Can someone shed some light?

Yesterday afternoon, I started the car and the headlights went out.  I did try fiddling with the lightswitch and flasher arm, no difference there. 

Eventually after restating a couple of times, the nearside headlamp came on.  (the maxidot said it wasn't working). 

Engine off and ignition on, both the headlamps would work, off as usual while cranking, but they wouldn't come on after starting.

On getting home, tried again from scratch.  Engine off.  Key out.  Restart.  Everything worked.  No bulb warning.  Just two dipped and two mains as required.  Bum.

Anyone got any ideas?  Just one of those things?  A VAG character building excerise?

No VCDS.