National: River Shannon rescue operation concludes after recovery of man’s body

A major rescue operation along the River Shannon on the Westmeath / Roscommon border has ended after the discovery of a man's body, according to reports.

The man is believed to have entered the water from the Athlone Town Bridge in the area along the Quay close to Sean's Bar before 8am on Wednesday morning.

An immediate rescue was attempted by a passer-by, but this was unsuccessful.

Since then Athlone Gardaí, the sub-aqua unit, and the Coast Guard helicopter had been conducting a rescue operation on the river.

Local reports say a body was discovered close to the lock earlier this morning. 

Emergency services have since left the scene.

Gardaí say no further information is available at this time.