Restaurant owners were back in business just seven hours after a car smashed through the front of their building.
Staff said they had been left ‘frightened and shocked’ after the incident at the Royal Phoenix Restaurant on Union Road, Oswaldtwistle at around 9.40am on Tuesday, December 27.
But despite thousands of pounds in damage being caused, the Wong family still managed to reopen their business the same day.
Co-owner Kelly Wong said the family thought there had been an earthquake when they heard the crash.
She said: "It was a very big bang and then everything went silent. We thought it might have been an earthquake.
"When we ran downstairs we saw what had happened and couldn’t believe it. It was quite frightening and very shocking.
"I was checking to see if there was anyone in the car but they ran off."
Kelly said the family was continuing as best they could, adding:¿"There is damage to the front glass and bar.
"The window is boarded up and it’s quite dark but we’re still going to carry on as usual.
"We think it will cost a few thousand to repair because the plumbing, bar, door and window are all damaged. But at least nobody is hurt."
The grey Ford Mondeo smashed through the front window and door, and damaged the bar. Police say the driver fled the scene shortly afterwards.
The family, who live above the Royal Phoenix, opened at 5pm that evening and plan to continue operating under normal business hours.
Coun Peter Britcliffe, who took pictures of the car embedded in the front of the restaurant, said: "Thank God that this did not happen at a time when the Royal Phoenix was packed with customers."
Sgt Mark Wilson, of Accrington Police, said: "Four officers, including traffic officers, attended the incident at around 9.40am on Tuesday morning. The driver ran off at the scene but as far as we know there were no injuries.
"It caused considerable damage to the restaurant but luckily not structurally.
"It went straight through the railings at the front window of the shop. The car has been removed for forensic examinations."
Any witnesses or anyone with information should call Lancashire Police on the non-emergency number 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
