THE husband of a woman who was crushed by a forklift truck has paid tribute to the medical team battling to save her life.

Michael Rostron spoke today as his wife Barbara, 47, remained critically ill in Blackburn Royal Infirmary with severe crush injuries after the incident at Pets Choice factory, Blackburn.

The mother-of-four had a seven-hour operation on Thursday and remained in the intensive care unit today, where doctors were monitoring her progress.

Her condition was critical but stable today.

Mr Rostron said the treatment Barbara had received and the compassion shown towards the family including her three sons Michael, 24; Wayne, 20, and Shaun, 18, and daughter Michelle, 16, had been first class.

He said: "I would like to convey to everyone who has treated Barbara my sincerest thanks.

"Everyone from the paramedics who arrived on the scene to the surgeons and nurses in accident and emergency and the ICU have all done a tremendous job.

"My family and I will never be able to thank them enough for all they have done for Barbara."

Mrs Rostron, 47, a nightshift packer, suffered serious injuries to her lower body including her abdomen and legs after the accident at the factory in Gladstone Street.

Police and the Health and Safety Executive have launched an investigation into the incident, which happened around 2.30am on Thursday.

Mrs Rostron somehow became trapped behind a forklift truck that reversed into her and police said early indications showed it was simply an accident.

Detective Inspector Jim Elston, of Blackburn CID, said the family were being comforted through their ordeal by specially-trained family liaison officers.

Mr and Mrs Rostron have been married for 19 years. She was formerly a dinner lady at Queen's Park High School.