how can I fix my vauxhall zafira 1.6 (1999)?

Does anyone know why my car, which has 100 K on the clock and which, up until this morning was behaving normally, developed a judder about a mile in to my journey each time I changed gear (usually between 2nd, 3rd and 4th). A short while later, the engine cut out with all warning lights coming on. Luckily I managed to stop somewhere safe, and after two or three unsuccessful attempts at starting the car (engine cut out within seconds of starting up) I called the AA who were able to start the car and keep the engine running but were unable to make a diagnosis. Managed to get car back home but all the time with an unnerving judder each time I changed gear. About to take it to the garage but wondered if anyone has had previous experience of what I have described.