Woman and boy die in 600ft cliff plunge

A woman and a young boy today plunged 600ft to their deaths off the Cliffs of Moher on the west coast.

A major rescue operation was launched when they were spotted in the sea at the world-famous tourist spot.

Their bodies were recovered and airlifted to Galway's University College Hospital.

They are believed to be from Galway and to have travelled to the Co Clare cliffs on a bus trip.

The woman and child, thought to be around five years old, were spotted in the water north of O'Brien's Tower at 3.20pm.

Doolin Coastguard and the rescue helicopter from Shannon scrambled to the scene.

"The helicopter and boat arrived roughly at the same time, and the helicopter directed the coastguard boat to the causalities," said John Falvey, from Valencia coastguard.

"These were taken on board the coastguard boat, which brought them to Doolin, and from there they were taken to the University College Hospital, Galway.

"I don't think anybody observed them falling so we are not sure exactly where they fell, but at that location the cliffs are quite high, I'd say 600 feet."

In November, a 35-year-old Polish woman sightseeing on the cliffs with a friend died when she was swept into the sea by high winds.

Mr Falvey said visitors and walkers frequently walk too close to the edge of the cliffs.

He said there were safety signs warning of the danger.

Mr Falvey said weather conditions were good at the scene, making the recovery much easier.