A DISABLED York man claims he will be made housebound and jobless if his specially-adapted car is taken from him.

Ron Atkin, of Barkston Close, Acomb, has been on Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for 16 years because of an unstable angina condition and spinal problems.

The benefit pays for his Vauxhall Astra, which was obtained through a contract hire scheme run by disabled charity Motability.

But the Benefits Agency has now told Mr Atkin it is stopping the allowance following an updated assessment of his current condition - which means he will lose the car.

The 53-year-old, who says he needs the vehicle to get out, fears he may now lose his job as an attendant at the NCP car park in Queen Street.

"I couldn't believe it when they told me the allowance was stopping," said Mr Atkin, who is appealing against the decision.

"As far as I'm concerned my health problems have not changed.

"Losing the car will effectively make me housebound.

"I can't even get the bus to work because of the walking distances from the stops.

"My boss has been brilliant so far but there's only so much he can do."

Mr Atkin's car has specially-adapted foot pedals so he can operate the clutch.

A spokesman for the Benefits Agency, who is unable to comment on specific cases, said: "Disability Living Allowance claims which are awarded for a fixed period are reconsidered at the point of renewal.

"Any change in circumstances is taken into account. If the needs arising from the person's disability remain then normally payments continue to be made.

"However, if the information provided indicates that the level of dependence has reduced, then DLA can be awarded at a lower level, or even discontinued.

"If a customer is unhappy with the decision they can ask for a full explanation and apply for reconsideration or lodge an appeal."

Updated: 10:57 Monday, April 01, 2002