Initial inspections took place late last week, once the worst of the weather had passed, after it was noticed that masonry had been dislodged from the upper wall on both sides of the structure.

Pictured: masonry lying on the Alderney breakwater. Image taken by Krys Page

On Friday 5 January a States spokesperson said the full extent of the damage had not been identified as nothing could be done in the short-term other than to observe what had happened: “Full on-site inspections will be completed as soon as it is safe to venture on to the breakwater,” they said. “It is hoped that this will be possible next week.”

Express' Alderney correspondent, Krys Page, visited the breakwater on Thursday 11 January and found the damage was clearly visible. As well as older signs warning people walking on the breakwater to take care, there were large rocks and bricks which have clearly fallen from the structure as it was battered in the strong winds and waves earlier in the month.

Pictured: Alderney breakwater safety signs captured by Krys Page

Repair work is set to be commissioned as quickly as possible to protect the structure from further structural erosion and damage, although more stormy weather is forecast in coming weeks.