Two historic bridges will be closed to traffic while work is done to make them safe.

The Gairnshiel and Milton Bridges were both damaged over the winter by severe weather and a series of accidents involving road vehicles.

Now the weather is more clement, Aberdeenshire Council is closing both bridges as well as a stretch of the A939 Ballater to Tomintoul road to allow crews to access the site.

Damaged stonework on both bridges will be taken down and rebuilt and the Milton Bridge will also be strengthened by the addition of concrete backing to the old masonry arch.

The closures begin on Monday May 14 and will last for around three weeks, depending on weather.

A combined diversion route will be in place via the A93, adding some 24 miles to journeys.

Aberdeenshire Council's bridges manager, Donald Macpherson, said the work involves the use of traditional lime mortar, so repairs had to wait for suitable weather.

He added: "Carrying out repair of the two bridges in the same vicinity and at the same time, as well as any road repairs, is intended to minimise disruption for road users and the effect on tourists visiting the area.

"Hopefully this will also mean the road doesn't have to be closed for repairs later in the year

"Given this work has to take place in better weather, we're doing it at the earliest opportunity to minimise the impact on tourist traffic, hopefully ensuring the road remains open in the peak summer season."