A CELEBRATION of the life of a murdered MP is expected to bring fun, laughter and music to a Darlington park next month.

For the third year running The Great Get Together will take place to honour Jo Cox, who was murdered by a right-wing terrorist in her West Yorkshire constituency in 2016.

White Rose Darlington has organised it for the last two years and the group, now renamed More In Common Darlington, will again take over the bandstand in South Park.

This year, the Darlington Great Get Together is also supported by Youth Focus: North East to bring a new dimension to the party.

The event aims to showcase Teesside musicians and demonstrate that “people have far more in common than that which divides us” – the famous words of the late MP for Batley and Spen.

Darlington and Stockton Times:

Jo Cox, who was murdered in 2016 by a right-wing extremist

More in Common Darlington chair Peter Greenwood said: "There was a great atmosphere last year and our priority is to recreate that friendliness and good humour. But this time the event will be even better than ever. We have one or two surprises in store for those who come along to picnic, listen to the music and relax among people of all ages.

“We are particularly encouraging people who feel lonely and isolated to come and join in. Loneliness is an increasing problem and an issue that was close to Jo Cox’s heart."

Among the local bands who have volunteered to play for no fee are The Caribbean Cowboys, The Anarchists, Awe-struck, The Happening and Ol’ Glory.

“There’s a tradition that artists who give their time for free to enhance charity events are recompensed with a beer or two,” said Mr Greenwood. “If there are any pubs or breweries out there who want to do their bit for togetherness in Darlington, we could do with your help.”

Helen Kennedy Development Officer for Youth Focus: North East said: “Our Community Matters project is in its second year. It has created lasting friendships and sustainable groups that are readily working together on more, new and exciting ideas in their local communities.

“Youth Focus: North East, though, has been working tirelessly for five years to tackle isolation and loneliness. Our newest projects include ‘Building Connections Youth Strand’ and ‘Half a World Away’, an urban and rural exchange project."

The event, which takes place on June 23, is also promising that there will be story-telling, facepainting, Mr Bubbles, crafts, bowls courtesy of South Park Bowls Club, children’s entertainment and videos, among some surprise items.

More In Common Darlington can be reached via its Facebook page or by email at

admin@moreincommondarlo.com

. Youth Focus: North East is at

mail@youthfocusne.org.uk

and

www.youthfocusne.org.uk