Tullamore boxer aims to create safe space for women with local event

Tullamore boxer Gráinne Walsh will run a beginners boxing/fitness class in Tullamore Town Park next week in a bid to create a safe space for local women to come together, exercise and socialise safely.

It comes following the tragic death of Ashling Murphy on Wednesday as she was out running along the canal, a short distance from Tullamore.

"After the tragic events of this week, I think it is important that we, as a women, create a safe space to come together, exercise and socialise while safe as a group," Gráinne said in a message on social media.

"I am going to be running a beginners boxing/fitness class mainly focused on encouraging females to feel safe and confident as we go about our daily lives," she added.

The event will take place in Tullamore Town Park on Saturday, January 22 at 11am. It will be 45 minutes to an hour long and people of all fitness levels are welcome.

Although the class is free, there will be an option to donate to a women's aid charity on the day.

"If this event is a success, I would be interested in making it a weekly get together for walks/runs etc," she added, asking anyone interested to direct message her on Instagram and Twitter.

"The class will be in memory of Ashling Murphy, who tragically lost her life while out for a run," it ended.