A WOMAN pedestrian who died after being in collision with a lorry on a village road is believed to be aged in her 70s, police have said.

Officers were called to Church Road, Rainford at 11.05am yesterday (Wednesday) following the collision involving the woman and a heavy goods vehicle.

The lorry involved is believed to have been stopped seven miles away in Haydock on the East Lancashire Road between Millfield Lane and Haydock Lane, near to the Asda collection point.

The tragedy in Rainford has caused immense shock and sadness across the community.

There has been an outpouring of sympathy and flowers have been left at the scene on Church Road. 

The 20mph road, close to the Eagle and Child pub, runs by a row of shops between Cross Pit Lane and the junction of Church Road and Southerns Lane.

Police, who say the driver of the HGV is assisting with the investigation, added that formal identification of the woman has yet to take place but she is believed to have been in her 70s and from the local area.

Her next of kin have been informed.

Star readers reacted with sadness on social media to news of the "horrific" incident.

One said: "(It happened) right in front of my work. What an absolute tragedy.

"My prayers and condolences to the family."

Flowers were being placed close to the scene tonight. One message simply read: "So very, very sorry."

Church Road and part of East Lancashire Road between Millfield Lane and Haydock Lane were closed yesterday as police launched their investigations.

All roads have now reopened and the investigation into the collision remains ongoing.

Screens and tents were placed at the two scenes - one in Rainford and the other in Haydock yesterday while investigations took place.

There was a large police presence in Rainford and extensive cordons in place.

Markings by investigators could be seen on the road beside a pedestrian crossing.

Anyone with information on the incident can call MSOC Roads Policing Officers on 0151 777 5747.