The council's decision has provoked an outcry

A High Court hearing scheduled for earlier was adjourned after the county council requested an extension to allow it to prepare its case.

Relatives have asked solicitor Yvonne Hossack to seek a judicial review of the council's decision.

It said the closures were necessary as rising care costs would leave it with a large budget deficit.

Both sides will meet again in the High Court later in the month.

This strengthens our case for a judicial review and I am confident we will win Yvonne Hossack, solicitor

Ms Hossack said 175 residents and relatives attended a public meeting on Thursday night to discuss case strategy.

She added: "At the meeting I was shown a document by one relative which said the resident had been promised a home for life.

"This strengthens our case for a judicial review and I am confident we will win.

"This is the worst process I have ever seen."

She said she was interested in speaking to people who lived or had relatives living at three other care homes which have already closed.

They are Lea House in Madeley, Davy Units in Cannock, and May Place in Newcastle-under-Lyme.