AN 81-YEAR-OLD man was still recovering in hospital today after being seriously injured in a horrific head-on crash.

Harry Manning, of Colne Road, Sough, Earby, underwent surgery lasting several hours after being airlifted by helicopter to Airedale General Hospital, Steeton, following the crash at a notorious accident blackspot on the A56 between Foulridge and Kelbrook. Jean Barnes, 54, of Hollins Road, Barnoldswick, died following the accident, which happened just after 3pm on Friday. She was airlifted to the Royal Preston Hospital but died shortly afterwards.

Today police said Mr Manning was in a "satisfactory" condition. He has been moved from intensive care to an ordinary ward. He suffered broken legs and a fractured pelvis in the accident.

Both he and Mrs Barnes were trapped in the wreckage of their vehicles for 90 minutes before being released by the emergency services. The road was blocked in both directions for four hours causing major traffic congestion. Police said a Vauxhall Nova being driven towards Colne by Mrs Barnes appeared, for no apparent reason, to have crossed into the opposite carriageway. It was in collision with a Ford Transit van and then carried on and was in collision with a Volvo 406 being driven by Mr Manning. The Transit driver, 40-year-old Julie Swales, of Wheatley Lane Road, Barrowford, was unhurt.

Any witnesses to the accident are asked to contact the police on 01282 425001.

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