Yesterday a large crane was on site to carefully raise the top part of the steeple, weighing 4.5 tonnes. The steeple, which houses the cast iron bell dated 1848, was removed in May this year to allow for restoration work to be carried out.

As well as the renovation of the steeple, the £809,000 project at the category B listed courthouse involves other internal and external works to the building which dates back to 1818 on the site of the old toll booth.

The works are being carried out by Laing Traditional Masonry, and project managed by the development and infrastructure service of Highland Council.