CROWN Prosecution Service lawyers are deciding whether any criminal charges will result following the fatal sand yacht collision in which Burnley mum-of-two Carole Cruz died.

Carole, 38, of Kingsbury Place, Burnley, was hit by the yacht as she walked along the beach at St Anne's with her sons last August.

The teaching assistant at St Hilda's RC High School, Coal Clough Lane, Burnley, was taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital with severe leg and back injuries but later died.

Police investigating the crash, which happened during a sandyacht competition on the beach, have quizzed the driver, a 47-year-old man from Doncaster, although they stressed he has not been arrested or charged with any offence.

Officers have completed their investigation and the file has been handed to the head office of the CPS in London, who will decide whether any further action will be taken.

A police spokesman said: "A file of evidence has been prepared and has now been passed on to the Crown Prosecution Service. It will be up to them to decide what the next step should be."

An inquest into Carole's death was opened and adjourned by Fylde Coroner Samuel Lee, in August. No date has yet been set for the full inquest.

The yacht involved in the fatal collision was taking part in an organised open competition with the Fylde International Sandyacht Club, close to St Anne's pier.

Fylde Borough Council have suspended the sport pending a full review of safety on the beach and the investigation into Carole's death.

Carole left two sons, Steffan,12, and Jason, 14, partner Barry, parents Sheila and Andrew, sisters Sharon and Julie, brother-in-law Aramis and niece Lianna.