Suffolk driving instructor Donna Brookes returns to work after head-on crash on A47

A Suffolk driving instructor has returned to teaching after fully recovering from a serious head-on collision earlier this year.

Donna Brookes, 34, suffered a spinal fracture in the crash during a lesson on the A47 Acle Straight, near Great Yarmouth, on May 16.

Her white Corsa was destroyed when a silver Vauxhall van, reportedly overtaking other vehicles, collided with the front of her car — seriously injuring Donna as well as her student, a woman in her 30s.

Now, five months after the incident, Donna is back behind the wheel and teaching again with her new Renault Clio as part of NxtGen Driving Academy in Suffolk which is based in Stowmarket and covers lessons in Bury St Edmunds, Needham Market and Ipswich.

Claire Wyatt, business and operations manager at NxtGen, said: “We’re all just so happy for Donna and we’re extremely proud that she’s overcome such a traumatic event.

“With these kind of injuries and circumstances, it can really shatter someone’s world and stop someone from ever working again — so that fact she’s had the confidence to return is just amazing.

“Her strong, determined character is a testament to who she is.”

Claire said she is also very proud of the driving instructor community around the country for their support after Donna’s incident made national headlines.

While Donna was unable to work for five months due to her injuries, a JustGiving page was launched to support her, raising £4,480 through 242 donations.

Claire added: “It’s been heart-warming to see the community get behind Donna and support her.

“Although we all work individually when you’re out on lessons, even working for different companies, but when something like this happens — it’s lovely to see everyone come together and rally for Donna like they did.

“We’re so glad to have her back on the team.”