AN ACTION group has been formed to fight for Thornaby's four old people's homes to remain open, after it was announced two were under the threat of closure.

The group, which involves residents, families, staff and trade unions, has vowed to fight Stockton Borough Council's plans for closure.

Last month, the council announced that it planned to close two of the homes, transfer one to the private sector and keep one under council ownership.

Now the protestors, connected with the Belasis, Parkview, Rosedale and Tithebarne homes, claim they will take the matter to the European Court of Human Rights if necessary.

Tish McDonald, spokeswoman for the group, said: "We are determined that these homes will remain open and in public ownership and will use all means avail- able, including legal action under the Human Rights Act 1998."

The group has been collecting petitions from members of the public and plans to lobby the council's Cabinet when it meets on December 6.

Yesterday, a council spokes-man said: "No decision has yet been taken and we are continuing to consult on the proposals.

"We are currently meeting with staff and residents at all four homes to inform them of progress with this consultation."

Social services bosses at the council were due to meet some residents and staff today.

But Ms McDonald said: "There has been an overwhelming reaction so far from the public and we will build on that.

"The council is trying to railroad this proposal through the system and is paying scant regard to the consultation process.

"We are enlisting the support of the National Relatives' Action Group for the Elderly who have great experience in fighting home closures.

"The council's plans will cause great distress, disruption and worry to many residents and their families."

The council's proposals stem from the Care Standards Act 2000, which was introduced by central Government and must be implemented by 2007.

Protestors say the council is "panicking" and putting residents into private or voluntary homes, which have to comply with the same regulations.

Ms McDonald said: "The council has five years to comply with the standards and could spread the costs over that time.