A Blackburn woman believes her partner is "lucky to be alive" after he was knocked down as he made his way to the pub for an after-work pint.

And as Stephen Frisby, 49, nursed head injuries, seven broken ribs and a broken ankle in hospital, she said she would campaign to get traffic lights at the scene of the accident in Ewood.

Today council chiefs said they were aware of problems relating to pedestrian safety at the junction which was under review as part of a general traffic study.

Mr Frisby, of Fernhurst Road, Blackburn, remains in a "comfortable" condition at Royal Blackburn Hospital after the accident, as he headed for pint at the Fox and Hounds pub.

Police said a Ford Transit van mounted the pavement outside the premises on the junction of Livesey Branch Road and Albion Street.

Stephen's partner of 16-years Christine, 49, today said she would be campaigning to get traffic lights on the junction, fearing a fatality.

Her call has been backed by the pub's landlord of 14 years Derek Haworth, who said he had witnessed an accident outside the premises "every two weeks."

Police have spoken to the 46-year-old Blackburn driver involved in the accident, who has not been named. No arrests have been made but investigations continue.

Speaking moments after visiting Mr Frisby, an operations manager of a Lancaster crane company, Christine said: "He had come home and parked his car like he usually does and gone for a couple of pints. But he never even got his pint as he was hit on the pavement.

"I think Stephen is very lucky.

"The braising steak and cauliflower I'd done for his tea is still on the stove. He'd actually told me how much he was looking forward to it."

Mr Haworth said: "He is a regular customer and was coming for his usual couple of pints after work.

"We have been calling for action for years but the feeling is that something will only be done when someone dies."

Inspector Bilal Mulla said: "It appears a Ford Transit as it approached the bend on Livesey Branch Road has lost control and, as the driver swerved, mounted the pavement and collided with a pedestrian."

Coun Andy Kay, executive member for regeneration, said: "The council is currently undertaking a study of traffic and pedestrian movements along the A666 corridor. Improving pedestrian routes across this busy road and improving public transport links between the two town centres are key priorities.

"The Livesey Branch Road junction with Albion Road forms part of this study."