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Serious injuries at Croagh Patrick pilgrimage

Mountain rescue had to lift 13 people off Croagh Patrick after bad weather caused carnage during the annual pilgrimage.
Mountain rescue had to lift 13 people off Croagh Patrick after bad weather caused carnage during the annual pilgrimage. Mountain rescue had to lift 13 people off Croagh Patrick after bad weather caused carnage during the annual pilgrimage.

Strong winds and heavy rain caused disruption during the annual Reek Sunday pilgrimage at Croagh Patrick, with 13 people evacuated off the mountain, some with serious injuries.

Mayo Mountain Rescue said a man in his 70s suffered a heart attack and was treated with a defibrillator at the summit before being airlifted to Galway University Hospital.

A 70-year-old woman who received a head injury was also airlifted to hospital.

A 46-year-old man sustained serious upper body injuries and was evacuated by the Air Corps to Mayo University Hospital, while a 10-year-old boy was brought to Mayo University Hospital after sustaining head and wrist injuries.

A 68-year-old man suffered a broken wrist and was also brought to hospital.

A further seven people were treated by medical staff on the reek before being assisted down the mountain.

Thousands of pilgrims are taking part in the annual event in Co Mayo, however the unseasonal weather caused many to abandon their plans.