A TEENAGER who suffered serious head injuries after falling off her skateboard is getting her life back on track after having to learn how to walk, talk and eat again.

Rachel Sheldon, from Coxhoe, in County Durham, suffered the injuries after coming off her skateboard on September 14.

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The 16-year-old ended up in an induced coma at the Royal Victoria Infirmary after the accident and has since had to relearn basic skills like eating, walking and talking.

Police officers Rachel Westgarth and Hilary Rice, who were among the first on the scene, met Rachel at her home to see how she is doing.

Rachel’s mother, Tracey Sheldon, said: “I am so grateful to PC Westgarth and PC Rice for everything they did on that day and the care they showed towards Rachel.

“The dedication they have to the job is amazing – they helped save my daughter’s life that day – police often get bad press but they were outstanding.”

The officers presented Rachel with a new skateboard to help her get back to normal – and gave ger some advice.

PC Westgarth said: “This was an extremely challenging incident from start to finish, it was difficult to identify Rachel due to her having no ID on her and her mobile phone was locked making it difficult to access.

“The community in Coxhoe really came together and it was a pleasure to watch the local people help identify Rachel.

“The air ambulance team and paramedics were a god send. As response officers, we don't always get to see the outcome of some incidents we deal with but it was a pleasure to meet Rachel and her family upon returning to her home after this traumatic event.

“Rachel is the most positive young woman I have met to this day and is surrounded by a loving family. We have, however, offered her our only advice which is: ‘Always wear a helmet!'".