AN 86-year-old woman is refusing food and drink after being forced to stay at the Alexandra Hospital since March 17, despite being entitled to NHS funding for a care home.

The Redditch Advertiser reported the plight of Gwendoline Wiltshire, of Matchborough, in August.

Worcestershire County Council social services had expressed concern about Mrs Wiltshire's situation and was looking for funding.

But daughter Barbara Lock said she had not been kept informed of developments.

She said: "It is heartbreaking for us. Mum is not eating or drinking now, it's like she has just given up.

"The nurses have told me not to get upset when I go to see her next time because they might have to put a drip in her to stop her from dehydrating.

"I can't believe she is deteriorating so rapidly before my eyes."

A social services spokesman said: "We are asking for money from budget reserves for cases like these.

"This will be decided when the executive committee meets on September 14.

"Most local authorities are having to restrict services to protect the most vulnerable because of huge demand."