Championship side offering free admission to celebrate the life of former MP
Photo: John Clifton/SWpix
Batley Bulldogs are offering free entry for their upcoming clash with York Knights in the Championship this Sunday.
The Round 13 fixture kicks off at 3pm at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium, with a curtain raiser from 12:45pm, with Super League’s Magic Weekend also kicking-off this Saturday at Newcastle United’s St James’ Park.
It marks the return of the club’s Jo Cox memorial game, a fixture that celebrates the life of the former Batley and Spen MP who was murdered in June 2016.
The free to enter event at Batley Bulldogs had taken place annually prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Gates open at 12pm and there will be live music, hot food and drinks and family fun attractions, with Australian commentator Andrew Voss also involved in the build-up on social media ahead of the weekend.
If the world's greatest sports commentator tells you there's a game on it's time to listen!!
This Sunday. Bulldogs v @YorkRLFC
FREE ADMISSION FOR ALL!!#Vossy pic.twitter.com/5shYDFMtUU— Batley Bulldogs RLFC (@BatleyRLFC) May 31, 2023
Gates open from 12pm at Batley Bulldogs
Batley director John Miller told Love Rugby League: “We’re thrilled to be working once again with The Great Get Together to offer a fantastic community day at The Fox’s Biscuits Stadium completely free.
“It’s going to be a cracker of a game against York Knights and we’re hoping for a bumper crowd to come along, enjoy the occasion and, if you’re new to live rugby league, see what a fantastic family atmosphere our sport creates.
“And it’s a great opportunity to show how brilliant the facilities are at the Bulldogs.
“We have to thank Team Colostomy UK and La Romantica Beds for supporting this event and we’re really looking forward to another day to remember.”
Jo’s sister Kim Leadbeater, the current MP for Batley and Spen, told Dewsbury Reporter: “I am really pleased that the Jo Cox Memorial Rugby Match in memory of my sister, Jo, has returned four years after taking a break due to the pandemic.
“This game is a special way to remember Jo and the values she stood for.
“The game takes place as part of the Jo Cox Foundation’s Great Get Together campaign, which is inspired by Jo and takes place annually on the weekend closest to her birthday.
“Jo was passionate about communities and bringing people together, and this special game does just that in true More in Common style, for a family day with a superb atmosphere.”
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