More than 200 people turned out at a public meeting in Co Offaly to show support for a local family whose farm was the subject of a violent attack ten days ago.

It was organised by the Coolderry-Kilcoman text alert committee, who say they wanted to show their solidarity for the family of Richie McKelvey, whose home in Brosna was burgled twice in six weeks.

Locals also expressed their concern about policing levels in the area following a spate of recent burglaries.

The meeting heard that an eight-person garda task force has been set up in the area to help deal with the increasing number of burglaries.

There will also be armed checkpoints along the motorways, with members of the emergency response unit assisting local gardaí.