Schoolboy "critical" after accident

A teenager is fighting for his life in hospital after he was knocked down by a private hire taxi on his way home from school in West Lancashire.

The 14-year-old was seriously injured in the accident that happened as he was crossing Houghtons Road, Skelmersdale, at around 3.50pm on Thursday, 2nd October.

Police say the boy was with a number of others when he was collision with a red Skoda Octavia private hire vehicle that was travelling from the Birch Green area towards Skelmersdale Old Town.

The youngster is being treated in the intensive care unit of Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool for head injuries and broken bones. His condition is described as "critical".

The driver of the Skoda was uninjured but suffered the effects of shock.

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision to contact them. It is believed a group of teenagers were walking home from school when the collision happened.

Anyone with information should call Sgt Dave Tonge on 01695 566486.