A FLOOD defence project in Ross-on-Wye is set to be completed by the end of the year.

Work on the Ross Flood Alleviation Scheme was started last September, although progress has recently been slow following tunnelling difficulties.

A 350-metre long tunnel between the Homs Road and Kings Acre car parks came to a standstill because of problems boring through the rock.

The tunnelling machine has a further 220m to go.

The delays mean contractor Morgan Est has set-up a 24-hour working week to ensure the tunnelling work is completed in time.

Herefordshire Council says work is continuing on an earth bund east of the A40, which is expected to be finished by August, with the scheme being fully operational by late December.