THE parents of a papergirl injured in a mystery road accident have thanked family, friends and the emergency services for their support.

Roberta Almond, 13, of Revidge Road, Blackburn, has been in the intensive care unit of Royal Manchester Children's Hospital in Pendlebury since the accident early last Friday.

She had been due to pick up newspapers for delivery from Revidge News, near her home. She was discovered lying on the pavement by passers-by.

Her condition is described as very poorly by doctors.

In a statement her father Stephen and her mother, who have been at her bedside since the accident, said: "We would like to thank our family, friends and neighbours who have taken the trouble to convey their love and best wishes for Bobby and ourselves.

"It has been a ray of light in the darkness that engulfed us that morning.

"We would also like to thank the emergency services that have worked so conscientiously and dedicatedly. They have been an inspiration to us all. God bless you and thank you."

Police have also appealed for information into the accident.

Officers from Accrington's road traffic unit, which is investigating the incident, have urged people who use Revidge Road at that time of day to contact them. Their number is 01254 353767.