IT'S no surprise to anyone that the 32 Lancashire County Council homes for the elderly are still going to close.

Your headline 'Shameful' (LET, September 27) is spot on.

The consultation was a sham and although County Councillor Chris Cheetham says that many changes have been made from the original agenda -- none seem to make much difference to the outcome.

What is worrying is that future plans aren't clearly stated or proven.

There was much talk by Labour councillors either during or after the meeting of the county council, such as: "The right decision" -- Why? "Changing things to benefit majority of the elderly." -- How? "This was an easy decision" -- Shame! "It will benefit elderly people" -- How? "We have listened long and hard to people" -- When? "The proposals represent the best way forward." -- How?

These are glib statements with no substance. Time will tell, when elderly people and their lives are used as guinea pigs, whether the county council's decision is right or wrong.

Respite care: care-at-home is the main theme. Did the councillors and the committee even consider how living at home with just carers calling could be the loneliest life in between visits? -- No stimulation from other residents or 24-hour attention from the caring staff care home residents have now.

All of those making this decision will be in the position of these elderly people one day and let's hope their actions don't come home to roost.

KATHLEEN BULCOCK (Mrs), Wilkie Avenue, Burnley.