THE future of three Hampshire care homes threatened with the axe will be decided on Friday.

A county council meeting will determine whether the council will close Cornerways in Kings Worthy and two others in Gosport and Fleet.

The Daily Echo reported how the families of elderly residents and union activists have fought a campaign battle in a bid to save the homes.

They warn the stress of moving their relatives could kill some of the 35 frail elderly people – the oldest of whom is 101.

There are also 105 staff members who will be affected.

The council says it will cost £4.5m to modernise the homes which are underoccupied and unsuitable to meet the needs of more disabled residents. They say they want to provide more choice, promoting independence and focus on expanding the number of extra care places across Hampshire.

It comes following a 12- week consultation period.

Cllr Felicity Hindson, executive member for adult social care, will be presented with the results of the consultation which generated 95 written responses – nearly half related to Cornerways.

The council is planning to build an extra six bedrooms and refurbish a further two at Westholme nursing home in Harestock Road, Winchester , by spring 2014.

Other plans include spending £45m on “extra care” housing over the next six years as an alternative to residential homes. This is sheltered housing with support on site.