A Government spokesman yesterday accused the Bermuda Telephone Company (BTC) of carrying out illegal trench work on Middle Road, Southampton.

And motorists can expect more traffic delays as bad weather forces delays on the 600-foot ditch.

"The Ministry of Works and Engineering would like West End residents to know that the roadworks which so badly interfered with the smooth flow of traffic (yesterday) morning had nothing to do with the Frank's Bay project,'' said Gavin Shorto.

Torrential rain, malfunctioning traffic lights, and careless drivers disobeying redlights combined to create lengthy back-ups on both sides of the trench.

Mr. Shorto went on to say that an initial investigation indicated BTC had no permit for the work.

But a BTC spokeswoman yesterday said a communication breakdown had occurred.

"The company understood that everything was in place for the work to take place,'' said Karla Lacey-Minors.

BTC and Works and Engineering representatives will meet today to resolve the issue.

And, weather permitting, the trench work is expected to be completed within 48 hours, Mrs. Lacey-Minors said yesterday.

She apologised for not informing the public in advance about the routine work.

Police will continue to direct traffic during the morning and evening rush hour periods.