The only traffic lights in Stanley

The only traffic lights in Stanley

Quite possibly, the only ones in the Falklands ¹

You know what they say about new roads attracting the traffic — well, it's true. The blacktop beckoned; 300 metres of smooth unblemished tarmac. Unfortunately, I was condemned to wait on the whim of the baleful red eye that glared from the works traffic lights. Nothing was coming at me, so the road was clear ahead. In fact, there was no traffic at all along Ross Road West, past the golf course. But I am thoroughly disciplined and only on the yellow did I release the brake. The Pajero surged forward, fishtailing on the loose chippings and then I was at last on the open highway. Heavy treaded tyres, thrumming on the hardtop, I cruised along. All too soon, I was back onto gravel just past the last of the new houses. I had to repeat that drive! A quick 3 point turn pointed my bonnet east, back into town.

I bumped up the ramp onto the new road and then there was that red light again …