Living Magazine - December/January 2024

DEC | JAN 2024

Business Directory Featuring the best local companies

WELCOME 2024!

RINGING the BELLS FESTIVE TRADITIONS RECIPES, NATURE, NEWS and much, much more...

~ Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas & New Year ~

to our December / January issue

A

warm welcome to our festive edition! I love the run-up to Christmas and the New Year, although now our children have grown up it’s very different to how it used to be. Instead of spending hours searching for those elusive presents, we look forward to spending time with friends and family as well as just enjoying the opportunity to kick back and relax after what has been a very busy year. However you are spending your holiday period, we hope it brings you happiness.

One thing that I have noticed while preparing this issue is that planning for Christmas events gets later and later each year. So much so, that very few Christmas events had been confirmed as we went to print. I don’t know if this is a result of years of event cancellations (whether through pandemic concerns or wild weather) or simply the move online meaning that everything gets finalised much nearer the time. So, instead of our usual Christmas event round-up, we’ve been digging into the region’s history to share with you some wild traditions and festive facts. We examine the importance of belfries from where the bells will ring out over the coming weeks and take a trip on some of the more unusual transport we find across the region. As the winter evenings draw in, perhaps it’s time to write that book you’ve always wanted to. Our top tips from one of our published authors will help you get started, and we crown it all with local news, lessons from nature, delicious recipes and much more...

For those wondering how the sale of the magazine is going, we’re hopeful that the next issue of LIVING will be our handover issue - the wheels of French bureaucracy are grinding slowly forward. But, we all know that until the ink is dry, we mustn’t count our turkeys! So, let’s all raise our glasses to 2024 and hope that the year ahead is all that we wish it to be.

Happy Holidays to you all!

A bientôt!

EDITOR

PS

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Read online at www.livingmagazine.fr

DEC | JAN 2024

Business Directory Featuring the best local companies

WELCOME 2024!

RINGING the BELLS FESTIVE TRADITIONS RECIPES, NATURE, NEWS and much, much more...

~ Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas & New Year ~

EDITOR: Kathryn Dobson SALES: Jon Dobson LAYOUT & GRAPHICS: DM Design REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Caro Feely, Gillian Harvey, Jessica Knipe, Emma-Jane Lee, Nikki Legon, Mike Morris,

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Roger Moss and Rosie Neave PHOTOGRAPHY: Roger Moss or Shutterstock unless indicated COVER IMAGE: Frozen Forsythia © Elena_Gr/Shutterstock PUBLISHED BY: ANGLO MEDIA & MARKETING, 2 rue Buffefeu, 86400 Linazay, FRANCE

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REGISTRATION: Poitiers: 533 624 128

Local news from around the region

PRINTED BY: Rotimpres S.A.

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Dépôt légal: A parution ISSUE: 92 ISSN: 2270-2709 You can read Living Magazine and our Summer Guides online and subscribe at www.livingmagazine.fr

Snippets

Ring the Bells It’s bell-ringing season, so Roger Moss celebrates France’s belfries

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Seasonal Traditions Living is available by subscription Living est disponible par abonnement Material may not be reproduced without the written permission of Anglo Media & Marketing.

Toute reproduction même partielle du contenu est interdit sans l’accord écrit de Anglo Media & Marketing.

Please ensure you verify that any company you are dealing with is registered in France and/or elsewhere around the world.

Veuillez vous assurer que toute société avec laquelle vous traitez est enregistrée en France et/ou ailleurs dans le monde.

Articles and adverts in this issue do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.

Les articles et publicités de ce numéro ne reflètent pas nécessairement les opinions de l’éditeur.

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Some of the local Christmas traditions might raise an eyebrow today, as Jessica Knipe explains

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Voting Rights for Brits Abroad Will rights be restored before the next election?

35

Surviving Winter, Nature’s Way Rosie Neave takes a few lessons from nature in how best to get through the next couple of months

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Practical Advice Your questions answered by our experts

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We discover some of the region’s more intriguing ferry services

A winelover’s guide to the festive season

by Caro Feely

There & Bac

Winter Wines and Gifts

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42 16

35 41

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Our unique crossword

by Mike Morris

Author Gillian Harvey shares her top tips for putting pen to paper

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Festive recipes featuring beef and more...

Our annual round up of the contact numbers you might need

Puzzle Break

Nikki Legon’s Cuisine

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There’s a book inside us all

Emergency Numbers

Living Property Pages

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We visit Sommières-du-Clain in Vienne

Emma-Jane Lee’s foray into French

54-65 OUR BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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REGIONAL

NEWS ROUND UP

conciliateurS de justice

A recent change in the law requires all disputes involving a sum of less than €5,000 and all neighbourly disagreements to go through an amicable resolution procedure before going to court. The aim is to reduce the congestion in courts by resolving issues before they reach a judge. There are three ways to do this: through lawyers, via a private mediator who is paid, or through a conciliateur de justice. Without the necessary proof of having attempted to reach an amicable solution, the case may be thrown out. Conciliateurs are volunteer law clerks who are able to assess the case, speak to both parties and draw up a contract for everyone involved to sign if an agreement is reached. There are over 2,700 conciliateurs in France and their services are free.

They sign an oath to uphold seven values which include probity, independence, impartiality, neutrality and confidentiality. Success rates can be high; in Charente there are around 1,000 disputes per year of which half are successfully resolved, although with only around 10 conciliateurs in the département, their services are likely to be over-subscribed with the new law coming in. If you would like to become a conciliateur contact your local court or one of the conciliateur offices near you.

Airport Modernisation OBJECTIF 3

Bordeaux-Mérignac airport was again rated as Europe’s worst Contribuer à décarboner toute la chaîne de mobilité airport after the Google reviews of 85 airports were compared.

Favoriser la décarbonation des moyens d’accès à l’aéroport FrenchLaairports ranked poorly overallde although the smaller, mise en service de la ligne de tramway, l’installation bornes de recharge électriques, la construction de pistes cyclables, d’un parking pour vélos et la mise à disposition de transports regional airports were not included in the survey. €169m is électriques (trottinettes, scooters …) permettront de proposer aux voyageurs et salariés de la plateforme aéroportuaire des transports plus écologiques au départ comme à l’arrivée. being invested in infrastructure as part of a 5-year project to Développer des énergiesso décarbonées pour les improve the facilities the hope is aéronefs that next year the airport et véhicules de la plateforme Premier aéroport majeur à fournir un service de biocarburants aéronautiques de manière permanente will move up the league table.

Poor Google reviews, though, aux compagnies aériennes, nous soutenons la création d’une filière locale de production avec un dispositif d’intelligence collective de référence, académique et industriel. are difficult to overcome.

Nous soutenons la création d’une filière locale hydrogène et la mise en œuvre d’un pilote de production sur le territoire afin d’alimenter des flottes de véhicule de la plateforme et à terme les

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nouvelles solutions de déplacement aériennes.

Atteindre la neutralité carbone compensée avant 2030

Nous nous sommes engagés dans le programme mondial international ACA (Airport Carbon Accreditation) et nous visons le niveau 4 de la certification ACA avant 2030. L’aéroport s’engage ainsi

Accidental Americans Former American nationals who have renounced their citizenship have launched a class-action lawsuit suing the US Government for what they are claiming are exorbitant and unconstitutional costs for relinquishing their passports. Four renounced US nationals filed the lawsuit in Washington DC arguing against the renunciation fee of US$2,350. The lawsuit claims these fees are “arbitrary, capricious and illegal because, among other things, the fees were used to fund governmental functions completely unrelated to renunciation services in violation of federal law”. Many ‘Accidental Americans’ (who automatically acquired nationality when they were born in the US but left soon after) find themselves forced to choose between renouncing their US nationality or paying onerous tax demands after the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (Fatca) was introduced in 2010.

Fatca requires banks around the world to report to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) the activities of anyone they suspect of being American. This makes it difficult for many people to open new bank accounts or undertake routine financial transactions without completing cumbersome paperwork often requiring specialist help.

Prior to the introduction fo Fatca, renunciation was free but the number of applications increased dramatically so a US$450 fee was introduced which increased again in 2014 to the current level. The US State Department recently announced that it intends to reduce the burden to US$450 but there is no confirmed timeplan for when this will happen. There are between 5-9 million US citizens living abroad and the class action estimates as many as 30,000 people have paid the €2,350 fee. Meanwhile, a new law has been proposed to introduce a simplified tax form for people who do not owe tax in the US and have an annual income below US$400,000 called the ‘Tax Simplification for Americans Living Abroad Act’ which would be a step in the right direction. It will not resolve all the issues, though, as foreign income from the sale of property and business profits could still be taxed.

The pick of the news that will affect you wherever you live in south west France…

RECORD HIGHS AND LOWS

Weather records were broken across the region in October. Méteo France declared the temperatures reached on 8-9 October were the highest on record for this late in the year. In terms of the hottest afternoon nationally in October, this was set on 2 October (29.1ºC) which was almost a degree warmer than previous records. La Roche-sur-Yon (85), Limoges (87) and La Souterraine (23) all went over 30ºC for the first time in the month of October. After the heat, though, came the rain, with farmers battling conditions not seen since records began in 1954. 210mm of rain fell in La Rochelle (17), beating the previous record of 200mm (the average rainfall is 85mm for October in La Rochelle). This was mirrored across the south west and soil that had been too dry after the long summer quickly became waterlogged and unusable for crops. November looks set to break more records as storms sweep across the region so it is becoming clear that weather extremes are set to be the norm in this warming world.

Doctor’s Fees

From 1 November fees to see a GP, or médecin traitant, increased from €25 to €26.50 with fees to see a specialist increasing from €30 to €31.50. The amount reimbursed by Assurance Maladie remains at 70% with top-up insurance (mutuelle) covering most of the remainder.

However, it is yet to be seen whether this increase will be enough to prevent further strike action as some specialists are asking for the rate to be as high as €50 per visit to make their jobs economically viable. The increase is likely to be reflected in mutuelle fees as policies are renewed.

Cross-Channel Competition

Eurostar’s 30-year hold on cross-Channel trains is set to face competition as rival EVOLYN is expected to run its first trains in 2025. The rail startup led by the Spanish Cosmen family has announced that it is set to buy at least 12 high-speed trains from French multinational rolling stock manufacturer Alstom. “It would be the first time, after 30 years of Eurostar’s monopoly, that a competitor has entered the market,” an EVOLYN spokesperson told news agency Reuters. “The owners or shareholders of this consortium are French and British partners, both industrialists and investment funds, as well as financiers, and long-standing railway professionals, and international funds interested in the project.” In total, the investment is expected to be about €1.16 billion with a full service set to start in 2026. With an almost doubling of the passengers post-pandemic, there is demand for more trains and the Channel Tunnel is designed for almost double the current rail traffic. It operates on an ‘open access’ basis, guaranteeing equal right of access to all rail operators.

Gendarmes

In response to the increased security threats over recent years, over 200 police units employing 2,100 gendarmes have been created, of which 93 have a fixed location and 145 are mobile. In NouvelleAquitaine an additional 11 fixed units and 16 mobile units have been announced, with at least one in each département.

Three are planned for Vendée. Some of the new brigades have specific roles such as environmental protection which will free up existing gendarmes to be available for other local needs. This news was timely, coinciding with the increase in the Vigipirate level to red, its highest level.

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Île de Ré

LA ROCHELLE Surgeres Île de Oléron

Rochefort

CHARENTE-MARITIME (17) Marennes Saintes Cognac Royan

Ruffec

Rouillac Jarnac

CONFOLENS

CHARENTE (16)

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...

LES CHARENTES CHRISTMAS SPIRITS KatsKlass ANGOULEME

Barbezieux

Aubeterresur-Dronne

Keith Drinkel and Michael Chance, both professional actors and directors have been residents of the south Charente for some years, commuting to the UK to appear in productions. However, closing performing arts venues and difficulties with travel during the pandemic caused them both to rethink their future careers and look closer to home Spirits for inspiration Christmas Christmas Spirits and audiences.

Ghostly Tales Told on a Christmas Eve For Michael, audio book recording became one new opportunity while together they began to look for intimate venues to stage plays V. 8 (19h30) S.9 (19h30) D.10 (18h00) Dec 2023 Théâtre Secret: Saint-Jean requiring a small 35 rue Saint Jean, Aubeterre-sur-Dronne 16390 cast. This has Bookings / Réservations: theatresecretaubeterre@gmail.com resulted in three 05 45 98 33 83 Bookings essential: Donations at the door recent productions: Réservation indispensable: Dons à la porte Devised by / Créé par Keith Drinkel with ‘The Man with the Michael Chance and Charlie Hesketh Golden Pen’, ‘The Hollow Crown’ and most recently ‘Larry’. At their latest surprise venue in Aubeterre-Sur-Dronne (16) Charlie Hesketh joins in as they invite you to share some chilling mid-winter stories in the lead-up to Christmas. ‘Ghostly tales told on a Christmas Eve’ will be performed on 8, 9 and 10 December. To find out more and reserve your place (seats are free with donations on the door) contact theatresecretaubeterre@gmail.com.

Are you in search of a unique gift? Join Kat Brugioni at her pottery studio in Brettes (16240) to create a one-of-a-kind gift yourself or purchase a gift card to join one of her classes. Drawing on her background in teaching, Kat uses her experience to introduce all ages to the joy of pottery, whether through traditional handbuilding techniques or by using one of the pottery wheels. And if making your own pot seems a little daunting, you can paint one of the selection of bisqueware. After firing in the onsite kiln, your artwork is ready to take home. Experiment with glazes and techniques guided by Kat who caters for all, from complete beginners to those who are more advanced. Kat also offers events all-year-round bringing the experience to you in the summer months, an increasingly popular option for visiting groups or gîte guests. See full details on the website at www.katsklass.fr or on Facebook at KatsKlass.

King's Community Church

Holding meetings in both Champagne-Mouton (16) and Chaunay (86), King’s Community Church is an English-speaking authentic Anglican Church. Since August 2023, it has been inaugurated as a full member of AMiE (Anglican Mission in England and Europe). The Church is ‘passionate about Jesus Christ and the Bible as the Word of God with its message of love, forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life’.

The members seek to worship and serve in this beautiful part of Charente and Vienne, which covers a large geographical area.

Many of the members travel long distances to attend worship which is one of the reasons they have a ‘Bring and Share’ lunch following Sunday Worship. Details of their services, including special Christmas services such as a café-style ‘9 Lessons and Carols’, can be found on the website at kingschurchcharente.com.

For more information contact Church Warden and Lay Minister Carolyn Carter on 06 12 13 70 07.

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DIARY DATE!

Festival d’Angoulême, the recently rebranded comic strip (bande dessinée) festival will take over the centre of the city from 25-28 January.

Keep an eye on their website for the full programme of events and activities.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...

Abandoned Bicycles

Have you ever wondered what happens to bicycles abandoned in cities like La Rochelle? Taking up precious parking spaces, often with little left than their frames, they are often attached to lamp posts or parking hoops. If spotted on one of their patrols, the city workmen will firstly check to see if it has been reported stolen or if the owner can be located before labelling with a notice to remove within seven days. If the owner does not come forward, the bike is removed to the pound where it is kept for six months. If still unclaimed, it is either destroyed or sold at auction. Recently, some Airbnb owners have taken to attaching keyboxes to padlocked abandoned bicycle frames but this will not stop the municipal services removing the bicycles as the location of keyboxes is strictly controlled too.

Rebranding Saintes The Saintes (17) agglomeration has undergone a rebranding to promote the area’s attractiveness. A twist on the French saying ‘Le Bonheur, c’est si simple’ meaning ‘Happiness is so simple’, the new branding aims to promote the balance that can be achieved both personally and professionally.

The hope is to attract talent and businesses searching for a better work/life balance, bringing families to the region who will appreciate its values such as knowledge, generosity and energy. Based halfway between La Rochelle and Bordeaux, the region hopes that the recently launched campaign will attract people looking for a better quality of life.

www.hopeassoc.org

Come and see Leeanne and one of the puds, followed by a Q & A, cuddles & kisses. An opportunity to meet the legend in person.

The Choir that Rocks will also be here on the 10th & 17th December.

N. RNA W792002789

AN AUDIENCE WITH

Mummy Twilight The story so far

Sun 10 Dec @ 2pm Hope Association Charity Shop 16 51 route de Confolens, La Tulette 16500 Ansac-sur-Vienne

We are closed 23 Dec- reopen Tues 16 Jan Volunteers welcome - drop us an email.

shopsixteen4hope@gmail.com Please check online for regular opening hours and information on Covid protocol.

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Nontron

Brantôme

Riberac

PÉRIGUEUX

DORDOGNE (24)

Bergerac

Montignac

Sarlat-laCanéda

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...

