Members of the Fermanagh minor football team had a lucky escape when they were rescued from the sea in Bundoran, Co. Donegal earlier today.

Eight of the team members were taken to Sligo University Hospital where they were treated for cuts and bruises, while some had swallowed sea water before the rescue took place.

The group had been training at Tullan Strand and entered the water to cool down following their session. But when strong currents began to carry them out to sea and into the rocks, a group of quick-thinking surfers entered the water and helped them to safety.

Within minutes, both the inshore lifeboat from Bundoran and the Sligo-based Rescue 118 helicopter were at the scene to make sure everyone was accounted for.

James Cassidy of the Bundoran RNLI told RTE: "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."

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