Swimmer dies after getting into difficulties at Mayo beach

A man in his 70s has died after getting into difficulty while swimming in Keel Beach on Achill Island.

The man was taken from the water after he was spotted by a member of the public yesterday evening, it has been confirmed.

Members of Achill Coast Guard Unit attended the scene shortly before 6 p.m. and a local doctor performed CPR.

A defibrillator was also used before the Sligo-based Coast Guard R118 emergency helicopter arrived on the beach at around 6.25 p.m.

The man was brought by helicopter to Mayo University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The man was believed to have been visiting the area.

The local Coroner has been informed.