'Attack' leaves relatives distraught

A FAMILY today spoke of the latest shock to hit them after their brother was left fighting for his life following an accident with a taxi.

John Gorton, 35, of Accrington Road, Burnley, remained in the intensive care unit at Burnley General Hospital today where his condition was said to be critical.

John, who works in the pensions' department at the Benefits Agency, Ainsworth Street, Blackburn, was returning home from a night out with friends in the early hours of Sunday when he was involved in a collision with a passing taxi.

Police believe he had earlier been the victim of an attack and was being chased.

Today his family, including mother Ruby Gorton, 73, of Huntroyds Close, Burnley, were keeping a bedside vigil and sister, Christine Fallows, said: "We just can't believe it. It's had a devastating effect on the whole family. "I don't think our mum believed it at first. The doctors were preparing her for the worst. She's coping but she's not well and we are just about holding it together."

Christine, 52, of Whitegate Close, Padiham, said it would be several more days before doctors would know the true extent of any internal injuries.

She said the incident was the latest in a string of tragedies for the family.

She said: "I was hoping for a better start to the New Year. My husband died six months ago and our dad died a couple of years ago. It would be better if we could erase the last four or five years and start all over again."

Two men have been charged with grievous bodily harm following the incident.

Brian David Dean, 20, unemployed of Kay Gardens, Burnley, and a 16-year-old were both due to appear before magistrates in the town today.