PROGRESS in the efforts to repair serious landslip damage at Portknockie has been welcomed. September 13 last year saw sections of the banks along Harbour Road and Patrol Road give way after a period of sustained heavy rain, leaving parts of the roadway hanging by a thread and nearby householders fearing for their properties. The complex nature of the work required has seen the process crawl along at a pace many in the village have found frustrating, but recently an announcement made that the tender for the work was issued on November 1, with a contractor expected to be appointed before the Christmas break. For Portknockie Flood Action Group chairman Rob Barsby, it was good news. “It’s great to hear that something is happening and that they’re looking to have a contractor in place before Christmas,” he said. “Things have taken such a long time but there are so many hoops to go through. “Obviously we’re all praying that there isn’t another period of very heavy rain as that could cause even more landslips and damage.” News that tendering was under way was also welcomed by local councillors Theresa Coull, Donald Gatt and Ron Shepherd. Councillor Coull said: “The residents of Portknockie have to be commended on their patience during this time.” Councillor Gatt commented: “It has been a painfully slow process for the Portknockie community but I’m glad that progress is being made, there has been great concern locally since the landslips took place.” Councillor Shepherd added: “The Moray Council flood team has done a great job to date. It does not help when the council gets slated for something that was outwith their control.”