A DRINK driver says she has turned her life around after finding herself before the courts last year.

Sarah Michalek was behind the wheel of a Vauxhall Astra and failed to stop after crashing into a Ford Mondeo on Lydiard Green on September 17.

When police caught up with the 31-year-old, she was said to have spat at and verbally abused officers.

She later pleaded guilty to driving while unfit through drink, failing to stop at the scene of a road accident, three counts of assaulting an emergency worker and use of threatening or abusive words likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

But the budding model says she has made positive changes since and is in a much better place.

She said: “It was life-changing, a real turning point.

“The first thing I did was quit alcohol, so I haven’t had any for three-and-a-half months now.

“Since the incident I’ve thrown myself into my fitness. I’ve got an occupational therapist and I’m learning to know when to ask for help.”

Sarah’s three children are also behind her new outlook.

“After the events I was really depressed,” Sarah added. “But I wanted to set an example for my own kids so I challenged myself to get better.

“One of them now openly talks about alcohol issues, is aware of what low and non-alcohol means and is now firmly in the ‘I don’t want to drink camp’.

“We have challenged ourselves to do a half marathon and to lead healthy lifestyles.

“I’ve been getting into cross-fit to help and I’m now the best I’ve ever felt. I want my story to help others.”

Sarah was banned from driving for two years and ordered to have mental health treatment for six months by magistrates.

She says she has been receiving and taking advantage of help from an occupational therapist and social services.

"With their support, they’re helping me learn new parenting skills and it’s great," said Sarah.

Sarah has also entered herself into a modelling competition in a bid to boost her self-esteem.

“It’s something which will help me be a role model," she said. “You have to style your own outfit first and then walk in a designer outlet.

"But then you also have to raise money for charity and explain why. It’s really changed my attitude and confidence.”