The LE Samuel Beckett has returned to Ireland, after rescuing more than 1,000 people in the Mediterranean Sea.

Family and friends of 58 sailors were on hand to welcome the ship at Haulbowline in Co Cork this morning.

The Samuel Beckett was at sea since September 24th, and rescued 1,088 men, women and children.

These family members were excited to see their loved ones.

The ship's captain is Tony Geraghty.