It is claimed the council plans breach residents' human rights

Lawyers for up to 1,000 elderly residents were due to argue on Monday that they could face severe damage to their health if they are forced to move.

But the legal challenge has been put back by last-minute attempts to reach a compromise before the case starts.

The legal action has been brought by the protest group Lancashire Care Homes Action United (LCHAU) and Chorley Borough Council.

Lancashire County Council says its plan to close 32 of its 48 homes is vital for the future of geriatric care in the county.

The case was due to be heard by senior judge, Mr Justice Sullivan.

'Areas of agreement'

But on Monday he agreed to an adjournment to allow both sides to "build on areas of agreement".

The pressure group and the county council have now entered talks, and the QC representing LCHAU said the two bodies were close to achieving a solution.

But Chorley Council has taken no part in the discussions, and intends to press ahead with the legal challenge.

Before the discussions, the council and pressure group claim the closure decision was taken without the consultation process taking enough account of their concerns.

Human rights

The plans will mean only 16 council-run care homes remain in Lancashire.

Residents' relatives say forcing them to move will affect their health and breaches human rights legislation.

The county council has said it will not implement its closure programme - originally scheduled for January 2003 - until the outcome of the discussions and court ruling.