A RAMSBOTTOM woman who was severly brain damaged in a road accident ago has been awarded £575,000 damages 22 years after the incident.

Harriet Duckworth, formerly of Bury Road, Ramsbottom, was also awarded the costs of the High Court action in Manchester.

She was two-years-old when she was hit by a car while watching the annual Whit Walks near her home in Ramsbottom on May 14, 1978 with her parents George and Patricia.

The toddler had gone to visit a sweet shop with her father and older sister Georgina. She spotted her mum on the other side of Bridge Street and broke free from her father's hand and ran into the road towards her mum.

Harriet was hit by a car. She suffered a severe head injury which led to loss of memory. It is unlikely Harriet, now 24, will be able to work.

Michael Redfern QC, for the family, said liability had been a serious issue in terms of the car's speed or whether the street, closed for the procession, had re-opened.

The evidence was conflicting and, had the case been tried, Harriet could have lost her claim entirely. After out of court discussions, lawyers for the driver's insurers had made an offer which was about 30 per cent of the full value.

"Harriet's parents have been devoted carers, and the entire sum will be invested to provide for her supervision and care when they are no longer available," said counsel.

"This is an unusual case, and it is refreshing to hear all the money will be invested for Harriet's benefit.

"These wonderful parents seek nothing for their 22 years of unstinted devotion and care".

Mr Justice Maurice Hay, in approving settlement, told counsel: "The parents, and indeed all those involved, are to be commended for what has been agreed in this anxious case".

The award was against the insurers of motorist Simon Hales, of Edgworth, Bolton.

Speaking after the hearing, Harriet Duckworth's solicitor, Mark Walker of Bolton firm, Winder Taylor Fallows, said: "Harriet's accident was a terrible tragedy for the Duckworth family.

"Although the accident took place in 1978, proceedings were not issued until March 30 1999. It has been very stressful for all of the family having to re-live the ordeal of Harriet's accident. The Duckworth family is relieved that after negotiations at the door of the court the case is finally over."

He added: "They would like to publicly thank Mr Weston who administered life-saving first aid at the scene of the accident and all the witnesses who came forward."