There no doubting Gibraltar's continuing support for the armed forces but in extending a come back soon invitation to the 111 squadron let's hope its not another six years.

That said the ideal date would be the day after we inaugurate the airport underpass!

Time will tell just when the airport terminal building comes into its own, and like Europort it undoubtedly will, but the construction of the underpass will have a major impact for both drivers and small aircraft.

If the MOD consequently find that Gibraltar is easier to use then this will be a bonus for us all. With the MOD facing huge budgetary pressure the Rock is equally tasked with ensuring that we serve a purpose sufficient to make this a meaningful presence for UK and our community.

Royal Gibraltar Regiment CO Colin Risso recently stated that the regiment must ensure that it remains relevant and cost-effective as Britain prepares to slash its defence budget. This is not just something that affects our soldiers.

Some of our soldiers, like Colin himself, have faced the frontline and no doubt more will do so in the future.

A little inconvenience in the traffic is something we can put up with and, hopefully, for not much longer.