DORDOGNE

Fête de la Truffe

BEYNAC SAGA

The diversion saga continues to rumble on with no resolution in sight. It is clear that a diversion is much needed to protect the unique landscape as well as remove the risks posed by the cliffs along the river, but what route should the diversion follow?

The original arguments began back in 1985, but the decision to start building before state approval was confirmed has cost the département dearly. Along with the river supports, the newly built Milandes road will be destroyed to prevent further fines, despite it being built to the latest standards. Local mayors have expressed their incomprehension at such a waste. Meanwhile, a new project has been lauched with a series of meetings calling for fresh ideas and suggesting a multimodal approach with tourists using bicycles and trains which would remove some of the road traffic.

After the excesses of the holiday season there is a slight pause before Sarlat welcomes truffle-lovers for a weekend of tastings, workshops, awards and all things related to this fabulous fungus. Buy your own from the market, taste a myriad of dishes featuring truffles and learn how to cook with them, find them, store them and so much more. The fête takes place over the weekend of 20-21 January, check their website for the full programme of activities. There are also regular truffle markets held across Périgord from November attracting connoisseurs from around the country.

Drop-in Centre

L’épiphanie

Taking place on Saturday 6 January, this celebration is thought to date back to Roman times when, to honour the gods, a feast was held. Slaves ate with masters and a bean was slipped into one of the dishes with the finder crowned king of the feast. The church adopted the tradition to celebrate the arrival of the three wise men, and the practice of a finding a charm has transferred to a cake, known here in France as the ‘Galette des Rois’. Tradition requires the youngest child to sit under the table and direct who should receive which piece of the frangipane and pastry cake, with the finder of the fève crowned king for the day. The only person who is unable to take part in this tradition is the President although he will host boulangers at the Elysée where a giant tart is served.

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On the first Friday of each month, Bookstop, the second-hand bookshop and salon de thé in Brantôme-en-Périgord welcomes two ‘active listeners’ from Cancer Support France (CSF) to host a drop-in centre. If you, your friend or relative are affected by cancer or other difficult life situations they are here to help. They can offer both emotional and practical support, helping find solutions to problems through listening, giving advice and signposting other support services. They are also able to provide assistance with the language for people who struggle with French and can even accompany individuals to the doctor or hospital. Find Bookstop on rue Victor Hugo.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...

Annexe : Création Olivier BALEZ et gravure Pierre BARA

Marianne 2023

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President Macron visited La Poste’s postage stamp printer at Boulazac in early November to unveil the new representation for this presidential term of Marianne, the national personification of the French Republic since the Révolution. In 2018, the President chose a Marianne engagée: determined, honest, a free spirit with energy and confidence in the future. For 2023, 15 selected artists presented their view of Marianne embodying: Liberté, Egalité et Fraternité, an awareness of the ecological transition, secularism, trust and pour tous, for everyone. 60 young adults were then asked to rank the submissions and the winner, Angoulême-based Olivier Balez, was chosen. He explains: “The profile of Marianne stands out against a plant in the background which merges with her brown hair. Behind her, a globe – our earth. These symbols are those of our future, of the primordial place that nature must regain for our future. Despite the urgency of the challenge, her face is serene, peaceful and determined, Marianne reassures, focused on her mission, and invites us to the necessary reconciliation of humans and living things.”

Olivier’s artwork was passed to Pierre Bara, a gravure artist based at Boulazac, to engrave. Some 400 million Marianne stamps will be printed at La Poste’s Périgord site annually. Meanwhile, the cost of postage is set to rise on 1 January by an average of 8.3% with a 20g lettre verte increasing from €1.16 to €1.29.

We’re moving to temporary premises on the Boulevard National in Eymet on 30 September - See www.fabrica.boutique.com or Facebook for details

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Thouars

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de outier

Monts

St Gilles

Bressuire

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St Jean de

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Montalgu Les Herbiers Croix de Vie LA ROCHE SUR-YON Les Sables d’Olonne

Parthenay

Chantonnay

VENDÉE (85)

Luçon La Tranche sur Mer

S

DEUX SEVRE (79)

St-MaixentL’école

NIORT taise

Sévre Nior

Melle

PHOTO: © SÉNAT

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...

DEUX-SÈVRES & VENDÉE

Second-Home Owners

The proposed new immigration bill was debated by senators in November and several ideas to help second-home owners visit their properties more easily were discussed. Among them were a new five-year long-stay visa which would allow visitors to stay for up to 6 months a year (rather than the current 90 days in a 180-day period) proposed by Charente-Maritime senator Corinne Imbert (Les Républicains). Savoie senator Martine Berthet (Les Républicains) recommended an automatic right to a long-stay visa for British owners of second homes in France. Finally, Finistère senator Michel Canévet (Union centriste) proposed that home ownership should be added to the reasons for a long-stay visa being issued to simplify the visa application process. Senators supported the bill amendment

by Senator Berthet, rejecting the other two, and this is expected to be added to the text as the bill moves forward. A government representative, though, was not supportive saying the current legal framework was satisfactory, so there is still a lot work to do if the amendment is to remain in the bill as it moves through the parliamentary process.

Memories

Martin O’Neill, a professional photographer since 1978, retired to France six years ago. An exhibition entitled Martin de Manchester of a series of photographs taken in the city in the late 70s and early 80s is on show at the bibliothèque in Loubillé (79) until 30 January. The library is open from Tues-Fri from 10am-1pm, Weds 3-5pm and Saturday 9am-noon.

Tennis Centre

Work is underway at Bressuire (79) on the new regional tennis centre which will cost €6.5 million to complete. €2.35 million is expected to be received in grants with the remainder of bill paid by the local council and development agency. The existing tennis centre is being modernised and extended with three new covered courts, extended changing rooms and communal facilities to welcome visiting players.

Solar panels have been incorporated. Once finished, the complex will include 6 indoor courts (5 to international standards), 1 training court, 4 outdoor clay courts as well as 4 squash courts. The centre will also be used to train coaches who otherwise need to travel to Bordeaux.

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SOLAR FARMS

A 5.3ha photovoltaic power plant is planned on a former military site at Airvault (79) which was used for munitions production during WWII and then as a destruction site for munitions until 1965. Despite this pollution, the land lies within the Natura 2000 ‘Plaine d’Oiron-Thénezay’ zone, which aims in particular to ensure the survival of lowland birds such as the little bustard, although the site concerned is not one of its preferred areas.

A 5ha plant is already under consideration at nearby Thouars to extend one of the existing Tiper sites.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...

Rising Tides

A year of high tides and record-breaking storms has left beach concessions along the Atlantic Coast contemplating their future.

Hugo Laroche, manager of la Voile Blanche at Les Sables-d’Olonne (85)recently told Ouest-France that the summer storm Patricia “destroyed the dream” for him. Causing €100,000 of damage, he now says: “I’m taking a break from the beach. It was too much stress.

I want to sell the restaurant.” He hopes that the town will offer a location further from the sea for the restaurant. At the same time, though, he recognises the need for beach concessions to draw in the public to one of the Atlantic Coast’s busiest beaches but new ways to combat the impact of climate change along the coast are needed.

Holiday Dates School holidays run from Saturday, 23 December to Monday, 8 January.

The bank holidays or jours fériés are: Christmas Day - Monday, 25 December New Year’s Day - Monday, 1 January.

Loudon

Chatellerault

POITIERS

VIENNE (86)

Chauvigny Montmorillon

Le Dorat

Charroux Civray

Bellac Nieul

Rochechouart

St-Mathieu

VIENNE & NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION... HAUTE-VIENNE

Ambazac

LIMOGES

HAUTE-VIENNE (87)

St-Yriex-la-Perche

Visit the Tumbili

DIARY Foundation Christmas DATEs! Market at

Vayres (87) on Sunday, 10 December from 10am-7pm. Entertainment and refreshments will be available as well as local produce, artisanal crafts, decorations using recycled and natural materials, and a Father Christmas grotto. All profits go to support social projects in Tanzania.

Discover the magic of snowdrops at a special opening of Sheila and Ian Cole’s garden in Arnac-la-Poste (87) featuring over 300 species.

Gates open from 11am-3pm on 3 and 11 Feb. Entry costs €5 with all proceeds donated to charity.

See snowdrops87.com for details.

Chimney Sweeping

Whether or not your chimney needs to be swept by a professional has, up to now, been a municipal decision. This led to different requirements for different areas, causing confusion. Now, homes equipped with solid fuel heating, such as wood burners or pellet systems, are obliged under a new national law (decree No. 2023-641) to be swept at least once per year by a qualified professional artisan who will provide a chimney sweeping certificate or certificat de ramonage. The chimney sweep is also obliged to ‘provide information on the maintenance and proper use of solid fuel devices with a view to reducing their emissions of fine particles into the atmosphere’. The chimney sweeping certificate may be requested by your insurance company if you need to make a related claim as it proves that you have met your maintenance obligation.

No specific date for chimney sweeping is imposed by this law, although local bylaws can specify both the timing and any additional sweeping requirements, and the sweeping is the responsibility of the occupant of rented homes.

Ma Vienne Propre

The French federation of underwater studies and sports (FFESSM) took to the water for the third year to clear the Vienne river of rubbish from the Saint-Étienne bridge in Limoges to the nearby municipal nautical base. 25 volunteer divers were supported by members of the rowing club and others as they removed an astonishing 400kg of waste over the course of 3 hours. Tyres, scrap metal, bicycles, furniture and even a rifle were discovered along with what seemed to be the remains of a modern ceramic kiln. Alongside the river clean up, volunteers also cleared the pathways beside the river.

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NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...

MegaBasins Cancelled

Téléthon 23 The annual fundraising weekend which benefits dozens of medical charities takes place on 8-9 December. In 2022, almost €120 million was raised with over 80% going to charities which heal and help patients with neuromuscular and genetic diseases. Funds raised have facilitated major scientific breakthroughs for many rare diseases, so please give generously.

Water continues to be a hot topic across the former Poitou-Charentes despite the recent rainfall. Following appeals from several associations including Vienne Nature and the LPO, the court at Poitiers recently ruled that plans to build six new reservoirs by a Vienne company should be revoked. The calculations used to define the reservoirs’ size assumes that volumes of water stored in winter (during periods of high water) replace those which have been pumped in summer (during periods of low water). However, with a total storage capacity of 1,480,000m3 of water, it was deemed that too much groundwater would be diverted and this would have a harmful effect on the environment. This ruling follows the cancellation of nine other reservoirs straddling Charente, Deux-Sèvres and Charente-Maritime where the courts noted inaccuracies and omissions in impact studies. Allain Bougrain Dubourg, President of the LPO commented: “In the context of global warming, it is up to agricultural practices to adapt to the reduction in water resources, and not the other way around.”

Flight Cancellations

Thousands of flights are set to be cancelled in France at the beginning of 2024 as French air traffic control update their archaic system which dates back to the 1970s.

The billion-euro project was begun in 2011 and is expected to have a lifespan of 30 years, managing over 3 million plane movements annually. 16,500 flights will be cancelled from 9 January-14 February as airlines have been ordered to reduce the number of their flights from Paris (Roissy, Orly and Le Bourget) and Beauvais by 20%. It is expected that these will be short- to medium-haul flights, maintaining the long-haul programme. The software has already been successfully deployed at the air navigation centres at Reims and Aix-en-Provence and this period covers testing near Orly, but the system still needs to be installed at Brest and Bordeaux

by November 2024. As well as scheduling benefits, the software will reduce the environmental impact of flights by optimising landings, take-offs and routes.

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16 | LIVING ARCHITECTURE Église Saint-Hilaire, Mouthiers-sur-Boëme (16) Opposite: Notre-Dame-la-Grande, Poitiers (86)

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LIVING ARCHITECTURE | 17 Sarlat (24)

C

hristmas has long been heralded by the jolly sound of sleigh-bells ringing and bells of all kinds accompany us throughout our lives, from the cradle to the grave. What’s more, no matter how many times we might hear them we still find them hard to ignore. They tell us when we have visitors, that it’s time to head into school or to ‘knock off’ in the workplace; that a microwave meal is ready, that we have a phone call to answer, and their chimes sound the hour. As alarms they also alert us to fires, to dangers around the coastline and when we’re out for a bike ride a bell is still obligatoire to signal our approach to walkers and other cyclists.

Traditional church bells, on the other hand, aren’t going anywhere. Generally huge by comparison, they have the power to mark a host of other events, from church services, weddings and funerals to historic events like the cessation of armed conflicts.

As anyone living in a rural community

Ring The Bells They have the power to stir our spirits, so we celebrate the often remarkable places from which they ring out.

WORDS & PHOTOS: ROGER MOSS will know, the sound of church bells can be heard over surprising distances, since they’re mounted in a bell-tower or ‘clocher’, high above trees and other nearby obstacles which might otherwise limit their powers of projection. The ancient Greeks and Romans constructed towers for defensive and other purposes, but belltowers (also known to us as belfries or steeples) don’t seem to have appeared until around the 5th century. These early Italian ‘campaniles’ were mostly

Do you

free-standing religious structures erected beside churches and whose name derives from the Medieval Latin ‘campãna’ (bells) and also gives us campanology for the skilled art of bell-ringing.

Here in France, of course, clochers (from ‘cloche’ or bell) are almost always incorporated into the main body of a building, one familiar exception being the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Limoges, whose architect decided to construct a 62m-high octagonal Gothic

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18 | LIVING ARCHITECTURE

UNESCO-listed civic belfries in France The Belfries of Belgium and France comprise 56 historic buildings designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in recognition of their civic (rather than religious) belfries.

They therefore symbolise independence from feudal and religious influences in the former County of Flanders and neighbouring areas, all formerly possessions of the House of Burgundy (present-day Wallonia, Belgium). In addition to their great symbolic importance, they include some real architectural showcases.

In the Nord Département (59): Hôtel de Ville d’Armentières, Beffroi de Bailleul, Beffroi de Bergues, Beffroi de Cambrai, Hôtel de Ville de Comines, Beffroi de Douai, Hôtel de Ville de Dunkerque, Saint-Éloi de Dunkerque, Beffroi de Gravelines, Beffroi de Lille, Beffroi de Loos.

In the Pas-de-Calais Département (62):

Beffroi d’Aire-sur-la-Lys, Beffroi d’Arras, Beffroi de Béthune, Beffroi de Boulogne-sur-Mer, Hôtel de Ville de Calais, Beffroi d’Hesdin.

In the Somme Département (80): Beffroi d’Abbeville, Beffroi d’Amiens, Beffroi de Doullens, Beffroi de Lucheux, Beffroi de Rue, Beffroi de Saint-Riquier.

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LIVING ARCHITECTURE | 19 Clockwise from left: Montrésor (37), Ars-en-Ré (17), Aulnay (17), Parthenay (79)

bell-tower on a square base retained and reinforced from a previous 11th century Romanesque structure. You can see another interesting example on the western outskirts of Angoulême, where the 12th century Église SaintMichel d’Entraygues once welcomed pilgrims bound for Saint-Jacques de Compostelle. By 1840, though, the building had become neglected and was close to collapse, not least since a stone clocher had been weighing heavily on the octagonal roof. Happily, local architect Paul Abadie (see LIVING April-May 2021) managed to stabilise things with a rescue plan which included replacing the offending clocher with a much lighter lantern. The

present separate bell-tower was erected by architect Hector-François Laboisne in 1898.

Octagonal structures were complex and pricey to construct, so they’re something of a rarity compared to the traditional rectangular or cruciform layout of most religious buildings.

That said, many designs incorporated clochers in unexpected locations, the reasons for which remain something of a mystery. For example, the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre d’Angoulême’s 59m-high clocher rises not from the monumental western façade (whose two small clochers were added during the 19th century) but from one of the transepts at the eastern end of the nave.

Since it was originally one of a pair (its counterpart was a casualty of the Wars of Religion), the clergy obviously considered the extra financial burden of constructing two towers justified to maximise the cathedral’s visual impact.

Bell-towers elsewhere are generally more modest in scale, but their styling is surprisingly varied, encompassing everything from Romanesque to Modernist, via Gothic, Baroque, BelleÉpoque, Art Déco and more. The village of Millac (86), for example, has a massive round one, Marans (17) has a partly-glazed ironwork spire (‘flèche’), while the bells of Exideuil-sur-Vienne (16) sit within a slate-hung clocher.

Older than all of them is the 11th

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20 | LIVING ARCHITECTURE

Bells have names...

The tradition of naming individual church bells is said to have begun in 969, when Pope John XIII dedicated a bell to Saint John the Baptist, and continues today.

