Search for Japanese couple after car found in Co Clare

Deteriorating weather conditions forced the Irish Coast Guard to withdraw its boats from the search for a Japanese couple feared missing in Co Clare.

A search was mounted on Tuesday evening for Eiji Takagi (63) and Ushio Azaki (61), after it was confirmed that a car found parked at Byrne's Cove, near George's Head in Kilkee, had been rented by the couple.

They were last seen when they checked out of a hotel in Spanish Point on Saturday morning.

Gardaí have issued a public appeal for assistance to establish the couple’s movements and possible whereabouts.

Gardaí at Kilrush can be contacted on 065 908 0550.