Tributes paid to Bernard Kenny after death of ex-miner who tried to stop neo-Nazi attacking MP Jo Cox

BERNARD KENNY, who tried to stop a right-wing extremist from murdering MP Jo Cox, has been described as a “hero” by her widower following his death.

The former miner’s son, Phil Kenny, 58, confirmed his father died on Monday morning.

Mr Kenny, 79, was seriously injured when he was stabbed as he intervened when Thomas Mair attacked Mrs Cox in his home village of Birstall, West Yorkshire, in June 2016.

Her husband, Brendan Cox, tweeted on Tuesday: “Bernard Kenny was a hero, he personified the best of our country; risking his own safety to help others.

“Our thoughts & love are with his family.”

Bernard Kenny was a hero, he personified the best of our country;risking his own safety to help others.Our thoughts&love are with his family

— Brendan Cox (@MrBrendanCox) August 15, 2017

Tracy Brabin, who was elected MP for Batley and Spen after the death of Mrs Cox, earlier told the Press Association: “My heartfelt condolences go out to Bernard’s family at this sad time.

“I hope they will take comfort in the fact that Bernard will forever be remembered as a true hero, both as a member of the miners’ rescue team and as a constituent of Batley and Spen who risked his life to protect Jo Cox.

“Bernard was brave and selfless, we will never forget him.”

My thoughts are with Bernard Kenny's family and friends. He was a true hero, whose bravery and selflessness will continue to inspire us.

— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) August 15, 2017

Mr Kenny was awarded the George Medal for his bravery this June, and said he was “honoured to receive such an award”.

He was included in a list of bravery awards along with the two West Yorkshire Police officers who arrested Mair.

Pc Craig Nicholls and Pc Jonathan Wright both received the Queen’s Gallantry Medal.

After Mrs Cox’s murder there were numerous calls for Mr Kenny to be honoured, including a petition aimed at securing him the George Cross – the highest possible civilian honour.