On Sunday, 24 November 2019 12:26:23 UTC, wrote:
However one could use a retractable cable reel; that wouldn't have a hanging loop.

In fact this is basically it:

https://www.simbal.net/product-categ...spection-lamp/

Tie lamp to gate. Fix reel to post. Connect. Job done (at some cost, admittedly).

Owain