A COUPLE who set up a charity to support people with learning and physical disabilities are stepping back from their work because of ill health.

Wilf and Phyllis Ward started the Wilf Ward Family Trust in 1986 and opened Isabella Court, a respite care centre, in Pickering, North Yorkshire, in 1988.

Since then, 70 schemes have been set up across Yorkshire to provide safe and secure environments for scores of people with learning and physical disabilities.

The schemes include community and day care services in York, Scarborough, Ripon, Norton, Malton, Northallerton, Harrogate, Whitby and Knaresborough.

A recent spell of ill health has taken its toll on Mr and Mrs Ward, who are now taking a step back from the day-to-day running of the trust.

They will continue as founder trustees, but the role of chairman will be taken over by Tony Denness.

Mr Ward, who was awarded an OBE in 1984 for his contribution to industry, said: "It's been a fantastic experience and I will continue to take a close interest in how the trust evolves, but it is time to take it easy.

"We have an excellent management team and a great body of trustees, who will, I am sure, take the trust to even greater heights.

"My wife and I will continue our support and take great pride in the achievements of all our staff and service users, as well as their families."

Richard Pacey, the trust's chief executive, said: "Mr Ward is now 88 and is still active in what we do. I think his decision is the sensible one, but I know he will stay close to us.

"Everyone in the care sector, local authorities and families realise what he and Phyllis have done. The trust is a remarkable testament to their hard work and generosity of spirit."

New chairman Mr Denness is currently a trustee. He previously worked for Mr Ward as finance director at Wards, of Sherburn, a steel frame building manufacturer.