A dedicated wife, who looks after her housebound husband in Trowbridge, believes help she gets from Carer Support Wiltshire is invaluable.

Two years ago, the lives of Keith, 82, and Kath Duggan, 78, changed dramatically when Mr Duggan’s health deteriorated during a long battle with heart and lung problems.

The couple, originally from Cardiff, have lived in Clipsham Rise together for 35 years, but Mrs Duggan has now entirely taken over day-to-day responsibilities and is a full-time carer.

She said: “At first, it was terrible for me, as it was a huge change to both our lives. As you get older, you are not quite as energetic as you once were, so it was very difficult.

“Then Adcroft Surgery suggested we got in touch with Carer Support Wiltshire and their support has been unbelievable. It has changed our lives.”

This Monday marked the start of Carers Week, highlighting the contribution and sacrifices people make to care for their loved ones.

Carer Support Wiltshire, a registered charity, offers unpaid carers free information and advice and holds regular meetings for carers to share their experiences.

Mrs Duggan, who will celebrate her diamond wedding anniversary in August, said: “We were both a bit unsure at first, especially Keith, as he is a very private man. But this lovely lady came and explained to us how everything had been focused on Keith and that I’d need some time for me, otherwise it could effect my health.

“When she left, I was so pleased, as Keith thought it was a great to welcome their support and then he understood everything that taking care of him involved for me.”

Now the couple have a routine, where the charity regularly calls the Duggans – who have one son, Paul, 50 – to see how they are and give advice.

Mrs Duggan goes to carers’ events, which allow her to unwind with other carers living in a similar situation.

She said: “We meet at the Palmer Garden Centre in Trowbridge every third Wednesday, which is a nice way to meet new people and just have a laugh. We don’t talk about problems, we just have a jolly good time.

“I’m a great believer in having a sense of humour, whatever life throws at you.”

Mr Duggan, who has a defibrillator implant and goes to Frenchay Hospital in Bristol for regular check-ups, thinks his wife, who has overcome two battles with cancer, puts in a superhuman effort.

He said: “She’s absolutely marvellous and, for me, she is Wonder Woman because of all the things she does. I think the support we receive has made things a lot easier.”

A Wiltshire Council roadshow has travelled the county this week, identifying carers and offering them support.

Mrs Duggan said the couple, who have two grandchildren – Martha, 15, and Joanna, 28 – also appreciate the support they get from neighbours and the town’s link service, which takes Mr Duggan to the hospital.

She said: “I think myself and Keith realise just how lucky we are to still have each other.”

For more information about Carer Support Wiltshire, visit www.carersinwiltshire.co.uk or call 01380 871690.