A NURSING home has shut after concerns were raised over its standards of care.

All 25 residents of Royd Hill, at Sutton, have been transferred to alternative accommodation.

North Yorkshire County Council said issues had first been raised last year about care levels at the Sutton Lane premises.

"Steps were taken to attempt to assist the owners of Royd Hill to improve the quality of care on offer," said a spokesman.

"The wellbeing of people in care is of paramount importance to us.

"Unfortunately, despite our efforts, it was found that a wide range of issues were not adequately addressed and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) removed the home's nursing registration."

The spokesman added that as a result, all residents were moved out earlier this month.

Moves were arranged and co-ordinated by staff from the county council's health and adult services directorate, in partnership with the CQC and local health services.

"We have been able in most cases to find suitable alternative accommodation in South Craven or the adjoining areas," said the spokesman.

"Where this has not been possible, arrangements have been mutually agreed with the residents and their relatives.

"We are aware that this is an unsettling time for both residents and families and we have done everything possible to ensure residents are moved with the least disruption and utmost care."

The CQC said its inspectors' last visit to Royd Hill was early this month, when "some serious issues" were identified.

At a subsequent management review meeting, it was decided to remove the home's registration, effectively stripping it of its licence to provide nursing care.

"Routine checks are carried out on homes by the commission every year," said a spokesman.

"Concerns were raised about Royd Hill and its registration has since been removed.

"The provider has the right to appeal against the decision.

"We have been liaising closely with the local authority over the matter and all service users have now been removed from the home.

"Royd Hill was registered for up to 40 residents but at the time of our last inspection there were just 25."

Efforts by the Craven Herald to contact the home's owners were unsuccessful.