It is known as the never-ending job. But, by Christmas, the Forth Bridge will be painted - and won't need another coat for up to 40 years.

A 10-year project to recoat the Scottish icon is due to end shortly, a year ahead of schedule, it was revealed on Sunday.

Restoration work on the bridge, which is used by up to 200 trains every day, has been ongoing since 2002.

Up to 200 painters have been working on the structure at a time.

The bridge is 120 years old, but has needed constant maintenance work, with painters reaching one end - then going back to start again from the other side of the Forth.

Bolton-based Leighs Paints said there was a 25-year warranty of no rust, but the paint job could last for up to 40 years.

The company is now working on the Olympics site in London.