The nation’s most celebrated examples are of course the cloches of Notre-Dame de Paris: Marie, Gabriel, Anne-Geneviève, Denis, Marcel, Étienne, BenoîtJoseph, Maurice and Jean-Marie, supported by the giant Emmanuel drone (above) and its two smaller companions. The names all have meaning – Patron Saints of Paris, the first Christian martyr, the Bishop of Paris who began the cathedral’s construction, another Bishop of Paris who died in 2007 and a tribute to Pope Benedict XVI (born Joseph Ratzinger).

After casting, final tuning and installation the bells, while technically ready for use, will first undergo their blessing ceremony and receive their names. Like human baptisms, they are sprinkled with holy water, then anointed with holy oil.

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century clocher of Brantôme’s Benedictine Abbey, on the banks of the River Dronne (24). Rivières (16) and many others were given defensive fortifications (see LIVING Aug-Sept 2022), Ars-en-Ré’s flèche is painted black and white to serve as a day-mark for coastal navigators (17) and Royan’s post-WWII architectural treasures include the clochers of the Brazilian-inspired Église du Parc and the Église Notre-Dame de Royan, an audacious cathedral-sized tour-de-force in reinforced concrete.

Bells are also found on some of our best-known non-religious architecture, particularly where a clock is involved. In Charente Maritime, for example, a familiar sight to visitors to La Rochelle is the Grosse Horloge, which has stood beside the Vieux Port since the 12th century, when it was a fortified portal into the then walled town. Not far away in Saint-Jean d’Angély you’ll discover the 15th century Tour de l’Horloge (a vestige of a medieval law court) and a tall, slender, ornamental ‘clocheton’ surmounting the town’s 19th century Hôtel de Ville.

It’s a similar story further inland (throughout France, in fact), where you’ll find similar features proudly adorning other Hôtels de Ville – Poitiers possesses one and things rise higher in Limoges, where a startling 67m high campanile contributes in no small part to the Gare Limoges–Bénédictines having been elected La Plus Belle Gare de France.

Angoulême’s Hôtel de Ville, on the other hand, appears to draw inspiration from the medieval Gothic château it largely replaced. The belfry, however, is thought to be unique in France, for its design cues were drawn, intriguingly, not from French but English medieval Gothic construction – something to ponder when bells throughout France are ringing in another New Year filled with fresh possibilities.

LIVING ARCHITECTURE | 21

Clockwise from top left: BrantÔme (24), La Rochelle (17), Royan (17), Beaugency (54), St-Michel (16)

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22 | LIVING TRADITIONS

Moonlit markets with twinkly lights and streets of garlands that burn bright like these in La Rochelle remind us of the ancient tradition of keeping the yule log alight until the New Year

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LIVING TRADITIONS | 23

Seasonal Traditions Are you searching for local Christmas and New Year traditions? We asked Jessica Knipe to separate the authentic from the imported with some surprising revelations from years gone by...

PHOTOS: © JULIEN CHAUVET - VILLE DE LA ROCHELLE

C C

hristmas - does anyone know what it all about these days? Really? Some will say it’s a Christian celebration, and it is, but those who advocate its pagan roots would be right, too. Although most would say it’s become a bit of a commercial farce, encouraging the spending of money rather than the spending of time together as a family or a community. Whatever the case, Christmas was, and remains, a time for real fun, and although some end-ofyear traditions have disappeared, our region is still rife with local rituals and celebrations that have echoes in the rich tapestry of past customs.

If you go back far enough, and even until just a few decades ago, Christmas in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine was not only a time for communion but also an excuse for some pretty crazy parties to help spice up those long dark winter nights. Daily rural life back then was most probably more difficult (relying on the bounty of crops for survival) and definitely more boring (without easy access to travel or Netflix), yet these festivals brought cheer and relief – if only temporarily.

The craziest of those has to be the Christmas Day festival celebrated in several parts of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine called the “Frairies de Noël”, during

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24 | LIVING TRADITIONS Atlantic dips over New Year can be found along the coast like this one at Châtelaillon-Plage

Towns like Bazas (33) still celebrate the ‘Halha de Nau’ with a giant bonfire for locals to gather around

Christmas at Châtelaillon-Plage begins with a parade for Sainte-Lucie in early December

Write to Père Noël Since 1962, the French postal system has accepted letters from children, without stamps, written to the big man to let him know what gifts their hearts desire. The main collection office is in Libourne (33500) but even a letter that simply says “Père Noël” on it will arrive at the right place. Don’t forget to put your address on the back of the envelope though if you’d like to receive a response!

And if you’re more of an email type of person, know that Father Christmas is obviously up to speed with that too: you can write to him via his dedicated website at pere-noel.laposte.fr

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TOP LEFT & CENTRE : OFFICE DE TOURISME DE CHÂTELAILLON-PLAGE . LEFT: © MATHIEU ANGLADA-CRTNA

which young couples would take part in the “Jeu de la Boule” or “Soule”, “Sole” or “Chole”. Dating all the way back to the Ancient Greeks, the game would require every man who has married during the year, and every newcomer who has recently settled in the commune, to rush into icy water and grab a ball before hitting it three times against a wall designated in advance as the goal. There were always many players, sometimes hundreds, and every

LIVING TRADITIONS | 25 © JULIEN CHAUVET - VILLE DE LA ROCHELLE

town for miles around would make it a point of honour to win the ball, as strength lay in numbers and players from each village would join forces.

So far, so charming and innocent.

Except that the game would often take place in parallel with the Fête de l’Âne (feast of the donkey) and give rise to all sorts of naughtiness, in which even the most pious members of the community would wallow. Some people would enter the churches naked, others wearing grotesque masks, while the priests dressed up as women or devils, singing saucy songs for all to join in with. A donkey would then be dressed in cope and stole, and led to the altar to take part in a mock mass, with ritual prayers replaced by mischievous songs, ending with, instead of the usual “Ite Missa Est”, the priest singing three times: “Hi Han!” (the sound a French donkey makes).

Hard to imagine that it was those same people who would have been serenely lighting the Yule log the night before – one of the rare traditions that has actually endured today, albeit in chocolate form. If you’ve been in France at Christmas time, you’ll already most likely have enjoyed a “bûche de

Noël”, that delicious sponge log rolled in chocolate and covered in powdered sugar “snow”. But its roots are less comestible: in almost every house, before midnight on Christmas Eve, the eldest or youngest member of the household would set alight a large hardwood Yule log in the fireplace, and the whole family would strive to keep it aflame until the New Year.

Although a serious occasion, the arrival of the log into the home came with a bit of “fun” (again, no television or internet back then), as the “Nau” log would be decorated with ribbons, and two groups (representing guardian angels and evil spirits) would compete to place it in the hearth. Meanwhile, as the clumsiest fingers were crushed, everyone would laugh and sing.

The idea of this magical log was that if you could keep it alight until the new year, you would ward off evil spirits, protect the house from epidemics and increase fertility of livestock. Family members would take it in turns to watch over the log, which has different names depending on the region: if you are in the Saintonge, ask around about the “Cosse de Nau”, in Angoulême watch out for the “Mouchon”, in

Barbezieux it’s a “Tsou de Nau”, in Confolens a “Tisou” and in Poitiers a “Trifougeau”. Much easier to just have it for dessert, though, of course, and every pâtisserie in every town will offer its own version of the modern Bûche to share.

Bakeries also used to offer pastries in the shape of the baby Jesus on Christmas Eve, but that tradition seems to have faded away. Just in case, though, if you’re in Poitiers, ask your boulangerie if they have any “Naulet”, anywhere else ask for a “Ambilet”, or “Carquelin”, and in La Rochelle ask for a “Calin de Nau”, although that could also mean a “Christmas Hug”, so be careful who you ask!

Another tradition you might recognise started in the Poitou, where beggars would go door to door singing the “guillannu”, Christmas carols in their regional dialect. “This custom probably dates all the way back to pre-Christian times, linked to Christmas presents and the rituals that accompanied the onset of winter,” explains musician Jany Rouger, who for several decades has been reviving the chants and researching the subject with local rural traditions association

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26 | LIVING TRADITIONS Living crèches and nativity stories are popular across the region

TOP LEFT: OFFICE DE TOURISME DE CHÂTELAILLON-PLAGE; RIGHT: © JULIEN CHAUVET - VILLE DE LA ROCHELLE

Arcup (Animation rurale et culture populaire). “The first written record of these Christmas carols in the regional language dates back to the 15th century. And they were so famous in the 16th century that Rabelais wrote about them in his books.”

In the Gironde, you’ll probably still be able to take part in the light festivals that come from the tradition of “la Halha de Nadau”, a procession of lanterns made from hay or corn husks, lit from one big communal fire.

Villagers would traditionally walk these torches around the fields to chase away the evil spirits that might plague the crops, and would carry them all the way to midnight mass, where the churches would also be illuminated by candles. Today this festival is still celebrated each year in Bazas (33), but if you think about it, not one village is without its Christmas lights, sometimes spectacularly so…

Of course the main traditions that have stayed with us are culinary:

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in the Limousin, festive meals of pigs, potatoes and chestnuts were in stark contrast to those of the richer neighbouring region of Aquitaine, which tended to feast on oysters with truffled crépinettes, roast meat and, of course, foie gras, a speciality of the south-west. Buckwheat pancakes, tourtous in Corrèze and galetous in Limoges; beef stew cooked during midnight mass in Armagnac from the end of the 19th century, topped with grilled sausages and roasted chestnuts; game in the Landes; garbure, a cabbage soup flavoured with goose fat, in the Pyrenees… There’s nowhere that the French like to express their roots as clearly as around a table.

And the most enduring rural tradition, which you’ll be able to verify with anyone who was born and raised in the region, is the idea that the weather on the twelve days after Christmas indicate the weather for the twelve months to come! Make sure you have your notepad ready!

Buckwheat pancakes have many local names

Seasons Gree

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28 | LIVING TRANSPORT

The ‘Gironde’ leaves Le Verdon-sur-Mer bound for Royan

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LIVING TRANSPORT | 29

The motorised bac à chaînes at Chaniers

There & Bac Crossing a waterway can sometimes mean taking a ‘bac’ – we discover some of our more intriguing ferry services.

WORDS & PHOTOS: ROGER MOSS

T

oday we take for granted our ability to go wherever the mood takes us, but for our ancient ancestors travelling over any kind of distance would have involved finding ways to overcome various natural barriers, particularly waterways, from fast-flowing streams and rivers to broad estuaries. For centuries the only viable crossings were at shallow, fordable points which could suddenly become impracticable whenever a river was in flood, so in time they were

replaced by bridges, a process which began along key trade routes and eventually opened up communications throughout France.

Here and there, however, the idea of constructing a bridge would have been impractical or simply ruled out because of the costs involved. Such was the case for small communities whose needs might already be perfectly well catered for by a local boatman who would row anyone across on demand.

In some cases even that kind of service

was unnecessary; all it took was to span the waterway in question by a rope or chain passing through eyelets fixed to a small boat or floating platform.

Once that was in place users could haul themselves safely across to the other side, ropes soon being replaced by chains, whose weight ensured that when not in use they would rest on the riverbed without impeding vessels navigating the waterways. This primitive-sounding idea was employed in the Marais Poitevin and elsewhere

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30 | LIVING TRANSPORT La Rochelle’s Bus de Mer

Bac again...

With more people than ever before opting to enjoy the countryside, Green Tourism continues to go from strength to strength, which in turn has spurred a revival in the provision of small bacs to meet the needs of walkers and cyclists. On the Sèvre Niortaise, for example, there are now bac à chaînes crossings of various ages at Saint-Liguaire (79000), Mursay (79410), Magné (79460), Arçais (79210), Vix (85770) and Damvix (85420). You can also haul yourself across the Mère on another one just above Vouvant (85120).

Elsewhere around the region bac à chaînes locations include: La Forêtsur-Sèvre (79380), Saint-LoupLamairé (79600), Thouars (79100), Aziré (85490), Treize-Vents (85590), Chasseneuil-du-Poitou (86360), Naintré (86530), Ligugé (86240), Queaux (86150) and Magnac-Laval (87190).

for generations and still is, thanks to a recent revival of small bacs à chaînes prompted by the success of green tourism – see our factfile to the left for a list of current installations to be found around the region.

A sizeable step up from these simple floating platforms came about in rural communities, where farmers would often need to transport bigger and heavier loads from pastures sited on the opposite side of the river.

Carrying livestock, horse-drawn hay carts and wagons in safety obviously required something both sturdy and flat-bottomed, an approach which maximised stability on the water, combined with a shallow draft. The latter is an essential quality since

long-established crossing points obviously possessed the kind of gently shelving banks required for loading and unloading.

The idea was simple but effective; in 1813 no fewer than 22 bacs were in permanent operation in the Charente département alone, although by 1868 that figure had fallen to just nine, thanks to a national campaign of bridge construction initiated by Napoléon III during the Second Empire (1852-1870). Later the introduction of motor vehicles prompted the creation of slipways and the addition of ramps which could be raised or lowered at either end of the floating platforms to allow efficient loading and unloading. Steel would

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LIVING TRANSPORT | 31

PHOTOS RIGHT: CENTRE CULTUREL DU PAYS D’ORTHE

also replace timber, but the method of propulsion remained unchanged, for the time-honoured principle of tethered operation (using a chain and/or cable) ensured safe passage regardless of weather conditions and how the river currents might vary through the seasons.

If you’re wondering what was it like to travel on them you can find out at a couple of historic crossings which still provide free services during summer months on a peaceful stretch of the River Charente between Saintes and Cognac. One of them, linking the communes of Dompierre-sur-Charente and Rouffiac, is actually the last nonmotorised bac à chaîne in France.

Between mid-June until midSeptember the 7 tonne ‘Châ p’tit va loin’ (or: ‘who goes slowly goes far’) transports cars, motorcycles, cyclists and pedestrians across the river – a 60m journey which takes around three minutes at a stately hand-cranked speed of little more than 1km/h. As the passeur turns the lever to draw the chain through the mechanism it looks like quite a physical workout, but must have been even more so back in the days when the previous 30 tonne bac would transport up to 60 pedestrians, a 2.5 tonne vehicle or eight horses, cattle or mules.

The second crossing lies just a few kilometres upstream, where it links the communes of Chaniers and Courcoury, so you could easily do a relaxed round trip using both services. The bac de Chaniers provides popular free services daily from mid-April until the end of October and like its counterpart is guided by a cable and hauled by a chain. Being a little larger, however, it employs a small motor rather than muscle power, making it the last motorised bac à chaîne operating on the Charente.

Further downstream, ‘Le Rohan’, a non-tethered motorised bateau-passeur, carries foot passengers (and increasing numbers of cyclists following the popular ‘Vélodyssée’ route) between Rochefort and Soubise, linking both banks of the Charente along the way.

Meanwhile, on the coast La Rochelle has not one but two similar vessels, which employ clean solar energy: the ‘passeur electro-solaire’ ferries foot passengers between the quays of the Vieux Port, while its partner the Bus de Mer operates between the old port and the modern Port des Minimes.

Le Bac à Sorde-l’Abbaye, Landes

Le Bac de Saubusse, Landes

Le Bac de Saint-Cricq-du- Gave, Landes

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32 | LIVING TRANSPORT Passing the Point de Grave

Approaching Le Verdon-sur-Mer

Bac in Dordogne?

If an ambitious project were to come to fruition then a broad stretch of the River Dordogne near the Pont de Mareuil, downstream from Souillac, could have a bac service with a difference. Conceived by one Michel Philippe, who knows the riverbanks well, the idea would utilise the river’s flow to power a catamaran-style ferry laterally along cables secured between both banks – a system known as a ‘bac à traille’.

Michel Philippe estimates up to 1,000 passenger movements per day during high summer. We’ll watch with interest.

Meanwhile, just upstream of Souillac, after a lengthy absence (around 70 years, in fact) a free ferry service has been inaugurated to enable walkers and cyclists to cross the Dordogne between the communes of Mauzac (24) and Calès (46), avoiding car drives via Trémolat or Lalinde. Operational during summer months, the 230m crossings take just three minutes and are scheduled to run every 15 minutes, aboard a converted oyster boat.

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In a different league, in both scale and distances travelled, are Les Bacs Girondins which operate year-round services across the Gironde estuary.

When they’re heading towards you the vessels might seem like typical car ferries, but from a side view their symmetrical outline tells you that they’re actually double-ended, enabling them to operate in either direction, so bacs they surely are. The ‘Gironde’ and its peak-time sister vessel ‘L’Estuaire’ entered service in 2002 and 2009 respectively between Royan (17) and Le Verdon (33), a 6km route inaugurated back in 1930 to avoid a 228km drive via Bordeaux. Each vessel can carry 600 passengers and up to 140 vehicles for the half-hour or so crossings, at a steady 14 knots in calm conditions.

