Gaelic footballers saved in dramatic rescue after being swept out to sea by rip current off Irish coast

RNLI say rip currents can catch 'even the most experienced beach goers out'

The coastguard were called to the beach on the west coast of Ireland after a group of football players got into difficulties (Getty Images)

A group of eight Gaelic footballers were saved in a dramatic rescue after they were swept out to sea by a rip current off the Irish coast.

The players, reportedly part of the Fermanagh GAA minor team, are believed to have entered the water off Tullan Strand, Bundoran, to cool off after a training session when they got into difficulties.

Strong rip currents then began to carry some players out to sea and others into rocks.

Bystanders alerted the coast guard, who dispatched a lifeboat and helicopter to the scene.

Surfers, one of whom was reported to be a RNLI crew member, also entered the water to help out the stricken group.

Ambulances were called and the causalities were given first aid. Some were later taken to Sligo University Hospital as a precaution.

Responding to the incident, James Cassidy of Bundoran RNLI said: "We would remind locals and visitors alike that Tullan Strand and particularly the area along the cliffs is notorious for rip currents and under currents and is really not suitable for swimming.

"Rips are strong currents running out to sea which can catch even the most experienced beach-goers out.

"Bundoran's main beach is supervised by lifeguards all summer long and provides the best option for safe, supervised swimming during the summer period.

"Should you get caught in a rip, the best advice is to stay calm and don't panic. Swim parallel to the beach until free of the rip, then make for shore."