Plymouth Herald trainee photographer Amy Stamford is recovering at home after a car crash outside work that left her with serious head injuries.

The 22-year-old was driving a VW Polo which was in collision with a grey Mercedes C180 coupe outside work as she left for home.

Amy, (pictured), was trapped in the wreckage after her car was pushed sideways along the Derriford street for 30 metres.

The collision impacted the driver’s side of her vehicle and resulted in Amy being trapped by the legs for half an hour. The other driver appeared to be unhurt.

Fire crews used high-pressure hydraulic rescue equipment and cutters to release the photographer after Herald staff had helped to push the Mercedes clear.

First on the scene was fellow photographer Lucy Duval, who climbed into the back of the VW to support her friend’s head. Amy was conscious throughout but in great pain, and was given oxygen.

At first it was feared that Amy might have suffered serious head, leg and possible internal injuries, and she was rushed to Derriford Hospital.

The incident, outside the Herald and Western Morning News headquarters on Monday afternoon, was treated as a serious injury accident and the road was closed for the police accident investigation team.

Amy is recovering with severe bruising across her face and head.

Herald picture editor Pete Holdgate said: “Amy has escaped with cuts and bruises, and should be back to work in a couple of weeks.

“She would like to thank everyone who has sent good wishes for her recovery.”