A woman is in a serious condition in hospital following a stabbing in County Clare.

This incident happened at around 5.30pm close to Ennis town centre when the 23 year old victim was set upon by a number of individuals.

She suffered stab wounds to the head, neck and upper body and was rushed to Limerick Regional Hospital where she underwent emergency surgery.

Gardai have described her condition as life threatening.

Shortly after the incident a 22 year old woman was arrested in a nearby shopping centre and is being held at Ennis Garda Station under Section Four of the Criminal Justice Act.

The scene of the attack has also been sealed off for a forensic examination.