But bruised and battered Marton woman Nicola Gebbels is eager to thank paramedics who came to her aid following a dramatic accident last Monday.

The 29-year-old recruitment consultant was driving from Marton to Leamington shortly after 8am on Monday morning when she swerved to avoid another car. The wet road surface meant she skidded and careered up a bank before her car hit two trees and rolled back onto the road.

The young woman was taken to Warwick Hospital on a spinal stretcher. Her legs were so swollen after the accident that her doctor had to wait before X-rays could be carried out.

She is suffering from whiplash as well as many bumps and bruises, but the fears of medical staff have fortunately proved unfounded.

Miss Gebbels said: "I hurt like hell and I feel like I've been battered but I'm so lucky to be alive that none of that really matters.

"It is the most petrifying thing ever but it puts things into perspective and makes you think about life."

Miss Gebbels does not recall losing consciousness but only remembers hearing the paramedics and ambulance crews who reached her first.

Now she wants to thank the people who rescued her from the wreckage and treated her injuries.

She added: "The ambulance-men were phenomenal. They were very reassuring and friendly and they dealt with me with utter professionalism.

"The police and paramedics didn't think I was going to get out alive. They said that if I hadn't been in the car I was I would almost certainly be a goner.

"I wish I knew the name of the paramedic who came to me first. If I had the opportunity to thank them all personally, I would."

Now Miss Gebbels is at home surrounded by cards from her friends, family and colleagues, and grateful to everyone who has helped with food and getting her around.

She added: "It makes you thankful to be alive. You want to phone your family and friends and tell everyone you love them."