A woman who credits Epsom Hospital with saving her life after suffering a stroke has praised its stroke services - which are among the best in the country, according to a new report.

Kim Spiers, 47, suffered a severe stroke last March but within six hours she could speak and move again, thanks to the stroke care at the threatened hospital.

The Epsom Hospital stroke team treats approximately 250 stroke patients a year, and a new report published by the Royal College of Physicians shows that the hospital is consistently performing in the top 25 per cent of all hospitals that provide stroke services.

Ms Spiers said: "I truly believe I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the emergency services and the stroke team at Epsom Hospital.

"Within moments of a 999 call, the emergency services had arrived and they rushed me to Epsom. 

"I was then immediately assessed for thrombolysis treatment, a blood-clot busting, life-saving medication, and thankfully, it worked. 

"I feel blessed that I live within a few miles of Epsom Hospital where the phenomenal doctors and nurses are committed to ensuring that stroke patients get the best possible care and chance of recovery. 

"We are lucky to have them."

The report found that 100 per cent of patients received a brain scan within 24 hours of their arrival, compared to a national average of 92 per cent; 67 per cent of patients received a brain scan within an house, compared to a national average of 40; and 86 per cent of all patients with a stroke diagnosis were admitted directly to the stroke unit, compared to a national average of 68 per cent.

Dr Brendan Affley, stroke consultant at Epsom Hospital, said: "Sadly, a stroke can be absolutely devastating, but with timely, expert treatment, the impact can be reduced and patients are more likely to make a better recovery. 

"We are therefore delighted with the results of this new report, which shows that our patients receive the care that they need, quickly. 

"It’s testament to the hard work and dedication of all our staff."

Epsom and St Helier hospital trust has invested more than £760,000 into stroke care at Epsom Hospital in recent years, with the money used to fund extra doctors, nurses and clinics on the stroke ward.