Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
News

Much-loved Jo Jones is the second Big Issue vendor to die in Bath in a month

The 44-year-old, who was known for her “wicked sense of humour”, was found dead at hostel last weekend

Joanne Jones

We are sad to report that Big Issue vendor Joanne Jones has died just a month after fellow Bath seller Istvan Kakas.

The 44-year-old was found dead at the Julian House Manvers Street Hostel in the city last weekend. Joanne, known as Jo, had received support at the hostel for many years. The cause of her death is unknown at this time.

She had been selling the magazine outside TK Maxx in the city and on other pitches since 2016.

Geo Leonard, Big Issue service broker in Bath and Bristol, said: “No matter the circumstances Jo always had a wicked sense of humour, inner strength and resilience. Jo will be deeply missed by everyone at The Big Issue Bath.”

Late vendor Istvan, who sold the magazine at Halfpenny Bridge in Bath until his death, will be laid to rest at St Matthew’s Church in Widcombe on Saturday after he died from leukaemia on October 16.

A fundraising campaign raised more than £4,500 to cover the costs of Istvan’s cremation and the memorial service.

Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty

Do you know how Big Issue 'really' works?

Watch this simple explanation.

Recommended for you

View all
Asylum seekers face repaying £10,000 accommodation costs: 'Another example of performative cruelty'
Home secretary Shabana Mahmood
Immigration

Asylum seekers face repaying £10,000 accommodation costs: 'Another example of performative cruelty'

North of England hit hardest by 'children's mental health crisis' as funding gaps widen
person with head down
Social Justice

North of England hit hardest by 'children's mental health crisis' as funding gaps widen

Meet the inspirational teenager taking on homelessness and the housing crisis
Scarlett Chapman
Changemakers 2026

Meet the inspirational teenager taking on homelessness and the housing crisis

How being named a Big Issue Changemaker changes lives
The Big Issue Changemakers 2026 event
Changemakers

How being named a Big Issue Changemaker changes lives