Westmeath Senior hurler Conor Shaw is hosting a series of workouts on St Stephen’s Day in aid of Tanzanian Heavenly Homes.

The personal trainer is calling for everyone and anyone to attend at Brownstown Community Centre on December 26 and take part.

Mr Shaw said he decided to do the fundraiser in advance of a trip to the African country next summer.

“Me and my girlfriend Aoife have been thinking about going to Tanzania for a while as we’ve heard all about the great work that John [McCauley] has been doing there,” he said. 

“He places an emphasis on the people and spends a lot of time working with the children in orphanages and stuff like that and I come from a teaching background.

“I’m also looking to get some perspective on life and appreciate the things we have at home more.”

Mr Shaw said the money raised through the workouts will all go to the people of Tanzania.

“We’re going to do workouts on December 26 and there will be a bucket at the door for donations,” he said.

“I know there’s lots on around the Christmas, but we’re doing it nice and early in the morning so hopefully we can get a good turnout for a good cause. 

“Even if you donate €1 or €2, I really don’t care, I’m just hoping to get the ball rolling with fundraisers before I go over there.”

Mr Shaw said he’s “grateful for the opportunity” to go to Tanzania and is looking forward to the trip.

“The workouts should be fun too and it’s doubly beneficial in the sense that you get your exercise in over Christmas and give money to something worthwhile,” he said.

The time slots available are 8.30am, 9.15am and 10am and they can be booked by calling Conor Shaw on 0857279426. Westmeath Examiner