A UNION has vowed to continue its opposition to the closure of old people's homes run by Kirklees Council.

Unison, the union for local government workers, made its pledge as the first results were revealed on consultation over the fate of seven homes.

A spokesman said: "Any closure of older people's homes will be opposed by Kirklees Unison.

"It is a tragic experience for elderly people who have moved from their own homes into council care to be uprooted again."

Homes at risk include The Homestead in Almondbury, Cherry Tree Court at Shepley, Greenacres in Meltham and Scissett Mount at Scissett. The threatened homes could be rebuilt, sold off or converted to other uses, such as day care.

Council chiefs say their focus is increasingly on helping old people to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

In public consultation results over the seven care homes, one person said: "I'm concerned how the move will affect residents. It has created a lot of anxiety already."

Others called for homes to stay open - but with improvements.

One man said: "We feel that a decision has already been made and our views are of no value."

Councillors had their first discussion about the consultation yesterday. But a decision is still some months off.

The other homes under threat are Ashworth Court and Westmoor House, both in Dewsbury, and Woodwell House at Batley.

Clr Dennis Hullock, council Cabinet member for social services, said the aim was to provide high-quality residential care as part of a drive to modernise services for older people.

Consultation on the homes began after the council said none of them met new standards and regulations.