BREAKING: Boxer confirms by-election tilt

Athlone-based independent councillor Kevin 'Boxer' Moran has confirmed he is contesting the Longford/Westmeath by-election.

Moran, who is also a candidate for the Athlone area of Westmeath County Council, submitted his nomination papers this morning and will launch his by-election campaign later today in Athlone.

The independent councillor is one of the strongest local vote getters and his entry to the race adds another element to an intriguing contest.