Limericks 100ft floating Christmas tree, which was due to be lit up on the river Shannon Friday evening, has been swept away in the strong current and has crashed into Shannon Bridge.
The incident happened shortly after 5pm as the Christmas lights ceremony with the Mayor Kevin Kiely and boxer Andy Lee was about to get underway on Thomas Street.
The structure was being towed into position however the current of the river was too strong and the eco-friendly tree 
drifted away. Crowds had gathered along the Quays to witness the tree being lit up but instead watched as the structure became lodged against the bridge. Officials then became worried when the tree began leaning precariously at an angle.
The Shannon Bridge has been closed on the inbound lane while emergency services attend the scene. Traffic is slow on the Condell Road inbound and Bishop’s Quay is closed as a result. Diversions are in place.
Limerick Marine Search and Rescue, the Fire Service and Gardai are at the scene attempting to re-float the giant structure. Nobody has been injured in the incident and there appears to be no major damage to either bridge or tree.
Officials say they hope to position the tree again and hopefully switch on the lights on Saturday evening.
typical irish
It did not actually break free as such. It was pulled out into the fast flowing river and just took off on the flow. It was only connected to boat with rope. it was a disaster from the start and happened at 5pm
I went down for a spot of rubbernecking. The south side of the river was lined with people goggling. More great free entertainment, but I feel sorry for the people who have to sort it out!
Well with this flood stuff we couldn’t leave Galway and Cork have all the headlines now, could we?
Good reporting though, the photo of it with the clarion in the background is great
I drove over the bridge at about 6 and it was perfectly upright, just not lit up.
Unfortunate, but probably brings good? publicity to Limerick city in that the reports say that the tree was made of recycled metal from the old Thomond Park and used low energy lights powered from a wind turbine on top of the tree. Great idea, pity about the crash.
Is Ireland hung over from the so call boom. Cos what else can happen. We need to detox and get grounded.
I’m incredulous that Limerick City officials chose to go ahead with plans to launch a 100-foot structure into a flood-swollen Shannon! The decision to do this gives new meaning to the phrase ‘Only in Ireland!’
I was there last week and it was very high…can’t imagine it getting higher. Please keep us updated on the progress.
that is so unfortunate..hope no damage happens 2 either the bridge or tree!