A man with a rare disabling condition is struggling to recruit the helpers he needs to carry on with everyday life.

Owen Walker, 21, says life will be “extremely difficult” if he is unable to find new help when his personal assistants return to university.

A graduate of Warwick University, Mr Walker, of Colbert Avenue, Ilkley , was born with Dejurine-Sottas Syndrome, a neuro-muscular condition which has deteriorated over the years and now confines him to an electric wheelchair.

Despite the rising unemployment in the district and a busy care sector in Ilkley, domiciliary care provider Care Dynamics says it is proving a challenge to find suitable people locally.

Mr Walker needs a team of personal assistants to help him both at home and to get out and about.

The job involves at least four daily visits and the company has been trying to recruit men of a similar age to him.

Mr Walker said: “I need people to help get me up in the mornings, prepare my lunch, cook my tea and put me to bed, as well as helping me with various social activities, including going to the cinema, theatre, shopping and enjoying a pint at the pub with my mates.

“We’re looking in general for people around my age, and male, it’s just a question of how many of those people fit into that kind of area and live in the local area.”

He suggests many younger people might not consider a care role – or move out of the area to further their studies or career.

A lack of assistants could also hold up his own career.

Mr Walker, who is looking for work in radio or television, presents a weekly music, chat and local interest show on Drystone Radio, which he records at home.

“It’s crucial we get more people on board as soon as possible to avoid Owen’s care being disrupted,” she said.

Care Dynamics can be contacted on (01274) 307533 by anyone interested in helping.