A man has died following a two car collision in Co. Carlow.

Four other people have been taken to St Luke's hospital in Kilkenny.

The crash happened shortly before 5 O' clock this evening on the N80, close to Ballon, near The Fighting Cocks pub.

The deceased man was a passenger in the car and is believed to have been aged in his 40's.

Two other occupants of that car - both men aged in their 20's and 40's have been taken to hospital

- as have the occupants of the other car - a man and woman - both in their 60's.

His body has been taken to University Hospital Waterford where a post mortem will be carried out.

Gardai are at the scene and the road remains closed while a full technical examination is carried out, diversions are in place.