Living Magazine June July 2022

L i ving magazine june | july 2022

Summer is Here !

FESTIVALS GALORE Touring La Rochelle Family-Friendly Days Out & Much Much More

~ Passionate about life in south west France ~

living editor’s letter | 3

to our June/July issue

A

fter two pandemic-filled summers, what a pleasure it is to enter this one without major restrictions. It’s been a joy, once more, to pull together our festival calendar without the worry that all will be cancelled before the magazine goes to print! I’ve found it heartening that so many events are able to restart after such challenging times - the next two months are bursting with festivals and celebrations, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

In this issue, alongside our festival calendar, we continue our quest to show you some fabulous corners of our region where you can enjoy a day out away from the crowds.

We pick a few of our favourite sites from Dordogne to Vendée and across to HauteVienne that are well worth a day trip. Of course, the call of the Atlantic Coast is everpresent, so we take our bikes to La Rochelle to view this much-loved holiday destination from a different perspective. It is amazing how the cycle network has been improved over the last decade and two wheels are a great way to explore new areas. If you want to plan a longer stay then don’t miss our Ultimate Summer Guide 2022 which you can download, for free, from our website at livingmagazine.fr. It is packed full of inspiration for days out across Poitou-Charentes and it includes the festival calendar for the full summer. You can share the link with family and friends so they can have the thrill of planning their visits before they arrive.

We’re delighted to welcome author Vicki Hird to our pages who encourages us to join her in ‘rebugging’ the planet. We live in such a beautiful region that caring for our environment and helping to combat climate change are always going to be an integral part of our magazine. Please join us in any way you can.

magazine

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L i ving

So, all that remains to say is that we hope you have a wonderful, social summer and don’t forget to check out our Summer Guide!

The ultimate

A bientôt!

summer

guide

to Poitou - Charentes

editor

Updated for

2022

Bursting

with ideas for summer!

Scan the QR code or visit our website to download your free copy of our ULTIMATE SUMMER GUIDE TO POITOU-CHARENTES. It’s packed full of summer days out and festival fun!

Read online at www.livingmagazine.fr

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4 | living contents

18

5

38

6

Susan Hays casts her mind back to summers past

Local news from around the region

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Snippets

18

Our unique crossword

by Mike Morris

Ports of Call As fuel costs rise, Roger Moss turns to pedal power for a relaxed tour around the ports of La Rochelle

27

Festival Time Our picks from across the region for June and July, it’s time to party!

32

Top Days Out Our selection of great family-friendly visits away from the crowds

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40

Nikki Legon’s Cuisine With summer soirées upon us, Nikki shares apéro ideas

44

Making Changes Caro Feely explains how vineyards are adapting to climate change

46

Living Property Pages We visit Rancon in Haute-Vienne

51

Practical Advice

Rebugging the Planet

Your questions answered

Vicki Hird encourages us to look after the bugs in our lives

27

66

Pardon!

It’s time for a language revival with Emma-Jane Lee

40 any Enquiries?

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News round up Back to the Polls

Queen’s Jubilee

After Macron’s success in the Presidential election, French nationals are returning to the ballot box on two more Sundays (12 and 19 June) to elect the 577 MPs or députés who will sit in the Assemblée Nationale for the next five years. Like the Presidential election, the législatives are a two-round process, but this time candidates can also qualify for the second round if they finish third or fourth so long as they get over 12.5% of the number of registered voters in their constituency.

However, with poor turnout (only 49% of registered voters voted in 2017), it is becoming rarer to see ‘triangulaires’ or ‘quadrangulaires’ as they are called. All parties can receive state funding on top of donations if they win over 1% of the vote in at least fifty constituencies, which helps smaller parties to compete, but funding reduces if there is an imbalance between the number of women and men fielded.

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee marking 70 years of service is being celebrated in the UK with a long weekend from Thursday 2 to Sunday 4 June. The date of the Jubilee was 6 February but, as this is the day her father died, Buckingham Palace has historically preferred to celebrate in June when the weather is also better. Various events are planned around the region including those by Hope Association (see p15). In Paris, the Cérémonie de Ravivage of the flame at the Arc de Triomphe will be held in recognition of the Queen’s long relationship with France on the evening of 1 June. The Embassy will be hosting a Great British Jubilee Tea Party for members of the British Community on 21 June.

UK Voting Rights

At the end of April, the UK Government voted through the Elections Bill and royal assent was given. While several measures it contains such as the introduction of voter ID and changes impacting the independence of the Electoral Commission have been widely criticised, the bill does include the repeal of the 15-year rule which will return votes to British nationals living abroad for more than 15 years. This is the culmination of a long campaign led by veteran Harry Shindler and others. However, the date when this will come into effect has yet to be confirmed and campaigners are aware that the issues with receiving postal votes in time to vote have not been resolved.

National events There’s plenty to celebrate throughout June and July check locally for details of events near you...

Climate change is the theme for the garden-opening 2022 Rendez-Vous aux Jardins from 3-5 June.

•

Journées Européennes de l’Archéologie run from 17-19 June with family-friendly archaeological events at many historic sites across the region.

•

Fête de la Musique is held on the summer solstice, Tuesday 21 June, and will be celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

•

Fireworks and bonfires are integral to celebrations on Friday 24 June, the Fête de la Saint-Jean.

•

France’s Fête Nationale falls on Thursday 14 July and will be marked with open-air events and more fireworks.

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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)

ANGOULEME Barbezieux Aubeterresur-Dronne

News from around the region...

les charentes

Phylloxera EXPLAINED

Anyone who has visited a local vineyard or cognac house will have heard of the small aphid from America which devastated the region’s thriving viticulture economy in the second half of the 19th century.

The Phylloxera crisis permanently altered local landscapes and farming practices, culminating in the creation of Appellations d’Origines Contrôlées and the introduction of grafted vines, but only after many local farms were lost completely. A new immersive exhibition shared between Cognac’s Musée d’Art et d’Histoire (MAH) and the Musée des Savoir-Faire du Cognac (M’CO) takes visitors through these years. It runs until the end of December.

Coastal Erosion

The government has published the names of 126 communes around France which are most at risk of coastal erosion over coming years. 31 communes are along Nouvelle-Aquitaine’s coastline with six in Charente-Maritime (Fouras, Port-desBarques, Saint-Georges-d’Oléron, Les Mathes, Saint-Palais-sur-Mer and Arces).

Based on the 30-year erosion forecast, it will be prohibited to construct new buildings in areas identified as vulnerable. Land threatened in 100 years may be built upon but there will be an obligation to demolish the buildings when the sea approaches. At this stage, the aim is to raise awareness of the risks of coastal erosion and encourage management of that risk.

DIARY

The Lions Club of Saint-Jean d’Angély (17) will host a brocante and vide-grenier on Sunday 12 June at the Plan d’eau de Bernouët. To reserve a table (3€/m) ring 06 30 23 20 02. Free entry from 7am-6pm, refreshments available.

DATEs!

Le Coq et la Rose association at Villefagnan (16) are holding a fair to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee on 4 June from 2-5pm. For details see: lecoqetlarose.org Hosted by Les Amis du Château de Champagne-Mouton (16) ‘Ma Terre de Charente’ will exhibit over 70 wildlife photographs by Thomas Goursaud in the rooms of the chateau. From 1-31 July, see Facebook for details.

Pineau, Cognac Grande Champagne : 1st cru for cognac and wine

Direct sales from our Vineyard English speaking G. & C. RABY

Logis de la Brée, 16130 SEGONZAC

www.livingmagazine.fr

Tél. 05 45 83 35 69 - Portable 06 15 68 21 54

Email: contact@cognac-raby.fr - www.cognac-raby.fr

News from around the region...

Hermès Expansion

Hermès has announced the opening of a new leather goods workshop in Angoûleme in 2025.This is in addition to their workshop at Montbron (16). 250 positions will be created with more in 2026 when a workshop at Loupes (33) will open. Hermès has 52 factories and production sites across France and employs more than 17,000 people worldwide with 10,000 employees in France. These investments further underpin the reputation that the region has for luxury leatherwork, a market that is going from strength to strength.

Maison de Pierre Loti

Born in 1850 in Rochefort, Pierre Loti became a naval officer and novelist who was recognised as the finest descriptive writer, and one of the most original, of his day. His exotically furnished Rochefort home passed to his family after his death in 1923 before being sold to the local council who opened it to the public. Twelve years ago, the museum closed when serious structural issues were identified and renovation work began. The grand reopening has long been planned for the centenary of his death, 10 June 2023, as the highlight of a summer celebrating Loti. Unfortunately, this is now unlikely as the costs have spiralled and the work will not be finished in time - the renovation work is highly specialised and much of the ‘tinkering’ by Loti caused important structural damage. In addition, building material prices are increasing rapidly, raising the budget forecast from 10 to 12.5 million euros.

The summer of celebration of Loti will go ahead as planned but it may be some time until the doors to his house reopen.

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News from around the region...

La Demoiselle

Roman rendezvous

Cassinomagus at Chassenon (16) has a busy calendar of events throughout the summer starting with the Rendezvous aux Jardins on 4-6 June and, of course, the Journées Européennes de l’Archéologie on 18-19 June. In July, join in the Journées de Cérès on 2-3 July while La Guerre des Gaules will take place on 23-24 July.

Built in 1841, the suspension bridge at Tonnay-Charente (17) is one of the oldest in Europe, rising 22 metres over the Charente River to ensure the safe passage of tall ships underneath travelling to the nearby commercial

Restaurant Le Bonnieure “Hidden Gem” “Great little venue” Tel: 05 45 39 67 66 Open Wednesday - Sunday 12h-13h30 & 19h-21h 106 Avenue de la République 16260 Chasseneuil-sur-Bonnieure

port. Measuring an impressive 623m long and 5m wide, the bridge had a chequered safety history and was finally closed to all motorised traffic in 1964.

With its wonderful views over the local countryside to the mouth of the Charente, the bridge became a haven for walkers and cyclists. Apart from some safety work carried out in 2007/8 little has been done to the bridge in recent years. An inspection in 2020 raised the alarm that refurbishment work was required urgently, and the first phase was completed this April. The next phase is a much larger project to reface the stonework and repair the roadway.

This will begin in 2023 at a cost of 1.4 million euros, some of which has not yet been secured after the town failed to convince the Loto du Patrimoine to support the much needed renovation.

Lunchtime menu for €13.50 (except weekends) Limousin beef & homemade chips Salads Childrens’ menu Vegetarian options Reservation recommended English spoken

©Grand Cognac/Destination Cognac

Suspension Bridge

After Cognac’s popular tourist attraction, the flat-bottomed gabare ‘Dame Jeanne’ sank in the winter of 2016, she was considered too expensive to repair given the state of the town’s finances. The promised third-party restaurant-boat replacement never materialised, and tourists instead boarded the department’s boat ‘La Renaissance’ at Saint-Simon, to the frustration of Cognac’s tourism businesses. Eventually, with help from La Charente council and the state, the necessary 771,000 euros was raised for a new boat to be built in Spain with a twin to replace ‘La Renaissance’.

While ’La Demoiselle’ is flat-bottomed to navigate the river, it is not a replica gabare having an aluminium hull and a hybrid engine. She has now been delivered and carefully lowered into the Charente at Cognac where she will run two trips each day, a 2-hour voyage with breakfast in the morning, and another voyage lasting 1 hour 45 minutes in the afternoon.

HOUSE BOATS FOR HIRE

CANOE AND PEDALO RENTAL By the hour or longer

Discover the river Charente from Angoulême to Rochefort - ‘the most beautiful river of the kingdom’ according to François 1. Enjoy the local wildlife, meander through historic villages. Visit cognac and pineau producers and delight in the local gastronomy.

