'Her third heavenly birthday'

The charity set up in Ashling's memory said: "Her memory remains with us and her legacy lives on."

Taking to Instagram, the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund, wrote: "Today we remember the life of Ashling on her 26th birthday - her third heavenly birthday away from those she loved and whom loved her so dearly.

"Though Ashling may be no longer with us, her memory remains with us and her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched in her short life and will continue to touch in the future.

"We remember Ashling for her love of music, her dedication to teaching and learning, her kindness, her generosity of spirit, and her radiant smile.

"Though she may be gone, there is comfort in knowing that her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift many for years to come."

Ashling, who worked as a primary school teacher, was murdered beside the Grand Canal at Cappincur outside Tullamore, Co Offaly, on January 12th, 2022.

Her killer, Jozef Puska, was sentenced to life in prison last year after being convicted of her murder in November.

Earlier this year, huge crowds gathered in New York City to mark the second anniversary of the 23-year-old's death.

A large group in New York braved the freezing -4c conditions to complete a 5km walk in Ashling's memory in Central Park back in January.

Photos from the event showed the group holding up a jersey with Ashling’s camogie number, 23, that read: "Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís (it will never be the same again), Ashling Murphy."

Speaking at the event, organiser Amy Brett said: "It’s freezing which stands to say a lot. Ashling lost her life two years ago and I don’t think anyone doesn’t think of her when they’re out for a run.

"What we’re about to do is what she went out to do. It’s so great to see that she is honored in such a lovely way.

"Her family said to give their thanks and the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund, where all the donations are going, expressed their thanks."