O'Rourke says he has now withdrawn because Fianna Fáil has decided to run only two candidates.

Current TDs Joe Flaherty and Robert Troy have confirmed they are seeking to retain their Dáil seats.

Councillor Aengus O'Rourke says he's very happy to have been contacted today by Irish Water who've agreed to a meeting with councillor shortly to discuss the project.

A statement issued from the Franciscan Minister Provincial Fr Aidan McGrath said the decision had been difficult, but had to be made in response to their ageing and reducing membership.

Local Gardai, the Athlone Sub Aqua Unit and other first responders are involved.

A man was reportedly witnessed on Thursday dragging the large electronic appliance through the estate before eventually giving up and abandoning it on a green area near his home.

Newly elected Athlone Mayor Councillor Aengus O'Rourke says he wants to see the restoration of town councils for larger towns discussed at the government