Oldest resident's sorrow at threat

The oldest resident of an under-threat Wolverhampton old people's home today told of her heartbreak as she called on the people of the city to help save it from closure.

Underhill House, based in Fallings Park, is facing the axe as part of Wolverhampton City Council's plans to cut £40 million from its budget by 2011.

Louisa Watts, aged 105, who used to clean wards at New Cross Hospital, became a resident four years ago after the death of her daughter Jean. Her son Derek, aged 76, today said his mother was a very proud woman.

Mr Watts, of Parker Road, Ashmore Park, who has a twin brother Gerald, said his mother was willing to fight to stay in her beloved home.

He said: "She still has all her faculties and refuses to wear a hearing aid as she is so proud. She loves it here, is very comfortable and has made so many friends.

"But I have never seen her as down as she has been for the past six weeks or so. The uncertainty over the move is really affecting her."

More than 1,000 people have already signed a petition to save the home but Mrs Watts is asking for more to put their names down and to send letters of support to both the home and the council.

She said today she would never live in a private nursing home and would miss the staff and her fellow residents desperately if she was forced to move.

Mrs Watts said: "This is my home and I am heartbroken at the thought of moving. The staff here are lovely and are so upset by the closure. How can the council justify moving all of us? At our time of life, it is the last thing we need."

Mrs Watts, whose husband George died in 1977 aged 77, celebrated her 105th birthday at Underhill House where she enjoyed a fish and chip supper.

Her appeal comes on the same day it emerged a resolution will be raised at the next month's full council meeting to delay the closure until a replacement can be built nearby. The city's Labour group is calling for a vote between all parties.