A dog warden is swapping patrolling the streets of Bradford for sledging on the snows of Sweden to help people with motor disorders.

Stephen Wilkinson, a Bradford Council dog warden, will spend a week being pulled by a team of huskies in sub-zero temperatures to help the National Institute of Conductive Education.

The 43-year-old today appealed for individuals and businesses across the district to help him raise the £3,750 he needs to take part in the 150 mile trek.

The dog lover, of Wyke, who has a Rottweiler and a Yorkshire Terrier, said the week-long trip was a "once in a life-time opportunity".

He is one of ten people who have been selected to take part in the gruelling adventure, which starts in Kiruna in Sweden on March 28.

"The trip is a 150-mile circular trek ending back in Kiruna," he said. "I've always wanted to do this and it I think it's going to be a fantastic experience."

Mr Wilkinson, who has worked as a dog warden in Bradford for 16 years, said the group would visit the world-famous Ice Hotel and see the Northern Lights.

He spotted the advert for the event in a magazine and said he wanted to help the foundation improve the lives of motor disorder sufferers.

Conductive education is a form of special education and rehabilitation for children and adults with motor disorders.

It is used to help people with conditions where disease or damage to the central nervous system affects a person's ability to control movement.

Lisa Barea, events organiser for the National Institute of Conductive Education, said: "It's going to be a really huge challenge for these people. They need mental strength to do it.

"But having ten people working as a close team will bring them together and help make it a memorable event."

Mr Wilkinson said he was also looking for people to donate winter clothing and other equipment, including a sleeping bag, for the adventure.

People who would like to sponsor him or donate equipment should call (01274) 698862 or e-mail stephen1.badboy@virgin. net.