For 2-10 people Minimum 2 days, mid-weeks or weeks 1 hour from Bordeaux, Poitiers & Limoges Brochure free on request

PHOTOS © This photo: S. Jonquez. R: Côté Charente Top middle: S. Laval

No driving licence required

Make the most of a few hours, half a day or a whole day in this wonderful setting

Pont de Sireuil, 16440 SIREUIL +33 (0)5 45 90 58 18 intercroisieres@orange.fr www.intercroisieres.com

Affiliated to

Restaurant le Scorlion 5 rue de l’abbaye, 17400 St Jean d’Angély Tel: 05 46 32 52 61 restaurant-le-scorlion@hotmail.com www.restaurant-le-scorlion.fr

All day wine bar Lunch: delicious bistrot fare Dinner: tapas to share Wednesday to Saturday (all day) Sunday (evening)

• Terrace in Abbaye Royale courtyard • Fresh, local produce • Tues-Fri business lunch menu only • Evenings & weekends, à la carte

(average 40€ per person without drinks)

• 4 entrées, mains and desserts, changed regularly • Reservations recommended • Parking Follow us on Le Scorlion and see website for details www.restaurant-le-scorlion.fr

22 seats inside, delightful terrace facing the market square 4 place du Marché, St Jean d’Angély Information and reservations: Tel: 05 46 59 00 53 lepetitbouchon17

Nontron

Brantôme

Riberac

PÉRIGUEUX

DORDOGNE (24)

Bergerac

Montignac

Sarlat-laCanéda

News from around the region...

Dordogne

BERGERAC Biogas

Processionary Caterpillars

A government decree has officially identified both pine and oak processionary caterpillars (chenilles processionnaires) as harmful species in France. The caterpillars carry tiny hairs covered in toxin which can cause irritation and respiratory problems in humans and may be fatal to animals. They are easily recognisable as they travel in single file down tree trunks from their characteristic tentlike nests. Warmer weather has helped the moths move across France and numbers are increasing with milder winters. Pine caterpillars are mostly reported between January and April with oak caterpillars reported from May to July. The nests may retain hairs which can be released in the wind meaning that irritation may occur without even seeing a caterpillar. Various methods of control are being trialled although eradication is not seen as a viable option. The health authority recommend that you do not approach or touch the caterpillars or their nests, you wear long clothes on forest walks and avoid touching your eyes. Wash garden fruit and vegetable well and don’t dry your laundry near infested trees. If you think you may have been exposed, take a shower and change your clothes. Animals who have sniffed or eaten caterpillars should be immediately taken to a vet.

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As the Ukraine war brings the purchase of Russian gas into focus, a biomass project at Saint-Antoine de Breuilh near Bergerac offers a glimpse of a future solution. The sixth site in France designed by CVE, a renewable energy specialist, the unit operates using 17,000 tonnes of raw materials all collected within an hour’s journey. Grape residues from wineries, paper waste from Lalinde, and fatty food residues are digested by anaerobic bacteria to produce methane and an inert residue useable as agricultural fertiliser. The methane extracted can supply 1,800 homes with gas for a year. CVE estimates that 30-40% of European gas requirements could be met through methanation and plans a total of sixty sites through France. Several farms across the region already have smaller plants to convert their waste into energy but local residents are not always happy to have plants in the vicinity – perhaps the current situation will help to change attitudes.

Clean Streets

Bergerac hit the news recently when the council introduced the highest fines in France for dogs fouling the footpaths. Tired of cleaning up after dog owners, mayor Jonathan Prioleaud has raised the fine for a first offence to 135€ which will increase up to 750€ for persistent offenders. Many commentators have pointed out that this is equivalent to a kilo of local truffles! Help is at hand as Bergerac offers free bags to clean up after your pets, but you must carry two bags at all times or risk a 38€ fine. Time will tell if this leads to cleaner footpaths…

News from around the region...

DIARY

DATE!

Classical music lovers near Issigeac won’t want to miss the concerts performed by the IIMA String Academy with visiting Piatti Quartet and violinist Ishani Bhoola. The concerts run from 21-25 June.

Tickets cost 10€ – for details, see iimusic academy.com.

Périgueux Discoveries

Excavations prior to the construction of a new building in the Cité Administrative district in Périgueux have revealed centuries-old tombs which themselves are laid on Gallo-Roman remains from a thousand years earlier. The forty sarcophagi are thought to date back to the 6th century and be among the first Christian burials in the area since they are arranged around the first known Christian church. 50cm underneath the tombs are walls from a well-constructed building only about fifty metres from the preserved Domus de Vesunna (right).

A specialist team of archaeologists have been brought in for two years to carefully reveal the site’s secrets.

Radar Cars

The latest weapons in the fight against speeding have reached Dordogne. Four unmarked radar cars are now circulating driven by employees of private companies. The cars can operate 24 hours a day 7 days a week and can measure speeds in both directions.

The companies will drive routes controlled by the Préfecture and will not know when the radars are operating nor how many speeding cars they have captured. Police will still mount random checks but will have more time to dedicate to other activities.

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de moutier

St Jean de Mon

Parthenay

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St Gilles Croi

LA ROCHE SUR-YON Les Sables d’Olonne

Chantonnay

VENDÉE (85)

Luçon

La Tranche sur Mer

DEUX SEVRES (79)

St-MaixentL’école

NIORT aise

Sévre Niort

Melle

News from around the region...

Villa Perochon

The Centre for Contemporary Photographic Art in Niort (79) has reopened to the public after refurbishment work was completed on its upper floors. Set in the Villa Perochon, former home of writer Ernest Pérochon, it has a large exhibition space set over two floors. An art library to hold 3,000 photographs by the association Pour l’instant from their annual creative residence ‘Rencontres de la jeune photographie internationale’ is currently being installed on the first floor, while the second floor will become film and digital photo laboratories. Exhibitions are held throughout the year, the current one features the work of Frédéric Stucin who spends one week a month with the patients and caregivers at the psychiatric hospital in Niort. For details see: cacp-villaperochon.com.

Parc de Pierre-Brun

Nestled in the Mervent forest (85), close to Mervent itself, this outdoor park is a popular destination for families with its multitude of activities including trampolines, inflatables, minigolf, giant slides and original games. Jump aboard the Petit Train to see everything the park has to offer. 2022 brings the opening of a new giant inflatable and a dwarf goat petting area while

Les Foulées du Gois

© Roger Morisseau

Deux-sèvres & Vendée

Once the only way to reach the Île de Noirmoutier (85) from the mainland other than by boat, the 4150m-long Passage du Gois is a natural phenomenon. Twice a day, for a few hours, the sea reveals a causeway formed by sediment deposited where two opposing currents meet. The Passage was first noted on a map in 1701, but it was around 1840 that a regular service between Île de Noirmoutier and Beauvoir-sur-Mer began – first on horseback and then later by car. It wasn’t until the 1970s that the nearby road bridge was built. Because of its exposed situation and the unique challenge of racing against the tide, the Passage has long attracted race organisers, including the Tour de France several times. Each year Les Foulées du Gois draws over 2,000 participants from around the world for a day of races culminating in the 6pm invitation-only 4000m ‘Race against the Sea’ featuring 30 athletes, 15 women and 15 men. In 2022, Les Foulées will be held on Sunday 19 June, find out more at: lesfouleesdugois.com.

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DIARY

DATE!

Les Amis de SaintSavinien put women in music at the heart of this year’s Festival de Melle running from 10-19 June at the Eglise SaintSavinien. For the full programme of concerts and to reserve tickets, see festivaldemelle.fr.

News from around the region...

Mad Hatter’s Wonderland Festival

Echo, their mascot, appears daily. There are evening openings through the summer, just check the website for details. Refreshments are available on site or bring your own picnic to enjoy in the grounds. The park is open daily through the school holidays, and weekends and bank holidays in June and September. See www.pierre-brune.com for ticket details and full opening times.

Black-Eyed Peas performing 11 July

Summer heralds the welcome return of the Wonderland Festival after two years of covid cancellations. This family-run festival set in the heart of the Poitou-Charentes countryside is celebrating its 10th edition from 12-14 August, bringing to you an eclectic selection of music from talented bands including Ultimate Eagles, Legend of Springsteen and The Hawkmen. Book for the weekend and enjoy the food hall with its fried breakfasts and freshly prepared food, as well as the two bars serving a large choice of drinks including Perigord real ale. Don’t miss the BBQ serving their famous pulled pork. A campsite is available for tents, caravans and motorhomes and there are glamping tents to hire. For tickets and the full line-up, see: www.madhatterswonderlandfestival.com.

Loudon

Chatellerault

POITIERS

VIENNE (86)

Chauvigny Montmorillon

Le Dorat

Charroux Civray

Bellac Nieul

Rochechouart

St-Mathieu

vienne & News from around the region... haute-vienne Adding Value Insect City

Ambazac

LIMOGES

HAUTE-VIENNE (87)

St-Yriex-la-Perche

Family farms often look for ways to diversify and you only have to look at two farms just outside Civray (86) to see how entrepreneurial some are. At the farm of the family Mérigot at Linazay, daughter Adéline is into her second year of strawberry farming after leaving her studies to pursue her dream. Normally only grown further south, the fruit is marketed under the brand ‘Les Délices du Sillon’ and can be found at markets across the area as well as in local shops and supermarkets. You can also buy directly from the farm. For the opening hours see Facebook: Les-Délices-du-Sillon. Meanwhile, just down the road in Saint-Saviol, the family Naudin have spent the past 4 years converting their land to organic farming. Laurent Naudin grows and harvests their wheat and other crops while Sylvie mills the flour and makes five different types of dried pasta including tagliatelle and lasagne.

These are sold directly from the farm as well as at local markets and shops. For full details of stockists see fermedesouches.com.

Both farms are close to the N10.

If you are enthused by our Rebugging feature (see p51) then why not take a visit to La Cité des Insectes at Nedde (87).

Dedicated to insects, the site is home to the extensive collection of Didier Mazeau, a Limousin entomologist, which was further developed by Mike Evans. Jim and Régine Elliott took over the collection in 2006 which has now received the collections of other amateur entomologists and holds over 15,000 specimens from around the world. Visit the vivarium which hosts European and exotic species as well as two ant colonies which you can observe as they go about their work.

Presentations, workshops and exhibitions are regularly planned and there are usually English speakers on site.

See lacitedes insectes.com for full details.

Drought Warnings

In early May, ten departments in France had already received alerts for drought conditions including Vienne, Deux-Sèvres, Charente and Charente-Maritime. Annual rainfall is down considerably on previous years and the concern is that this deficit will worsen as temperatures increase into summer. Without the necessary water reserves, it will become increasingly difficult to provide the vast amount of water required for agriculture and farmers are being urged to rethink their approach in light of climate change. To check to see if there are restrictions in place for your commune, visit the government-run site Propluvia where four levels of alert are identified from Vigilence to Crise. Vigilence asks households to take care with water usage, while Alerte, Alerte renforcée and Crise all place restrictions on usage for non-essential purposes such as washing vehicles and watering gardens.

www.hotel-valdevienne.com Join us, Melanie and Jean-Christophe, at our delightful Hotel de Charme on the banks of the Vienne. Relax in our outdoor, heated swimming pool and our on-site restaurant open to guests (and friends) for dinner Mon-Sat. Homemade Food - Menu du Jour changes daily featuring regional specialities. 3-course meal 25-27€ (7-9pm, reservation required).

1 hour from Poitiers, close to Le Vigeant race track.

Event venue hosting up to 44 people - weddings / meetings and more.

Welcome drink offered to all guests booking through LIVING!

Port de Salles 86150 Le Vigeant | Tel: 05 49 48 27 27 www.livingmagazine.fr contact@hotel-restaurant-valdevienne.com

Organic Farmers’ Markets La Ferme de Chassagne at Villefagnan (16240)

Food & drink from local producers, crafts, beer & fresh organic bread from our farm bakery and some 25 other stalls

Meals and refreshments available & live music www.fermedechassagne.fr

Summer Fridays, join us from 6pm on: 3rd June, 1st & 15th July & 3rd August

News from around the region...

