HUNDREDS of residents enjoyed a communal picnic in Otley on Sunday as part of The Great Get Together.

The gathering was one of tens of thousands of community cohesion events that were held across the country last weekend in memory of MP Jo Cox, who was murdered last summer.

The picnic was run by volunteers from community group Otley Welcomes who gave out sandwiches and cakes in the Market Square, where people also brought their own food to share.

The day included face painting, games and art activities for children too, and was attended by about 400 residents.

Victoria Smith, who co-ordinated the day on behalf of Otley Welcomes, said: "We had no idea how many people would come along and it was really a testament to the community spirit and togetherness of this town that we got such an amazing crowd.

"People were so generous in what they brought along and after everyone had their fill we had a bag of food left over to give to the homeless charity Hope Housing.

"The Great Get Together was a chance to celebrate all we hold in common - and Otley did that in style.

"We hope to run more events like this and would love more people to help us organise them.

"Like our Facebook page Hands up Everyone Welcome in Otley or e-mail otleywelcomes@gmail.com to get on board."

The picnic was announced open by Otley Bellman Terry Ford before short speeches by newly elected Leeds North West MP Alex Sobel and Otley Welcomes steering group member, John Eveleigh.

Mr Sobel said: "I knew Jo Cox and it's great to be here to celebrate her legacy.

"This is exactly the sort of event that she'd like to see, bringing communities in Yorkshire together.

"It's great that Otley Welcomes put on this event and I look forward to supporting such inspiring events in the future."

Otley Town Council Chairman Councillor Ray Georgeson said: "What a wonderful response from the Otley community - hundreds of friends and neighbours gathering to embrace the spirit of fellowship of the Great Get Together, sharing food, playing games and getting to know people they didn't.

"The circumstances that led to the brutal killing of Jo Cox have left a positive legacy and her memory will endure."

Otley Welcomes was created following the 'Brexit' vote.

Picknicker Lawrence Ross, a director of Otley Town Partnership, said: "I was in hospital during the Brexit vote and I woke up at 6am, as you do in hospital.

"The Polish nurse who was treating me was crying and I was crying.

"I think this event was great. It's really nice that we try to make new friends with everybody."

*Otley's Woolpack Music The Woolpack Music and Arts Studios also marked the occasion by holding a full day of live music.