Pedestrian hit by taxi in Whitehaven calls for driver to come forward

Chris de Cordova had been crossing George Street in Whitehaven town centre when she was hit by the vehicle and initially thought she was uninjured but was later in excruciating pain.

The 71-year-old had to call an ambulance and was taken to the West Cumberland Hospital where it was discovered that the Achilles tendon in both of her legs had ruptured.

A piece of bone had also broken off one of her heels.

Mrs de Cordova, of Thornton Road, Whitehaven, underwent surgery and must now wear recovery boots for two months before she will be able walk again.

The taxi driver stopped and helped Mrs de Cordova after the collision. He gave her a lift home but she forgot to ask for his details due to being in shock.

She now hopes to trace him or any witnesses who saw the incident which happened at around 6.15pm on July 29.

Mrs de Cordova who was involved in the incident (Image: Supplied)

Mrs de Cordova said: “He was accelerating to get round the bend. The traffic was busy. I saw the moment to cross and he had seen the same moment. I started crossing and he drove at me.

“There were a lot of people there. Traffic was building up and people were coming over to help.

"I do think people will remember because it’s pretty shocking to see somebody lying underneath the front wheels of a taxi.

The collision took place on George Street in Whitehaven town centre (Image: Google Street View)

“Life has been totally miserable since then. If I don’t take medication, the pain is unbearable. I can't walk without a Zimmer frame and can't leave the house without help and putting on people.

“I used to walk into town every day, now I can’t even walk out of the house. I’ve had to create level access to my house so I can get out. I’m now looking at buying a mobility scooter as well which is another expense.”

A spokesperson for Cumbria Police said: “Police were called on August 3 with a report that a pedestrian was knocked over by a taxi on George Street in Whitehaven.

“The pedestrian, a woman in her 70s, was later admitted to hospital with injuries following the incident.

“Enquiries are ongoing.

“Anyone with information relating to this incident can report online at cumbria.police.uk/report-it, quoting incident number 103 of August 3.

“You can also phone on 101.

“Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”