Summer Guide 2022

Held annually since 1995, Sport & Collection’s ‘500 Ferrari contre le cancer’ at the Val de Vienne (86) racetrack has raised over five million euros for the cancer unit at the CHU Poitiers. The event’s programme includes demonstrations and races of Ferraris of all ages over three days (3-5 June) as well as regular air displays by the Armée de l’Air. In recent years, a Concours d’Élégance has been added on Saturday evening before the Gala dinner. The 220km-long touristic rally on local roads to a historic site featuring some 200 Ferraris will depart from l’Isle Jourdain from 8-10am on Saturday morning.

Racetrack tickets cost from 12€ with under-12s free. See sportetcollection.info for the full programme.

magazine

Ferrari Days

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L i ving

The Vienne leisure park has launched an ambitious plan that will see 300 million euros invested over ten years as it aims to become a prime European destination and increase its visitors to 650,000 per year. Earlier this year the Station Cosmos Hotel opened, a family hotel designed like a Galactic station with rooms inspired by the worlds of science fiction and high tech. The hotel incorporates the Space Loop restaurant in which your food is ordered on touchscreens and delivered to your table via an impressive system of rails and loops. In July the first of three new attractions will open. Tornado Chasers is an immersive adventure which aims to raise awareness of a growing phenomenon linked to climate change and rising sea levels - the increase in the number of tornadoes around the world. Prepare to enter the very heart of a tornado! Don’t forget to use the voucher on our back cover which will unlock a generous 6€ per person discount.

www.livingmagazine.fr

News from Futuroscope

We’re very excited to bring you the updated Ultimate Summer Guide to Poitou-Charentes 2022! For the past two summers it hasn’t been possible to publish our popular Summer Guide, not least because so much was closed.

But now it’s back! Our handy flipbook is available online and is free to download wherever you are in the world, so share the link with your friends and family before they arrive to help them plan their trips. We show you where to go and what to do plus it contains the festival calendar for the full summer and links to all the attractions you won’t want to miss. And, as the Guide’s online, we can update it as more attractions announce their summer plans, so check back regularly.

The ulti ma te

summer

guide to Poitou - Charentes Updat e for d

2022

Bursting

with ideas for summer!

18 | living in profile

Ports of Call As fuel costs rise, we turn to pedal power for a relaxed tour around the ports of La Rochelle WORDS & PHOTOS: ROGER MOSS

Quai Georges Simenon

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T

oday just about everyone, it seems, knows of La Rochelle, if only for the irresistibly photogenic Vieux Port, one of the jewels of the Atlantic Coast. If you’re a mariner, however, you’ll be aware that it’s just one of several active local ports, each possessing its own quite distinct character. With that in mind we decided to spend a day discovering them, preferably not merely through the windscreen of a car. That gave us an idea: as the locations are relatively close together, we’d put La Rochelle’s long-standing reputation for bike-friendliness to the test and get around using only clean, green pedal power.

The first fine sunny day finds us driving to the Port des Minimes, where we park on the quayside, unload our bikes and set off in blissful near silence for a tour of France’s largest port de plaisance. Constructed in 1972 beside a modest headland affording natural protection to La Rochelle’s existing ports, the works expanded the

living places to visit | 19

The Vieux Port’s medieval fortifications

The 12th century Porte de la Grosse Horloge overlooks the Vieux Port

total pleasure craft capacity to 4,588 moorings, 464 of them dedicated to visiting vessels. Close to the marina entrance we chance upon a couple of fishermen casting their lines from the rocky breakwater, while some way beyond them is the striking red and black outline of the historic Tour Richelieu, which since 1860 has indicated the safe approach to La Rochelle’s ports. Still an essential aid to navigation, it sits upon the northern end of a dyke built in 1627–1628 by Cardinal Richelieu to prevent English ships from reprovisioning the largely Protestant city during the siege of La Rochelle.

From the quayside’s seaward tip we now turn our bikes to circumnavigate the marina, to the accompaniment of

the metallic clank of thousands of lines on a forest of masts. Being car-free is already paying dividends, as we have a dedicated cycle path which follows a quayside shaded here and there by the elegant, gossamer foliage of mature Tamarisk trees. On the Quai Marillac we roll past a slipway and beside it a grue de manutention – a muscularlooking skeletal crawler unit capable of lifting vessels onto dry land for repairs or routine procedures (with support from various chandlery and maintenance businesses). A little further on lies the Quai du Bout Blanc, extending to the marina entrance and home to premium épicerie and traiteur Le Comptoir d’Assia.

A couple of minutes later we pause at the Passerelle Nelson Mandela,

Le Phare Rouge aids those entering the Vieux Port

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20 | living places to visit Late afternoon in Les Minimes

www.livingmagazine.fr

a slender metallic structure allowing walkers and cyclists to access the Digue du Nouveau Monde, a breakwater which in 2014 boosted capacity in the marina by the creation of the Bassin des Tamaris. It’s an elegant and striking addition to the landscape, although by now our attention is drawn to the very different views in the opposite direction, where the medieval Tour Saint-Nicolas and Tour de la Chaine mark the entrance to the Vieux Port.

Road traffic heading their way follows the Avenue Michel Crépeau, while we cyclists simply continue along the quayside, an altogether calmer approach to the port of Le Gabut.

For generations the Vieux Port had accommodated La Rochelle’s fishing fleet and small coastal vessels, but by the mid-19th century it could no longer keep pace with merchant shipping, so in 1862 the new Bassin des Chalutiers was constructed, with a sea lock for access at high water to the Canal de Rompsay.

Constructed by order of Napoléon I the waterway linked La Rochelle with Marans and onward to Niort via the

Sèvre Niortaise. Eventually, however, merchant shipping again outgrew the facilities, so when activities shifted to the new coastal port of La Pallice La Rochelle’s fishing fleet took their place.

The fishing port remained there until the Port Chef de Baie was completed in 1994 just below La Pallice. After years of abandonment Bassin des Chalutiers was transformed to receive the Musée Maritime de La Rochelle, with a fascinating collection of historic vessels and a wealth of archive material recounting the town’s seafaring heritage.

From Le Gabut we cross another historic local feature – a much-loved iron lifting bridge originally built for the port of Marseille in 1927 and transported here by sea in 1936.

After cycling across we join a crowd gathering to witness it cranking noisily from its slumbers and raising its deck to permit an approaching large sailing vessel to enter the bassin. We enjoy the timeless spectacle, then follow the newly landscaped quayside of Rue de l’Armide past the Phare Rouge and across the slender Passerelle du Gabut, pausing to

photo above: © AURélie Stapf - porteurdesonge.com/La Vélodyssée

Le Gabut’s antique lifting bridge

Views are just as spectacular on the way back

living places to visit | 21 (one of La Rochelle’s most desirable addresses), at whose midpoint we pass the enigmatic-looking Casino Barrière. Forgoing the undoubted pleasures of the Parc Franck Delmas on the landward side, we dive into the welcome shade of its counterpart, the Parc Alcide d’Orbigny, and emerge from the tree cover virtually at the water’s edge. Sadly the path doesn’t follow the cliff edge until Rue Philippe Vincent gives way to Boulevard

Winston Churchill, a freshly restyled promenade with a bright future.

Following the coastline takes us around the sleepy Baie de Port Neuf and past a modern boatyard to join a track which passes la Redoute de Chef de Baie, a massive fortified tower whose cannon were installed here during the 19th century to defend the seaward approaches to La Rochelle.

From here the clifftop path shared by walkers and cyclists winds its way The Bassin Tamaris and Passarelle Nelson Mandela

regard the vessels moored in the Bassin à Flot, smallest of the ports. By now it’s midday, so we dismount and break for lunch in Rue Saint-Nicolas.

Suitably refuelled, we set off again, negotiating the crowds thronging Quai Valin and Quai Duperré, followed by a brief detour past the medieval Tour de la Lanterne and the Plage de la Concurrence to reach the pleasantly leafy cycle path of the Allée du Mail

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22 | living places to visit

La Plage Chef de Baie

La Rochelle encourages two-wheeled exploration

between dense hedges, emerging on a windswept grassy headland. Just 50 or so metres inland lies a substantial German WWII blockhouse, while directly ahead is a more welcoming sight: the Bar de la Plage, overlooking a sheltered sandy beach. Seated

12/08 13/08 14/08

beneath a colourful parasol we enjoy a cool drink at one of the tables of the terrace and watch the bathers on the beach below, oblivious to the fact that just out of sight beyond the cove lie La Rochelle’s Port de Pêche and Port Atlantique La Pallice. The latter, inaugurated in 1890 and today France’s 6th busiest port, is understandably a secure site, so we content ourselves with views through the perimeter fencing. Contrasting with the expected modern facilities is the unmistakable, slightly sinister outline of a vast U-boat complex built by occupying German forces during 1941-43, and whose 6.5m thick reinforced concrete roofs resisted several direct hits by Allied bomber crews. Perhaps not surprisingly, this fascinating survivor has provided fittingly atmospheric locations for major film productions including Das Boot and Raiders of The Lost Ark. By now it’s late afternoon, and while the ports we’ve visited look close on the

Ultimate Eagles, Legend of Springsteen, The Hawkmen, Captain Accident and the Disasters, Barefoot Bandit, King Brasstards, Rudy Warman and the Heavy Weather (tbc), Bex Marshall, Fast Laundry Machine, Monday Night Project

PLUS MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED ON SITE CAMPING AND GLAMPING FOR FURTHER DETAILS CALL 0549 27 67 29 MAD HATTER’S KITCHEN, LE BREUILLAC, 79190 CAUNAY www.madhattersfrance.eu info@madhatters.eu

www.livingmagazine.fr www.madhatterswonderlandfestival.com

Yellow is Green: Bike Hire is Simple

La Rochelle now has 700 of its famous yellow bikes, available for hire at 100 locations. Find them on an interactive town map on the Yélo smartphone app or at: yelo-larochelle.fr. Either way you’ll find lots of information, including pricing and availability (choose classic or e-bikes) in real time. Need to park your own bike while shopping or dining? There are 10 secure Vélos Parcs, each with 20 places and accessible with a Carte Yélo (see the website).

The town also has several independent bike hire outlets, including Cycling Tour, which you’ll find beside the Tour Saint-Nicolas and right in front of the Gare SNCF – travel to and from La Rochelle by train and enjoy a truly green day out. cycling-tour.fr

map, the wayward route and diversity of scenery along the way create the impression of having covered quite some distance. We therefore decide to save the tiny Port du Plomb, just 2km or so to the north of the airport, for a future visit, and retrace our route back to our starting point at Les Minimes.

It’s an enjoyable ride (things look different when seen in the opposite direction), and we have a sense of achievement as we load the bikes back into the car. That it was all so simple was due in no small part to La Rochelle’s pioneering efforts to promote greener tourism.

Port Ouvert: La Pallice Open Day 2022

Le Port Atlantique at La Pallice welcomes visitors for just one day each year – this year’s 10th Edition runs from 10am–7pm on Sunday, 26 June. You’ll discover how the port operates, meet professionals and learn about their jobs through activities and guided tours. You can also explore the site by walking the quaysides and visiting the ships present, in what promises to be a great family-friendly day out.

24 | living promotion

Days out in

North Charente

Shaped by History

Meet up with family and friends... Discover new surroundings... Relax...

Meander... Savour...

Take time out to enjoy unique experiences in beautiful countryside all in Nord Charente.

At your own pace, discover and admire the remains of centuries past. At the heart of each village lies a small Romanesque jewel. If the Abbey of St-Amant-deBoixe stands out for its size and majesty, the Romanesque churches of Lichères, Courcôme or Empuré will touch you with their simplicity and authenticity. Going back much further in time, dolmens and tumuli from the Neolithic period still flourish in Nord Charente! Bring a torch to explore the B tumulus in the Fôret de Boixe, a sculpted axe will be revealed.

