MOTORIST Vicky Evans stared death in the face when her car turned into a raging fireball.

The medical secretary was driving through Fulwood, on her way home from the Royal Preston Hospital, when flames shot out from under the bonnet of her Volkswagon Polo.

Quick-thinking Vicky, weary after a long day's work, threw herself out of the burning vehicle.

Minutes later, the car which has reliably transported her from her Wigan home to work for a decade was a burnt-out shell.

She said: "It was the most horrifying experience of my entire life.

"I noticed the petrol gauge was lower than it was should have been and the next thing I knew, the bonnet was on fire.

"I got out of there as quickly as possible and, fortunately, there was no-one else in the car with me. I wasn't hurt, but I realise it was a lucky escape."

The incident took place at the Watling Street Road and Deepdale Road junction during rush hour on Tuesday afternoon.

The road was temporarily closed off.

Vicky thanked local people for the help they gave her in the minutes after the freak incident.

She added: "A family living nearby came rushing out and took me in.

"They gave me a cup of tea and calmed me down. They were great and I would like to say a big thank-you to them.

"I now just have to sort myself out with a new car!" Until then, Vicky will be travelling by train.

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