Appeal for information on boat taken overnight

The organisers of a prestigious, local fishing competition are seeking information on a boat, trailer and engine that was taken last night.

In a social media post, the organisers behind the Lough Ree International Pike Festival & World Cup said that the boat, trailer and engine were taken from the car park of the Shamrock Lodge in Athlone last night. They asked anyone with any information to contact their local Garda Station immediately.

It is believed that the equipment was taken during the night and is worth approximately €30,000. The lock was cut during the theft.

The three day Pike Festival is held every April on Lough Ree and is Ireland's largest catch, photograph and release competition. Today is the final day of the competition. 

The Herald has also contacted Gardaí about the incident.