Major rescue in Co Limerick

Two teenagers have been rescued from a river in Co Limerick.

A major rescue operation was launched last night after the boy and girl got into difficulty in the River Deal in Askeaton.

The alarm was raised at a 6.45pm last night, and gardaí, the fire brigade, the Limerick Marine Rescue Service and the Shannon-based coastguard helicopter were called to the scene.

It is believed that the teenagers were swimming in the River Deel when they were washed down-stream by a current.

The two managed to hold onto rocks until they were brought to safety, and both are said to be in good health.

It comes as the Irish Water Safety Authority issue a warning to swimmers, following the tragic death of a teenager in the Royal Canal in Dublin.

The 17-year-old died while swimming with friends at Campbell's Bridge on Friday night.