FEARS have been expressed that a Bedale nursing home which has been on the commercial property market for four years could close unless it finds a new owner.

Bedale Grange, in Firby Road, was opened in 1985 in what was formerly a large private house. It has 17 elderly residents and 40 staff, most of whom have worked there since it opened.

It is one of two privately-run nursing homes in Bedale and takes people from two local residential homes who may need extra care. The next nearest nursing homes are at Leeming Bar, Northallerton, Richmond, Ripon and Masham.

Bedale Grange has previously been advertised only nationally in an attempt to find a new owner, but advertisements are due to appear in two local newspapers, one of them the D&S Times.

The D&S Times was contacted this week by an elderly Bedale resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressing concern at a rumour that the home could close and saying local people needed such services.

John Carr, general manager of Bedale Grange, said it was no secret that the home had been on the market but he declined to discuss the reason.

He said various options were being looked at. Closure had not been mentioned, although he appeared not to rule it out.

"We have been consulting staff, who asked us if we could have the home advertised locally. I can understand people getting worried, but the agents in Leeds expect quite a bit of interest.

"We are doing our utmost to try to find a buyer for it as a going concern. The agents tell us we should get a good response from existing nursing home owners and if they are willing to pay the price, it will get transferred.

"Under no circumstances is it due for closure, but that is not to say that in future that will not be an option."

Coun Ellen Dunning, Mayor of Bedale, whose aunt has been in Bedale Grange for almost four years, said she would be horrified if it closed.

"It is much needed by the local community and families who want their relatives close to them.

"Bedale Grange has one of the best track records for its care of the elderly. Staff have worked there for a long time, they are conscientious and their standards are high."