Three women in their 70s have died following a crash in Co Limerick this evening.

It happened on the N69 just outside Loughill village (on the Listowel side) at around 6:30pm.

Two cars were involved in the crash.

The driver and sole occupant of one of the cars was pronounced at the scene.

The driver and a passenger of the other car also died at the scene.

All of the victims were women in their 70s.

A third occupant of the second car - also a woman in her 70s - has been taken to University Hospital Limerick with serious but non life threatening injuries.

The road's closed to allow a Garda forensic collision examination, and local diversions are in place.

Gardaí are appealing for anyone with information in relation to the crash to contact Newcastle West Garda Station on 069-20650, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.