SCORES of people from Dursley attended a peace vigil for MP Jo Cox over the weekend.

The event, organised through social media by Sally Poskett, brought people from the town and further afield to mourn the MP for Birstall, who was shot and stabbed to death before holding a constituency surgery last Thursday.

The event followed comments from Stroud District Council leader and county councillor for Dursley Steve Lydon, who said people needed time to properly grieve and reflect on the loss of the politician and mum of two.

A group gathered in the centre of Dursley at 9am on Thursday for a period of reflection on Mrs Cox's death and the questions it raised.

Children from the town came together to draw pictures of a peaceful world, many of which will be displayed at Dursley Primary School this week.

The event followed a similar vigil in Stroud last Friday, which saw councillors, campaigners and residents of all ages and political parties meet in Stroud High Street at noon to mourn the MPs death and celebrate her life.

SDC leader Cllr Lydon became emotional when talking to the crowds, and later told the Gazette: “I’m pleased they did the moratorium on campaigning.

“In the modern age everybody always seems to be too busy but it’s important that the time is taken for reflection and grief.

“What happened is just very sad and shocking. Right now I’m feeling in particular for her husband and kids.”

Cllr Lydon added that the news struck a particular chord with those in the world of politics who frequently engage with their public.

Vote Leave and Remain suspended campaigning following the news of Mrs Cox's death. Both groups returned to their campaigning efforts on Monday.

The man accused of murdering Jo has been remanded in custody after appearing at the Old Bailey. Thomas Mair, 52, from Birstall, is charged with murder, grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence and possession of an offensive weapon.