An Irish girl (6) is in a serious condition in hospital in Malta after getting into trouble in a swimming pool.

The incident happened yesterday evening on the island of Gozo.

Local police officers say the girl got into difficulty in the swimming pool of a private residence at around 5.30pm.

Family members gave her first aid at the scene until an ambulance arrived to take the girl to hospital.

They say the girl is in a serious condition and may lose her life.

The Department of Foreign Affairs says they're aware of the situation and are standing by to provide consular assistance.