John Duggan organizes a fundraiser to keep Cashel’s Premier Martial Arts Center open.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the club was unable to open and collect fees for extended periods.

In the absence of government support, they have had to continue to pay rent for their premises and hope to raise funds to pay housing arrears.

Premier Martial Arts and Fitness teaches self-defence, respect and discipline to all of its members, which include adults and children from across Tipperary. Jujitsu is a fantastic social and confidence booster for all boys, girls and adults who join.

They say, “We are proud to see many members staying on and growing into successful adults who are even progressing as teachers in this art.”

In a post on the GoFundMe website, the club said: “This year we are running a fundraiser to help keep our center open and afloat.

“During the Covid-19 restrictions where indoor training was not allowed, we had no choice but to close our doors for many months. Unfortunately, we were unable to collect a fee for pay rent to keep our unit In the absence of government support, we seek to raise funds ourselves to keep the group operational and sustainable.

“Our goal is to pay off our unit’s arrears that were caused during the Covid-19 restrictions with the hope that any remaining monies collected can help purchase new teaching materials for our students.”

The goal is to raise €3,500 and the club has already received nearly €2,000 in donations.

The statement added: “We fully understand that times are still very trying for many people, but if you would like to help us in any way it would be greatly appreciated.

“If you would like to know us a little better, do not hesitate to consult our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Premier-Martial-Arts-and-Fitness-Cashel-1528667384129777.”

You can donate to this local cause here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-keep-premier-martial-arts-open