CCTV footage shows the dramatic moment a car ploughed into the front of a popular Oswaldtwistle restaurant.

Owners at the Royal Phoenix restaurant on Union Road said they had been overwhelmed by the support from the local community following the horror crash which led to extensive damage to the front and interior of the property.

The crash happened just after 2.30am on Tuesday morning.

The restaurant is normally closed on a Monday but the owners live above the property.

San Tse who has run the restaurant for 10 years said they had no option but to close the business for the foreseeable future during an ‘awful’ 24 hours.

She said: “We heard a massive bang. It was very scary. We rushed downstairs to see what had happened.”

San said two people got out of the vehicle and left the scene.

She said: “They did not seem to be injured as they appear to have got out of the car.

“It has been extremely stressful time for us and we are so shook up.

“It has been an absolutely awful experience. The car had crashed through the metal fence and through the front of the building.

“Luckily, it has not gone completely through to the bar area but there is damage there too.”

It is not the first time the restaurant, which opened in 1990, has been damaged by a crash.

San said: “We have had so many people from the local community come forward and offer their support.

“The love from people has been overwhelming. People have contacted us offering to help with the clear up and asked to see if they can help in any way.

“Honestly, we feel so loved by the community and this is the only comfort for us at the moment.”

San said they had contacted the council to help with the clear-up on Tuesday but then decided to get a private company and assessor.

“I contacted the police several times regarding the metal railings, thinking it had already been reported. When I rang Lancashire highways, they didn't appear to have this incident reported, until I raised it.

“It has been an extremely difficult process but we have contacted a company ourselves now and taken the matter into our own hands.”

The restaurant was named as a finalist from in Chinese Restaurant of the Year category at the 2024 English Restaurant Awards.

San added: “As we have been struggling during the pandemic, we feel very lucky that we are still here and able to continue business. We have had a number of unfortunate incidents over the years.”

Customers were keen to pass on messages of support to the restaurant owners via Facebook.

Yvonne said: “I'm glad you are all ok. Hopefully it won't be long before you are back up and running. Take care, sending our love.”

Lydia said: “We’re all here for you and sending you lots of love and hugs, let us know if you need anything.”

Katie added: “Oh no I’m so gutted for you. I hope everyone’s ok and you’re back open soon.”

Andrea said: “Hope you get back up and running soon, sorry this has happened, glad that you are all ok.”

Police were approached for comment.