Okay, as for extenuating circumstances - this is an area that's pretty hard for me to explain, as, it happened when I was younger but I'm only coming to terms with it now (from GCSE through til now, I've only recently plucked up the courage to ask for help for my situation - I believe it's known as PTSD?)
Anyway... I know I could have done better with my exams without that situation occurring, but I'm here now. I'll definitely contact the universities and see what they say. I have been looking at all my options, and yes - I have seen people with worse (GCSE's at least) get in.
But I will scout around and see what happens..