repainting of the perimeter fence at Southside.

But Serco Aviation programme manager Malcolm Simpson this week said he expected the job to be completed in two weeks, "weather permitting''.

He added: "Because of the prevailing wind which blows down the runway, we don't want it to get on passing vehicles.'' Work began in early March and was predicted to take two months but Serco's original estimate fell short.

"There was a three or four week delay in getting the paint from Bermuda Paint's supplier,'' Mr. Simpson said. "It's a special mix. They looked into the technical side and we estimated the gallonage.'' Mr. Simpson added that because of the large hedge inside the fence the company would not paint near the main Gate.

He added: "It may look odd or half done and it will look patchy. We can't get to both sides.''