Further down the estuary between Blaye and Lamarque you’ll find a second bac crossing, perpetuating a regular service established in 1934.

The vessel here is the Sébastien Vauban, which can carry 300 passengers and up to 40 cars with a draft of just 1.70m – enabling it to navigate among shallow areas above constantly shifting sandbanks. It’s also designed with ‘amphidrome’ capabilities for operation in either direction.

Between them, the département de la Gironde’s bacs transport around 1.3 million passengers annually, along with over 440,000 vehicles and 50,000 bicycles across western Europe’s largest estuary.

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PROPERTIES NEEDED URGENTLY - BUYERS WAITING!

34 | LIVING VOTING RIGHTS

Voting Rights for Brits Abroad UK nationals living abroad for more than 15 years were promised their votes back after the last general election - will it happen in time for the next?

B

ritish citizens living overseas for more than 15 years have long demanded that their right to vote in UK elections be returned, and the UK government repealed the so-called 15-year rule in the Elections Act 2022. But that wasn’t enough to give UK nationals their voting rights back. Since April 2022 British in Europe (BiE), the campaign group that did so much to protect the rights of UK nationals in the EU through Brexit, has been waiting for secondary legislation to be laid that sets out the procedures for how UK nationals register and vote from abroad.

The Postal and Proxy Voting Regulations (also applicable for UK voters resident in the UK) were laid in July 2023 but BiE was still waiting for the statutory instrument (SI) on registration procedures which details how the overseas provision of the Elections Act will be brought in to force. The SI on overseas voting regulations was finally laid in both Houses of Parliament on 23 October 2023 and has also been published.

This SI is subject to the ‘draft affirmative procedure’ and will be considered by committees in the House of Commons and House of Lords. This process usually takes about 6-8 weeks and is expected to be finalised by early January 2024 at the latest. The SI should then come into force by 16 January 2024 and BiE expects voter registration for currently disenfranchised UK citizens overseas to be open in January once that happens. This should mean that UK nationals can register in time for the

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next UK general election (which could be held anytime from early December 2023 but May, October/November 2024 or even January 2025 look the most likely dates at this point).

There is generally very little scrutiny of SIs, even under the affirmative procedure, but BiE will be reaching out to the relevant committee members to ensure that they understand how important this legislation is for the UK diaspora and with suggestions for any amendments they would like to see included. They have been in contact with the relevant units in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities for the last 12 months with recommendations on what needed to be included in the draft legislation and some of these recommendations have been included in the draft SI. To follow the progress of the SI, visit the British in Europe website at www.britishineurope.org or join their Facebook group. They rely on donations to fund their work – full details of how you can support them can be found on the website.

What can I do now?

IF YOU ARE STILL ELIGIBLE TO VOTE FROM ABROAD There will be hundreds of thousands of currently disenfranchised voters who can only register once the SI is adopted and registration opens in January 2024. Therefore, if you can still vote from abroad and have less than six months left before you have to renew your annual voter registration please renew your registration before Christmas.

IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY DISENFRANCHISED FROM VOTING IN THE UK Start collecting proof of your identity (e.g. national insurance numbers, copies of current or expired UK passports, etc.) as well as evidence of your last place of residence and/or proof that you were previously on the electoral roll in the UK. Scan them and save them ready for uploading to the online registration system when it opens. BiE will provide more information about the documents that will be accepted and what you can do if you don’t have any of them on their website soon.

LIVING NATURE | 35

Surviving Winter, Nature’s Way Y

Winter is here and spring seems a while away so why not take a few lessons from nature in how best to get through the next couple of months? Rosie Neave explains...

ou might find the prospect of a long winter slightly overwhelming if you’re anything like me. While I like the idea of the colder months in theory, the reality is somewhat different. I’m much more of a fair-weather person and I prefer the long, light evenings of summer or the sense of golden possibility that happens when the Earth is bathed in early spring sunshine. Shivering under a blanket when it’s dark and cold is not really my cup of tea, so this year I’m looking to nature to provide me with some survival strategies.

One of the most well-known ways animals survive the winter is by hibernating. I immediately think of the dormouse in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, who can’t stop falling asleep in his teapot with his tail curled around him for warmth. The loir (Glis glis) and the lérot (Eliomys quercinus), two different species of dormouse found in the region, will hibernate from October and sleep right through until April. They sometimes fall so deeply asleep that their heart almost stops beating! Whilst I don’t think I can manage to sleep for quite that amount of time, a healthy winter

Do you

regime of early nights does sound like something I can get on board with.

Similarly, while badgers (Meles meles) in temperate climates such as France often forego a long hibernation, they do spend lengthy periods underground in their setts during the winter. In the autumn, they prepare for the cold weather by thoroughly cleaning their sleeping chambers and filling them with new, clean bedding. Badgers use bracken, dry grass, dead leaves and straw which I’m happy to give a miss but sprucing up my bedroom and investing in a new warm, cosy duvet to snuggle under does sound tempting.

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36 | LIVING NATURE

When I’m not making like a lérot and sleeping, what else might help get me through the winter? On a cold, grey December afternoon a couple of years ago, I accidentally disturbed a group of twelve long-eared owls or hibou moyenduc (Asio otus) who were spending the winter roosting together in a row of conifers in a disused garden. They’re prevalent throughout southwest France and, as one of only five migratory species of owl, their numbers increase even more here during the winter when they’re joined by their friends from colder parts of northern Europe.

They group together in something that experts term ‘social roosting’, and the

idea of socialising my way through the winter is an idea I can definitely get behind. It’s also a good reminder of the importance of keeping friends and loved ones close by during the long, dark months.

Perhaps one of the things that I find hardest about winter is the temperature and it’s a family joke that I always have cold hands and feet. Many mammals take on an extra layer of fat during autumn and I have to vainly admit to not especially wanting to do this (although if you offer me something particularly delicious, I could be persuaded!). Birds, however, do have some strategies I can borrow. They

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LIVING NATURE | 37

generally can’t add weight as it hampers their ability to fly but they’ve developed a few other methods of keeping warm.

They grow an extra layer of light, downy feathers after their autumn moult to help insulate them. A feather jumper might be hard to come by but the addition of some stylish, thin wool layers to my winter wardrobe won’t be difficult. Much like the social roosting of the long-eared owls, many small birds such as wrens (Troglodytes troglodytes) will share the same nest during cold weather, huddling together to keep warm. As many as 40 have been found in the same nest box during the winter, a large bundle of feathers

punctuated by tiny eyes and beaks.

That feels a bit claustrophobic for me but I can put my kids to good use with lots of warming cuddles instead.

Finally, there is one more important lesson from nature I can use to get me through the winter. Hoopoes (Upupa epops), the flamboyant birds which mark the start of spring and arrive in our gardens in March, spend their winters soaking up the sun in southern Spain or Africa. If the new blanket, socialising, fashionable merino layers and hugs from my children don’t work, I’ll make a break for warmer climes and return when the winter is over.

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38 | PRACTICAL LIVING

HELP&MONEY << OUR EXPERTS ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS...

Declaring Foreign Trusts in France

Q

I was told the other day that all trusts held abroad must be declared in France even if there is no income from them. Is this correct?

A

Non-resident trusts play a crucial role in estate planning. They are versatile tools that can serve various purposes for individuals and families with assets and interests in multiple jurisdictions.

While commonly used in the UK, trusts do not exist in France. However, France does acknowledge non-resident trusts for tax purposes.

If your trust has French connections, it must comply with the relevant French laws. A French connection is created if the settlor, trustee, or beneficiaries are French residents, or if the trust owns

French assets. You need to understand how and when you must declare your trust in France.

Legal Framework for NonResident Trusts in France In France, the legal framework for non-resident trusts is primarily governed by the Tax code and various tax laws and regulations. Key points to consider within this framework include: 1. Recognition: French law recognises the existence of foreign trusts, but they are subject to specific disclosure and reporting requirements.

2. Disclosure Obligations: Trustees and beneficiaries of non-resident trusts are obligated to provide certain information to French tax authorities, ensuring transparency.

3. Taxation: Non-resident trust

Christophe Dutertre is a bilingual Frenchqualified Notaire with over 22 years’ experience, 15 of which were working in law offices in Monaco and with the banking industry in Luxembourg. FranceTaxLaw specialises in French and European notarial law and advises clients on all aspects of civil or tax law. www.francetaxlaw.com; tel: +44 (0)20 8115 7914; email: info@francetaxlaw.com

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Would you prefer to learn in the privacy of your own home?

Try Frantastique, the online course with fun, daily lessons, FREE for one month, and see your French improve.

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the assets or beneficiaries, must also be reported.

What information needs to be disclosed?

You must declare the trust’s global assets. Otherwise, you only need to declare assets located in France. In simpler cases, working out what needs declaring can be relatively straightforward.

What are the deadlines?

Non-resident trusts must be declared in France within 30 days of being created. If the Declaring Foreign Trusts trust is modified or revoked, When you have established you also have 30 days to declare a non-resident trust, it’s these changes. Furthermore, imperative to understand the you must provide an annual obligations related to declaring declaration of the market value it in France. of the assets in a trust. You are Who needs to declare? required to declare the market A trustee must declare the value as it was as of the 1 Jan creation of a trust. Modifications that year and must do so to the trust, including changes to before 15 June. taxation in France varies depending on factors such as the type of income generated and the residency status of beneficiaries.

Understanding these legal foundations is essential for individuals and families considering the establishment of non-resident trusts in France, as it sets the stage for complying with local regulations and maximising the benefits of these financial structures.

PRACTICAL LIVING | 39

Switching Assurance Vie

Q

reduced inheritance benefits. It is crucial to assess the impact on your beneficiaries before making a decision.

A

2. CHARGES: Take into account any costs you have already paid for setting up your existing policy. Opening a new policy may involve additional charges, so it's essential to evaluate whether the potential benefits outweigh the expenses.

1. AGES OF POLICYHOLDERS: If you or any of the policyholders are above the age of 70, opening a new policy may result in

3. LENGTH OF TIME HELD: Consider the duration for which you have held your current policy. If it has been held for a significant period, you may be free from early exit fees

I have been approached by a financial organisation to change my existing Assurance Vie and open a new one with a potentially better return. What should I consider?

When thinking about switching your existing Assurance Vie policy for a potentially better return, here are five important points to consider:

and eligible for tax-efficient withdrawals after eight years.

Compare these advantages with the potential benefits of a new policy.

4. RISK: Ensure that you are comparing similar investment options when evaluating the potential returns. Assess the credibility and performance of the funds associated with the new policy to determine if they align with your risk tolerance and investment goals.

5. YOUR NEEDS: Evaluate whether the new policy meets your specific requirements.

Consider factors such as

currency options, portability, diversity of investment choices, and ethical considerations.

Ensure that the new policy aligns with your financial objectives and values.

Amanda Johnson works as an Independent Financial Advisor with The Spectrum IFA Group.

T: 05 49 98 97 46 or 06 73 27 25 43; amanda.johnson@spectrum-ifa.com; www.spectrum-ifa.com/amanda-johnson.

To register for their newsletter, attend a roadshow event or speak directly to Amanda, call or email her.

There is no charge for their financial planning reviews, reports or recommendations. « The Spectrum IFA Group » is a registered trademark, exclusive rights to use in France granted to TSG Insurance Services S.A.R.L. Siège Social: 34 Bd des Italiens, 75009 « Société de Courtage d’assurances » R.C.S. Paris B 447 609 108 (2003B04384) Numéro d’immatriculation 07 025 332 - www.orias.fr « Conseiller en investissements financiers, référence sous le numéro E002440 par ANACOFI-CIF, association agréée par l’Autorité des Marchés Financiers »

Wishing you a merry Christmas and peaceful New Year

Looking for answers?

Ask Amanda With Care You Prosper TSG Insurance Services S.A.R.L. | Siège Social: 34 Bd des Italiens, 75009 Paris | R.C.S. Paris B 447 609 108 (2003B04384) | « Société de Courtage d’assurances » Numéro d’immatriculation 07 025 332 – www.orias.fr « Conseiller en investissements financiers », référencé sous le numéro E002440 par ANACOFI-CIF, association agréée par l’Autorité des Marchés Financiers »

Tel: 06 73 27 25 43 amanda.johnson@spectrum-ifa.com www.spectrum-ifa.com

40 | LIVING WINE

W I N E La Maison d’Estournel

Winter Wines and Gifts A winelover’s guide to the festive season by Caro Feely

W

ith the nights closing in we feel a change of pace and a need for hygge that wonderful Danish and Norwegian word that describes a cosy, contented mood, a sense of comfort. On our organic farm in Saussignac near Bergerac my husband Seán starts pruning the vines while I catch up on office work, plan for next year and write books. In the evenings we appreciate our woodburning stove and read by the fire. It is quiet and instead of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) we experience great JOMO (Joy of Missing Out). After a hot summer and an intense tourist season, we are ready to be still.

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While we enjoy the calm, the buzz of the Saussignac Christmas Market one weekend in December, and Christmas and New Year celebrations are appreciated counterbalances. Browsing for gifts at a local Christmas market with a cup of vin chaud (mulled wine) is bliss. If you are a Christmas market fan, the Sarlat Christmas market is particularly good.

Christmas markets are a great place for finding gifts but gifts for your winelover could also include a great bottle of wine or a good wine book (for wine book recommendations see my column in the April/May 2023 edition). It’s also time to plan which wines to propose for your celebrations and perhaps make a buying trip to your favourite wine growers. If you are visiting rather than buying online call ahead as smaller producers typically don’t have a permanent presence in the tasting room this time of year.If you have read this column for a while, you will know that I recommend organic wine. With nearly

20% of French vineyards certified organic there are great organic wines in all wine appellations and styles.

Ask for organic from your local shops and restaurants. If we don’t ask, they don’t know there is a demand for organic. Many will indicate ‘bio’ (short for biologique, organic in French) on their list or include the AB or EU leaf logo sign next to the wine. Sometimes they don’t have any listed but might have organic if you ask. I always do.

My daughters say I am a wine waiter’s nightmare. I would rather go without wine than drink chemically farmed wine. Choosing organic respects your body and the people living in and around the wine-growing areas.

For your Christmas and New Year selection if your budget can stretch to a fine biodynamic Champagne like Fleury or Françoise Bedel et Fils, it will be a treat, but you can find less expensive and delicious Méthode Traditionelle Brut sparkling wines like Crémant de Bordeaux, Crémant de Loire or a Vin de France Traditional Method quality sparkling like our recently launched Feely Brut Rosé that spent 14 months on the lees during bottle fermentation. For winter whites that can stand up to richer foods, I usually turn to a barrel-aged white from grapes like Sémillon (from Pessac-Léognan, Montravel or

LIVING WINE | 41

Caro’s book series; ‘Grape Expectations’, ‘Saving our Skins’, ‘Vineyard Confessions’ and the recently published ‘Cultivating Change’ are great winelover gifts. Château Feely also offers ‘adopt a row’ vine shares, gift certificates for courses and tours and Feely organic wines. Find out more about Château Feely at www. chateaufeely.com and follow Caro Feely on Instagram.

Château Haut-Bages Libéral

another south west France appellation) or a barrel aged Chardonnay from Burgundy. For your oysters a good fresh Muscadet or a zesty Sauvignon blanc from Bordeaux, Bergerac or Sancerre are great pairings. For rich reds to pair with festive food Merlot Cabernet blends from Bordeaux or Bergerac or Malbec from Cahors are good choices.

Christmas is typically the time of

year people bring out the sweet wine.

We are spoilt for choice in botrytis ‘noble rot’ sweet wine in south west France with the likes of Sauternes, Monbazillac and Saussignac. A rule of thumb is that the sweet wine should be sweeter than the dessert so if you are offering a sweet dessert then go for a full sweet liquoreux (dessert wine more than 45 grams of residual sugar per litre) rather than a less sweet moelleux 1

2

(10-45 grams of residual sugar per litre). My favourite pairing for sweet wine is Roquefort blue cheese.

Here’s to a wonderful winter season of peace and joy to you and yours.

Bonnes fêtes!

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Settle down and enjoy the challenge of our unique crossword clues set by Mike Morris. If you need a helping hand, take a peek at page 45.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Sadly lapse into protection for heart of Black-Eyed Susan perhaps? (5) 4. Bustles uncomfortable?

