The tension shows on pensioner Stan Smith's face after an anxious day waiting to be evicted from the place he has called home for 14 years.

After a stressful wait, bailiffs failed to arrive at Nyewood House, Bognor, to enforce a possession order issued two weeks ago by a county court judge.

Stan looked frail as he spent a tense day with family and friends inside the old peoples' home, which West Sussex county councillors have voted to shut.

Once there were more than 40 residents. Now there is only Stan, who at the age of 80 is fighting a one-man battle to stay and see the home brought back into use.

During the day a doctor was called in to examine Stan who was suffering from a sinus complaint.

His brother, Clifford, said: "Stan is feeling a bit groggy but he is still hanging on and the family is trying to avoid putting any extra stress on him."

stress on him. Staying is his decision and the family has not put any pressure on him. He told us again he does not want to move."

West Sussex County Council could have enforced the possession order yesterday morning but its officers were giving little away about what will happen to Stan.

A spokesman said negotiations were still taking place to try and persuade Stan to move.

Mr Smith's brother said last night the family had been told from other sources it could still be several days before any attempt was made to move Stan out.

He also urged the county council to inform relatives in advance of any visit by bailiffs.

He said: "They must not just come in and do it. I would expect them out of decency to tell us as it is vital his family are here at the time."

Stan spent the day in the lounge and dining room of the home, which is staffed during the day by one care assistant and patrolled at night by a private security firm.

Mr Smith said: "He is very strong minded and wants to keep this home open for the elderly people of the area. "