Elderly patients stuck in hospital beds because of a care crisis will be moved by next month, York's head of social services has promised.

Rationing of funding for places in the city's residential or nursing homes has left people in hospital beds, waiting for cash to be made available.

But Bob Fletcher, City of York Council's executive member for social services, said: "We have made an agreement with the primary care group which now can release some more money.

"Fifteen people are now in hospital who don't need to be there. They have chosen a home to go to and a bed is available, but funding has not been. I am confident that all 15 will move to the home of their choice next month."

The cash, part of extra funding for the NHS announced by the Government, would wipe the bed blocking slate clean.

But rationing of home places, which has been forced by a lack of cash, will have to continue, said Coun Fletcher.

He said: "We have worked extremely hard with York MP Hugh Bayley to speak to the Government about this problem, and we are planning a trip to London to meet health ministers. That work will continue."

Colin Watts, a general manager at York District Hospital , said: "I haven't spoken to Coun Fletcher about this yet, but it is excellent news."

A Liberal Democrat proposal that a public meeting on the issue be arranged was defeated by councillors last night.

adam.nichols@ycp.co.uk