Watch: Thousands in Dublin's Diamond Park celebrate Kellie Harrington's Olympic gold

The crowd erupted into screams when it was confirmed that the boxer had retained her Olympic lightweight title after beating China’s Wenlu Yang.

“I never doubted her for a minute,” said Carla Malone from nearby Mountjoy Square as she jumped up and down.

“I’m hoarse from screaming. I am delighted for her, she is a star.” Keith Johnson from Dorset Street said: “She has done us proud again. Go on Kellie!” 

A large screen was erected in Diamond Park by Dublin City Council allowing locals to watch Harrington make Olympic history.

She is the first Irish woman to win medals at successive Olympic Games and joins Fintan McCarthy, Paul O’Donovan and Dr Pat O’Callaghan as the only Irish athletes to successfully defend an Olympic title.

Sean MacDermott Street was lit up with flood lights, banners, and posters of Harrington and the Irish flag.

Her family, friends and community were out early and had gathered in the park from 6pm as The Final Countdown could be heard blaring through speakers.

Families gathered with babies in prams and young children wore t-shirts with Harringon's photo on them.

The crowd roared "Go on Kellie" and "she's going to do it" as she lay blow after blow on her opponent.

After the split decision 4-1 scorecard triumph was confirmed, the crowd burst into “Ole, Ole Ole” and some got down on their knees and blessed themselves.

There was a heavy security and garda presence during the fight due to the large volume of spectators who arrived to watch it.

Passing motorists beeped their horns in support while teenagers and children could be seen shadow-boxing in celebration.

Neighbours hugged each other, some cried, while one woman, Martina Collete, said: “This is not good for my heart all this excitement”.

Kellie’s mother Yvonne Harrington was later seen outside her house in tears hugging neighbours and friends.

Local councillor Nial Ring said plans are underway for a “huge homecoming”.

He said last night's event brought "unbelievable scenes" to the area as locals celebrated Harrington's win.

"A brilliant display against a very tough opponent but Kellie's superb, controlled display shone through and once again she stood on the Olympic podium with Amhrán na bhFiann ringing out at the Roland Garros arena," he said.

Mr Ring said the homecoming will be "befitting" of a double Olympic champion and he hopes it will surpass the one from three years ago.

"We are out of superlatives to describe Kellie's achievements, her positive impact on young people in the area and her commitment and dedication to her community. I proposed her for the Freedom of the City three years ago and I don't know how we can suitably acknowledge and reward her latest achievement — maybe Kellie for president?" he said.

"Fair play to Dublin City Council for organising the event in Diamond Park, but while diamonds may be a girl's best friend, in Kellie's case, gold is her best friend.”