Woman killed by bin wagon

Jean Eastwood, 66, was walking across a small alleyway next to a car showroom in Harwood Road, Rishton, when she was hit by a Hyndburn Council vehicle.

It is believed that she stepped into the path of the wagon as it was reversing into the alleyway leading to Norden Court at around 12.45pm yesterday.

Hyndburn Council leader Peter Britcliffe said: "This is a terrible tragedy and our thoughts are with the family at this time.

"The police will obviously conduct a full investigation into the circumstances and we are not in a position to comment further until this investigation is complete."

The emergency services were called but Mrs Eastwood, who was from Rishton, died at the scene from internal injuries.

Two members of staff from the nearby Ribble Valley Bentley garage had also rushed outside to help the woman.

A spokesperson for the garage said: "A lady from the office and from reception went to assist. Both ladies were very upset by the accident and went home afterwards."

Sgt Peter Sculpher, Accrington road policing unit's senior investigating officer, said it appeared that the council vehicle had its reverse lights and warning siren on at the time of the accident.

The green and white Hyndburn Works wagon was removed from the scene by police for testing.

Sgt Sculpher added: "I appeal to anyone who witnessed the collision to come forward.

"There may have been another car on Harwood Road when the bin wagon was reversing and I urge that driver to contact us."

Lollipop lady Dorothy Miller has worked at the Harwood Road and High Street junction for over 20 years . She came on duty at 3pm.

She said: "It is a dangerous junction to cross because cars are coming from all directions, but she was only walking across the alleyway. It is tragic.

"I have been doing this for 23 years and I often saw her crossing the road.

"I used to help her cross the road with her son and daughter when they were younger."

Witnesses are asked to contact police on 0845 1 25 35 45.