Car smashes into Breightmet pensioner's living room after skidding on ice

67-year old Marion Cushnahan was asleep in her home in Fairmount Avenue at 6am this morning when a white Vauxhall Astra skidded on the icy road and smashed into her living room.

Her family revealed that Mrs Cushnahan, who lives alone, would normally be awake and in the living room at that time, but luckily had slept in today.

The driver, a 22-year-old woman, had skidded across a grass verge after coming off the icy road.

She was treated by paramedics at the scene for shock, but did not need hospital treatment.

Mrs Cushnahan's son, Billy Kerr, aged 49 said: "My mother is a very lucky lady, she would normally be sat on the sofa in the front room at that time as she usually gets up very early.

"For some reason she slept through today and we are all so thankful because that sofa was found on the other side of the room.

"She is very shaken and shocked at the moment but she has plenty of family around her and we are all taking care of her."

The bungalow is sheltered housing provided by Bolton at Home.

Mr Kerr also bemoaned the lack of gritting on the road, adding: "I was here at 6am after it happened and I saw five cars skid and hit the kerb, its clearly a dangerous bend and look what has happened."

Police are currently investigating the incident, with a building inspector examining the building.

Fire crews left the scene earlier after making the area safe.

Bolton North watch manager Ian Tattersall said firefighters put down some grit to help reduce the risk for motorists on the “treacherous” road.

He added: “Off the main roads the conditions are very icy, and when there is a cold snap like this morning motorists need to drive safely.”