A care homes crisis has prompted the Bolton Evening News to write an open letter to Tony Blair, asking the PM to intervene.

Two private care homes are to close in the town, leaving an uncertain future for the elderly residents – as Bolton Council does not have any of its own homes for the elderly.

Owners of the care homes say the council does not provide them with enough cash to cover fees.

The paper has launched a campaign to try to halt the crisis and carried several splashes showing the human angles to the story – including one 103 year-old who was forced to find a new home.

Under the front page headline “Mr Blair – It’s time to act”, the paper called on the Prime Minister to intervene, and the letter was used in full on page two.

Editor Steve Hughes said: “This is happening all over the country and it is shocking that nothing is being done.”

His letter said: “We know that our readers in this typically industrious and caring Northern town are genuinely concerned about this situation. They want someone to help.

“We hope you and your health secretary John Reid will listen to our message. Your hand is on the coffers and we hope that your heart is with the country.”

The paper sent a copy of the letter and the paper to Tony Blair.

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