The stretch between the Punchbowl Inn and All Saints' Church has been unlit since county council workers accidentally cut electricity cables six months ago.

Police, fire and ambulance crews were called, but the woman had managed to free herself by the time they arrived and was found not to have suffered any serious injuries.

Neighbours had called the emergency services after hearing a large bang followed by the continuous sounding of a horn.

Coun. David Whipp, is now demanding action from Lancashire County Council to reconnect street lights on the A56 between the parish church and the Punch Bowl.

Local residents have been pressing for repairs since December, a delay that is totally unacceptable in Coun. Whipp's eyes.

"This accident has confirmed my worst fears that the defective lighting would contribute to a collision," he said. "Senior managers and the county council's environment director acknowledged the need for prompt action a month ago, but still nothing has been done."

A YEDL spokesman said they were aware of the accident and a site visit was planned to assess the situation and sort out the necessary repair.