Woman, 106, forced to leave council care home

Louisa Watts, 106, had vowed not to leave Underhill House in Wolverhampton, and her son, Derek, warned that the upheaval could kill her, but yesterday morning the elderly residents were moved to a different home a few miles away.

Ms Watts, believed to be the fifth oldest woman in Britain, moved to the care home four years ago, following the death of her daughter.

Five other women who had lived at the home, in the Bushbury area of the city, have been rehomed since its closure was finalised in October. Wolverhampton City Council said a senior social worker was with the residents to ensure the transition was as stress-free as possible.

A spokeswoman said: "Residents have been presented with a range of options to suit them and, depending on availability, could choose their preferred option.

"They have also been supported to physically visit potential options to see for themselves the facilities on offer, and the majority have taken up this opportunity."

The council's decision to close the 40-year-old home prompted a legal battle by the residents and their supporters to keep it open.