Remember your walking shoes to go round the giant tumuli of Tusson. They are among the largest tumuli in Europe, up to 123 metres long!

Nature Preserved

In Nord Charente, we like to take care of our environment. Ten different gardens can be found across our area. You can

listen to water burbling along the canal in the Jardins de l’Argentor at the heart of Nanteuil-en-Vallée. Or discover secrets about water and wetlands at the Jardins Éphémères de l’Isle Nature in St-Fraigne.

How about losing yourself in the narrow streets of charming villages? Our ‘Nature & Patrimoine’ walks guide you as you discover how nature blends with our Charente architecture and the warm colour of our stone. Explore St-Groux, Vouharte... a dozen other short walks are available free of charge, just follow the snail! Here nature is multifaceted; discover the valley of the Charente, run through the vineyards, look out over the plains. And you are free to choose how to explore the area. On horseback? Alongside a donkey? By horse-drawn carriage? By bike? By canoe? In a 2CV? By paraglider?

www.livingmagazine.fr

Excite your Taste Buds

In Nord Charente, awaken your senses with our producers who are devoted to their land and their products. The ‘brioche feuilletée’ from the Moulin de Verteuil is as delectable as its native village, a Petite Cité de Caractère®. For those with a sweet tooth, Gâteaux à Tusson is a must; its delightful pink-fronted tearoom is bedecked with plants and flowers. Relax by the stove or on the shady terrace as you indulge in delicious

living promotion | 29

don’t miss home-made cakes. Fancy some cheese? In Pougné, Chez Boye farm awaits you - watch the milking of the goats and taste their cheeses. Lovers of cognac and local history should head to the Domaine des Chaillis at Ligné, home to Alain Tallon. Wine grower and distiller, he is a master of his ‘terroir’ from the earth to the bottle.

Discover Craft Secrets

Passionate artisans invite you to discover their fascinating work. Admire the beauty of an ancient craft, a contemporary creation or a restored artwork as these women and men preserve traditional and complex techniques. Endowed with limitless creativity, their ‘savoir-faire’ is itself a treasure to be appreciated as they take time to share their craft with you.

The historic village of Tusson is a haven for artisans. Anne Pinto has been working with stained glass for many years. Thanks to the Archipelle association, you too can learn about this delicate art.

FB: associationarchipelle Next door is the “cabinet of curiosities” by sculptor Marc Deligny. In this temple of quirkiness, Mitterrand stands next to a caricature of Sarkozy, a bust of Picasso and a 3-metre-tall John Paul II. www.sculpteur-marcdeligny.com In the Couvent des hommes, Flory Conesas has opened a workshop-boutique.

His ceramics, whether for tableware or decoration, are embellished with floral and

graphic motifs. www.auxgresdesvents.fr In Nanteuil-en-Vallée, a Petite Cité de Caractère® nestled in the heart of a valley, you will find an abbey, gardens and artisans. Julie Prouhet works with textiles, painting the patterns of the fabrics she sews. Pouches, cushions, but also small, unusual objects, it is a whole universe to discover. www.ohlapetitereine.com Jean-François Coulon’s workshop is the realm of wooden games: puzzles, acrobats, jigsaws, magic snakes... His workshop has a woody and nostalgic fragrance. ateliertruckembois.e-monsite.com

• After being restored and enlarged in 2021, the Jardins de l’Argentor in Nanteuil-en-Vallée celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of their creator Eugène Buraud.

Activities are planned for July and August, joining with other gardens designed by this Charente architect and landscaper.

• Pauses Romanes and Pause Néo, all summer long: 1 hour guided tour to discover the secrets of a church, a dolmen or a tumulus...

• Don’t forget the Active Summer programme where you will find a multitude of activities. eteactif16.lacharente.fr

www.ruffecois-tourisme.com

05 45 31 05 42

Outdoor Sports in Nord Charente The Réjallant at Condac and the Champion site in Mansle have been labelled ‘Station Sports Nature’ by the Charente department. Several sports activities are all available in the same place: canoeing, hiking, mountain bike circuits...

For more details: sportsdenature16.lacharente.fr

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PÉRIGORD Dronne Belle

living festivals | 27

Festival Time!

Highland Games, Bressuire (79)

After a difficult couple of years, festivals are back across the region. We’re delighted to see that the majority of our favourites are planning events this summer so here’s our pick for June & July...

Les

Highland Games

S arabandes

11-12 June

Bressuire (79)

A weekend of Celtic sports & music.

International Highland Games competitions plus pipe bands, Scottish & Irish dancers and a Ceilidh with Kilteel from Ireland. highlandgames-france.eu

Vaux-Rouillac (16) SPECTACLES | MISE EN LUMIÈRE | EXPOSITIONS

24 25 & 26 ˙

Freemusic

JUIN

17-19 June Lac de Montendre (17) La Palène : L-R-2021-007025-007026-007027 - Création Verlaine Etc

Popular modern music festival which attracts over 20,000 revellers. This year’s line-up includes Damso, Feu! Chatterton, Jungle and M.I.A. freemusic-festival.com

Festival Moul’Stock Charron (17)

Musiques Métisses

Notes en Vert

Angoulême (16)

Périgny (17)

24-25 June

3-5 June

This year the street art and music festival visits Vaux-Rouillac. The whole village will be taken over by numerous artists presenting a wide range of styles in gardens, barns and open spaces. The eclectic events programme is popular with families, and there are refreshments on site. Opening times and prices change each day so check the website for details. lapalene.fr

29 June-22 July

10th edition of this rock festival with a side helping of over 2 tonnes of mussels! moulstock.fr

Un festival pas comme les autres !

Vaux-Rouillac (16)

Festival de Poupet

24-25 June

www.lapalene.fr

Les Sarabandes 24-26 June

Poupet (85)

Celebrating its 35th edition with a star-studded programme including MC Solaar, Stromae and Black Eyed Peas. festival-poupet.com

Festival Urbaka

World music and literature festival with performers and authors coming from around the globe. musiques-metisses.com

Eco-festival with bio market and three nights of ticketed concerts featuring La Rue Kétanou, Danakil and more. Entry to the Nature Village is free. notesenvert.fr

Festival Saint-Jazz-sur-Vie

Festival International du Pastel 25 June – 28 August

Niort Jazz Festival

Saint Gilles Croix de Vie (85)

Feytiat (87)

Niort (79)

3-5 June

Pastel exhibitions, weekend workshops, meet-the-artist with Penelope Milner as guest of honour. pastellistesdefrance.com

Melle (79)

Two weekends of classical music concerts held in the Romanesque SaintSavinien church, founded in 1040.

‘Women in Music’ is the focus for this year’s programme which includes a Bulgarian ensemble and culminates with a performance of Saint-Saëns by two artists from the Paris Conservatory. festivaldemelle.com

magazine

r www.livingmagazine.f

Festival de Melle 10-19 June

L i v in g

Long standing jazz festival attracting national and international artists culminating with a concert by the Swing Shouters. saint-jazz-sur-vie.com

The ul tim at e

summer

guide

rentes

to Poitou - Cha

Updated for

2022

Burstifonrgsummer!

with ideas

29 June -2 July Limoges (87)

Free street festival enjoyed by thousands of spectators. urbaka.com

29 June – 1 July

Held at Parc Pré-Leroy, ticketed concerts include Popa Chubby, Roberto Fonseca and Melody Gardot with free concerts each day too. niortjazzfestival.com

For the full listing of festivals across PoitouCharentes and surrounds, we’re excited to share our updated ULTIMATE SUMMER GUIDE on our website. As well as festivals, we show you where to visit across the region with hundreds of ideas for days out. If you have friends or family visiting, why not send them the link so they too can see everything the area has to offer. And the best bit? It’s FREE to download! www.livingmagazine.fr

2022

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28 | living festivals

Ben Harper will perform at Cognac Blues Festival

Les Heures Vagabondes 8 July-13 August Throughout Vienne (86)

11 free concerts throughout the Vienne département over the summer months – artists include Bénebar and Les Négresses Vertes. lesheuresvagabondes.fr

Journées Artisanales 14-15 July

Angles Sur l’Anglin (86)

Multi-Pistes

30 June – 14 August

Festival de la Vézère

Nexon (87)

Brive and surrounds (19)

A mix of thrilling live performances, music and visual arts exhibitions at Nouvelle-Aquitaine’s centre for circus arts. lesirque.com

Festival Respire Jazz 1-3 July

Montmoreau (16)

Relax as you enjoy jazz concerts at this eco-festival in the grounds of the Abbaye de Puypéroux. respirejazzfestival.com

FEMA

1-10 July

La Rochelle (17)

The 50th edition of the international film festival will pay tribute to legendary actor and filmmaker Alain Delon. festival-larochelle.org

Bouillez!

1-2 July

Bouillé Saint-Paul (79)

Street theatre and circus acts at the centre of this Deux-Sèvres village. bouillez.net

Aux Ormes Mozartiens 2-4 July

Les Ormes (86)

Chamber music festival in the 18th century Relais de la Poste offering the opportunity to meet the musicians. laposteauxchevaux.com

Festival au Village 2-9 July

Brioux-surBoutonne (79)

Ten days of festivities with theatre, music, food and good times taking over the village streets. festivalauvillage.fr

www.livingmagazine.fr

5 July – 16 August

A classical summer with 150 artists performing at 19 events at 13 locations. festival-vezere.com

See craftspeople from all over France demonstrating traditional skills along with displays of steam-powered vehicles, an exhibition of famous women and a bio market. anglessuranglin.com

Bandafolies 13-17 July

Bessines-sur-Gartempe (87)

Cognac Blues Passions 6-10 July Cognac (16)

A firm favourite in festival calendars, the heart of Cognac welcomes renowned international artistes to play in the town’s gardens. This year’s headliners include Simple Minds, Ben Harper, Francis Cabrel and Liam Gallagher with a range of emerging talents supporting them on the three stages. Ticket-only evening concerts are backed up by many more performances (some free) in venues around the town. bluespassions.com

RIFE

12-16 July Saint-Maixent d’Ecole (79)

Les Rencontres Internationales Folkloriques Enfantines (RIFE) brings brings together children from across the world to celebrate music and dance. rife.asso.fr

The World of Queen and Brooklyn United Marching Band will help celebrate the 25th edition of this ‘bandas’ festival which incorporates a brocante and more. bandafolies.com

Francofolies 13-17 July

La Rochelle (17)

One of the top music festivals in France, featuring a wealth of popular French talent.

More than 100 concerts are planned over five days and nights with many of them free, including shows for younger audiences and emerging talents. Headliners in 2022 include Angèle, Mika, Julien Doré and OrelSan. francofolies.fr

FLIP

13-24 July Parthenay (79)

The Festival Ludique International de Parthenay (FLIP) fills the town centre with thousands of gamers and street artists celebrating all things playable, from board games to video games. jeux-festival.com

Immobilière du Haut Limousin 41 avenue de la Gare - 87210 LE DORAT Tel. : 06 43 84 34 17 joelledinard@orange.fr

WE ARE RECRUITING! Start a new career as a property sales agent

54 800€ FAI - BUSSIERE POITEVIN 4-bed terraced home in the centre of town. Cellar, attic, garden with outbuilding.

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56 000€ FAI LE DORAT Ideal first rental investment or for starting a business.

Corner shop front, garage, 4-bed flat Energie & Climat: n/a 12% fees Ref 943

77 000€ FAI - DINSAC 3-bed house with workshop, barn, shed and garden. Roof redone in 2006, double glazing.

Energie: n/a Climat: n/a

10% fees Ref 917

180 200€ FAI - LE DORAT INVESTORS - good rental income. 5 apartments, shop and garage with potential to increase.

Energie & Climat: n/a 6% fees Ref 992

36 600€ FAI - DROUX To renovate: 2 rooms downstairs and 3 beds upstairs and potential bathroom. Garden, mains drains,

Energie & Climat:en cours

I’ve never liked having a fixed hour or fixed salary job, so being an independent agent seemed like a perfect fit.

