Leitrim Guardian Person of the Year Brendan Harvey was on hand to launch Lough Rynn's new Wheelyboat last weekend, the Leitrim Observer reports.

The boat is specially designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities in the area, giving them greater access to Leitrim's lakes and inland waterways for fishing or pleasure trips.

Built in England by registered charity the Wheelyboat Trust, the project was initiatied the Leitrim Association of People with Disabilities (LAPWD), with help from the Rinn-Shannon Agling Club.

The boat, named Ernest's Pride, is so called in tribute to Ernest Catherines, a "driving force" behind the scheme who passed away last month.

Due to recent heavy rainfall on the inland waterways strong currents and flows may be experienced at jetties, locks and bridges on the Shannon-Erne Waterway, Waterways Ireland has warned this evening. Additionally air draft at bridges should be closely monitored on approach especially at Ballyconnell, Ballyheady, Coologe and Leitrim. Masters ofvessels should navigate with caution when approaching such structures. Waterways Ireland also wishes to advise all users of the Shannon-Erne Waterway of restrictions associated with the high water levels. Lowerlanding jetties at Skelan Lock 3, Ardrum Lock 5 & Ballyduff Lock 7 are currently flooded. Waterways Ireland will continue to facilitate any customer wishing to make apassage through the locks by prior arrangement with Waterway Patrollers.