Makes pad available second time around. (7) 8. Hold back firm poles on carriages. (9) 9. Priest given a place in humble living. (3) 10. Unfortunate score by reserves brings out the worst in men. (5) 11. Ways to hail naked people not having dressed initially. (7) 13. Not applicable to meander around senseless info to be given when taken? (4, 3, 6) 15. Rum taxi reversing into bungled raid. (7) 16. Disturbed sleep, dropping off easily at first, but having

acceptable sign of life? (5) 18. Highball; a cocktail of, principally, lots of beers. (3) 20. Ask, and bicker about, where to keep their wheels. (4 -5) 21. Conscript sounds as if he’s a bit windy? (7) 22. Cries, although getting agreement over record. (5)

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CLUES DOWN 1. Twisted type of love given to mentally unsound? (5) 2. Panic and roam all over the place? (9) 3. Instruments not played loudly give way to others? (5) 4. Friends turning up with mark of approval and the French getting it? (4, 3, 6) 5. Lover covered with headwear. (7) 6. She came first, with seven neither starting nor finishing. (3) 7. Get a kick out of seeing children in school spelling or reading their first letters. (7) 12. Navel connection of mail club I organised? (9) 13. Scuppered good French

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turnover ball at first then went in front. (7) 14. Tumbler robot leaving nothing out to get article on account. (7) 16. BP trade providing drink

Do you

from fruit. (5) 17. Application being removed, no longer pacifies but relieves. (5) 19. Hobo at the centre of form of low life? (3)

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42 | LIVING CUISINE

As we head towards the holiday season, Nikki shares some of her favourite beef recipes to make a change to turkey, along with some festive favourites.

Nikki Legon's

cuisine Steak with Chimichurri Chimichurri originates from Argentina and Uruguay and makes a tasty change for that special occasion. steak of your choice

Sizzling Beef SERVES 4

2 slices sirloin steak or bavette, thinly sliced across the grain MARINADE ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda 1 tsp cornflour 1 tbsp light soy sauce 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine STIR-FRY SAUCE 1 tsp cornflour 1 tsp light soy sauce 1½ tsp sambal oelek or sriracha 2½ tbsp hoisin sauce 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine ¼ tsp Chinese 5 spice powder ¼ cup of water

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METHOD Place the beef and marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Leave to stand for 10 minutes.

Mix the cornflour with the soy sauce in a small bowl, then add the rest of the stir-fry sauce ingredients, stir and set aside.

In a wok or large frying pan, heat the oil on a high heat. Add the onion and cook 1 minute. Add the garlic and spring onion and stir.

Then add the meat and cook for 2 minutes. Finally, add the sauce and cook until the sauce reduces and the beef starts to caramelise Serve with boiled rice whilst it is still sizzling.

FOR THE SAUCE 1 shallot, finely chopped 3 cloves of garlic 1 tsp sea salt ½ tsp sugar 1 tbsp fresh oregano or 1 tsp dried oregano 50g parsley, leaves only 1 red chilli, chopped finely, or ½ tsp chilli flakes 1 tbsp red wine vinegar zest and juice of half a lemon 125ml to 200ml olive oil 1 tsp ground black pepper METHOD Put the shallot, garlic, sea salt and sugar into a pestle and mortar and pound to break it all down.

Add the oregano, parsley and chilli and continue to pound together.

Add the vinegar, lemon zest and juice and mix well.

Dribble in the olive oil until it sits just below the mixture. Add the pepper, then taste and adjust the seasoning as required. It is best made at least 2 hours before your plan to eat so the flavours can develop. When ready, cook the steak to your taste and serve with the chimichurri.

LIVING CUISINE | 43

Braised Beef Short Ribs Perfect for a lazy day after the festivities, as these can be cooked well in advance, and frozen.

4 slices of thick bacon or lardons 2kg beef short ribs 2 onions, peeled and chopped 4 garlic cloves, sliced finely 200g carrots, sliced 300g mushrooms 1½ tsp cumin 1 tsp paprika (2 if you like a bit of kick) 2 tsp salt a good grinding of black pepper 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 250ml red wine

500ml chicken broth 2 tbsp cornflour METHOD This can be cooked in a slow cooker, in the oven in a sealed pot, or over a low heat on top of the stove. I use my large Dutch oven.

Brown the short ribs on all sides. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the mushrooms, carrots, cumin, salt and pepper, and stir to combine. Add the red wine and Worcestershire sauce. Thicken the chicken broth with the cornflour and pour over. Cover and braise in the oven at 175°C for 3-4 hours, checking the stock and seasoning after 2 hours.

Cook until the meat falls of the bone.

Serve with creamy mashed potato.

Beef Lo Mein SERVES 4

800g cooked egg noodles 250g sirloin steak or bavette, sliced thinly 4 large mushrooms, sliced thinly 4 spring onions, sliced thinly 1 red pepper, sliced thinly 1 gem lettuce, sliced thinly 8 mangetout, sliced thinly 1 small carrot, shredded 4 tbsp oil FOR THE SAUCE MIX 4 tbsp light soy sauce 2 tbsp dark soy sauce 1 tbsp sesame oil 6 tbsp oyster sauce 1 tbsp sugar 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine or rice vinegar ½ tsp white pepper FOR THE BEEF MARINADE 2 tbsp sauce mix 2 tsp cornflour ½ tsp baking soda METHOD Cook your noodles, drain and add a drizzle of sesame oil.

Mix all the sauce ingredients together in a jug.

Do you

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44 | LIVING CUISINE Prepare all the vegetables and slice the beef against the grain into thin slices.

Mix the marinade ingredients and marinate the beef for 30 minutes Heat a wok or large frying pan over medium heat, adding the oil.

Add the beef slices and stir-fry for 2 minutes, then add the vegetables starting with the carrot. Cook for 1 minute and then add the rest of the vegetables and cook a further 2 minutes.

Make a space in the centre, add the noodles then the sauce and toss together. Serve.

Optional extra: add more thinly sliced spring onions and chilli oil.

Asian Beef Stir-Fried Rice For vegetarians use tofu. Cru mbled smoked tofu is especially delicious.

SERVES 4 400g cooked rice 500g lean beef mince 5 tbsp veg oil 4 tsp ginger paste 1 tsp white pepper 3 eggs, whisked 4 garlic cloves, crushed 1 onion, finely diced 1 carrot, cut into small dice 150g frozen peas 4 tbsp broccoli, finely chopped 8 spring onions, separate white and green parts and dice 1 red pepper, cut into small dice STIR-FRY SAUCE 4 tbsp light soy sauce 4 tbsp oyster sauce or vegetarian stir-fry sauce 2 tbsp sugar 2 tbsp dark soy sauce 2 tbsp sesame oil 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine 1 tsp white pepper METHOD Combine all the stir-fry ingredients in a small bowl.

Prepare all the vegetables.

Season the beef with 2 tbsp of the stir-fry mixture, adding the ginger and white pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Over a medium heat, stir-fry the

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eggs and break them into small pieces. Remove to a dish and set aside.

Add more oil to the wok and sauté the onions and carrots for 2 mins to soften. Add the mince,and fry until no longer pink. Add the peas, broccoli and the white part of the

spring onions. Stir-fry for 1 minute.

Now add the cooked rice and pour in the sauce mixture. Combine well and continue to stir-fry for 2 minutes.

Turn off the heat and add the egg with the pepper and the green part of the spring onion. Toss everything together and serve.

LIVING CUISINE | 45

Bao Buns with Pulled Beef These soft little buns are lovely served on New Y ear’s Eve with a glass of cha mpagne. For vegetarians, replace the beef with a mixture of mushrooms.

FOR THE BUNS 1 x 7g sachet fast acting dried yeast 300ml warm water 450g strong bread flour 50g caster sugar 1 tsp baking powder FOR THE BEEF 1.3kg lean beef brisket (paleron) 1 tbsp ground black pepper 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped 2 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

ACROSS 1. Sepal 4. Sublets 8. Constrain 9. Eli 10. Ogres 11. Avenues 13. Name and number 15. Bacardi 16. Pulse 18. Lob 20. Bike racks 21. Draftee 22. Yelps

DOWN 1. Sicko 2. Panoramic 3. Lutes 4. Slap and tickle 5. Bandeau 6. Eve 7. Scissor 12. Umbilical 13. Nobbled 14. Acrobat 16. Perry 17. Eases 19. Boa

1 tbsp grated ginger 1 tbsp brown sugar 2 tbsp chilli paste 1 tbsp hoisin sauce 100ml soy sauce 600ml beef stock 2 tbsp fish sauce spring onions and coriander, to garnish METHOD In a small jug, whisk together the yeast and water, following the packet instructions.

In a large bowl combine the flour, sugar and baking powder together with a pinch of salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix with a wooden spoon to form a dough.Transfer to a floured work surface and knead for about 10 minutes until elastic.

Return the dough to a lightly oiled mixing bowl, cover with cling film and leave to rest in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. On a lightly floured work surface, roll the dough into a sausage shape. Cut the dough and roll into 10 even-sized golf balls. Flatten the balls into ovals with a rolling pin, brush with oil then fold over the handle of a wooden spoon to make a small gap. Remove the spoon, twirling the handle to increase the gap. Transfer to a lined baking tray, cover with cling film and leave to rest in a warm place for 15 minutes.

Set a wooden steamer lined with baking parchment in a large saucepan or wok filled with a little water.

In batches, steam the buns. Space them 3cm apart and steam for 8-10 minutes until expanded and cooked all the way through.

To prepare the beef, preheat the oven to 160°C. Add 1 tbsp of oil to a large saucepan and cook the beef on all sides until browned all over. Season with black pepper and set aside.

Reduce heat to medium and cook the onions until they are softened. Add the garlic, ginger and brown sugar, and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.

Add the chilli paste, hoisin and soy sauce, and stir to combine.

Add the stock and return the beef back to the pan. Cover and place in the oven and cook for 2 hours or until very tender.

Transfer the meat to a board and shred using two forks. Meanwhile bring the cooking liquid to the boil, simmer till reduced by half, stir in the fish sauce and return the shredded meat to the pan toss to coat, cook over a medium heat or until the sauce thickens.

To serve, fill the buns with the meat mixture and top with chopped spring onions and chopped coriander.

Freemasons

Did you know?

There are Englishspeaking lodges in France.

Our lodge in Saintes (17) meets 6 times a year.

If you would like to find out more, email: david.brieger@neuf.fr Freemasonry in France

Do you

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you, or someone you know, has a drinking problem, join one of the English-speaking AA meetings across the south west of France.

Alcoholics Anonymous is a Fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others recover from alcoholism.

Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help others achieve sobriety.

For help or information, telephone: 05 31 60 90 95 or visit: www.aafrance.net All enquiries are treated in the strictest confidence.

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46 | LIVING CUISINE

Chocolate Yule Log 3 eggs 85g caster sugar 85g plain flour 2 tbsp cocoa powder ½ tsp baking powder FILLING AND ICING 50g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing the tin 140g dark chocolate, chopped 1 tbsp golden syrup 284ml thick cream 200g sifted icing sugar METHOD Heat the oven to 200°C. Butter and line a 23x32cm Swiss roll tin with baking parchment.

Beat the eggs and caster sugar together with an electric whisk for about 8 minutes until thick and creamy.

Mix the flour, cocoa powder and baking powder then sift onto the egg mixture, fold in very carefully, then pour into the tin. Bake for 10 minutes.

Lay a sheet of baking parchment on a work surface.

When the cake is ready tip it onto the baking parchment, peel off the lining paper and lie gently on top, then roll the cake up from its longest edge with the paper inside, leave to cool.

To make the icing, melt the butter and dark chocolate together in a bowl over a pan of hot water. Once melted, add the golden syrup and 5 tbsp of cream. Beat in the icing sugar until smooth.

Whisk the remaining cream until it holds its shape.

Unroll the cake, spread the cream over the base, then carefully roll up again into a log. Cut a thick diagonal slice from one end of the log. Lift the log on to a plate then arrange the slice on the side with the diagonal cut against the cake to make a branch.

Spread the icing over the log and branch, then using a fork to mark the icing to resemble the effect of tree bark.

Dust with icing sugar and decorate with Christmas decorations.

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mix the cocktail, tip 25ml each of infused gin, vermouth and Campari into the glasses, then garnish with orange slices and a cinnamon stick.

EGG NOG 10-15ml lime juice 50ml advocaat 50ml sparkling lemonade ice and star anise to serve Fill the glass with ice, add up to 15ml lime juice, pour the advocaat and lemonade over the ice. Stir and garnish with star anise.

Christmas Cocktails NEGRONI 3 cinnamon sticks 4 whole cloves 2 star anise 2 cardamom pods crushed 1 tsp black peppercorns 200ml gin ice 200ml vermouth 200ml Campari orange slices and cinnamon sticks Put the cinnamon, cloves, star anise, cardamom and peppercorns in a dry frying pan and toast for 5 minutes, or until the spices are just fragrant. Remove from the heat and cool. Tip the spices into a medium jar and pour over the gin, seal and chill for 48 hours to infuse.

Strain the infused gin through a fine mesh sieve, and pour over ice. To

GLÜHWEIN 1 orange, halved and sliced 1 bottle red wine 200g caster sugar 5 cloves 1 cinnamon stick 2 star anise 3 slices of fresh ginger, peeled 150ml cognac Put the orange slices, wine, sugar, cloves, cinnamon, star anise and ginger in a large pan. Warm gently for 10-15 minutes, being careful not to let the mixture boil. Add the cognac, pour into glasses and serve warm.

Nikki Legon is the chef and owner of the Hotel Restaurant Karina in Les Métairies, just outside Jarnac in Charente, which has been transformed from an old cognac distillery into a luxury 10-bedroom hotel and restaurant. For more information: www.hotelkarina.net

LIVING CUISINE | 47

We specialise in the sale of châteaux and prestige country homes with stone character.

You can entrust us with your valuation, the professional presentation of your home, targetted communications, qualification of buyers, proper feedback, and sale management.

Andrew Portsmouth Sue Lake Nathalie Hoefnagels 06 43 95 15 52 www.agence-hamilton.com

*agency fees charged to the seller

Character Properties in France

Availles-Limouzine, Vienne €99,000* 4-bedroom / 2-bathroom in good condition on a quiet square, views, conservatory, garage, central heating, mains. DPE: D

L’Isle Jourdain, Vienne €99,000* 3-bedroom town centre house to decorate and update, front and back gardens, new roof and bathroom, garage, mains. DPE: E

Luchapt, Vienne €345,000* Detached 4-bed/4-bath stone house, quality renovation, views, 1.3 hectares, heated pool, garages (6 cars), gîte possible, mains. DPE: D

Aulnay, Charente Maritime €199,900* Lovely renovation, exposed stonework/beams, conservatory, 2 bedrooms plus a gîte, workshop, garage, fosse conforms. DPE: E

www.selectionhabitat.com

Tel: 05 65 70 10 49 Email: info@selectionhabitat.com Visit our new agency: 20, rue du Maquis Foch, 16500 Confolens Please contact us if you have a character property to sell, we have a devoted team located throughout the area.

Information on the risks to which these properties are exposed is available on the Geohazards website: www.georisques.gouv.fr

Email: sandra.brouhard@optimhome.com Call, Whatsapp or SMS on: 06 45 57 15 49 Outside France: +33 645 571 549 www.optimhome.com/conseillers/brouhard

CHÂTEAU, SOUTH OF BERGERAC - 1,695,338€

Beautifully renovated 7 BRM/7 Bathroom Château + three x 2BRM/2 Bathroom houses + pigeonnier. Quiet location, 3 pools, stunning views, 5.4 HA ideal for horses. Would suit extended family, wedding or conference venue or cooking school. DPE: N/C

Visits available 7 days per week

Sandra Brouhard RSAC N°532 428 232 BERGERAC

EYMET - 473,684€

Walking through this house is like flicking through the pages of an Interiors Magazine.

Stunningly renovated 4 bedroom, 4 shower rooms detached 171m2 house in a quiet location, lovely unspoilt views, with large 2999m2 (nearly ¾ acre) secure garden, garage, plus garden level unrenovated 1-bedroom apartment. Video on request. DPE: D

PROPERTIES WANTED

BEAUMONTOIS-EN-PÉRIGORD - 350,000€ 4 BRM and 2 BRM adjoining, renovated houses full of character walk to all amenities. Ground level retail/ office/bedroom with direct street access. Perhaps live in one run a gite from the other? New energy efficient heat pumps with super DPEs. DPE: B & C

Sandra Brouhard, experienced and hard-working agent specialising in Bergerac, Eymet, Beaumont, St Foy and surrounding areas.

SELLING? Please get in touch to arrange an appointment, weekdays or weekends.

BUYING? Need to understand the buying process in France?

Contact me via email me or book a telephone or WhatsApp call.

