Woman dies following incident at Helen’s Bay near Belfast

A woman in her 60s has died following an incident in Helen’s Bay on Saturday.

Three people were taken to hospital after getting into difficulty at Helen’s Bay Beach, Belfast Coastguard said.

In a statement on Sunday the Independent MP for North Down Alex Easton said: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of a woman in her 60s following an incident at Helen’s Bay on Saturday afternoon.

“My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”

The Coastguard said several onlookers had attempted to rescue the trio – with one person entering the water.

A Coastguard helicopter, RNLI lifeboat and ambulances all took part in the operation at Belfast Lough.

The Coastguard has asked anyone at the scene, who was affected by the incident, to contact them.