STAFF and volunteers at Airedale Hospital joined in a national tribute to murdered MP Jo Cox.

They took a break and met-up in one of the hospital's courtyards to share lunch.

Also present were representatives of social housing group Incommunities, which has donated a picnic bench – made by its apprentices – to the Steeton site.

The event was part of the Great Get Together, a series of activities across the country in honour of Mrs Cox, who was shot and stabbed to death in her Batley and Spen constituency a year ago.

Inspiration behind the initiative was the message in the Labour MP's maiden speech in Parliament, that "we have more in common than that which divides us".

Michael Smith, head of employee health and wellbeing at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Jo Cox was an inspirational MP and she worked hard to bring communities together.

"With nearly 3,000 staff we have our own community here at Airedale, but don't often get the chance to come together and have a chat.

"Jo's memory has inspired to change that and we encouraged our staff to take a break – even if it was just for ten minutes – to be part of this event and to find out what else we all have in common."

He added: "We're delighted with the picnic bench from Incommunities, which was a very kind gesture.

"Not only did it give us a focal point for our Get Together, it also means that staff can use it for lunch breaks which is good for their wellbeing, as it gets them away from their ward or computer."

Yesterday's gathering included a free raffle and cakes baked by colleagues.

Sue Laycock, Incommunities' director of human resources, said the group was delighted to be involved in the event and to donate the bench.

"Hopefully the bench will provide a relaxing spot for hospital staff to take a break and meet up with colleagues and it also serves as a fitting legacy to the inspiring contribution Jo Cox made in bringing together people from all walks of life," she added.