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L i ving

PROPERTY SOMMIÈRESDU-CLAIN (86)

CHANGING PLACES AS WITH MOST ANCIENT RIVER crossings, there’s a palpable sense of an eventful past here, and since most of today’s through traffic tends to be heading to and from Poitiers on the D1, the notional heart of Sommières is effectively bypassed. That arrangement makes for a pleasurable experience for anyone who prefers to see things calmly on foot.

The focus of daily life is Place de l’Église, an agreeable setting for a surprisingly good range of essential services; there’s a restaurant, a café bar, a boulangerie, an épicerie, an opticien, a pharmacie and even a pôle medical (health centre). As for the Église Saint-Gaudent, it’s believed to have been constructed around 1100 in local Romanesque style, with a sturdy bell tower which gives it an almost English Saxon appearance. The building’s Gothic touches date from works to repair extensive damage sustained during the Wars of Religion. A line of interesting sculpted corbels adorns the Monument Historique-listed western façade above a doorway which retains fine Romanesque carved capitals. Inside things look a little cave-like at first, but you’ll find some very stylish modern stained glass, plus a fine 14th century painted statue of the Virgin, whose Monument Historique listing reflects

its remarkable state of preservation.

Beyond the church you’ll cross le Bé, a minor tributary of the nearby Clain.

Looming ahead is the brooding outline of the vast Château de Sommières-du-Clain, contructed in 1673–1687 and believed to have been designed by Royal Architect to Louis XIV, Jules Hardouin-Mansart.

Its dramatic elevated site was formerly occupied by a feudal château which surveyed movements on the river, and is said to retain several subterranean escape or refuge passages. Not surprisingly, the château received its own Monument Historique listing in 1988.

Among the other local architectural showpieces are the Villa Perrot and the Villa Richard (aka Villa Bon Accueil), sited on opposite sides of the nearby road bridge spanning the Clain. Their mansion-like scale reflects an age when this now tranquil stretch of the river witnessed leisurely punting scenes reminiscent of Oxford or Cambridge.

Today Sommières has other surprises, not least an impressive equestrian centre with facilities for competitionlevel instruction in dressage and showjumping. On a more down-to-earth note, its near-neighbours include a fully serviced retirement village whose dining

We visit a peaceful riverside town in southern Vienne hall is shared with the adjacent school, encouraging young and old to forge rewarding friendships. Close by is Le Hameau-Service, a residential complex established and managed by the CroixRouge Française to welcome elderly persons with reduced mobility or other special needs and enable them to live in their own individual spaces. The visionary project, the initiative of the commune of Sommières-du-Clain, is currently unique in France.

MAKING CONNECTIONS DISTANCES/DRIVE-TIMES BY ROAD FROM 86160 SOMMIÈRES-DU-CLAIN Gençay: Poitiers: Montmorillon: Angoulême: Niort: Limoges: Tours:

12 km/12 min 40 km/42 min 52 km/54 min 83 km/1 hr 07 min 83 km/1 hr 13 min 101 km/1 hr 33 min 142 km/1 hr 35 min

TGV & TER RAIL & BUS SERVICES: The Gare SNCF Anché–Voulon is served by TER Nouvelle-Aquitaine Ligne Régionale 12 services between Angoulême & Châtellerault, for connections (including TGV) to Poitiers, Niort, La Rochelle, Limoges, Tours, Paris, Bordeaux, Cognac, Biarritz, etc.

La Foncière Charentaise THE FRIENDLY FACE OF PROPERTIES IN S/W FRANCE

270 000€ HAI

(250000€ + 8% fee payable by buyer)

Prix 249,000 € (Fees paid by buyer incl.)

Renovated Charentaise with enclosed garden, close to all commodities.

5 bedrooms, master ensuite on ground floor. Large rooms.

Ref: 9668 Energie: E Climat: C

Prix 179,000 € (Fees paid by buyer incl.)

Aigre outskirts: Charming, comfortable 3-bed stone house with studio/ annex, large garden with swimming pool, terrace. 5 minutes to commodities.

Ref. 34551

EXIDEUIL (16): Detached, contemporary 2-bed house with river view. Master bedroom with dressing & ensuite on ground flr. Pellet stove.

Classe Energie D Classe Climate B

298 000€ + 6% fee payable by buyer)

Classe Energie E Classe Climate B

Ref. 34543

CHABRAC (16): 4-bed bungalow on 3ha of land with 2 stocked ponds and wood. Store rooms, heated pool, small chalet. Close to town.

Classe Energie C Classe Climate C

108 000€ HAI

(100 000€ + 10% fee payable by buyer)

Ref. 34539

CONFOLENS (16): 3-bed detached house 3km from shops in a tourist village. Mains, summer kitchen, outbuildings. Set on 1288m2.

Classe Energie n/a Classe Climate n/a

EXCLUSIVE

Ref: 9745 Energie: D Climat: C

Ref. 34550

ST MAURICE DES LIONS (16): 2-bed house with 3-bed gite on 2ha with no neighbours.

Riverbank, garage, heated pool. Close to shops.

Ref: 9735 Energie: E Climat: C

371 000€ HAI

Prix 231,000 € (Fees paid by buyer incl.)

Aigre: Detached villa on basement: 3 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, véranda and large garage. Terrasse and mature landscape garden with views.

315 880€ HAI

(298 000€ + 6% fee payable by buyer)

EXCLUSIVE

Prix 62,700 € (Fees paid by buyer incl.)

Charentaise to renovate, partly habitable with large garden of 2020m² and many original features. Attic to convert.

Views over the countryside.

Réf: 9739 Energie: n/a Climat: n/a

29 000€ HAI

(23 000€ + €6000 fee payable by buyer)

+ 33 (0)6 82 85 36 32 Cecile

OFFICE + 33 (0)5 45 21 78 38

Classe Energie n/a Classe Climate n/a

............ www.foncierecharentaise.com ............ email: aigre@foncierecharentaise.fr

Ref. 34548

BRILLAC (16): Semi detached house in hamlet to renovate. 3-bed + attic, adjoining barn, courtyard, outbuildings. Set on 641m2.

140 400€ HAI

(130 000€ + 8% fee payable by buyer)

Ref. 34534

CONFOLENS (16): close to town centre, quiet area, detached 2-bed bungalow on basement.

Veranda, convertible attic. Set on 1470m2..

Classe Energie G Classe Climate G

3, place de la Liberté, 16500 Confolens Tel: 05 45 85 45 65 contact@sovimo.com

www.sovimo-immobilier-confolens.fr

AGENCE ELEONOR ESTATE

AGENCY

www.agence-eleonor.fr VILLEREAL - Ref : 10793-VI - Price: 249 900€ EXCLUSIVE: Charming stone farmhouse with outbuilding and pool. This sweet 3 bedroom property is set on over 1.5 acres, and is just a 5 minute drive from amenities.

Taux d’honoraires 14 145€ (6%) inclus à la charge de l’acquéreur.

Classe Energie: E Classe Climat: E

COUZE ET ST FRONT - Ref : 10909-LA - Price: 525 000€ Magnificent property comprising 3 separate houses. The first house has 6 bedrooms, the second has 2 and the third offers 5. Outside there is a swimming pool and spa.

Taux d’honoraires 25 000€ (5%) inclus à la charge de l’acquéreur.

Classe Energie: D Classe Climat: D

STE ALVERE - Ref : 10746-STC - Price: 456 750€ EXCLUSIVE: Lovely 5 bedroom property that could be used as a family home, or run as a bed and breakfast business.

Outside is a terrace to the front of the property and a small courtyard at the back.

Taux d’honoraires 21 750€ (5%) inclus à la charge de l’acquéreur.

Classe Energie: D Classe Climat: D

We are looking for properties to sell!

Agence Eleonor is an independently owned business with an experienced team of property specialists, based in the South-west of France, with offices across the region. Our offices all have overseas and local buyers ready to buy. If you are considering selling your property please contact us for a free valuation at info@ agence-eleonor.com

Contact our head office today : 36-38 rue du Temple, 24500 EYMET 05 53 27 83 45 info@agence-eleonor.com Looking for a career in property sales? Want to be part of a team of motivated, independent property consultants?

Good news, due to expansion Agence Eleonor are recruiting!

You’ll be joining a great team, with free training and ongoing support through all stages of your development, as well as excellent commission rates.

Contact Terrie Simpson at info@agence-eleonor.com to find out more or arrange an informal chat.

Visit us in Eymet, Villeréal, Saint-Cyprien, Monpazier, Miramont-de-Guyenne, Lalinde, Bergerac and Issigeac.

50 | LIVING WRITING

There’s a book inside us all Long evenings and the dawning of a new year mean that many of us will rekindle our desire to write that book we’ve always dreamed of. We asked published author Gillian Harvey to help us get started.

Whether it’s a personal memoir, set of short stories or full-length novel, many people nurture the idea of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and writing a book one day. The problem?

It’s often easy to put that ‘one day’ off indefinitely.

I finished penning my first attempt at the tender age of 24, but it was sixteen years before I secured an agent and a book deal. In the process of trying and failing, trying and succeeding, I’ve learned a lot about writing novels and what works for me.

So, if you’ve always felt you have a story to tell, why not make 2024 the year your dream becomes a reality?

MAKING A PLAN Not everyone who writes a novel makes a plan, but I’ve found through some trial and a lot of error that putting in the work upfront makes the

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whole process go a lot more smoothly.

There are many different ways of getting your initial thoughts on paper – from sticky notes on a whiteboard to scribbles in a notebook. Try not

to worry too much about what other writers might be doing and choose a method that suits you. It can be hard to consider the shape of a novel for the first time, so if in doubt consult an expert – I recommend ‘Save the Cat Writes a Novel’ by Jessica Brody – a virtual writers’ bible.

SETTING A WORD-COUNT GOAL Most writers will agree, there are both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ writing days. Some days the words flow. Others, it’s a little more like pulling teeth. But I’ve found over the years that in order to stay ‘in the story’ it’s important to write daily no matter how painful. Set yourself a word goal of at least 500 words and aim to meet it every day. That way your subconscious will carry on working on the story while you’re sipping aperitifs with the neighbours.

LIVING WRITING | 51 JOIN A WRITERS’ GROUP It can be hard showing your writing to an audience at first. But it’s important to get outside insight when you’re drafting. It’s one thing knowing your characters inside out, but quite another to communicate all their quirks and nuances effectively to the reader. You might find there’s an anglophone writers or readers group locally to you, or online. But if not, consider starting one. I ran a group in Aubusson from 2009 until 2014, and another in Eymoutiers from 2016. It was a great way to make new friends, talk about books and drink countless cappuccinos.

READING AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE When I was a teacher, I used to tell students that reading was like programming the brain. Reading widely will improve your creative writing, your range of ideas and give you more insight into what’s out there in the marketplace.

What’s more, the great thing about being a writer, is you can read a book and call it “work” or “research” – it’s a great excuse to do something you love and be far too busy to help with housework.

REMEMBERING YOUR READER If you’ve been germinating the seed of an idea for a while, it can become both very personal and very precious. When I started out writing (in my late teens) I didn’t consider my audience at all, but believed my ideas would attract a range of readers who’d come to love my stories and style. Over time, I’ve shed a little of that self-delusion and try to keep my reader in mind a little more.

For example, while you can write a range of different protagonists (from the loveable to the murderous) it’s important that you include elements that the audience can identify with. If they don’t root for the main character, you’ve often lost their attention.

EDITING I used to hate editing. The idea of revisiting those hard-won words in order to change and chop felt impossibly hard. But over time I’ve come to love it as one of the best parts of the writing process. You have the book – editing is your chance to make it shine. If your book is accepted for publication, there will be a whole new

Gillian Harvey at home

edit (or sets of edits) to complete. But your own, personal edit is the chance to make your book as good as it can possibly be.

DECIDING ON A ROUTE (INDIE OR TRADITIONAL) You’ve polished your words – now what? These days, there are many viable options when it comes to publishing. If you decide you’d like to try traditional publishing, it’s advisable to secure an agent first. This can be a difficult and disheartening process, but when you find the right agent for your work, a very rewarding one. Try purchasing ‘The Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook’ for agent requirements, addresses and lots of tips on querying.

If you decide to publish independently there are many platforms to choose from. One of the most popular is Do you

Kindle on Amazon – you can register as an author on the site and follow their steps to get your work in front of readers.

One tip: never pay to publish your work. If a publisher is serious about wanting to take you on, they should be paying you.

MARKETING Whether you publish independently or secure a traditional deal, a lot of onus is on authors to raise their own profile these days – so it’s time to get social media savvy. Share aspects of your life, such as gorgeous scenes from your local area and pictures of books you’ve enjoyed to help build an audience of people with similar literary tastes and give followers a glimpse into aspects of your life. Many authors find social media a little out Living Magazine? Subscribe today

52 | LIVING WRITING

Gillian Harvey is a freelance writer and author living in the Limousin. Her latest novel ‘The French Chateau Escape’ has just been released with Boldwood Books.

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of their comfort zone, but it’s worth posting once or twice a week to help with visibility.

KEEP SHOWING UP Advice on writing can be found with abundance online. But the best piece I was ever given was to simply ‘keep showing up.’ There will be days when the words get stuck, days when you

feel you’re the worst writer in the world, days when you wonder why you do it. But despite your emotional reaction to the work, always make the time to show up at your desk. After a while, writing becomes a habit and before you know it, you’ve hit your target word-count.

And if it’s not great at first? That’s what editing is for!

PRACTICAL LIVING | 53

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Our annual round-up of numbers you may need.

112

EUROPEAN EMERGENCY NUMBER

Call this number free from anywhere in the EU to reach the emergency services. There may be English speakers available although this is not guaranteed.

3919

15

SAMU (Service d’Aide Médicale d’Urgence) - call for urgent medical situations e.g. coma, chest pain, breathing difficulties etc. The operator will assess the emergency and medical assistance will be sent if necessary.

17

Police (gendarmes) immediate assistance if you are in danger or you see someone else in danger through violence, mugging, aggression, burglary etc.

18

Fire brigade (sapeurs pompiers) - to signal a perilous situation or an accident requiring urgent assistance.

114

Emergency calls sent

by SMS or fax for the hearing impaired. Trained professionals will then contact the necessary emergency service.

115 119 196

Emergency shelter for the homeless.

Child abuse concerns.

Maritime rescue - you will be put in contact with CROSS, the French operational centre for surveillance and rescue at sea.

191

Aviation emergency.

Accessible 24/7, this free number is for all women victims of violence including domestic violence, sexual harassment or abuse, forced marriage, etc. It is not an emergency number; you should ring 112 if someone is in immediate danger.

Calls to this number will not appear on your phone bill and the service is entirely anonymous. If you need to report sexual violence or rape and would prefer to do so online, go to www.service-public.fr/ cmi - use a translation service like DeepL or Google to help you.

116 000

If your child goes missing anywhere in the EU, call this hotline.

05 56 96 40 80

and town planning; legal, civil or criminal proceedings; family, personal or inheritance law; laws relating to foreigners, associations or civil status.

See www.service-public.fr for opening hours.

PRÉFECTURES Visit online at nameofdept.gouv.fr for full contact details.

ORANGE They have an English-speaking helpline - 09 69 36 39 00 BRITISH EMBASSY HELPLINE Ring 01 44 51 31 00 for urgent advice (Mon-Fri 9.30am-1pm and 2.30-5pm), or contact online at www.gov.uk.

SOS HELPLINE For English-speaking professionally trained listeners (similar to the Samaritans), call 01 46 21 46 46 (3-11pm every day).

CANCER SUPPORT FRANCE For advice and someone to talk to locally see cancersupportfrance.org or ring 0800 240 200.

Anti-poison centre (Bordeaux).

TIPS

USEFUL CONTACTS

• Photocopy this page and keep near to your phone for emergencies.

AMELI French healthcare - call 09 74 75 36 46, Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm. English speaking operators will answer and, if the answer requires research, they should call you back within 48 hours.

CAISSE D’ALLOCATIONS FAMILIALES (CAF) 3230 or via your online account.

There are no dedicated Englishspeaking advisors.

ALLÔ SERVICE PUBLIC - 3939 Administrative information service (in French) covering: Employment law in the private sector; housing

Do you

• Write your phone numbers and address phonetically in French and practice reciting them.

• Check your address on the French version of the app what3words and keep handy.

This helps the emergency services locate rural properties quickly.

• Install DeepL or Google Translate on your smart phone and practice using. SayHi is a useful app for two-way translation of conversations.

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elcome to our comprehensive Business Directory, packed full of the best English-speaking services and suppliers across the region. Whatever you need, our advertisers can help you and, in return, just tell them you saw their advert here. By doing so, you will help to keep Living Magazine FREE.

