Work has been completed on converting a row of semi-derelict cottages in Elgin to rehabilitation accommodation for patients leaving hospital.

The six cottages in Victoria Road had lain vacant since 2002 when they suffered damage during severe flooding which hit the area.

They were built in 1897 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee and are held in trust by Moray Council.

The conversion project was undertaken by Health and Social Care Moray with the Moray Integrated Joint Board providing the £100,000 funding.

The fully furnished and equipped cottages will house elderly patients who are discharged from hospital but who require some rehabilitation before returning to their own home.

A range of health professionals will be on hand to help patients make the transition and regain their independence.

Members of the integrated joint board, including co-chair Councillor Lorna Creswell, were shown round the new facilities yesterday by service manager Lesley Attridge who has overseen the project.

The cottages are expected to welcome their first residents within the next few weeks.