IT was a case of second time lucky for three young US backpackers who were denied entry to Ireland a fortnight ago, as the three friends breezed through customs in Dublin to begin their holiday of a lifetime.

LAST Friday three clean-cut young American backpackers arrived at Dublin airport from Texas. They were setting out on the first international leg of a yearlong trip around Europe.

THREE young backpackers who were on the verge of sparking an international incident between Ireland and the US look set to be welcomed back with open arms and free accommodation.