A Helston nursing home facing the threat of closure is to remain open at least until the end of the month in the hope that a new business will come forward to take over the running of the premises.

Cornwall county council, which last month told residents at Penhellis Nursing Home they would have to find alternative accommodation, now says it is "actively seeking to maintain" the home in order to give a new business the chance to take over and enable residents who want to to stay put.

The council's department of adult social care was forced to take over the running of the home to protect the welfare of the residents after financial difficulties being experienced by the owner - Premium Care Homes Ltd - meant it could not guarantee the safeguard of its residents.

The financial problems meant the company was unable to pay its staff, who were later reimbursed by the council.

Dr Carol Tozer, director of the department of adult social care, said the council had done its "very best"

to support residents and staff at Penhellis and had been actively working to find a positive outcome.

She added that the council was hopeful another company would come forward to take over the run ning of Penhellis and intended to maintain the home for up to a fur ther four weeks to enable further discussions to take place between Premium Care Homes and interest ed parties.

"Moving vulnerable people from their home is always a last resort and we remain hopeful that another company will come forward," said Dr Tozer.

"The council appreciates the uncertainty and anxiety this situation is creating and will be working closely with residents and carers to provide as much support as possible."