The director of the Scottish Flood Forum has told Stonehaven residents: “We got it wrong.”
Paul Hendy apologised to locals struck by flooding for the second time in three years after telling them it wouldn’t happen again back in 2009.
Around 40 people in the town were evacuated from their homes during the festive period as a result of the deluge which reached up to waist level in places.
Stonehaven was previously flooded in 2009 when the Carron River burst its banks.
The forum, which is funded by the Scottish Government, has established an advice and drop-in centre in the town since the double flooding in December.
Mr Hendy said it was a traumatised community and many people do not have flood insurance and will have to try to fund the repairs themselves.
However, people who do have insurance are also struggling after being hit by insurance excesses of anywhere from £2,000 up to £10,000.
He said: “I was privileged to come to Stonehaven and fell in love with this beautiful town three years ago.
“To be quite honest with you, I think I was one of those, who, after the last event, said: ‘I don’t think it will ever happen again.’
“I have to apologise because we did get it totally wrong.
“There is a feeling within the community that many people don’t want to go back to their homes after what’s happened. They are frightened and we want to restore that confidence.”
Mr Hendy said no issue was too small for the forum and he also urged anyone suffering from depression to go to their GP for help.
“There are times you will find it really difficult to cope,” he said. “If you are really having problems, come and talk to us or go and speak to your GP.
“There are resources available in Stonehaven that will help you through this experience. You are human beings, not machines.”