New Zealand cyclists travelling over 11,000 miles to remember Jo Cox in Cleckheaton to London bike ride

Around 80 cyclists will be gathering at Princess Mary Athletics Stadium on Wednesday, July 22, for the start of the four-and-a-half-day trip to the capital in memory of the former Batley and Spen MP.

Started just a few weeks after her murder in 2016, this will be the 11th Jo Cox Way event and one which will see two participants travel from New Zealand to saddle up for the 290-mile route, with Jo’s message that ‘we have more in common than that which divides us’ still inspiring people on the other side of the world.

Ruby Boyden, 27, heard about Jo’s murder at home in New Zealand before reading about the bike ride, set up by North Yorkshire businessman Sarfraz Mian.

She said: “I thought it would be great to join. It’s a reminder to turn toward community not away from it, particularly in times of increasing polarisation and divisive rhetoric.

"The ‘more in common’ message continues to resonate, as a positive and hopeful message, and this bike ride feels like it embodies that.”

Ruby is being joined by Issy Doudney, also 27.

She said: “Over in New Zealand, we felt the shock waves of the news of Jo’s murder. Her message really resonates with me.

"It’s easy to see that our society is becoming increasingly divided.”

The youngest rider for the 2026 event is 22, while the oldest is 80 years of age.

Jo’s sister, Kim Leadbeater, now the MP for Spen Valley, said: “It’s wonderful that ten years on, Jo’s message is still making an impact not just here in Yorkshire but around the world.

“Perhaps the greatest tribute we can offer Jo is not merely to repeat her words, but to live by them, and show that we really do have far more in common than that which divides us.

“This is exactly what this bike ride does - women and men, young and old, from different places and different backgrounds, spend time together and real friendships grow.

“It’s a tough challenge but a brilliant five days. Jo would have loved it! Cycling has lots of physical and mental health benefits and also helps combat loneliness and isolation - causes which Jo also really cared about.

“My mum, dad and I wish all the cyclists the very best of luck on yet another mammoth challenge.”

Founder Safran added: “‘If we look at what is going on in the world now, with all the trouble and strife, this message, that bounced around the world when Jo was murdered, about having more in common, needs to be embraced even more.

“It is remarkable saying this ten years after such a tragic event, but it feels like the message is even more poignant, significant and important to humanity.

“It is a hugely positive thing that brings together all sorts of people from all walks of life. So many people have done it multiple times. And they keep coming back.”

The cyclists will depart from Cleckheaton on Wednesday, July 22, and finish in Southwark in London on Sunday, July 26.