Wont start

Hi, when driving the other night, the car lost power on accelerating, then cut out all together, I came to a stand still and the car would not start, ended up getting towed home. So what happens now is when the key is turned in the ignition there is just a 'whirring' sound, quite high pitched, never heard it before. The battery light is flashing, says ECO MOD on display, radio will not turn on or wiper blades, but all other electrics work. The central locking works ok. On the night this happened (before I broke down) I had the CD player in use and it would not turn off!? Any help much appreciated. I cant get the car to a garage as no body to tow it for me. I have been offered from a garage to come out and do a diagnostic test/have a look which will cost £40.