CHORLEY Borough Council will fight on to keep its care homes open despite another local authority dropping out of the team determined to stop closure plans.

Ribble Valley Council has pulled out of the team of authorities who are pursuing a judicial review on Lancashire County Council's plans to shut 32 homes.

This includes Healey View at Botany Brow and Coniston House on Tootell Street, Chorley.

Initially 11 councils agreed to fight the plans but now only Chorley, Preston, Burnley and Wyre are prepared to go to the high court.

Ribble Valley cited the possible costs if it lost the challenge as the reason to drop out.

But Jack Wilson, leader of Chorley Borough Council, vowed Chorley will continue to fight on even if it is left as the only council standing against the closures. Councillor Wilson said: "I am sorry they have jumped ship, that is a matter for them.

"The barrister says we have got a very strong case. He claims that the county decision is irrational, therefore that irrationality has to be contested.

"Even if Chorley decides to go it alone the cost to the Chorley council tax payers would be 75p each.

"I don't know one who would say no to paying this to keep the homes open. The fight goes on and I am quite sure we will have the backing of the people of Chorley."