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If you would like the freedom to grow a successful business supported by an award winning team, please contact our recruitment department:

58 240€ FAI - LUSSAC-LES-EGLISES Pretty village house with attic and garden, close to shops. 2-bed, small outbuildings, well.

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www.agenceimmo-ihl.com

recruitment@leggett.fr www.leggettfrance.com

Un Violon sur le Sabl;e

30 | living festivals

Brive Festival 21-24 July

Au Fil du Son

Brive (19)

Civray (86)

Popular festival held at the Parc des 3 Provinces with international acts including Black Eyed Peas, M and Julien Doré. brivefestival.com

Festival du Souffle 15-17 July

Celles-sur-Belle (79)

Classical music concerts at the Abbaye Royale featuring saxophonists and organists with a family concert on Saturday afternoon and a market on Sunday. festivaldusouffle.com

Festival les Arts aux Jardins 16-17 July

Bonnes (16)

Details were correct as we went to press but do check websites before setting out

Free exhibition of art in village gardens.

FB: lesartsaujardin

Festival de Saintes 16-23 July (17) Saintes

Celebrating its 50th anniversary with a series of classical concerts performed in and around Saintes’ atmospheric Abbaye aux Dames by soloists and ensembles from across Europe. festivaldesaintes.org

Stéréoparc

22-23 July Rochefort (17)

Featuring 100% electro in the grounds of the Corderie Royale. Timmy Trumpet and Boris Brejcha join other acts. stereoparc.com

Un Violon sur le Sable 23, 26 & 29 July

Three nights of concerts on the main beach at Royan, each performance attracting up to 50,000 devotees and culminating in spectacular firework displays. All three concerts have unique and varied programmes with international soloists, and all are free.

Just bring a rug or chair and find your spot on the sand, or buy a reserved seat in the stands. violonsurlesable.com

Festival 1001 Notes 23-30 July

Limoges (87)

7 communes host family-friendly spectacles and exhibitions. festival-traverse.fr

Musique en Périgord 20-29 July

Festival Cultures au Coeur

Périgord villages (24)

Montignac-Lascaux (24)

Now in its 34th year, enjoy 6 classical concerts at the heart of Périgord villages. musique-en-perigord.fr

Celebration of world folklore, music and dance with groups from Mexico, Colombia, Chili Bénin and more… festivaldemontignac.fr

Surgères Brass Festival 21-23 July

Festival Labyrinthe de la Voix

Surgères (17)

Rochechouart (17)

19-24 July

Haut Val de Sèvre (79)

Held at the Château de Surgères, visiting artists include Cesária Évora Orchestra and Just About Fun-K. The programme includes both ticketed and free concerts. surgeresbrassfestival.com

www.livingmagazine.fr

Enjoy popular groups on the banks of the Charente as this festival takes over the town.

Bring your tent and stay overnight or all weekend. OrelSan, Vald, Louis Bertignac and more. aufilduson.com

Fête du Cognac 28-30 July

Cognac (16)

Set on the historic quayside of Cognac, this festival event celebrates fine local food & drink including melons, oysters, pineau and, bien sûr, cognac. Dine under the stars and enjoy big-stage concerts. lafeteducognac.fr

Royan (17)

Marrying classical music with other musical styles through a week of concerts beginning with an evening featuring a baroque ensemble, guitarist Thibault Cauvin and culminating with the Orchestre d’Harmonie de la Garde Républicaine performing music from the films. festival1001notes.com

Festival Traverse

28-31 July

25-31 July

27-31 July

Meet in the park of the Château de Rochechouart for more than ten ticketed and free concerts including Celtic trad from McDonnell Trio and Blues from Tom Woods. labyrinthedelavoix.fr

Festival du Périgord Noir 28 July-19 August

Périgord Noir (24)

Celebrating its 40th edition with a programme packed with international baroque, classical and jazz artists. festivalmusiqueperigordnoir.com

Unity Festival 29-31 July

Les Sables d’Olonne (85)

20,000 spectators are expected over the weekend to enjoy concerts by Patrick Bruel, Dadju and Grand Corps Malade. unityfestival.fr

Le Château de Duras is located in the Lot-et-Garonne at the heart of SouthWest France. It is an extraordinary monument combining several eras: from the Middle Ages, through the 17th century to the Revolution and into contemporary times. The Durfort-Duras family, elevated to the rank of Duke in the 17th century, transformed the medieval fortress into a splendid country residence.

During your visit you will be able to discover the Château’s history and architecture through the 30 restored rooms in this classified Historic Monument. Explore the Hall of Ghosts, see the animated models and discover the external walkways which are unique in France, then mount the tower to complete the visit.

Visit on your own or with an audioguide (available in French and English).

EvEnts 4D show: Immerse yourself in the history and legends of the Château and, new for 2022, a contemporary fantasy world with this 40-minute sound and light show.

July and August: Tue, Thu and Sun at 10.30pm on both sides of the Château.

Musketeer show: Between sword fights and stunts, the brigands will not escape the King’s Musketeers.

Every day at 2.30 pm and 4.30pm from 9 to 27 July (duration 30 mins).

Falconry show: Discover the surprising world of falconry with birds of amazing abilities. A fascinating show that will amaze young and old alike!

Everyday at 2.30pm from 28 July to 28 August (duration 40 mins).

Jousting Tournament: Watch as Gaillard de Durfort, Lord of Duras, and Edward of Woodstock, known as ‘the Black Prince’, confront each other. Who will be the winner?

Every day at 5pm from 24 July to 22 August (duration 40 mins).

Practical information July & Aug: Open daily 10am-7pm (9.30pm on Tue, Thu, Sun) May, June, September, October: 10am-1pm and 2-6pm Château Entry: Adult 10€, students and 13-18 years 7€, 5-12 yrs 5€, under-5s free, reduced entry 5€-9€ Château + shows (9 July-28 Aug): Adult 14€, students 10.50€,13-18 yrs 9.50€, 5-12 yrs 8€, under-5s free, reduced entry 8€-13€. Audioguide 2.50€ (Fr & En) 4D show: over 15 yrs 8€, 7-14 yrs 3€, under-7s free Village Visit: After visiting the Château, discover the village with the help of a free audioguide available in French and English from www.visite.duras.free.fr

Place du Château, 47120 DURAS www.chateau-de-duras.com T: +33 (0)5 33 14 00 38

32 | living Places to Visit Jardins de Marqueyssac

Vibrac

saint-simon

Top days Jardins de Marqueyssac

Vibrac & Saint-Simon

If you think you’ve seen topiary, think again. This remarkable garden enjoys a sensational setting high above La Roque-Gageac, with swirling abstract forms which look fantastic at any time of the year. There are Mediterranean and local tree and plant species, a labyrinth plus panoramic views of the River Dordogne.

Cruise a particularly idyllic stretch of the Charente in a flat-bottomed barge like those built on the riverbanks at SaintSimon, as recounted at La Maison des Gabarriers. Nearby you’ll discover Bassac’s huge 13th century abbey and the Site Paléontologique d’Angeac-Charente, whose internationally important excavations have revealed remains of dinosaurs, mammoths, etc.

Dordogne

bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutA

Saint-Savinsur-Gartempe

Charente

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Saint-Savinsur-Gartempe

Vienne

One of the region’s greatest treasures, the vast Romanesque abbey church was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, in recognition of the dazzling array of late 11th/early 12th century frescoes which decorate the vaults of the nave. The exterior, with its slender 77m Gothic spire, is similarly impressive – something you can admire from a picnic spot on the riverbank. bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutC

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living Places to Visit | 33

out LE VILLAGE de La Madeleine

Dordogne

In an other-worldly landscape among the meanders of the River Vézère, this vast, naturally formed gallery in a limestone gorge witnessed 17,000 years of human occupation. Much of the troglodyte

les lapidiales

Wondering where to go, as an alternative to crowd-packed beaches? Here’s our selection of great family-friendly visits inland

crazannes

village now open to visitors dates from the Hundred Years War (1337-1453), although the elevated site wasn’t finally abandoned until the late 19th century. bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutD

Crazannes & Taillebourg

Charente-Maritime

Site of an epic battle in 1242, Taillebourg offers peaceful riverside bike rides with picnic potential. Ride to nearby Crazannes to visit an elegant 14th century château and 2,000-yearold former quarries which provided stone for Fort Boyard and Cologne Cathedral, and which are now home to Les Lapidiales – a fascinating contemporary sculpture park celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutE LE VILLAGE DE LA MADELEINE

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34 | living Places to Visit maillezais Former ‘falun’ stone quarries, Doué-laFontaine (49)

Maillezais

Vendée

Once an island, the many attractions of this remarkable village include an 11th century Romanesque église and romantic abbey ruins, at the foot of which you can set off on a barque cruise on the celebrated canals of the MaraisPoitevin. There are some nice places to eat, too. bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutF

>

BrantOmeen-PErigord

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BrantOmeen-PErigord >

Former sea wall, MAILLEZAIS

Dordogne

Climb one of the oldest bell towers in France for panoramic bird’s-eye views of an 11th century abbey and this charming village set on a circular island amid the River Dronne. No head for heights?

Simply browse the many boutiques, take a relaxing river cruise, find a shaded grassy picnic spot or enjoy a romantic evening meal in a choice of riverside restaurants. bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutG

living Places to Visit | 35 eymoutiers

jardins william christie

Jardins William Christie

Thiré, Vendée

These exquisite gardens in Vendée, proud possessors of both Jardin Remarquable and Monument Historique listings, were created as a 30-year labour of love by an internationally renowned harpsichordist, conductor and musicologist. Delight in wandering among the various themed areas, and perhaps attend a Baroque musical event at the Quartier des Artistes in the village. bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutH

Lusignan

Vienne

The centrepiece of this atmospheric former fortified town set high above the River Vonne is the Gothic Église Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Junien, whose LUSIGNAN

inner treasures include a 13th century tomb figure of a knight. There’s lots more to see, including a riverside municipal campsite, restaurant, canoe/ kayak hire, bathing and woodland walks – and you can reach Lusignan by train. bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutJ

CDF CharenteLimousine

Confolens, Charente

Step back in time and enjoy a relaxed retro railcar ride. This historic chemin de fer was reopened some years ago by enthusiastic volunteers.

Alternatively, try the VéloRail option and pedal the line on a wagonet - either way, it’s a great family experience in idyllic countryside between Confolens and Roumazières. bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutK

Eymoutiers

Haute-Vienne

The ancient heart of this former walled town on the banks of the River Vienne has retained its narrow streets, which wind their way through a remarkable succession of medieval facades.

Among them are the 15th century former tanneries which made the town renowned for its fine leather goods.

Happily, you can still reach Eymoutiers by train services from Limoges. bit.ly/lmtopdaysoutL We’re lucky to have so many outstanding places to visit across the region. If you’re looking for more inspiration, head over to our website to download our updated ULTIMATE Summer Guide 2022 which is bursting at the seams with many more amazing days out for all the family.

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36 | practical living

HELP & money << OUr experts answer YOur questions...

Understanding Home Energy Grants

Q A

I’m interested in finding out more about grants for a new boiler. Where do I start?

The grants available for installing energy efficient heating systems can be generous but they can also be confusing as criteria have changed over the years with more than one type available. As with so many things, getting your hands on a grant involves a bit of tenacity and, of course, some paperwork.

MaPrimeRenov (MPR) is a direct, government-funded grant (rather than a tax credit) available to all principal residence homeowners. The property must be over 15 years old (2 years for a replacement boiler) and lived in or rented out as a principal residence. A variety of qualifying works to improve the energy efficiency of your home are covered including the replacement of, or the installation of a new energy efficient boiler. Installing a pellet boiler attracts the most generous grant of up to 11,000€.

