A WOMAN was fighting for her life in hospital today after she was cut free from a car crash.

The 27-year-old, from Smithills was driving a Fiat Cinquecento towards Bolton yesterday when she was involved in a collision with a Vauxhall Movano van.

Paramedics were called to the scene near the junction with Scout Road and administered pain-relieving drugs as she was trapped in the wreckage.

The woman, who police have refused to name, is believed to have suffered head and internal injuries. Fire crews had to work quickly to cut her free as her condition deteriorated. It took 15 minutes to cut off the vehicle's roof and door to reach her.

She was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital for treatment. Police say her parents are due to return from America tomorrow.

Her husband was said to be at her bedside last night and her condition was today described as "critical but stable".

Van driver Gavin Entwistle, aged 24, of Higher Fold Farm, Belmont, declined hospital treatment. Officers sealed off Belmont Road for four hours and traffic was diverted via Scout Road while accident investigators examined the crash site. Witnesses are asked to contact police on 01254 353764.