Mourners to unite to pay final farewell to late Batley and Spen MP Jo Cox

A private funeral service for immediate family and a function for invited guests will take place after her funeral cortege slows in Heckmondwike and Batley to allow members of the public to mark her passing.

The death of the 42-year-old mum-of-two shocked the nation on June 16. She was fatally shot and stabbed outside Birstall Library where she was hosting an advice surgery.

Ahead of her funeral, Dan Jarvis, MP for Barnsley Central, has issued a poignant tribute to his dear friend Jo. He said: “Jo had an energy, passion and commitment to those she served that transcended party politics. Her life lived up to that ideal of speaking up for people who can’t speak up for themselves.

“She died in the cause of that effort. Her spirit and determination are an inspiration to all of us as we seek to continue that mission.”

Mrs Cox’s family has asked that they be allowed to grieve privately today, but were keen to ensure that residents are able to pay their respects.

Her funeral cortege will tour her constituency from 10.30am, following a route along the A638 in Heckmondwike towards a slow-down point on Westgate/Market Street.

The cortege will then continue towards Batley where shortly after there will be a further slow-down point on Market Place/Cambridge Street before it leaves Batley.

A crowdfunding page raising funds for causes close to Jo’s heart has so far raised nearly £1.5million. Visit gofundme.com/jocox for details.

Since Mrs Cox’s death calls have grown for a pensioner who came to her aid to be officially honoured.

Former miner Bernard Kenny, 78, was released from hospital after he was stabbed in the abdomen trying to save the MP outside Birstall library.

An inquest in Mrs Cox’s death was opened and adjourned last month after hearing she died from multiple stab and gunshot wounds.

• Thomas Mair, 52, has appeared at the Old Bailey in central London charged with murdering Mrs Cox.

He is also charged with grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence and possession of an offensive weapon.

He is remanded in custody and due to go on trial in November.