ILKLEY residents are being invited to an afternoon of games, entertainment, food and fun as The Grove is transformed into a massive community picnic on Sunday, June 18.

The event is part of a nationwide initiative The Great Get Together being held in honour of Jo Cox. Organised by the Jo Cox Foundation the weekend marks the anniversary of the murder of the Batley and Spen MP who inspired people when she said 'we have more in common than that which divides us'.

Organiser of the Ilkley Great Get Together, Becky Malby said: "Everyone loves a street party. We decided to take over The Grove, as part of the Great Get Together organised by the Jo Cox Foundation. The theme of the memorial weekend is combatting loneliness and bringing communities together, and as soon as we started posting the idea of a party on Facebook it just took off. We know that lots of other streets in Ilkley are organising their own party too, so they can carry on the festivities once The Grove lunch is over.”

Residents are asked to bring their own food, drink and something to share, plus picnic rugs and camping chairs if possible. Tables have been donated and a limited number of chairs. If the weather is not kind the party will decamp to Christchurch.

The fun starts at noon and will run until 3pm. There will be street busking, a quiz (with prizes), a Father’s Day Tug of War, children’s games, and a raffle. Local care homes and older people’s residences have been invited to come along and join in too.

The aim of the afternoon is to unite the people of Ilkley, celebrate all that is great about the community, foster new friendships and have a thoroughly good time.

The organisers are appealing for help, in particular for tables and chairs, a van for 24 hours, prizes for the raffle/quiz, and banqueting rolls (red). There will be a get together to make bunting on May 6 at Christchurch Hall from 2pm. Lots of help will also be needed on the day itself.

For information or to offer help see the website: https://beckymalby.wixsite.com/ilkleyggt