Work has started on protecting an erosion-hit stretch of coastline at Hemsby. 

Almost 2,000 tonnes of rock are being placed along a 40m section of the cliff at The Marrams.

The hope is that the rocks will protect clifftop homes from further erosion.

The work comes after five houses had be demolished to prevent them from collapsing onto the beach following spring tides and strong winds earlier this month. 

Great Yarmouth Mercury: An excavator helps place rocks on a beach as a defence against erosion at The Marrams in Hemsby on March 25. Photo: James Bensly. An excavator helps place rocks on a beach as a defence against erosion at The Marrams in Hemsby on March 25. Photo: James Bensly. (Image: James Bensly)

So far, approximately three-quarters of the rocks, which came from a supply of surplus granite in Hopton, have been placed on the beach.

Work will resume on Monday (March 27).

The job is being managed by the council’s coastal management team, Coastal Partnership East (CPE).

READ MORE: 'Finally getting somewhere' - Hemsby sea defence plans granted vital licence

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Almost 2,000 tonnes of rock are being transported from Hemsby beach carpark to the beach as a temporary defence against erosion. Photo: James Bensly. Almost 2,000 tonnes of rock are being transported from Hemsby beach carpark to the beach as a temporary defence against erosion. Photo: James Bensly. (Image: James Bensly)

James Bensly, owner of the Beach Cafe, hopes the work will inspire villagers to collaborate and raise funding for a more permanent rock berm.

Plans for the berm have been granted a licence by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO).

The village will have to raise £9m for the scheme which local campaigners say will slow down the rate of erosion.