Widower of Jo Cox leads tributes to hero Bernard Kenny

The husband of the murdered Yorkshire MP Jo Cox is leading the tributes to the grandfather who tried to save her. Former miner Bernard Kenny has died. The 79-year-old had cancer.

Brendan Cox has tweeted describing the grandfather as a hero who personified the best of our country:

In a statement on behalf of the Cox family, Jo's sister, Kim Leadbeater, said:

"It was with deep sadness that we heard from Bernard Kenny's son, Phil, that his dad had passed away on Monday.

Having kept in touch with the Kenny family since Jo's murder, we were aware of his illness.

Bernard was a true hero and a shining example of Yorkshire and Britishbravery.

He restored our faith in humanity and we will be forever grateful for theattempt he made to intervene when Jo was killed.

Our thoughts and love are with Doreen, Phil and the whole Kenny family and with Bernard's many friends at this time."<

Tracy Brabin, who was elected MP for Batley and Spen following the death of Mrs Cox described Mr Kenny as "brave and selfless".

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn tweeted that Mr Kenny's bravery and selflessness would continue to 'inspire us.'