An attempt to save one of Brighton and Hove's largest care homes from closure has been dropped.

Supporters of Dresden House in Medina Villas, Hove, no longer believe they can mount a legal challenge to prevent the home from closing.

Nick Steadman, whose elderly aunt lives in Dresden House, said after taking advice from two solicitors the challenge was not likely to succeed.

He said: "With great sadness, we now no longer believe we can save any of thepresent residents but we might just still be able to save the premises."

Dresden House is due to close at the end of March because trustees say they can no longer keep up with the financial demands of maintaining the building, estimated to be worth about £7 million.

But supporters, who include the former chairman of trustees and Hove ward councillor, Jan Young, were trying to challenge that decision and had announced the formation of a fighting fund to pay for their campaign.

Mr Steadman said: "Since there are no substantial grounds in law to go after the trustees, we have no case for the courts but this does not mean we will not continue to vigorously press for a review.