A Swadlincote Poppy Appeal fundraiser was involved in a serious road accident and had to be rushed to hospital by police officers.

The woman suffered 'life changing injuries' which included broken ribs, a fractured back and spleen.

Because there was a delay in the ambulance arriving, officers from Swadlincote's Safer Neighbourhood Team decided to rush her to Burton Hospital themselves.

Named by Swadlincote Police only as Rosemary, she knitted 800 poppies which she donated to the Royal British Legion and raised over £2,000 for the Swadlincote Poppy Appeal.

Swadlincote Police gave more details on social media: "SNT Officers Mark Holmes and Andrea Thompson attended a serious road traffic accident.

"On arrival they found Rosemary in a very bad way, with life changing injuries and a delay for the ambulance to arrive.

"Both officers took it upon themselves to lift Rosemary out of the car and rush her to Burton hospital.

"Rosemary was treated for broken ribs, a fractured back and spleen. Rosemary's son contacted the Sergeant, he wanted to thank the officers for their actions and could not praise them enough including the hospital staff who looked after her.

"The officers visited Rosemary, gave her some chocolates and wished her a happy birthday.

"Since the accident, Rosemary has been brave and strong enough to walk around the housing complex she lives in.

"She has become more confident and is able to book taxis to begin life again.

"Rosemary does not want to go back to driving.

"Last year she knitted 800 poppies which she donated to the Royal British Legion and raised over £2,000 for the Swad Poppy Appeal."