ELDERLY residents at a Melksham care home on the brink of closure have found new homes.

The final 11 residents at Waverley house are to move into homes bought by West Wiltshire Housing Society in Melksham, ending fears they could be forced to leave the town.

County Councillor Chris Chorley said: "The council made a commitment to keep those that wanted to stay in Melksham in the town and that is what has been done."

Wiltshire County Council made the decision to axe the Semington Road home and replace it with more modern facilities after a best value review of learning disability services.

Campaigners fighting to save it handed in an 870-name petition in protest at the closure, which was due to take place this month but was postponed until alternative homes could be found for residents.

County Councillor Terry Chivers said: "Even the county council agrees this whole thing could have been handled much better but I welcome the news West Wiltshire Housing Society is to provide homes for the last 11 residents of Waverley House.

"The decision to close Waverley House has been taken but at least we are assured the residents will be remaining in the town."

It is not yet clear what will happen to the 22 staff members at the home but Cllr Chorley said the majority will be offered places with CARE, the non-profit organisation that has taken over the care contract from the council, with others being redeployed with the council itself.