling green.

Mr Greenwood said: “On the day, all we want people to do is turn up with food, and a bit extra to share around if you can.

“Bring folding chairs and tables if you like, blankets to sit on and musical instruments if you can play.”

Appealing for musicians to join the celebration, he added: “We would like music to play a part so, if you are a folk or blues band, for instance, or a choir, get in touch. We’d love to have you enhance the atmosphere. Or maybe you are a budding DJ and can put together a suitably eclectic set.”

Jo Cox’s husband, Brendan Cox said: “Jo loved a party and she would have been thrilled by the idea of The Great Get Together.

“As she said in her maiden speech in parliament - we have far more in common than that which divides us.

“Jo wanted a chance to bring our communities together to celebrate what unites us.

“There could be no more fitting tribute to her memory than The Great Get Together helping to do just that.”

For more information about Darlington’s Great Get Together, email whiterosedarlo@gmail.com.

The event will also be discussed at the next meeting of the White Rose movement, taking place on Saturday, April 22 from 10am at the Friends Meeting House on Skinnergate.