CONTRACTORS responsible for traffic lights on the A556 do not complete major repairs overnight.

Local poet Charlotte Peters Rock was astounded when the maintenance team told her they only worked between 7am and 7pm.

The team - employed by A556 managers Babtie - told Mrs Peters Rock of their limited hours when she reported Mere traffic lights were out at midnight.

"That junction is a deathtrap and signals should be repaired as soon as possible," she said.

Yesterday (Tuesday) a Babtie spokesman said faulty signals were immediately investigated after being reported.

He said simple problems were always immediately fixed, but major problems always had to wait until the morning.

"Whatever the time the company are obliged to make the site safe," he said. "And if they cannot carry out repairs, warning signs are posted up."

But Mrs Peters Rock, of Allostock said the signs weren't good enough and drivers needed earlier warning as they approached the junction.

"The sign was a picture of traffic lights with a line to it strapped to the lights themselves," she said.

She also claimed that no-one wanted to take responsibility for the problem. "I was up after midnight ringing the police and other numbers trying to sort it out," she said.

"I don't want another death on that road."

Babtie said there had been teething problems since they started to manage the road at the start of the year - but promised to 'take on board' Mrs Peters Rock's criticisms.

"People have passed on responsibility," he said. " So I can understand how the reporting procedure could seem a little 'jobsworthy' at time."

To report any problems on the A556 call 01928 791555.

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