16 pictures as cyclists set off on epic 290-mile journey in memory of MP Jo Cox

The annual Jo Cox Way departed from Princess Mary Athletics Stadium just after 9am today (Wednesday) for the 11th time since her murder in 2016, with riders expected to arrive in the capital on Sunday (July 26) afternoon.

Jo’s sister, Kim Leadbeater, MP for Spen Valley, set the cyclists on their way.

“Here we go again,” Kim said.

“As a family, we absolutely love this. The Jo Cox Way and the Run For Jo are two big local events that form part of Jo’s legacy and it is the very best of our community.

“It is people from all different backgrounds coming together through that shared endeavour. There are physical and psychological challenges but lasting friendships are formed.”

The first ride was set up by North Yorkshire businessman Sarfraz Mian just a matter of weeks after Jo’s death.

“He had never met Jo and he never knew us as a family,” Kim said. “But he saw her horrific murder and said this is not who we are or what our country is, so he got on his bike with his friends and cycled to London to re-enact Jo’s political journey.

“It has gone from strength to strength with hundreds of cyclists taking part over the years.

“It will always hold a very special place in my heart as we continue to see the best of humanity.”

The ride encompasses Jo’s belief that “we are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us”.

And it is a message that has gone global, with two cyclists who have travelled from New Zealand taking part this year.

“I am feeling good, although I am quite nervous,” said Ruby Boyden at the start line. The 27-year-old is riding with her friend, Issy Doudney, who she met at university while doing a master’s degree.

Ruby added: “I have been told that the first day is quite a big challenge but once we get going it will be good. It is a nice atmosphere and everyone is supportive.

“Jo’s more in common message is global. There are so many similarities across the world with what is happening in this era, and a lot of countries seem to have the same issues. It is a grounded message.”

Closer to home, Richard Vause, 62, Donald Priestley, 68, Stuart Eakin, 63, and Brian Elsegood, 56 - all from the Birkenshaw area - are taking part.

Richard said: “My wife rode it last year and said it was great.

“Over the years we have been involved in school PTAs in Birkenshaw and involved in community events - and this is a great cause for the community.

“It will be great to see the countryside, without it being the M1! And there will be a bit of banter!”

Sam Vickers, CEO of Batley Multi Academy Trust, was also in attendance supporting the riders at the start. And although she confirmed there were no former pupils or staff involved in 2026, her schools may be represented next year.

“This event is wonderful to continue the legacy of Jo Cox,” Sam said.

“She was an inspirational woman. When she walked into our schools she filled the room with energy and hope. We want to continue her work and her memory is thriving ten years on.

“We might have one or two people cycling next year. They are in training! We like to support the event as much as we can.”

Giving a message to all the cyclists, Kim said: “It will be a tough few days for them, but they will be absolutely exhilarated when they cross that finish line in London!

“I just want to thank them all for remembering Jo in doing this ride in her name and we wish them all a wonderful time.”

Asked if she would be taking part, she joked: “I’m not doing it this year - there’s quite a lot going on at the moment, you might have noticed!

“Let’s get Burnham on a bike! Maybe next year! He is very sporty. I played table tennis with him and he came to one of the local rugby clubs in Mirfield.

“It is one of his passions. Hopefully we will try to get him in next year!

“I did the full thing in 2018 and it nearly broke me, so I have total respect for everyone involved.”

Take a look at these photos from the start of the 2026 Jo Cox Way by photographer John Clifton.