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Caf�s, Bars & Restaurants Shops

Le CaféCivray Happy Holidays from Keith & Laura!

Christmas menu on website, orders before Fri 15th December Baking Classes & Events on FB/website Everything made on site by baker Keith Open Tues/Thurs/Fri 9am-2pm

24 rue du commerce, 86400 Civray 05.49.87.68.97 www.lecafecivray.com

Custom framing for arts, crafts & memorabilia E: encadrement.oradour@gmail.com

Tel: 09 77 00 66 38

Encadrement D’Art EI 87150 Oradour sur Vayres Siret : 892 358 342 00012

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“Your expertise with advertising is surpassing my expectations.

Lots of new clients now finding me via Living.

Thank you!” Karen Jones, Solutions “It has been the most important source of clients for my business and is often quoted, before I even ask, where people heard about me.” Andrew Harrison, Ask Andrew

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HOW TO ADVERTISE:

Ring JON on 05 49 97 10 17 or email ads@ammfrance.com Pay monthly by debit/credit card

Restaurant, Bar, Chambre d’Hôtes

1 rue des Tilleuls, 16700 Londigny tel; 05 45 29 05 07 www.aubergedunoyer.com FB: aubergedunoyer Friday: Fish & Chips - 12€ (full menu also available) Mon-Fri 12-3, 6-11pm, Sat 6-12pm, Sun 12-3pm

LIVE MUSIC NIGHTS, QUIZ NIGHTS SPECIAL EVENTS SEE OUR FB PAGE & WEBSITE

Large selection of home fabrics, made-to-measure curtains, bedlinen, wallpaper & paint.

Friendly English-speaking staff in a cosy atmosphere!

Tues to Fri 9h-12h30 & 15h-18h30 Sat 9h-12h30 &15h-18h comptoirdecodangely www.comptoirdecodangely.com

14, rue de l’hôtel de ville, 17400 Saint-Jean d’Angély Beside the market square. Phone: 09-83-72-34-90

Wishing you all a very happy Christmas!

55

We’re regularly at local markets: Tue/Fri: Civray Wed/Sat: Ruffec Thu: Sauzé-Vaussais 1st & 3rd Sun: Verteuil

Personalised quality treatments with Alicia of Hi-Tech Beauty

After summer your skin may be looking dull so give your skin a clarifying boost this winter with an Intense Light or LED Facial.

Advanced treatments bespoke to your needs Free Lash & Brow tint OR Half price manicure with any treatment.*Until Jan 31st 2024 2 Rue de l’Abbe Paul Guillon CHATAIN 86250

🌐 ✉

RENAISSANCE - hair, beauty, nails * SOCIAL DISTANCING IN PLACE * Our bi-lingual team are waiting to pamper you.

CACI trained and registered to perform non-surgical facelifts and more.

Ring now to book your appointment. ~ PLUS! Wedding hair & make-up team ~

26 rue du Commerce, 86400 CIVRAY Renaissance - hair, beauty, nails Tel: 05 49 87 16 33

LE-CATTERY PENSION POUR CHATS 24400 SAINT LAURENT DES HOMMES From C4's 'A New Life in the Sun'

Come and discover what makes our little alpaca farm so special Prepare & give the alpacas their breakfast Bond with them on a walk around the chateau Tailormade visit & stay on our private glamping site or chateauview gite

lapetitefermedalpagas.com 06 70 62 24 39 14 Rue René III Comte de Sanzay 79150

06 87 92 68 22

A half hectare fenced field with dog play platforms, picnic benches, wet weather viewing cabin, changing rooms, bubble entry… and more!

4 play sessions per week. Behaviour, agility & hoopers training. We are a super friendly canine community.

Insulated bedrooms, Individual exercise areas Heat lamps & Sneeze barriers Small family-run cattery Unit sizes regulated by FAB LOOF registered www.le-cattery.com kirstyflos@gmail.com

Suaux 16260

www.caniparc16.com Caniparc16

Hot Tubs and Saunas in France

KICK BACK and RELAX

www.hottubsinfrance.com ~ FR 07 49 19 46 84 ~ UK 07 845 754 049

Remember to quote ©Living Magazine©

07 81 59 59 39 Please call by to visit the le-cattery.

We look forward to meeting your feline friends Dan, Kirsty & family

Wellbeing, Animal Care

Siret: 509 861 902 00013

Visit Alison, Julie, Stephanie & Laura at...

Shops, Wellbeing

Hair Removal with Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) similar to laser for long-lasting hair reduction Waxing hair removal - Hot wax and Strip Manicures and Pedicures inc Gel Polish Lash and brows tint and enhancement ☏ 06 71 91 10 52 Radiofrequency skin tightening facials www.hi-techbeauty.fr Treaments for veins and pigments hi_techbeauty@yahoo.com Microdermabrasion Facials FB: @hi.tech.beauty.02 Hydro facial with LED light SIRET: 948 383 336 00013 Traditional Facials

56

Insurance and asset management advice in English Hello, my name is Isabelle Want. For the - INVESTMENTS - what is available, what rate, etc. past 9 years, I have been working for - LIFE INSURANCE - how to protect your loved ones Allianz as an asset manager. Being married to an Englishman and having lived - FUNERAL COVER - preparing for the inevitable, unfortuin the UK for 8 years gives me a better nately!

- TOP UP HEALTH INSURANCE - why you need it and how insight into what British people are experiencing and what they need. Being French and born much it is in the Charente has enabled me to offer some answers.

- INSURANCES - get a free quote to see if you can save I am, as always, available for any free advice on the follow- money ing subjects: We also have a dedicated bilingual person to deal with - INHERITANCE LAW - who inherits, how much are death claims. And, finally, we have an English website with all duties, what solutions exist sorts of useful information and tips on all of the above - TAXES - everybody’s fear! Annual tax forms in May, etc. subjects.

HELP WITH ALL FRENCH ADMINISTRATION MATTERS Administrative Assistance & Solutions Private Individuals & Small Businesses Translator: English (cert.), French, Portuguese (cert.) & Spanish Professional Liability Insurance 3 place Gambetta 86400 CIVRAY Office: 09.50.52.27.68 M: 06.33.11.64.05 eloisa@efficientranslations.fr www.efficientranslations.fr

Email: isabelle.want@bh-assurances.fr

Experience you need....Results you want

10 bld du 8 mai 1945 16110 La Rochefoucauld tel : 05 45 63 54 31 102 ave de la République 16260 Chasseneuil sur Bonnieure tel : 05 45 39 51 47 N° ORIAS : 07020908

www.bh-assurances.fr Siret N°48825664500018

Translation Services

PROFESSIONAL ADMINISTRATIVE HELP

Fluent French speaker, professionally qualified with over 20 years ‘hands on’ experience assisting expats in France

Translations, Health, Tax, Legal Paperwork, Telephone Calls, Property, Banking, Business Services, Residency

Personal and Professional Taxation, Tax Regularisation, VLS Visas and Full Residency Packages Business Set Ups and much more...

Val Assist provides clear explanations about the French system, advice on the best way to sort out problems and generally acts for people on their behalf in French.

ASSISTANCE ALL OVER FRANCE

Call Rick Denton now on 06 46 25 30 87 or Email: mailthefixer@gmail.com www.corporateandlegal.org

Covering All areas of France and International Siren: 818 390 916

Find out more: www.valassist.com Valérie PATARD 1, rue Basse 85370 Mouzeuil-Saint-Martin Tel: +33 (0)6 84 78 21 57 Email: contact@valassist.com Orias: 07007057

HELP & ADVICE

Help & Advice, Insurance

Established since 2004 Depts 16, 17, 79, 86 Expert in French Administration Carte de Séjour CPAM & ANTS Personal Taxation Legal matters Phone calls & meetings Andrew Harrison

Tel: 05 46 96 44 11 askandrewnow@hotmail.com www.askandrewnow.com SIRET 453 520 298 00010

SOLUTIONS Comprehensive administration services for individuals and businesses

English Speaking Ask for Corinne

For all your insurance needs in France

Special discount for new owners - 50% off the first year Fully comprehensive covers at competitive prices and all explained in ENGLISH. We respond quickly to enquiries and in the case of accidents or claims, we are here to help.

Offices at Champdeniers and St Pardoux (79). Come and visit us.

Agence Michallon Tel: 05.49.25.87.06 Corinne.michallon@mutpoitiers.fr

solutions-france.com M: 07 80 44 37 00 solutions16700 Chemin des Gordins, 16700 Ruffec contactsolutionsfrance@gmail.com

Karen and her team of associates are here to help you with: 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

22 rue Jean Jaures 16700 Ruffec tel : 05 45 31 01 61

Val Assist

The Fixer

Siret No 520 382 805 00049

Help & Advice

Contact Isabelle directly Mobile: 06 17 30 39 11

BH Assurances

Business set ups - all regimes Foreign firm set up and payroll Customs assistance TVA for ME’s and ME declarations Residency Visa assistance Tax returns - France Carte Vitale, Carte de Séjour

4 4 4 4 4 4

Vehicle registration, driving licenses Access to financial aid Legal paperwork Dispute mediation All administrative services and phone calls Advice and assistance on government grants for homeowners

All areas of France covered Call us for Accountancy Recommendations Fully Insured Simplis Pro/ CNPM Mediation

These local businesses are waiting for your call! EI / SIRET: 510046261 00010

57

FOR SALE FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION Over 60 handwoven oriental carpets Each carpet is unique in its beauty and colouring a work of art in itself A great investment for the future Save up to 40% from retail prices No reasonable offer is refused

For an appointment to visit (near Saint-Jeand’Angély), contact Harry on 06 40 25 75 63

MR. PIANO MAN All types of pianos restored, reconditioned & repaired

Piano Tuning Ex-BBC London Piano Tuner with a lifetime experience in the piano trade

­

16, 17, 79 and west Vienne

­

Tel: 05 45 21 16 13 E: mr-piano-man@hotmail.com SIRET: 51031234100017

English Speaking Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd, Poitou-Charentes A warm welcome awaits you at Sunday services in our centres in: Courcelles (17400) Cognac (16100) Champagne-Mouton (16076) Chef Boutonne (79110) and online All details can be found on churchinfrance.com

~ free ~ French / English conversation Needing to practice my English, I'm looking for English-speaking people who wish to practice their French.

I propose a free meeting once a week to converse over a drink, part in English, part in French.

Near 17520 (Saint-Maigrin)

Please call Martine 06 84 99 68 95

PRE-loved to RE-loved Robert Mann Upholstery Service Tel: 06 45 61 60 85 Email: mann.rob@icloud.com www.mannupholstery.com

Upholstery of sofas, chairs, bedheads, campervans, antiques, etc….

Deux-Sèvres (will travel within reason) - Siret: 820 918 316 00028

Robert Mann Upholstery Service robmannupholstery

Furniture for France Quality UK furniture direct to your door in France Furniture for your bedrooms, dining room and lounge From sofas to mattresses, wardrobes to dining tables, all just one phone call away Look at our website to see the latest ranges available 20 years’ experience & great customer service

fff

Tel: +44 7845 272 242 Email: info@furnitureforfrance.co.uk www.furnitureforfrance.co.uk

Remember to quote ©Living Magazine©

Pianos, Churches, French

58

CARPETS AND COFFEE! There’s really only one way to choose a carpet - that’s to see it and touch it! - the way it feels plays a very important part when you’re selecting what suits you.

While we still make free home visits (over 200 during 2022) with plenty of samples, you can come to our showroom and see the thousands of options we offer, whether you’re looking for carpets, vinyl, LVT ...... or anything flooring! As we go into Spring, why not come and see us at our showroom in Treignac (19260) there’s a couple of decent restaurants nearby or at the very least come in and have a coffee with us!

Obviously things have changed over the past few years and since Brexit we source a large part of our ranges directly from European manufacturers, which negates

any import or customs duties. In fact many Belgian companies, for example, send half their manufacturing output to the UK so they are the type and style we are used to seeing. This doesn’t mean we don’t still import from the UK - some of the best carpets in the world are manufactured in Britain, especially good quality wool materials - and we still have direct accounts with many of the more important UK suppliers.

So, we can offer the best that both the UK and European manufacturers offer with a huge range of samples here for you to see and feel!

As we are a small family business, please let us know if you are making a special journey to see us - we’d hate to miss you!

jonthecarpetman

E: jonthecarpetman@gmail.com 09 63 56 23 10 / 06 42 19 82 12

what3words: underlay.numbing.decamp

A family business established in 1985 offering a quality, professional service

FRANGLAIS DELIVERIES Moving In France?

PM

Full & Part Loads

CARPETS & FLOORING

Relocations in France

For all your flooring needs

• We supply fit range a range of carpets to&suit all budgets We supply & fitand a wide of carpets, vinyl luxury vinyl tiles Over year’s in thewood trade, and 100%ceramic customertile satisfaction • We40also fitexperience amtico, vinyl, •Contact Over 25 years experience, 100% customer satisfaction Paula selection on 06 60of07wool 54 78 or 05 45 84 27 75 • Now selling and mixed fibre rugs E: paul.marshall@pmcarpetsandflooring.com See our FB page at PMCarpets or our website

Contact Paul on 06 60 07 54 78 or 05 45 84 27 75

www.pmcarpetsandflooring.com www.pmcarpetsandflooring.com

Packing & Storage Options Siret: 502 021 660 00019

Flooring, Transport

www.jon-thecarpetman.com

SHOWROOM ADDRESS

22 route de Gueret, Les Rivières, 19260 TREIGNAC

FRANGLAIS DELIVERIES

Tel: 05 49 07 24 85 E: franglaisdeliveries@gmail.com

Franglais Deliveries

FRANKLINS REMOVALS Packing services • Customs clearance Full/part loads to and from the UK Vehicles transported • Containerised storage Competitive prices • Transit /storage insurance Call - 0044 121 353 7263 or Email - sales@franklinsremovals.co.uk

www.franklinsremovals.co.uk

lly nt ts Fu ersa xpor nv e co UK ti h Cars, Boats and Caravans a speciality w

Transport

C J Logistics

Full or part loads undertaken - a box to a full removal Full European coverage Secure storage available in France and UK UK depot available for deliveries Every item is covered by GIT and CMR insurances Full trade references available

E: cjlouch1@gmail.com Tel: 09 83 70 01 33 | Mob: 06 61 25 41 09

Transport Services, Concierge

YOUR ONE-STOP TRANSPORT SERVICE

These local businesses are waiting for your call!

The UK’s Premium Pet Transport Company Regular trips throughout Europe Services tailored to your needs DEFRA Type 2 licensed, custom built vans

www.gofetch-ltd.com gofetchltd@hotmail.co.uk T: +44 (0)7855 401 102 T: +44 (0)1932 875 227

59

Garden Services Pool Care Gîte Services Home Cleaning & Maintenance Check out our website for more information about all our services 05.45.25.05.37 | www.charenteassistance.fr Frapa

IT Service & Support

IT Help & Advice

European Transport

Problem Solving, Repair & Maintenance

Special rates to SW France 13.6m / 45ft trailer Full/Part loads Removals - Vehicles - Materials Owner Driver RHA member Tel: +44 (0)7768 867 360 Fax +44 (0)1773 570 090 Fr Mobile: +33 (0)6 23 03 85 59 enquiriesgwe@gmail.com

Website Creation & Management Data Security Guaranteed frapaconsultants@gmail.com www.frapaconsultants.com 06 29 61 47 88

www.georgewhiteeuropean.co.uk

Transport, Services

George White

Siret: 889 641 726 00019

Cleaning

These Remember local businesses are ©Living waitingMagazine© for your call! to quote

60

POOL PROBLEMS? CONSULT THE EXPERTS • Pool renovations • Hi-tech leak detection • Underground pipe repairs • Liner replacement and fitting • Automatic dosing systems • Pump/filtration/pool technical rooms • Pool heating/heat pumps • Maintenance/cleaning contracts • Home buyer/seller diagnostic reports

------ 20 years doing business in france -----06 3117 25 60 vendeepools@gmail.com F o r Po o l s • Renovation • Cleaning and Maintenance

For Outside Living

Complete Pool Care

• Summerhouses • Roofs • Fencing • Blockwork • Pointing • Rendering • Outside Rooms

rjcpoolservices.com enquiries@rjcpoolservices.com

t: +33 (0) 549 290135 t: +33 (0) 785 372144 Based near Sauzé-Vaussais (79) Full Décennale Insurance siret: 897 609 293

Agent and installer for several rectangular & shaped pools including Seablue & Astral Pools FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL SERVICE Competitive prices, try me for a quote Terracing and landscaping service also available ALL WORK GUARANTEED www.poolsbyjonathan.com phone 0549840362 mobile 0622361056

Siret: 827 978 636 00013

Gardening | Home Maintenance 05.45.25.05.37 www.charenteassistance.fr

Pools, Cherry Pickers

• Terraces & Patios

POOLS BY JONATHAN

SIRET 47994761600021

Pools & Pool services

• Installation

BECK CHERRY PICKER HIRE Nacelle Telescopique

17m tracked cherry picker with IPAF operator For all exterior works: roofing, painting, tree cutting etc.

