Gorse fires still burning in Donegal

Efforts are continuing to quell the gorse and forest fires that are raging in the north west.

Falcarragh and Glenties are among the worst affected areas but officials say there were no call-outs overnight.

There is hope now that rain will finally quench the blazes, some of which have been burning for five days.

Forty troops are currently deployed in Falcarragh where significant progress has been made, according a statement from the army.

Troops are also on standby to deploy to Glenties, pending an assessment of the situation there by Donegal Fire Service.

Two helicopters are also deployed in Falcarragh, and they will be joined by a third later this morning.

Two of the three helicopters are fitted with Bambi buckets, and the Air Corps have dropped in excess of 250,000 litres of water on fires in Donegal so far using this system.

Further troops are on standby around the country to assist local authorities if requested.