The family of a woman who died in a crash on Thursday have paid tribute to her.

Celia Lynch, 41, from Bacup, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene, after her car crashed into the wall of the Swan Hotel Indian restaurant on Market Street.

In tribute, Celia’s family said: “Celia was a loving wife, sister, grandmother and mother to four wonderful children.

“She had a kind, warm and funny personality and always had time for others.

“All her family are devastated by this tragic loss and will miss her greatly.”

Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward to help them in their investigations.

At around 8.50am on Thursday, emergency services were called to a collision on Market Street, close to the junction with Rockliffe Road.

A spokesperson for the police said: "A red Vauxhall Crossland X had collided with the wall of the Swan Hotel.

"The driver of the vehicle, later named as Celia Lynch was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

"The road was closed for three hours while accident investigators attended the scene."

Police are appealing for information and are particularly keen to trace any witnesses who may have seen the crash, or seen a red 2019 registered Vauxhall Crossland being driven in the Bacup area in recent days.

A few hours later woman in her 70s died in a crash involving a car and a wagon in Whalley.

Sgt Steve Hardman, of Lancashire Police’s Tactical Operations, said: “These are tragic circumstances and my thoughts are with Celia’s family and friends at this sad and very difficult time.

“We are appealing for witnesses and would urge anyone who has seen what happened and yet to speak to police to come forward.

“We want to understand the exact circumstances around the collision and if you have any information please come forward.”

Anyone who can help police with their enquiries is asked to call 101 or email 2385@lancashire.pnn.police.uk quoting log 0288 of February 20.