If you are replacing an existing old oil/gas boiler (not a condensation type) you can access another grant funded

by energy companies and organisations under the umbrella scheme Certificats d’economies d’énergie (CEE). One example is through Primes Energie where replacing an oil boiler can attract a 4,000€ grant in addition to the MPR grant above which could add to a very generous maximum grant of 15,000€.

Finally, there are some other more minor grants relating to your commune that can be added. These can be explained by your MPR or L’Anah (National Housing Association) advisor.

It will be compulsory to have an advisor from January 2023.

The grant received cannot be more than 90% (subject to

your income band) of the total tax inclusive price (TTC). The MPR grant will be reduced to reflect this. The maximum TTC qualifying price for a pellet boiler installation is 18,000€. So, if your estimate is 19,000€ TTC, the 90% is calculated on the lesser amount of 18,000€. There are strict emissions criteria on what is deemed qualifying equipment and the equipment must be installed by an RGE accredited company.

The MPR amount is subject to household fiscal revenue as noted on your last Avis d’Impôts - so is in effect means tested.

A banding system is in place from blue (lowest income)

to rose (highest income) and will determine the maximum percentage you can expect from 90% down to 40% of the total TTC price.

You get your grant at the end of the process when the installation is complete and the facture issued. If you are in the lowest income band you can request an advance to pay a deposit - this must be noted on the devis. Payment of the grant payment takes a minimum of 4 weeks once the dossier is complete. To bridge the gap there is the Eco Prêt à Taux Zéro, a zero per cent loan for eco projects, and your RGE installer should be able to complete the forms you will need to present to your bank.

Ecopower owners Paul and Lindsey Elliot have been installing renewable energy systems across France since 2008. Based in Charente, they are RGE qualified. www.ecopowereurope.com

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practical living | 37

Ethical Investing

Q

I recently read your article about ethical/ ESG funds and I would like to know more about these funds. Why should I invest this way?

A

Ethical funds have been around for over 25 years. However, it has only been recently that such funds have become more popular with investors, and it will become a legal requirement in France later this year that financial advisers must refer to ESG investments in discussions with clients.

ESG stands for “Environmental,

Social, and Governance”. The investment managers of these funds will look to invest in companies which are actively changing how they operate and will look at how each company addresses the following areas: Environmental – improving the efficiency of energy use, the management of water, increasing electricity generation from renewable sources, improving the resource efficiency of industrial and agricultural processes, delivering a circular materials economy (recycling), making transportation more efficient or safer.

Social - providing affordable

healthcare, connecting people, delivering healthier foods, building better/cleaner cities, supplying education, enabling innovation in healthcare, enabling healthier lifestyles, encouraging sustainable leisure.

Governance - increasing financial resilience, saving for the future, developing

a sustainable economy, enhancing digital security.

We all know that natural resources are limited and by choosing to invest this way we can have influence over our environment. Major companies are now having to change practice due to consumer demands.

One thing we do need to look out for is greenwashing.

This is when companies and investment funds advertise that they are making a difference to the planet, but are actually only saying this, which is why it is important to seek professional help to ensure that you are really investing in ethical ESG companies.

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 »

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38 | living family

Avec les enfants The Sands of Time

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Hot summer days and time on the beach figure strongly in my scrapbooks of childhood memories.

Being brought up on the south coast of the UK, un-foldable deckchairs, ice-cream covered fingers, wet car seats and cold brown water all feature regularly. In fact, the feeling of sand between one’s toes and the ensuing debris of wet shoes and damp towels abandoned in a hallway are the same the world round. Here in France, the sun may be stronger, and the water may be warmer, but another constant is that sand in the footwell of a car stays forever.

Growing up, our children have endured the whole gamut of the French ‘beach’ scene. We’ve burnt our toes on the baking hot sands of La Ciotat in the south, frozen behind boulders on the shingle of Morbihan, and paddled barefoot with paper cones of frites under the pink cliffs of northern Brittany. Now, for a decade, we’ve been tossed about by muddy surf on the Côte Sauvage. The water is always salty and there is always sand in the footwell.

It took us some time to get used to the realities of a turbulent French

west coast. We’d never swum in coloured water, and the fear of crabs underfoot and jellyfish about our ankles often curtailed our enthusiasm to swim out deeper than our knees.

But children are children, and once they had learnt to be brave and ignore their imagined dangers, beach-life returned to normal - with one big difference. In July and August it’s almost impossible to visit a beach in Charente-Maritime without searching for ages for parking.

This is followed by a long walk, the whole family burdened with all the paraphernalia for a day at the beach. We have now learnt to pack lightly for a short stay on the sand, invariably arriving later in the day when most properly educated French families head home.

Arriving at the beach at 5pm with a small picnic in one basket and other supplies in a second, the added benefit is that, at the end of a long, hot summer’s day, the high-water parts of a beach are much warmer than when enjoyed just after breakfast.

In the years we have been here, we have changed too. Roddy was once happy to dip his toes and gaze longingly at boats far offshore, but now he typically takes up position

with a camera and a long lens to capture scenes in tidal phases only a man can understand. I once swam happily, but now feel far more comfortable browsing a magazine under the wide brim of a straw hat.

Meanwhile, the children have all graduated from buckets and spades to pursuits more varied. The artists like to paint and draw, the sportier ones skim-board along the edges of the surf. Others take charge of the catering, and it’s been surprising what has made it from our kitchen out onto the broad expanses of Le Plage de la Pointe Espagnole. The summer may be fine for slices of watermelon and shrimp sandwiches, but the winter is a time of soups and cheeseboards.

Of all the beaches within our reach, the ones the local surfers enjoy are our favourites too. They invariably involve a hike through a forest and up and over some huge sand dunes to get to one’s preferred pitch opposite the waves; it’s a trek to the water that neophytes do not normally manage.

By comparison, summer is not a good time to hit the Grand Plage at Royan, where five thousand people may try

living family | 39

puzzle break It’s time to find a shady corner of your garden, settle down and pit your wits against our unique crossword compiled by Mike Morris. For extra marks, find the theme before checking your answers on page 54.

to enjoy a bank holiday within a short hop to their cars parked on the cliff.

Arrive after ten o’clock and there won’t be a parking spot within five kilometres.

But drive north along the coast amongst the pines, and arrive at the end of the day, and some of Europe’s most spectacular sunsets can be a wonderful bonus to a late afternoon visit. Just stay clear of those parts of the beach marked out for nudists - we’ve had a couple of surprising experiences with some of them! And, when the sun has set and it’s time to take tired little people home, don’t be afraid of the sand in the car - it’ll all be part of the memories.

former supernumerary? (5) 17. Article on home countries gets the bird. (3) 19. Party set to bring back hanging perhaps? (8) 20. Indian resort welcoming first of tribes to get domesticated animal. (4) 23. French flower is orange with a hint of Clues Across narcissus hybrid? (7) 1. Leader of the team who 25. A musical PM can be knows the ropes? (7) common? (5) 5. Being firm starts to 26. Bucolic sport scoring make money after a nothing from exam. (5) pause ..........(5) 8. .......... more coming after 27. Decorate foes not LP is turned over in jerks. (5) involved in unrest. (7) 9. Detention for young Clues Down people mistreating 1. Element of additional lobster with article instead returns for Ben perhaps? (7) of drug? (7) 2. First person to tear up 10. Try to make a sale lawn; it’s all relative. (2-3) for operator of war 3. Tailless little cat has machine? (4) 11. Is called about indicators infection on root of stump. (4) of hissing sounds? (8) 4. Icon removed from 14. Eggs on tail-enders significant crossing can of volunteer commando be a drawback? (3) force. (3) 5. Rank religious joker 16. Craft turned over on

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at home with Gore perhaps? (8) 6. Object taken from spotted dog upset girl. (7) 7. Old sailor turning up on first of April held everything up? (5) 12. Take part in first of regular teen gatherings. (5) 13. At certain times of the year a seal’s on metamorphosis. (8) 15. One authorising count maybe of some of them per order? (7) 18. What can happen to ketch in trouble; sink here perhaps? (7) 19. Woods maybe last to get bonsai planting before winter. (5) 21. Mark caught between two loves in region of Dunedin? (5) 22. Application of thrust blows away first two trialists; that’s how it’s done. (4) 24. Tiny creature, flea maybe, having tail cut off and sent back? (3)

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Susan, husband Roddy and their five children live close to the coast in the Charente-Maritime.

Sign up for her regular newsletter at www. ourfrenchlifestyle.com.

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40 | living nikki legon’s cuisine Apéros in the garden with friends and family are a glorious way to spend summer evenings. We asked Nikki for finger food inspiration to serve alongside crudités and dips…

Nikki Legon's

cuisine Tuna & Cheese Melts

Tomato & Serrano Toasts

Tuna & Cheese Melts

Tomato & Serrano Toasts

200g tin of tuna, drained 4 spring onions, finely chopped 50g Cheddar or Comté cheese, grated 4 tbsp mayonnaise 1 small baguette, sliced and toasted salad leaves to garnish

1 baguette, sliced and toasted 5 tomatoes, chopped 1 large garlic clove, crushed 3 tbsp olive oil salt and pepper 6 slices Serrano ham to garnish: sweet chillies, green olives and lemon zest

METHOD Mix the tuna with the onion, cheese and mayonnaise.

Spread onto the toasts covering the edges, grill until golden and bubbling.

Allow to cool and garnish with salad leaves.

METHOD Mix together the chopped tomatoes, olive oil and crushed garlic, season to taste.

Spoon a little tomato topping on to each toast. Tear the Serrano into pieces and put one piece onto each toast. I like to garnish with an olive or sweet chilli on sticks with a little lemon zest grated over.

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King Prawn Parcels

Vegetable Spring Rolls

living nikki legon’s cuisine | 41 1 tbsp soy sauce 1 tbsp caster sugar 2 tsp sriracha sauce (optional) ½ tsp lemon juice

Vegetable Spring Rolls 12 rice paper rolls 200g thin rice noodles 1 tbsp sesame oil Vegetable filling small bunch of coriander leaves 2 avocados, cut into strips 1 cucumber, cut into strips 1 carrot, cut into very fine strips ½ red pepper, cut into fine strips ½ green pepper, cut into fine strips 8 spring onions, cut on the diagonal ¼ red cabbage, very thinly sliced

King Prawn Parcels

¼ cos lettuce, torn into pieces bunch of mint leaves to be placed separately onto the base of the roll Dressing ½ tbsp rice vinegar 1½ tsp soy sauce 1 tsp caster sugar 2 tsp sriracha sauce (optional) ½ tsp lime juice Peanut dipping sauce 4 tbsp smooth peanut butter 2 tbsp rice vinegar 1 clove of garlic, crushed 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil

Devils on Horseback

12 jumbo prawns 1 large potato 12 wooden skewers, pre-soaked well in water

24 large dates or prunes, pitted 50g Manchego cheese 12 rashers of streaky bacon 80ml sherry vinegar 2 tbsp brown sugar

METHOD Peel and devein the prawns, leaving the tails on. Season with salt and pepper, now gently push through the wet wooden skewers from the tail end up.

Peel a large potato and, using a spiral slicer, make long potato strings. Dry on kitchen paper.

Wrap each prawn in a potato string being careful to keep the string taut, leaving the tails exposed. Deep fry at 170°C until cooked and golden.

Drain on paper towels and serve with a sweet chilli sauce.

METHOD Cut the cheese into small cubes and carefully push a cube into each date or prune.

Stretch the bacon with the back of a knife and cut in half lengthwise.

Wrap bacon around each fruit.

Place in a high sided baking dish and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Preheat the oven to 180°C, then roast for 15 minutes.Meanwhile, place the vinegar and sugar into a small pan and, over a high heat, stir to dissolve the sugar.

Continue cooking for two minutes.

Pour the mixture over the fruit and cook in the oven for 10 minutes.

Turn and baste before cooking for a further 5 minutes or until sticky and golden.

