THE county councillor in charge of social services today urged people to have their say on plans to cut care homes for the elderly and to stop complaining that the consultation is a sham.

County Coun Cheetham hit out as the county continued to be criticised for the way it is handling plans to shake up provision for elderly people.

It wants to close 35 of its 48 homes, including 19 in East Lancashire.

The closures will mean several hundred old residents will need to go into private accommodation, while hundreds of day care places will also be scrapped, with provision provided for users in their own homes.

Last week, Coun David Whipp, leader of the Liberal Democrats, blasted the consultation as a sham, saying it was just a gloss over the fact a decision had already been taken.

Councillor Cheetham said: "I am concerned that rumours, misconceptions and misunderstandings about the consultation taking place are clouding the issues.

"Many people believe we have already decided to close most of our homes for the elderly. That is not the case.

"We have looked carefully at all the issues surrounding care for older people and are suggesting a way forward that we think is sensible.

"I know there is great concern right across the county about this issue. It is important that any changes we make are the right changes and that is why we have made the consultation period longer than is normal."