A 36-year-old man has appeared in court, charged with the stabbing of a woman at Holy Cross Church, County Waterford, Ireland.

The incident happened around 10 am on Tuesday, during the recitation of the rosary at Holy Cross Church, Tramore. The woman, in her 50s, was allegedly stabbed at the altar. She was rushed to University Hospital Waterford, with serious but not life-threatening injuries.

She was described as “kind and gentle”, and a member of the local Legion of Mary group.

The Diocese of Waterford & Lismore said it was "deeply shocked" at the attack. It commended “the courage and presence of mind shown by the parishioners who assisted during this frightening incident”.

The church reopens today, with prayers for the woman said at Mass.