A PENSIONER was fighting for life after being hit by a van in Darwen.

The 95-year-old woman suffered serious head injuries after being hit by a white Ford Transit van, while crossing Stanhope Street in the town.

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The woman has been named locally as Louie Nuttall.

Police said the accident happened at around 10am on Wednesday when the van was turning into the street from Exchange Street.

Mrs Nuttall was taken to Royal Preston Hospital for treatment when she is receiving treatment.

A neighbour, who has known Mrs Nuttall for 24 years, said it was likely she was doing her shopping when the accident happened.

She said: "I was absolutely gutted to hear that Mrs Nuttall was hit, she really is such a lovely lady.

"She goes out to do her shopping and gets a taxi back so that's probably where she was going.

"I know that the driver was very shook up and got out straight away when he hit her.

"She lives on her own and is well for her age and quite capable.

"Its a real shame this has happened. Whenever she needed anything I would always help her out.

"I hope she makes a good recovery."

Other residents in Exchange Street were also shocked to hear to about the accident.

Jamie Almond, 19, of Allerton Close, said: "I work with the elderly so this is extremely sad news, she must've been so fragile bless her.

"I would encourage people to be a bit more vigilant.

"I live with my gran and I'm a bit wary of this now and taking her out."

Fiona Waring, 30, of Quaker Lane, said that she was concerned with the speed some people drive at in the area.

She said: "They drive round like idiots sometimes here."

No one has been arrested and there is no suggestion the driver of the Transit van was speeding.

Sgt Rob Gomery said: “This appears to be a tragic accident where a van turning a corner has then collided with a woman crossing the road.

“Sadly the woman is very poorly in hospital at this time.

“We need anyone who witnessed this to come forward so we can say exactly how this has happened.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting incident 348 of April 20.