A PRESTON man with a devastating genetic disorder has had his life documented in a BBC TV programme.

Jim Costello, 50, who suffers from Gorlin Syndrome, was the subject of Bitter Inheritance, broadcast last week, which charted his life as the disease progressed and affected other members of his family.

The condition has left his face eaten away by cancer. A few months ago he lost his sight.

These days bandages cover most of his face and he wears a hat and sunglasses when venturing outdoors.

Yet the tragic illness has not stopped Jim from helping others.

Since retiring from BAE Systems where he worked as a draftsman until 12 years ago, Jim has set up a support group for people suffering from the same condition.

Jim, of Blackberry Way, Penwortham, said: "The group started in 1992 with five people. Now we've even got people from all over the world.

"There are around 170 people from 14 year olds to pensioners."

While filming the documentary, Jim was devastated to learn that three of his four children were found to have inherited the condition, which affects one in 40,000 people.

Doctors say Jim's father passed the condition on to his son who, unwittingly, gave it to his daughters Anna -- who died from the condition in 1981 -- Helen, 22, and Jane, 23.

"The worst part was when I found out I had passed it on to my girls," he said. "But up until losing my sight it hasn't been too bad at all. When you think of Simon Weston -- the Falkland's War veteran -- mine is just gradual over 30 years."

In the early years after retirement Jim spent his days helping children with computer work at St Mary Magdelen's, in Buller Avenue, Penwortham. John Welch, headteacher, said: "He brought a real warmth and affection to all the adults and children in the school. He had marvellous patience with the children, and nothing was ever too much for him."

Since the show went out, Jim has been inundated with calls and emails of support. "Filming was quite tiring," he said. "But we had about 70 phone calls after the programme. People were phoning up apologising that they couldn't donate more than £10."

To contact Jim visit the support group internet site at www.gorlin-group.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk or e-mail Jim on gorlin-group@blueyonder.co.uk for information.