Vigils and prayers for Ashling Murphy

Thousands took part in vigils in England and Ireland to show support for family and friends of young Irish primary school teacher Ashling Murphy, who was murdered last Wednesday in Tullamore, Co Offaly as she went on an afternoon run.

A huge crowd gathered at the London Irish Centre in Camden on Saturday to sign a condolence book and lay flowers and candles. As night fell, traditional music was quietly played in honour of the talented young musician.

Anna Johnston, from the Centre, said they had come together in solidarity with those who knew and loved Ashling. She told the crowd: "Today, along with Ashling, we remember all the women who have had their lives stolen through gender-based violence. We shouldn't be here, and Ashling should be."

More than a 100 vigils took place in towns across Ireland and Northern Ireland on Friday and Saturday. One was held outside the Irish parliament in Dublin, where a minute's silence took place at 4.30 pm, about the time Ms Murphy was attacked.

Aisling Murphy's name will now be added to the long list of women who have died as a result of violence. Last year, the killing of 33-year-old marketing executive, Sarah Everard made headlines in Britain when she was kidnapped and murdered by a serving police officer.

Her death sparked widespread debate about women's safety and violence against women in the UK. During the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown, reports of domestic abuse increased globally.

Just over two weeks ago while celebrating Mass on New Year's Day, Pope Francis called for an end to violence against women.

In his homily centred around motherhood and women, the Pope said: "Since mothers bestow life, and women keep the world together, let us all make greater efforts to promote mothers and to protect women."

He added: "How much violence is directed against women! Enough. To hurt a woman is to insult God, who from a woman took on our humanity - not through an angel, not directly, but through a woman."

London Underground staff put up the following notice at Camden Town Station:

REST IN PEACE ASHLING MURPHY

May Heaven be a place where you feel safe
And protected by the light of the sun.

You should have felt the same way on earth
All you wanted to do was go for a run.

Hearts continue to break
Yesterday was already too late.

Its long overdue for something to be done.
Thoughts and prayers to you, your family and friends.

@allonboard