A FACT-finding visit to the Florence Nightingale Hospital could be arranged following concerns about ex-offenders living there.

The idea follows anxieties from residents about the private rehabilitation centre, off Bolton Road, Elton, which has been in operation for nearly a year.

The unit houses ten patients with mental health and hearing problems, including some with criminal records, and plans are in hand to extend the number of places to 32.

A meeting of Bury West Area Board heard that residents felt they had never been properly consulted about the home, run by Mayflower Hospitals, and some would like to know more.

Ward councillor Roy Walker said he had been contacted with concerns but added that a visit by ward councillors, followed by a special meeting of the area board, might allay fears.

He said: "I have discussed this matter with several people who were concerned.

"The fact that it has been there nearly a year and nobody has had any problems yet means that it would appear to be well-run.

"We have to keep this in proportion but it is a matter of interest to people."

Area board chairman Councillor Bob Bibby agreed, and added: "If people have genuine concerns they should talk to staff, talk to the council, and by all means let's have a special meeting about it if there is enough interest."