METHOD Put all the dressing ingredients into a bowl and whisk to emulsify.

Gently stir in the coriander leaves and the vegetables (not the mint leaves).

Cook the noodles to al denté.

Drain, then rinse them in cold water.

Return them to the pot off the heat and toss through with the sesame oil.

For the peanut butter sauce: add all the sauce ingredients to a bowl and whisk with 2-3 tbsp of water to make a creamy but dippable sauce.

Fill a large bowl with hot water. Place a smooth tea towel onto a flat surface.

Dip a spring roll wrapper into the water until softened - this takes seconds and lay on the tea towel. Starting with the side closest to you, add two mint leaves, a layer of cos lettuce, then pile the mixed vegetables on top making sure you have a bit of everything. Again, starting with the side closest to you, roll up the rice paper wrapper until all the vegetables are enclosed. Fold in the left and right sides and continue to roll it up completely. Once they are all done, cut the rolls crosswise into two pieces, arrange on a serving dish and serve with the peanut dipping sauce.

Devils on Horseback

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42 | living nikki legon’s cuisine

Chicken Meatballs 500g chicken thighs, boned 2 shallots 3 garlic cloves 2 egg whites 3 tbsp lemon juice ½ tsp salt 1 tsp black pepper small bunch of coriander, chopped 1 tbsp cayenne pepper METHOD Blend the chicken, shallots, garlic, egg whites, lemon juice and salt and pepper in a food processor until well combined. Transfer to a bowl and mix in the coriander and cayenne pepper, stir to combine well.

Wet both hands and shape the chicken into meatballs and place on a plate lined with baking parchment.

Heat a little oil in a frying pan and shallow fry the meatballs until lightly browned all over and cooked through.

Serve with a sweet chilli sauce.

Chicken Meatballs

Lemon Chicken Skewers

Lemon Chicken Skewers 1 kg chicken thighs, boned or you can use fillets 8 tbsp olive oil 6 tbsp lemon juice 6 tbsp coriander or parsley, freshly minced 1 tbsp garlic, crushed 2 tsp paprika 2 tsp salt 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp turmeric

1 tsp cayenne pepper 12 wooden skewers, pre-soaked in water METHOD Cut the chicken into strips suitable for skewering. In a bowl whisk together all the remaining ingredients. Stir in the strips to coat all over. Cover and place in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Skewer the chicken pieces evenly and place on a greased grill pan.

Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning once, until cooked through.

Serve with a sauce of your choosing.

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

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living nikki legon’s cuisine | 43

Mini Pavlovas 6 eggs, separated caster sugar - weigh the egg whites and use double the amount 1 pinch of salt 3 tsp cornflour 1 tsp vanilla essence 1 tsp white wine vinegar 600ml whipped cream 200g of fruit of your choice icing sugar to dust METHOD Preheat the oven to 180°C. You will need 2 baking sheets lined with baking parchment.

Whisk the egg whites with the salt until they are holding firm peaks.

Gently add in the sugar, spoonful after spoonful, still beating until you have got a bowl full of gleaming meringue.

Sprinkle on the cornflour and add a few drops of vanilla and vinegar, fold in gently to combine.

Using a tablespoon place small circles of meringue onto the baking sheets.

Make in indentation in the top for the fruit and cream. Place into the hot oven reducing it to 150°C. Bake for 30 minutes, remove and cool.

Before serving, spoon on some cream and fill with fruit.

Shop for whatever your heart desires

Mini Pavlovas

A warm welcome awaits you …….

Come and discover the Hotel Restaurant Karina, set in a haven of greenery, just 3km from Jarnac in the beautiful Charentaise countryside.

Enjoy dining by the open fire in winter or on the terrace in fine weather with a choice of à la carte or fixed menus.

In our bar, you will find the original copper alembic and here you can relax with an aperitif.

Join us for fish and chips on Fridays - lunch or dinner.

We cater for special group occasions, call for more information See our menus on our website www.hotelkarina.net | info@hotelkarina.net | 05 45 36 26 26

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44 | living wine

Making Changes W I N E

Caro Feely looks at how winemaking processes are adapting to climate change in the second of a three-part series.

H

aving explored how wine farmers are reducing their carbon dioxide emissions to help mitigate climate change last time, let’s move on to look at how winegrowers are changing practices to adapt to climate change.

Grapes

With changing climatic conditions, the grapes that do well in a given place change too. Appellation, or in EU terms ‘protected designation of origin’ (PDO), rules and their associated bureaucracy are a major constraint to wine farmers adapting to climate change. The appellation specifies extremely strict rules from what grapes you can grow, to how you prune the vines, and even how you make the wine. While PDOs protect tradition, they can be a major brake on innovation and adaptation.

Things are moving, though. In 2021, Bordeaux approved planting of several

new varieties: Touriga Nacional, Castets, Marselan and Arinarnoa for reds, Alvarinho and Lilorila for whites.

Bergerac added Fer Siervadou and Mérille as accessory red grapes while Marselan, Arinarnoa, and Saperavi (a Georgian variety resistant to disease and frost) red grapes are being trialled but are not yet approved.

Farming Methods

Farming methods are also changing, learning from hot regions like parts of South Africa where vines grow over a trellis, like a pergola, and are pruned to create their own shade.

One area receiving significant attention is agroforestry, adding trees into the vineyards. They can be added into hedgerows at the edge of the vineyard, inside the vineyard block (as an entire row of trees alternating between every few rows) or within a row of vines (either beside a vine or in place of a vine).

Adding trees inside the vineyard is not a small decision as both the vineyard management and equipment required need to be adjusted significantly. Trees take a long time to grow so it is early days for research in this area, but initial results indicate a better resistance to frost and protection against climatic extremes (wind, heat, cold, storms, floods, drought). Trees create microclimates by adding shade and wind breaks. They also bring biodiversity to the vineyard particularly if multiple local species are selected, and they can act as relay points for insect and animal biodiversity. Additionally, they create diversified products such as fruit, nuts and wood. Keeping the soil covered with vegetation all year round also helps stop erosion from downpours and the ground to cope in extreme heat. Last but not least, trees stock carbon.

Winemaking Methods

More heat means more sugar and less acidity. At Château Feely we have seen

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You can book a walking tour, yoga retreat, or wine course with Caro at Château Feely, an organic wine estate with accommodation. Read the full story of the creation of the Feely vineyard in Caro’s book series; ‘Grape Expectations’, ‘Saving our Skins’ and ‘Glass Half Full’. The 4th in the series will be out in 2023. Sign up to the newsletter at www.chateaufeely.com to find out more.

significant change of harvest dates.

In 2006, our first vintage, harvest started on 21 September and finished mid-October. The 2020 harvest started around 21 August and finished mid-September. Picking earlier gives grapes with less sugar and more acidity but if the phenolic ripeness (the ripeness of the skins and polyphenols) is not right then we have to wait. Finding the equilibrium is more difficult and we are having to change vinification methods to deal with more sugar and less acidity in the grapes.

The IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) report released in April 2022 leaves no doubt that we must act to mitigate against and to adapt to climate change. Farmers are on the front line feeling the effects in crop loss due to frost, hail and other extremes.

These losses eventually filter down to the individual. It is up to all of us to challenge everything we do personally and professionally through the filter of emissions and climate change, like the winegrowers in the region are doing.

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Ref: A12907 - Charming 4 bedroom country cottage in quiet countryside location but near a town.

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Ref: A09815 - A traditional 3 bedroom stone house with outbuildings, garage and garden.

9% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Energy class: F Climate class: C

7% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Energy class: D Climate class: B

Agency fees to be paid by seller.

Energy class: E Climate class: B

EXCLUSIVE

EXCLUSIVE

Beautiful Home

Charente-Maritime

Well located

€551,200

Charente

€137,362

Charente-Maritime

€205,200

Ref: A10854 - Impressive 5 bedroom maison de maître with pool and grounds, in a village.

Ref: A10191 - An attractive, renovated 3 bedroom house, with garden, garage and parking.

Ref: A12942 - Modern 3 bedroom town house with balcony and a large garden. Walking distance to shops.

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Energy class: D Climate class: D

Agency fees to be paid by seller.

Energy class: D Climate class: A

8% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

DPE: Ongoing

EXCLUSIVE

EXCLUSIVE

Perfect Project

B&B Potential

Charente-Maritime

€549,000

Charente-Maritime

€345,560

Vienne

€60,000

Ref: A10128 - Perfect house for a gîte and bed & breakfast activity. Swimming pool. Garden.

Ref: A10330 - Stunning 5 bedroom / 5 bathroom character house with large enclosed garden.

Ref: A12118 - In a village with all amenities, a nice little stone house to be restored.

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Energy class: F Climate class: C

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Energy class: D Climate class: E

Agency fees to be paid by seller.

DPE: Not required

EXCLUSIVE

EXCLUSIVE

Room to Grow

Blank Canvas

Vienne

€143,000

Vienne

€349,000

Haute-Vienne

€164,000

Ref: A12906 - 2 Bedroom farmhouse with solar panel, wind turbine, pool and garden.

Ref: 114676 - 2 Bedroom farmhouse with solar panel, wind turbine, pool and garden.

Ref: A06348 - Large 5 bedroom country home with unobstructed views and large barn.

Agency fees to be paid by seller.

DPE: Ongoing

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

DPE: Not required

8% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

DPE: No data

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST We have helped 1000’s of clients buy and sell property in France and have 10,000+ properties listed on our website. If you are looking to sell, contact us for a FREE market appraisal.

EXCLUSIVE

EXCLUSIVE

Location Location Location

Haute-Vienne

€220,000

Rare Find

Haute-Vienne

€125,000

Haute-Vienne

€446,000

Ref: A12910 - Excellent 4 bedroom barn conversion with lake views.

Ref: A10747 - Spacious 4 bedroom town house with period features, lots of light and terrace.

Ref: A12919 - Superb turn key property with 2 renovated houses on 4 hectares of land with stunning views.

7% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

DPE: Ongoing

9% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Energy class: D Climate class: D

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

DPE: Ongoing

EXCLUSIVE

EXCLUSIVE

Ruin to Renovate

Renovated

Deux-Sèvres

€235,400

Deux-Sèvres

€102,850

Deux-Sèvres

€17,600

Ref: A13069 - Lovely detached house in good condition with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, pool, and large garden.

Ref: 111166 - Attractive 3 bedroom town house in a small market town, with a south west facing courtyard.

Ref: A08663 - Ruin for total renovation/rebuild with land, in a small hamlet not far from L’Absie.

7% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

DPE: Ongoing

10% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Energy class: D Climate class: A

Agency fees to be paid by seller.

DPE: Not required

EXCLUSIVE

EXCLUSIVE

Lovely Interior

Deux-Sèvres

Peaceful Setting

€214,000

Deux-Sèvres

€79,900

Vienne

€162,000

Ref: A11639 - Charming 5 bedroom farmhouse in a quiet hamlet just a short distance from a popular market town.

Ref: A12947 - Spacious well-presented 2 bedroom house with outbuildings including an old village shop partly renovated.

Ref: A12670 - Characterful 4 bedroom property in a tranquil hamlet, by the river.

7% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Energy class: D Climate class: B

8% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

DPE: Ongoing

8% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

DPE: Ongoing

Discover all of

our properties

With over 24 year’s experience buying and selling houses in France, we’re here to help you. Our agents offer a knowledgeable and professional service, guiding you through the whole process from A to Z.

