Works to restore an iconic 15th-century castle are well underway with pointing work expected to begin today on Castle Moil in Kyleakin.
The structure of the castle was damaged after it was struck by lightning in February.
Over the past three weeks scaffolding has been erected around the damaged wall of the castle by Invergordon based McDonald Scaffolding.
Raymond Mackay, clerk of works, said: “We are basically stabilising the castle. We are not adding anything more to what’s already there.
“We are making it safe and making sure what we do will last for years to come as the castle has been badly damaged.
“The scaffolding company have done a magnificent job. Initially we couldn’t see what we were dealing with, but now we can get up close and really see the full extent.
“Approximately 30 tonnes of scaffold has been taken up to the castle by hand which is remarkable. Because on the nature of the site that has had to be the case. The scaffold was taken off the Marine Harvest landing craft by telehandler.
“We are really at the halfway stage now. One of the big issues has been getting funding because of the nature of the project it is an expensive project. I have tried to make sure that we use as many local people as possible.”
Mr Mackay said the dry summer weather had been a benefit for the works being carried out.
Pointing work is expected to begin today with Shona McLeod of Skye Stones undertaking the work.
Councillor John Finlayson said: “Obviously everyone in the community is delighted to see works on the castle finally started. I am very encouraged to see a local contractor overseeing things and I am sure things will happen very speedily.
“With the good weather we have been having recently things are taking off very quickly. Once the castle is made safe and restored, the community can decide where it would like to go in the future, and hopefully things can be progressed.”
Works were made a priority by Highland Council and are expected to cost upwards of £100,000.
The castle attracts numerous visitors each year and is strikingly visible from the Skye Bridge, the gateway to the island.