Sally Jenkins suffered panic attacks and depression after picking up a syringe on a Heathrow Express train.

She took an HIV test and was off work sick but was sacked on health grounds in December 2005 by her employers Heathrow Express.

An employment tribunal in London ruled she should be reinstated and awarded damages of £14,800.

Jenkins 'vindicated'

The figure related to loss of earnings and injury to feelings.

"This ruling has lifted a massive weight from me and I feel relieved and completely vindicated," she said.

She won her claim of unfair dismissal under the Disability Discrimination Act.

Her solicitor, Charlotte Moore, said it was rare for a tribunal to order reinstatement even where a finding of unfair dismissal was made.

Claire Baker, head of human resources at Heathrow Express, said the firm would be considering its options before taking any further action.