Husband Ian Hunter, of Curzon Park, Calne, became a full-time carer for his wife, Ann, seven years ago, when multiple sclerosis took hold.

Mr Hunter took early retirement from a career in radio broadcasting so he could devote his time to the new role. "It is very difficult," he said. "I don't think there is a carer in the country that volunteered for the job."

Mrs Hunter's illness brought progressive disabilities, which meant that Mr Hunter's caring role became more demanding as time went on.

Mrs Hunter is now wheelchair- bound and depends on carers for everything from dressing and eating to using the bathroom.

"You have to develop great organisational skills," said Mr Hunter. "Everything has to be thought out in advance. The day is one long planning meeting."

Mr Hunter does get some help. Social Services' Homecare provides the Hunters with an hour every morning and half-an-hour in the evening.

"There is a degree of frustration, but I imagine myself in the wheelchair, and what it must be like to have to ask for help with everything. Then I have to take a deep breath."

He said life would be a lot easier for them if people were more considerate in simple ways.

People without disabled permits often hog disabled parking spaces, and Mr Hunter said he had frequently been abused by drivers when he has asked them to allow him to park.

In the long-term, he would like to see the Government ring-fence money to help carers, who save the country's economy around £70 billion a year.

He said Carers Support North Wilts had proved a useful source of support and information.

"Often a carer won't know what questions to ask if they are not aware of what help and benefits are available," he said.