Eight people have been taken to hospital after a two-car crash in Co Galway this evening.

The collision took place on the Clifden Road, 3km outside Leenane village, at 5.15pm.

One man was seriously hurt, while the other seven sustained injuries that are not life-threatening.

All of them are being treated in University Hospital Galway.

The scene is currently preserved for examination by Garda forensic collision investigators and the road will remain closed overnight to traffic, with local diversions in place.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses, in particular anyone who travelled on this stretch of road between 4.45pm and 6pm.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Clifden Garda Station on 095-22500 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.