A section of Montrose seafront has collapsed and swallowed up a bronze statue which overlooked the beach.
The larger-than-life-sized statue of The Minesweeper looking over Montrose Bay was installed 10 years ago, and is one of several by the late William Lamb that are sited around the town.
The statue has now been recovered.
A large hole appeared immediately behind the sea defences at Traill Drive, near the Water Splash children’s play area.
It appeared late on Thursday night at the end of a week in which particularly heavy seas, high tides and strong winds have battered the coast.
It is likely the defences have been undermined for some time and the sandy infill gradually sucked out causing the concrete surface to collapse.
The whole pedestrianised area along the beach front has been cordoned off as a safety measure until engineers have established the extent of the damage.
Angus Council’s convener of infrastructure, David May, said the priority was public safety, and until engineers had completed their survey it would not be known what remedial work was required and how long access restrictions would be in place.
The statue seems to have suffered minimal damage.
Angus infrastructure services convener, Councillor David May, paid tribute to staff for their efforts.
He said, “Council staff worked tirelessly…
“We urge both local people and visitors to Montrose this weekend to observe the warning signs which have been put in place and to stay away from the areas of danger until a more permanent solution can be found.”