A WOMAN whose “selfless” actions at a serious road accident scene brought comfort to three badly injured casualties has received a judicial commendation.

Jemma Clark was driving behind one of two cars which collided, on the A68, in County Durham, at 7.30am on September 13, 2018.

Both drivers and a passenger suffered devastating injuries.

Mrs Clark, who was driving to work, was the only witness.

She promptly rang 999 and then assisted each of the casualties, even helping one, chef Nick Copson, to record a message to his wife, Nikki, as he feared he would die.

Following lengthy treatment Mr Copson, 47, from Woodland in Teesdale, survived, but was left paralysed and had to have both legs amputated among a long list of medical interventions.

Once the emergency services reached the accident scene Mrs Clark helped to hold the other injured motorist, Craig Allen, as he was cut from his car, while she also assisted his seriously injured son, Oscar.

Allen, 46, from Stanhope, was recently jailed for 38 months after admitting two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, at Durham Crown Court.

At the end of the sentencing hearing Judge James Adkin formally commended Mrs Clark for her actions at the scene, awarding her £500 from public funds.

The framed commendation and the cheque for £500 were presented to Mrs Clark, the head groom at stables in Streatlam, by Judge Adkin and County Durham’s High Sheriff, Robert Harle, in a short ceremony at the court.

It comes at a busy time for Mrs Clark, who was recently married to stables' farrier John, while she is also four months pregnant with what will be her second child.