An NHS 24 call handler from Clydebank who battled through a dangerous blizzard to get to work has received an accolade for her dedication to the job.

Carol Jennings walked two and a half miles through one of the worst snowstorms of recent years to the Golden Jubilee Hospital where she handles medical emergency calls from the public.

As she struggled through the darkness to start her nightshift at 10.30pm, Carol tripped in a pothole covered in snow and injured her hip and back - but still soldiered on.

Now the mum of three has received an "outstanding colleague" award, presented to her by NHS 24 chief executive Angiolina Foster.

Carol, 44, who was nominated by her line manager Jacqueline Callan and other colleagues, recently received the accolade at the NHS 24 Spotlight Awards ceremony at Hampden, hosted by Dougie Vipond, the broadcaster and Deacon Blue member.

Carol told the Post: "I can honestly say I am blown away with the recognition from my colleagues, line manager and centre senior managers.

"It is a great honour in such a large organisation to be chosen from the list of nominees for this award."

Carol was the only call centre member to make it to work at the Golden Jubilee Hospital on the night at the start of March when the "Beast from the East" struck - bringing most of Scotland to a halt.

She said: "I decided to walk the two and a half miles, even though Police Scotland had advised no-one to venture out as the weather was of great threat to life and there was no transport.

"It took me two hours - it was scary. Because of the blizzard I could not wear my glasses. I had to walk on the road and fell at a pothole which was covered in snow - I just couldn't see it.

"I injured my hip and back and was badly bruised but continued on my way as I was determined to reach work and did not want to give up.

"I love my job and didn't feel I was going above and beyond the call of duty. I just wanted to get there.

"It was a nasty fall and I still feel a bit of a niggle as a result."

Carol successfully completed her shift, with two senior nurses also with her on the night.

Angiolina Foster told the Post this week she was delighted to present Carol with the award.

She added: "During severe weather conditions, Carol demonstrated her commitment to patients by walking two hours through the snow, to make it to work.

"This meant that patients calling our 111 service received the best possible care at this challenging time.

"Carol was one of 47 individuals and teams from our Clyde Centre nominated for an award. I am inspired and motivated by all of our staff within NHS 24 who work together to provide safe, effective and person centred care to the people of Scotland."