Search for man missing after going for swim in river

A SEARCH was continuing last night for a man who is feared to have got into difficulties while swimming.

The man, who is understood to be aged in his 30s, was swimming in the River Lee near the Regional Park in Ballincollig, Co Cork, when he apparently got into difficulties at 8pm. He is believed to be from the area.

The bathing spot is very popular with swimmers as well as walkers and families with children. Large numbers of locals use the area for picnics.

A number of people were in the area at the time yesterday evening.

The man failed to surface after apparently slipping beneath the water and

The man failed to surface after slipping beneath the water

onlookers were unable to locate any trace of him at the spot or further downstream.

Within minutes, the alarm was raised and a major search of the waters along the park was launched.

Search efforts were being supported by local gardaí, members of the Cork Fire Brigade and Cork River Rescue units.

Irish Water Safety has issued a major warning for people to exercise care near lakes, rivers, streams and sea areas over the August bank holiday weekend.

It warned that people can get into serious difficulty in a matter of moments.