Young tourist seriously hurt on first day of holiday

The woman, believed to be American and in her 20s, was taken to Royal Preston Hospital following the accident, which happened outside The Clifton Arms Hotel in West Beach, Lytham, and involved a white Vauxhall Insignia.

She was treated for facial injuries, but police were unable to provide an update on her condition this afternoon.

The road was closed for four hours from around 5pm to 10pm yesterday, a police spokeswoman said.

Motorists were diverted away from the scene as officers carried out their investigation and towed away the car.

One Clifton Arms worker said the woman was staying with her partner and another family member, who travelled to Preston this morning to be by her bedside.

The four-star Grade II listed hotel, popular with golf fans from around the world because of its proximity to the area’s four courses, is understood to have extended their stay and offered its support.

Witnesses have been asked to call police on 101, quoting LC-2016-06-05-1096.

A force spokeswoman said officers were called to the scene by the ambulance service, and said their investigation remains ongoing.