“We’re raising the walls so the tide can’t come in and flood the properties on River Road,” said builder Gary McGeown.

“There was a flood in April, it flooded the boatyards, the caravan park, the whole road was flooded for days. That’s why I’m here to build the sea defenses.

“The tides are only getting bigger, we either have to build the walls or let it go. This is a consequence of global warming.

He said the work was paid for by the shipyard’s owner, Mr Boyce.