Drivers injured in Birr crash

Two female drivers were taken to the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore after an early morning crash on the N62 Birr-Athlone Road today (Thursday). At the time of going to press, both were said to have serious injuries. Speaking to the Offaly Independent in the wake of the crash Sergeant Oliver Duggan of Banagher Garda Station said the collision occurred at Derrinlough at approximately 9am this morning. The crash involved two cars, both driven by female drivers, he added. According to Sgt Duggan one of the women, aged in her 20s, is from Offaly, while the second woman involved is in her 40s and from Cork. Both women were taken to the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore as a result of the collision with what were described as "serious injuries". Sgt Duggan explained that there is a sharp right bend at the accident spot and that road conditions were unfavourable at the time of the accident. Following the accident the road was closed to facilitate a forensic examination. It was expected to re-open to traffic by 3pm.