A YOUNG woman left critically injured after a horrific collision with a car in Poole is defying the odds as she continues her remarkable recovery.

Laura Watson was walking to work on Wimborne Road, close to its junction with Bailey Crescent, on the night of February 22 at the moment of impact.

The 29-year-old had sustained severe head injuries and was taken to Southampton General Hospital for emergency treatment, with medics placing her in an induced coma.

An agonising wait for Laura’s family followed as doctors desperately tried to save her, only achieving a breakthrough when they removed part of her skull in a bid to relieve the pressure building on her brain.

As she continued to fight for her life, a Facebook group named ‘Team Laura’ was supported by her friends and the colleagues she worked with at the Fleetsbridge Tesco superstore – attracting more than 1,200 ‘likes’ from people around the world.

And now her younger sister, Sarah Watson, has spoken of the emotion Laura expressed when she woke from her coma and realised the extent of support she had received.

“When she first woke she was unable to speak as tubes were still being used to help her breathe,” Sarah explained. “But when she could, she said she just couldn’t believe that so many people were thinking of her, that it was all for her.”

Laura, who also suffered leg injuries and had a metal plate inserted in her foot, has sustained brain damage and continues to face a battle to stand and walk.

She has, however, been transferred to Poole Hospital and for the first time in months was briefly reunited with her beloved dogs, Honey and Lucy.

“They were so excited to see her – it was such a special moment,” said Sarah.

“I still can’t believe how far she has come. I still remember the night I received the call and we were all told how bad the injuries were. I saw her briefly before they took her to Southampton – she was in a coma and we just didn’t know what was going to happen.”

On Thursday Laura celebrated her 29th birthday with her family at pub and restaurant Shah of Persia in Poole – and Sarah says she is beginning to see signs of “the old Laura” return.

And in five weeks' time consultants will meet to discuss the next stage and assess whether she is fit enough to return home.

A 25-year-old man from Poole was arrested on suspicion of driving offences following the crash. He has been released on police bail until the end of July.

The Team Laura page can be visited at: facebook.com/pages/TeamLaura/389255464588099