Six airports closed as ash cloud heads to the west of Ireland

Six Irish aiports are closed until lunchtime today after a massive ash cloud headed for the west coast of the country last night.

The Irish Aviation Authority ordered the shut down and the no-fly zone affects Shannon, Donegal, Sligo, Ireland West, Galway and Kerry airports.

Restrictions are due to be lifted by 1pm, while normal services will continue out of Dublin and Cork.

An increased level of volcanic activity in Iceland created a massive ash cloud stretching 1,000 miles long and 700 miles wide

Ryanair says all flights to and from the affected airports are cancelled up to 2pm today

Passengers are being advised to keep in contact with their airlines