Firework accident girl's fear

FIREWORK horror . . . for Adiba Khanam

A GIRL hit in the face by a firework on Bonfire Night fears she could permanently lose her sight in one eye.

Adiba Khanam, 14, was with her cousin in Pitt Street, Glodwick, enjoying watching the nearby firework displays.

But horror struck when the youngster heard a noise, turned round and a firework flew into her face. It is believed that three boys of a similar age ­- who then ran off ­- were responsible.

Adiba was rushed to a friend's house who lived nearby, who then called for the ambulance.

More than a week later, Adiba, a pupil at Oasis Academy, still cannot see out of her left eye.

Doctors at the Royal Oldham Hospital initially told her that she could expect to regain her sight after a six-week long course of treatment, but Adiba's family fear the worst after she had to be readmitted to hospital.

Her family are now speaking out to warn people of the dangers of fireworks.

Adiba's sister, Sahba Naz, said: "After it happened, she was in so much pain. She was crying and crying for hours.

Upset

"She has got really upset when she heard it was getting worse. She hasn't been able to do anything.

"She has to sit in a darkened room and has to wear sunglasses if she goes outside. She can't use her phone or watch the TV."

Adiba, of Abbeyhills Road, Glodwick, was released from hospital on Saturday, November 5, and was given drops to use for her eye. But she was readmitted after doctors said she had suffered a blood clot in her eye. Sahba says her family believe the firework was launched at her deliberately.

Sahba, 23, said: "At 14, for Adiba to lose her eyesight in one eye would be life changing."

Police confirmed the incident is being investigated and appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.