Hourly, daily or weekly rates Based in south 86, can transport as required

www.beckcherrypickerhire.com Tel: 07 84 12 44 97

E: beckcherrypickerhire@gmail.com

These local businesses are waiting for your call!

61

ARC EN CIEL Nettoyage Professionnel

FREE ESTIMATE

www.nettoyage-services-dordogne.fr Key holding / conciergerie.

Cleaning of commercial and domestic premises and window cleaning.

Rugs, carpet & upholstery steam shampoo extraction.

Hard floors / surfaces treatment: marble, granite, terracotta etc & wood floor parquet.

Swimming pool & garden maintenance.

Office: 05 53 07 52 71 (9 to 18.00) Mobile: 06 31 31 06 76 / 06 70 39 83 96 arcencielnettoyage24@gmail.com

Siret: 813 442 860 00017

HARDFLOOR, TILE & GROUT UPHOLSTERY - CARPET JET WASHING Email: james@revive-cleaning.fr

Trained-Approved & recommended by SPANC

revive-cleaning

FOSSE AND GROUNDWORKS (79) SPECIALISTS IN FOSSE INSTALLATION

www.southwestfrancefosse.com Email: sudouestconstruction16@gmail.com

fosseandgroundworks79@hotmail.com

06 35 97 49 10

SIRET: 882 747 348

Installations of all types of Micro Stations / Compact filters and Fosse septiques

Complete, hassle-free package including all necessary paperwork, SPANC liason and certification Own plant & equipment Fully registered and insured

Emptying of grease traps, fosse septiques, filtre compacts & micro stations.

Cleaning & maintenance of all types of sewage treatment plants.

fosseandgroundworks79.com Machine and driver hire Drainage - Driveways - Foundations Trench digging for elec/water/services Tree stump removal Ground clearance

Remember to quote ©Living Magazine©

David GABARD T: 06 71 83 16 69 / 05 49 87 27 29 E: info@vf-services.fr 2 Verrières, 86400 CHAMPNIERS Covering south 86 & 79, north 16

Fosse Septiques & Services

Southwest France Fosse

06 04 14 84 86

Cleaning

Contact us today

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING & HYGIENE SERVICES

62

Enershop – renewable energy heating systems for your property Enershop have been installing renewable energy systems in France since 2008. Each system designed and installed is specifically for your needs, whether your property is a new

build, extension or a renovation, whether it is a cottage, chalet or château - the flexibility of our systems means there is a solution for all. We offer a free devis, with no obligation and no hard sell. Now is the time to consider a renewable heating system. There are reduced rates of TVA available and significant incentives for systems installed by Enershop as we

Building services, Artisans

Tel: 07 67 04 07 53

Email: info@enershop.eu

Looking for old DEUTZ tractors

F1M 414 & F1L 514 1936-1956

Ian Dickinson BSc (Hons)

in any condition dans n’importe quel état

• Solar thermal domestic hot water • Wood gasification boilers • Wood / Pellet boiler stoves • Pellet boilers • Accumulation tanks • Air source heat pumps

Architect & Interior Designer ShinYeon Kang:

Architect DE (B.ARCH,MA) SIRET : 922 0613 0187 00017

0619213608 racine16700@gmail.com

Planning and designs for permis de construire and déclaration préalables for extensions, renovations, conversions and new builds.

Architect DPLG & Conservation

Departments: 16, 17, 24, 79, 86 & 87

House survey, historical building, renovation, interior design, New building, extension covered area 79/86/16

Mob: 06.02.33.90.58

E: iancdickinson1960@gmail.com

• Central and underfloor heating systems • Swimming pool / hot tub heating

Website: www.enershop.eu

ID Planning & Design

Siret: 492 277 918 00024

Call Jon on 05 49 97 10 17 E: jon@energic.info

hold the QualiSol and QualiBois accreditation. Our website www.enershop.eu has lots of information on our services which include :

Louis Pacault:

Ordre des Architectes : N°072543 SIRET : 513 320 770 00059

A : 5 rue du four des pierres 16700 Ruffec

Ambroise PRÉE Plumbing - Heating Chimney sweeping Full service with certificate (boiler, fuel, wood, gaz) Installation of Wood Burners Registered RGE QUALIBOIS Fully insured with over 15 years’ experience ambroise1204@hotmail.fr Tel: 06 58 86 55 91

Enershop

Jb Plumbing & Renovations

Kitchen & Bathroom Installations Plumbing repairs, Tiling Plaster boarding, Flooring, Decorating, Interiors, Electrical Tel: 06 29 90 24 89 E: mrbirky2@yahoo.com

English spoken

Based in dept 79 near Sauzé-Vaussais Fully insured

Siret: 900 570 490 00012

Siret: 804 390 862 000 14

30km around 86400 (Saint Macoux)

WINDOWS ~ DOORS ~ GLASS STRUCTURES SHUTTERS ~ FLY SCREENS ~ BI-FOLDS Over 20 years’ trade experience in both the UK & France with a dedicated British team, here to help your dream project become a reality

www.upvcmaster.fr www.windowsinfrance.co.uk +33 (0)754 55 60 86 Upvcmaster.fr@gmail.com Follow us on social media @upvcmaster.fr Siret: 911 734 127 00010

Aluminium, Wood and uPVC options available in all colours, manufactured in Europe. We feature brands such as KOMMERLING, CORTIZO & VEKA

FREE DESIGN, PLANNING & COSTING SERVICE CONTACT US TODAY FULLY REGISTERED FRENCH BUSINESS DECENNAL INSURED ~ SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

These local businesses are waiting for your call!

Affordable UK Designs

UPVC & Aluminium Double Glazing, Fitted Kitchens

63

FREE PLAN, DESIGN & COSTING THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST FRANCE - OTHER AREAS BY ARRANGEMENT www.affordableukdesigns.com UPVC Windows, Doors & Conservatories in all colours & styles.

Aluminium and UPVC Bifold doors Made to ‘A’ Grades spec in French styles!

Phone: 05 49 42 99 41 Mobile: 06 63 71 09 81 E: scott.braddock1@yahoo.com SIRET: 513 577 809 00017

Excavations | Groundworks Hard landscaping Pool & patio installation Concrete works - washed, polished, brushed Mini excavator for hire Based in 17

06 08 92 28 58 05 46 24 65 20 (land line) E: richardgrzywacz@ gmail.com

Wooden shutters made, restored and spray painted Metal shutters sandblasted Exterior / Interior walls airless spray-painted Over 30 years’ experience All areas covered Contact Alan Tel 05 45 21 72 01 Mobile 07 80 00 51 65 amccontracts2@gmail.com

▶ ▶ ▶ ▶

General Engineering Turning, Milling, Welding Quality & Precision Guaranteed

Ornate interior / exterior designs Gates constructed / refurbished Industrial furniture General Welding ~ Over 25 year’s experience ~ Mob: 07 77 83 77 10 or 0044 7917 03 02 49 jeff@jeffsmetalwork.com

Forgeix, 87200 Saint Junien

05 55 71 41 75

frasereade87@gmail.com www.latelierdefer.com Siret: 512 945 874 00018

Siret: 811 895 309 00011

ANDY MS

Kitchens & Bathrooms from A-Z All leading Brands All associated minor works, modifications and repairs also undertaken e.g.. replace Kitchen worktops, taps, toilets etc.

Dept. 16, 17

Barry Baldwin Cabinet Maker & Joiner Furniture Restoration Manufacture of staircases, doors & cupboards 16240 La Fôret de Tesse T: 05 45 30 39 85 becb709@gmail.com Covering depts 16, 79 & 86

05 46 49 78 30 / 06 70 40 66 01

website: andyms.free.fr email: andyms@free.fr

Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating services Flooring Plasterboarding Providing a quality service since 2005 Kevin Smith

T: 05 45 98 07 25 M: 06 23 18 30 95

JAMES RICHARDSON

SEAN THEOBALD EI

Imajica Joinery ESTABLISHED COMPANY, CONSCIENTIOUS & RELIABLE SERVICE For a superior finish in wood, tile, plasterboard and general restoration Specialising in kitchen fitting & creative challenges Siret: 48115588500017

Ensuites / walk in wardrobes Acoustic and thermal insulation Plastering skim and set Tape & jointing

Established in France in 2009

ALL TYPES OF DRYWALL WORK COVERED SIRET: 514 636 257 00016 ALL WORKS COVERED BY ASSURANCE DÉCENNALE

ADAM BLACKABY Artisan Peintre

adamblackaby@aol.com

Siret: 804476 034 00017

▶ ▶ ▶ ▶

Interior and exterior painting Paper hanging, tiling, flooring & dry lining

16100 Chateaubernard 05 45 36 46 70 / 06 72 21 80 27 lifeboatmoose@wanadoo.fr www.mmpropertymaintenance.fr

05 49 87 09 63

siret:50263448800014

Drylining Ceilings / suspended flat / apex / joist infills Partition walls Hydro wet rooms

Depts 16 & 17

Phone: 06 38 68 72 53 www.drywall-solutions.fr info@drywall-solutions.fr

Remember to quote ©Living Magazine©

Areas 16, 17, 24, 33, 79, 86 Siret: 441 490 992 00027

Carpenter All elements of 1st and 2nd fix carpentry undertaken Over 35 years experience specialising in, but not limited to High-End Residential and Heritage Projects T: 07 80 53 54 11 E: seantheobald@outlook.com Based in 17240

Siret: 848 507 042 00010

Building services, Artisans

HAVE YOUR SHUTTERS SEEN BETTER DAYS?

Fraser W. Eade

PAINTER & DECORATOR

Siret 482 718 640 00022

Formed in 2019, building on 30 years in all sectors of the construction industry

M&M PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

L’Atelier de Fer

Building services, Artisans

Jeff’s Metalwork E I

www.jeffsmetalwork.com

64

Andy Quick

Zinc work ~ Guttering ~ Chimneys Repairs ~ Insurance Quotes

BLISHE TA

D

ES

The Roofing Company

07 SINCE 20 N

I

Registered artisan with Décennale & Civile Responsabilité Insurance Covering depts 79, 86 & 16

FRANCE

www.building-services-france.com E: andrewquick@orange.fr ~ T: 05 49 27 22 67 Siret: 499 474 302 00043

AABA ROOFING FRANCE Ecuras 16220

Assurance Décennale

Quality Roofing & Building

for you

New roofs ~ Slate and tiling Fibreglass flat roofing ~ Repairs Gutters and facias UPVC or zinc All leadwork ~ Timberwork References available

aabaroofingfrance@gmail.com 05 45 63 52 88 / 07 80 08 85 76

Siret 53210969100024

www.aabaroofingfrance.com These local businesses are waiting for your call!

65

Established reputable builder in Charente From basic changes to complete renovations, bathrooms, kitchens, floor and wall tiling, dry-lining & more Guaranteed customer satisfaction Contact me for a free no-obligation quotation Based near La Rochefoucauld, covering areas 16, 86 & 79 T: 05 45 95 44 34 or 06 98 29 76 45 E: graham.medhurst@orange.fr

A1SL COUVERTURE

Shaun B LLOYD

(ROOFING SERVICES)

A1SL COUVERTURE is a new French based company serving dept. 79, 86, 16, 17, 87, 85, 24 & 33 with well-established roofing experience previously based in the UK. We pride ourselves on top quality workmanship and excellent customer service.

We have built a solid reputation over 25 years in the UK and receive most of our work from customer recommendations.

WE COVER ALL ASPECTS OF ROOFING WORK FROM SMALL DOMESTIC REPAIRS, ROOF CLEANING AND LARGE NEW ROOF PROJECTS UTILIZING CLAY TILES AND SLATE; SPECIALIST IN LEAD WORK. Registered with the Repertoire des Métiers, siren: 877 636 050

Mobile: + 33.(0).6.95.49.60.89 Email: contacta1slroofing@gmail.com www.a1slroofing.com All work is fully guaranteed and we are fully insured.

Our services are available 6 days a week, no-obligation free estimate and no call-out fee up to 70km.

Experienced, French Registered Electrician Available for all types of electrical work renovations, small works, gate automations etc.

Insured and guaranteed Areas 16, 17, 24

05 46 86 07 61

trevor.miell@btopenworld.com Siret 49376573200015

Remember to quote ©Living Magazine©

ktaylor.renovations@gmail.com Javarzay, 79110 Chef-Boutonne Siren: 478 608 185 00011

ANDY MS Multi Services

Plumbing Electricity Plasterboarding Tiling Satellite dishes and Systems for the reception of UK and French TV Dept. 16,17 No Job too Small

05 46 49 78 30 / 06 70 40 66 01

website: andyms.free.fr email: andyms@free.fr siret:50263448800014

Building services, Artisans

ELECTRICIAN

Tel 05 17 30 18 35 Mobile 06 33 85 65 66

Building services, Artisans

Graham Medhurst Renovations

66 | LIVING LANGUAGE

Pardon?

L

iving Magazine readers are everywhere! It always makes me smile when people catch me unawares in a totally different sphere of life and say, ‘are you the Emma who writes a column in LIVING?’...I promise this won’t turn out to be a shaggy dog story.

Recently, I was presenting a session at a conference about border collies.

See, I get everywhere. And a lovely LIVING reader spotted me and asked if I was the Emma who… and she was glad to know she wasn’t barking up the wrong tree after all. I love it when my worlds collide. To be honest, though, I have been working like a dog recently. With that in mind, I thought it was about time to explore some delightful canine expressions that can cause confusion on both sides of the Channel.

Many French and English expressions relating to dogs are pretty easy to translate. Where we might say a couple were ‘fighting like cats and dogs’, in French we can say être comme chien et chat. I don’t know why English puts the cats first, and French puts the dogs. That’s one of the complexities of a language: things sometimes just sound right for no logical reason whatsoever.

But then there are others which don’t translate so easily for example, like ‘barking up the wrong tree’. If you wanted an expression in French that translated better, se mettre le doigt dans l’œil or ‘put a finger in your eye’ means to have completely got the wrong idea. I have no idea if ‘getting the wrong end of the stick’ has anything to do with dogs, but it sounds exactly the same. How joyful to have

languages where you can both bark up the wrong tree and get the wrong end of the stick.

And then there are expressions which are loosely the same, but not quite. In English we might say we’ve been ‘working like a dog’, meaning we’ve been working really hard in general. I guess it’s kind of similar that we also say we’ve been leading ‘a dog’s life’ when we’re having a hard or miserable time, which we can also say in French in the same way: une vie de chien. In French, however, avoir un mal de chien means a more specific trouble, more like one task was really difficult. Un mal de chien might even make English speakers think of being ‘as sick as a dog’ rather than making us think of hard work, where we would say être malade comme un chien in French.

If you want to get out out of work or a situation, in English, you might go to ‘see a man about a dog’. It’s a very useful expression if you have excuses to make but you don’t want to say exactly what you are doing. There is a kind of similar expression in French,

Doggie-talk with language expert Emma-Jane Lee

avoir d’autres chiens à fouetter, which means ‘to have other dogs to whip’.

Sometimes you’ll hear d’autres chats à fouetter, because if you’re going to whip dogs, you might as well try whipping a cat. If you wanted a less awful thing to do, which I suppose is kind of the point, you could always say you have d’autres chiens à peigner or ‘other dogs to comb’. Unlike our surreptitious ‘seeing a man about a dog’, however, the French term really does mean you have better things to do. If the only thing you have to do is whip a dog or a cat, you can imagine how bad the thing is that you’re currently doing. Not so much an excuse, then, as a put-down!

Perhaps you have une humeur de chien, or a dog’s mood, though.

Sometimes it’s better to just ‘let sleeping dogs lie’. This is another expression that does not translate so well into French. I think laisse ça tranquille or ‘leave it in peace’ would probably be the most simple phrase to use if you really wanted someone to let things be without ending up in the doghouse.

I started this article telling you that this wouldn’t be a shaggy dog story.

Une histoire d’un chien poilu doesn’t really mean very much in French, but you can say une histoire sans queue ni tête or ‘a story with neither tail nor head’. There are plenty of expressions in both English and French that make use of dogs in one way or another, not all of them translate in ways that make sense though!

Emma is a jack-of-all-language-trades, writing English textbooks, translating, marking exam scripts and teaching languages. See english-tuition.weebly.com

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