VOLUNTEERS hoping to set up a sheltered housing scheme for elderly people in one of the most remote parts of the region think they have found the ideal venue.

Abbeyfield is a national organisation providing housing with care for more than 9,000 people across the country.

In November 1999, a group was set up in the Upper Esk Valley, on the edge of the North York Moors, with the intention of building an Abbeyfield House.

It would comprise 12 affordable sheltered housing flatlets; a community centre and work in partnership to develop an integrated care service for older people in the area.

The group looked at sites in the Glaisdale, Lealholm, Danby and Castleton areas and believes that a site on a field next to Ivy Cottage, on Ashfield Road, Castleton, could be the ideal spot.

Because the area is so remote, many older people get very isolated and it is felt that Abbeyfield is a way of breaking these barriers down, while ensuring that people are well looked after.

Negotiations have now been opened with the owner's agents.

Residents would have their own private flatlet with main meals being prepared by the cook/housekeeper and served in the communal dining room.

There will also be a fully equipped laundry, an area for socialising and a garden with patio.

The Housing Corporation is being asked to provide the lion's share of the money needed but the Society will still have to find approximately £100,000 - and has so far raised more than £1,500.

It is hoped that there will be further developments during the next couple of months.