A historic weather vane has returned to its perch as part of restoration work on Falkirk Steeple.

The Cock o' the Steeple had been removed last month for repair and re-gilding for the first time in almost 90 years.

Falkirk Council said the revamp works are part of the £5.6m Townscape Heritage Initiative to 'restore, repair and preserve the town's heritage'.

The brass weather cockerel was installed in 1814 and was last taken down 89 years ago when the steeple was hit by lightning on June 17, 1927.

Councillor Dennis Goldie, economic development spokesman, said: "The Falkirk Steeple is a real local treasure for many people.

"This project along with other Townscape Heritage Initiative restoration projects is helping to invest and conserve the town centre's rich heritage at a time when our high streets continue to face difficult trading conditions.

"I am conscious that this project is being delivered in the middle of a busy high street and the council apologises for ongoing disturbance to shoppers and businesses, we are doing all we can to minimise this."

Scaffolding on the steeple will be removed in stages as contractors continue to carry out work on the clock faces and mechanisms on the A-listed structure.