FYLDE and Wyre councils are stepping up their battle to keep Lancashire County Council care homes open.

They have joined other Lancashire district councils in seeking a judicial review of the county decision and the legal challenge is likely to go ahead early this month.

"There has been a lack of proper and detailed consultation about the closures," said Alan Vincent, leader of Wyre Council.

"Little consideration appears to have been given about the level of care that would be needed to be provided in the community and how much this will actually cost."

There is concern that when the closures are decided on the county council will want residents to move out as soon as possible, regardless of the legal challenge.

Coun Vincent added: "It worries me greatly that the tactic adopted by Lancashire County Council could be to offer ultimatums to residents to move out to another home quickly if they are to stay with fellow residents, or else end up anywhere.

"We are talking about some of the most vulnerable residents in our communities -- this is additional pressure they don't need. It's unethical and unfair."

A judicial review could last around three months with costs spread among those supporting the challenge and on Monday Wyre pledged up to £1,000 towards legal costs.

But after the decision Coun Vincent attacked the Labour group, most of whom had opposed challenging the county council.

"They simply parroted the county council's case and even accused the Conservatives of playing politics when the county councils are at odds with their own government and many Labour-controlled district councils over the issue."

Pendle, Burnley, Chorley Rossendale and Ribble Valley authorities are also involved in the objections.

"We will be asked all district councils to come on board and support the legal challenge," said Coun Vincent.

"We also hope that as many residents from the care homes under threat will be represented at the judicial review -- either in person, by a relative, friend or other advocate."