ICY roads caused a five car smash on the A666 Bolton Road at Darwen.

The road was closed both ways shortly after 7am this morning due to the accident between the B6472 Darwen Road, and the B6391 Greens Arms Road.

Inspector Bob Eaton said: “One car was on its side, one was in a fence, and another was in the middle of the road.

“One female has been taken to hospital complaining of chest injuries from the impact with the steering wheel.

“The five vehicles – including a Ford Fiesta, Toyota van, Peugeot and Vauxhall Zafira – are being recovered from the scene.

“The drivers are believed to be from Blackburn, Bolton and Manchester.

“There’s no information at this stage to suggest serious injuries.”