Operation begins to remove stricken Astrid from rocks

Salvage experts have cut miles of rigging and shredded sails from the wreck of the tall ship Astrid which could be lifted off rocks within days.

They are hopeful that with favourable weather and sea conditions forecast, the vessel could be removed from the Cork coast by the end of next week.

The 95-year-old Dutch training vessel has remained stuck fast on rocks just east of Kinsale harbour since running aground on Jul 24.