HOAXERS have been warned they could cost someone their life after firefighters went to a prank call as a nine-year-old girl lay injured under a lorry.The child remained in hospital last nightwith serious injuries after she was in collision with an HGV at the junction of Magdalen Street, Wimpole Road and Brook Street in Colchester at about 7pm on Wednesday.

HOAXERS have been warned they could cost someone their life after firefighters went to a prank call as a nine-year-old girl lay injured under a lorry.

The child remained in hospital last nightwith serious injuries after she was in collision with an HGV at the junction of Magdalen Street, Wimpole Road and Brook Street in Colchester at about 7pm on Wednesday.

Two fire crews from Colchester attended and a vehicle with specialised cutting equipment from Chelmsford was also sent.

However, Colchester's rescue tender, which holds vital hydraulic rescue equipment and winches, was not available because it was heading to what emerged as a hoax call in Clacton. The tender was redirected, but vital rescue time was lost because of the hoaxers.

The road remained closed for about four hours as efforts were made to free the youngster, who suffered serious leg and internal injuries.

The girl, who has not been named by police, was taken to Colchester General Hospital, but was later transferred to Broomfield Hospital where her condition was last night said to be comfortable.

A statement issued by Essex County Fire and Rescue Service warned about the dangers hoax callers were creating.

It said: "This hoax call was made by children from a call box and is a prime example of what appears to be just a prank by those making the call, but could very well have had more serious implications, and could ultimately cost someone their life."

It is thought the accident occurred as the youngster rode her small silver bike near the busy junction and was in collision with a large white articulated truck.

The driver of the lorry was not injured.

Anyone who witnessed the accident should call Pc Dave Bent at Stanway traffic police on 01206 762512.