Young mother drowns in Cavan lake trying to save a child

The scene at Swan Lake, Gowna, Cavan where a young woman lost her life in a swimming accident. Picture: Lorraine Teevan

A young mother in her late 20s has drowned in a Co Cavan lake while trying to rescue a child.

Gardaí were called to the scene at Lough Gowna shortly before 9.30pm on Wednesday evening.

It is believed she may have been trying to help a child return to the shore.

The woman's body was recovered near the shoreline by Cavan Fire Services and Civil Defence shortly after.

The remains were taken to Our Lady's Hospital in Navan where a post-mortem will be carried out.

Gardaí are treating the matter as a swimming accident at this time.

Separately, a man in his 70s drowned while snorkelling at Spencer Harbour in Drunkeeran, Co Leitrim.

The alarm was raised at around 9pm when the man failed to return.

His body was recovered a short time later by local emergency services.

The coroner has been notified as the body has been removed to Sligo University Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

The matter is being treated as a diving accident and gardaí do not suspect foul play.