Homes were evacuated after the mudslides

Following heavy rain and mudslides early this month, only villagers, council and clean-up staff were allowed to enter.

However the initial clean-up of the coastal village has now been completed.

Residents are still hoping to find out the fate of their village hall, which was badly damaged in cliff mudslides.

Alan Campbell, Aberdeenshire council's chief executive, said: "I would thank visitors, residents and property owners for their patience while this initial phase of work was completed.

Continuing clean-up

"Although restrictions may need to be introduced when further clearance works begins, it was clear the community would benefit from having a return to some degree of normality in the meantime."

The council is continuing to work with insurers to ensure mud and other material surrounding some of the properties can be removed as soon as possible, he added.

Insurers will also decided if the village hall needs to be replaced or simply repaired.

Locals are then likely to decide what level of fundraising will be necessary to replace the facilities that existed in the old hall.