Man due in court over alleged sexual assault of two girls in Athlone

A man is due in court this morning charged in connection with the sexual assault of two young girls in Athlone.

The two girls aged 6 and 9 were sexually assaulted on Saturday afternoon - after they were allegedly lured away from a birthday party in a house in Athlone.

The pair managed to escape - and shortly afterwards, three men were arrested.

Two of them were released without charge whilst a third man, aged 30, was held until last night - when he was charged in connection with the sexual assault.

Large crowds gathered outside Athlone Garda Station yesterday - and gardaí were forced to try and disperse the crowd, as tension grew.

The 30-year-old was held at in custody overnight - and will be taken to a District Court this morning.