UNION bosses are to throw their might behind the campaign to stop the closure of East Lancashire Care Homes.

A rally, organised by Burnley Trades Union Council, is due to take place tomorrow to back care workers in their bid to keep 32 care homes across Lancashire open.eir 48 homes under a shake-up of care in the county.

Members of the Burnley Trades Union Council are hoping that around 200 people will turn up at Burnley's Peace Gardens to show their support. They have already organised a petition and have leafleted the area in the past few weeks.

There will be a short march to the town hall as part of tomorrow's event where the petition with thousands of signatures will be handed in.

The petition calls on Burnley councillors and county councillors to do all in their power to oppose a reduction in the quality and quantity of public sector care for older people.

A spokesman for Burnley Trades Union Council said: "We are responsible for care workers and need to keep the pressure on Lancashire County Council to reach the right decision for Burnley people.

"We are saying there should be no net loss of public sector provisions for the elderly people in the area.

"This is an opportunity for those who share our view of the need for quality, public care for the elderly to come out in support of the unions' involved and the majority of public opinion.

"We would like councillors who share our view on this matter to receive the petition and make any remarks they see fit.

"This invitation is open to all borough councillors and county councillors. Trades Council sees this issue as one where the broadest possible unity of progressive forces can be key to success."

The rally will take place tomorrow at the Peace Gardens, Parker Lane, near the library at 11am.