+33 (0)5 53 60 84 88 leggettfrance.com info@leggett.fr

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Property

rancon (87)

Changing Places

D

We visit a tranquil corner of Haute-Vienne with lots of surprises

rive into Rancon, known to the Romans as Roncomagus, and you’ll probably be tempted to stop, stretch your legs and look around. Among the first things you’ll notice is a sign near the Mairie pointing to a celebrated lanterne des morts (see the Oct-Nov issue of LIVING Magazine), which sits on a leafy plateau with a viewpoint offering bird’s-eye views across the valley of the River Gartempe. Visible among the verdure below is an ancient-looking stone bridge. While most traffic now speeds across the river on a sleek concrete bridge, it’s possible to bypass it briefly and cross via its medieval predecessor, whose massive stone arches date from the 11th-13th century. In fact, the piers which support them are even older, having been constructed for an important gallo-Roman road between Limoges (Augustoritum) and Argenton-sur-Creuse (Argentomagus). Beside the bridge is ‘la Pierre du Passeur’, a Roman borne milliaire (milestone) later used by generations of river boatmen as a mooring bollard.

Rising from the heart of the village is the lofty, ornate 16th century bell tower

of the Église Saint-Pierre-ès-Liens, which was consecrated in the late 12th century. During the Hundred Years War the building was heavily fortified after the destruction of the feudal chateau of the Seigneurs de Rancon, a family of nobles whose influence also produced the strongholds of Gençay (86) and Taillebourg (17). The defensive elements added to the church are still clearly visible, and you’ll discover many other interesting links with the past elsewhere in the village, whose timeless quality inspired Lancashire artist Fred Yates.

The unassuming house in Rue de la Forge in which he lived and worked for some years during the 1990s is now preserved as a museum and art gallery.

Nearby Rue du Tramway is an intriguing reminder of an early 20th century tram line which ran from Limoges to Saint-Sulpiceles-Feuilles via Rancon. It closed in 1949, but a huge multi-arched viaduct which carried it across the Gartempe River survives a short distance upstream from the village, near the Moulin de Roche.

Also close by is another curiosity, in the shape of a striking 8-storey pagoda,

centrepiece of the Tung Lam Linh Son International Buddhist retreat and study centre (free access), which was established on a 74-acre site in 1986.

Once a bustling centre on an ancient trading route, Rancon and the beauty of its surrounding countryside are once again attracting visitors, and tourism revenue now helps to support a handful of small businesses.

Making connections Distances/drive-times by road from 87290 Rancon: Bellac: 12km/12min Saint-Junien: 42km/47min Montmorillon: 43km/45min Limoges: 47km/45min Guéret: 65km/51min Poitiers: 90km/1hr 32min Châteauroux: 98km/1hr 08min Angoulême: 113km/1hr 31min TGV & TER rail services: La Gare SNCF de Bellac (12km) is served by TER Nouvelle-Aquitaine Ligne Régionale 24 services between Poitiers & Limoges, for connections (including TGV) to Niort, La Rochelle, Périgueux, Angoulême, Bordeaux, Bayonne, Clermont-Ferrand, Toulouse, Tours, Paris, etc.

L i ving

Property www.agence-eleonor.fr Agence Eleonor Estate Agency 36-38 rue du Temple, 24500 EYMET T: 05 53 27 83 45 info@agence-eleonor.com Eymet, Villeréal, St.-Cyprien, Monpazier, Bergerac, Issigeac and Miramont de Guyenne

135 000€ HAI

(125 000€ + 8% fee payable by buyer)

Ref. 34371

Genouillac (16): 5 mins to shops. 3-bed bungalow. Heat pump, septic tank, terrace, garage, workshop. Set on 2446m2. classe energie e classe climate B

33 000€ HAI

Ref. 34366

(30 000€ + 10% fee payable by buyer)

conFolenS (16): semi-detached 5-room house to renovate. Garage/storage room, attic, small garden, main drains to be connected classe energie vierge classe climate vierge

ExclusivE

Ref: 9963-MO - Location: Biron - Price: 398,000€ At the foot of one of a chateau in the Dordogne, this unique stone estate is composed of a 3-bedroom main house with terrace and courtyard; a second house with high ceilings, large dining room, living room & 3 bedrooms and in addition, a small studio. Perfect as a main home & rental activity. Exclusive to Agence Eleonor!

Taux d’honoraires 318,953€ (5%) inclus à la charge de l’acquéreur. Classe Energie: D. Classe Climat: E

248 400€ HAI

(230,000€ + 8% fee payable by buyer)

Ref. 34369

conFolenS (16): Town centre property for rental: commercial shop used as a cafeteria: rented 1000€/mth + flat: rented 500 €/mth. classe energie D classe climate D

99 000€ HAI

Ref. 34367

(90 000€ + 10% fee payable by buyer)

JouSSÉ (86): 6km to shops. ideal 2nd home.

Renovated 1-bed farmhouse, semi-detached, heat pump, garage, well, set on 1252m2. classe energie n/a classe climate n/a

ExclusivE

Ref: 9981-BGC - Location: Le Felix - Price: 679,250€ Beautiful barn conversion offering spacious, bright, modern interior with stunning river views. An entrance on both sides of the property - one side has living room with fireplace, open kitchen, utility room and ensuite bedroom. The other offers living room, kitchen and two bedrooms. Set on nearly 5 acres, riverside heated pool. Exclusive to Agence Eleonor!

Taux d’honoraires 29,250€ (5%) inclus à la charge de l’acquéreur. Classe Energie: B. Classe Climat: A

216 000€ HAI

(200,000€ + 8% fee payable by buyer)

Ref. 34362

ManoT (16). 1978 5-bed bungalow in village with shop. Veranda, summer kitchen, oil heating, mains, garage, all set on 1700m2. classe D classe climate D

66 000€ HAI

(60,000€ + 10% fee payable by buyer)

Ref. 34364

BRillac (16), 3-bed semi-detached village house. oil heating, mains, garage, terrace, garden. all set on 225m2. classe energie vierge classe climate vierge

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

www.sovimo-immobilier-confolens.fr

Ref: 10047-EY - Location: Saint Colomb de Lauzun - Price: 124,200€ A beautiful 3-bedroom property, located 2km from a village with all amenities. This house is full of character and has been fully renovated. The rooms are light and airy and comprise a living room, kitchen, laundry room, 3 bedrooms and a bathroom. There is a small outdoor space used for eating.

Taux d’honoraires 9,200€ (8%) inclus à la charge de l’acquéreur. Classe Energie: vierge

Character Properties in France i lus E xc

vE

L’Isle Jourdain, Vienne €131,500* Three-bedroom renovated house with river views, gite, new electrics/radiators, plumbing & logburner. Garage and parking, mains drains.

Saint Claud, Charente 185,000* Three-bedroom hamlet house with garden, large kitchen and large main room, two bathrooms, attached barn 69m2.

DPE: D

DPE: VIERGE

E xc

lus

ivE

E xc

La Roche l’Abeille, Haute Vienne €1,590,000* Restored 16th Century mill (gites) and two beautiful houses, 12 bedrooms in total, professional kitchen, barn (175m2), large pond, 13 acres. DPE: F

lu

E siv

L’Isle Jourdain, Vienne €69,000* Two-bedroom renovated house with sunny courtyard, furniture available, double-glazing, mains drains.

DPE: Vierge

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.

*agency fees charged to the seller

living outdoors | 51

wildlife in your garden

Rebugging the Planet

'R

Biologist & author Vicki Hird encourages us to take a closer look at the bugs in our lives…

ewilding’ is the buzz word these days with even the likes of Ed Sheeran planning to buy up as much land as he can to rewild. What is it though?

Rewilding is all about restoring large areas to their natural state – allowing nature to heal itself after years of abuse and wildlife loss and often involving putting back large animals like wolves, or beavers to play a big role in the restoration. It’s a fantastically important activity in critical places.

Most of us, though, don’t have vast estates or farmland but we can all rewild by ‘rebugging’ – making space for bugs.

I believe the worm is as important as the wolf. Worms are a keystone species in soils the world over breaking down plant matter to release nutrients for new growth, creating space as they move for air and water, and ensuring the spread of critical microbes and fungi attached to their sticky skin or in their stomach as they relocate to a new area.

Remarkable, vital and, I would argue, as beautiful as a wolf in its own way.

We can all rebug by helping the smallest wild creatures all around us.

We need to because these invertebrates – from beetles to worms, spiders to

zooplankton, and bees to snails are key players in ecosystems the world over. No news there - they pollinate our food, provide soil, water and waste services and play an essential role in the wild food chain. Culture, art, literature and even culinary tastes across the globe are founded on the world of these spineless creatures.

But another good reason to get rebugging is because invertebrates are in trouble. The hedges, forests and messy wild places they need to travel through to recolonise, breed, feed and shelter are being lost. The overuse of pesticides and industrial farming combined with plastic, light and noise pollution and, increasingly, the impact

Subscribe today > see page 5 for info

52 | living outdoors Apollo Butterflies are under threat across Europe

of climate change are all taking their toll. In the past couple of years the extent to which we are losing them, in terms of both numbers and diversity in many parts of the world, is seriously scary. Some data suggest 40 per cent of insect species alone are at risk of extinction.

Two recent studies showed that Europe has lost 80 per cent of its flying insect biomass,

and 421 million birds. In France, pesticides are seen as a key issue – used in gardens, parks, farms and forests and leaching into waterways. French butterflies like the stunning Apollo butterfly, dragonflies like the Southern Damselfly, saprophytic beetles (the ones which clear up dead and decaying matter), corals and molluscs are at serious risk. Further research is needed into what we’ve got let alone what’s being harmed by massive land use Hermit Beetle larvae live in dead wood

Huge selection of herbaceous, annuels, fruit, shrubs, trees, climbers and roses (including David Austin).

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change and climatic shifts.

To tackle this threat to vital wild creatures, we need people. If we are all more aware of bugs and care more about them, we can drive demand for research and ensure more action is taken by governments and businesses.

We need to curb the tendency to instil fear or revulsion in children. ‘Rebugging our Attitudes’ was a fun chapter to write in my recent book. I’m so obsessed with bugs that, when my 8-year-old son found a leech attached to his foot after a lake swim, I was utterly entranced – so much so that my younger 6-year-old went back into the water to get a blood sucker attached too. If you are similarly inclined, spread the word; by communicating a love or, at least, a respect for bugs to our future decision makers and shoppers we can act like the extremely effective communication networks of the termite colony.

Talking of social invertebrates, we can learn much from the social ants, bees, wasps and termites. They can

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living outdoors | 53 Cinquefoil Skippers are found less frequently in our meadows

Predatory Bush Crickets are classed as vulnerable

Stag Beetles are known for their lumbering flights but numbers are declining

about the mutualism between bugs and other species; the lemon ants who destroy emergent plant seedlings that would compete with their host, or the vast weaver ant colonies, festooning trees with their silk-sown nests who Clematis are nurtured montanaby forest farmers in Asia as a free biocontrol for their tree crops - no pesticides needed.

Invertebrates are so intertwined with our lives it is difficult to look at the harm we are doing, often without realising it and often needlessly. Yet we can all do, and must do, something.

Vicki’s Rebugging Tips

.

Buy foods that have been produced without pesticides and with nature in mind to encourage farmers and growers to do things differently. Buy directly from farmers and look out for organic and ecology labels.

can really hurt the places invertebrates need to live globally via deforestation and pollution. Repair, reuse and recycle as much as possible to reduce pressure on the land and the bugs.

.

Leave some of your lawn uncut and let it go wild. You may be surprised what plants and bugs move in who will appreciate the food and shelter you provide. Even the smallest town centre garden can provide haven. Less digging is also beneficial so not to disturb the bugs going about their important activities.

.

It’s not just food. Your most sustainable piece of clothing or furniture is probably the one you are using now. Growing cotton and extracting other materials like timber

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© ChrisMoWiki

create incredibly efficient air- and temperature-controlled homes, use complex communication systems using chemicals, sounds and visuals, and can produce huge ‘cities’ of millions of related insects. In Brazil there is a living 4,000-year-old termite community which stretches to 200 million mounds covering an area the size of Great Britain. I loved writing

Populations of many damselflies are | living declining like this beautiful Southern Damselfly

54

outdoors

.

In your garden, avoid imported seeds and plants that can bring unhelpful species, like flatworms which eat local worms. Instead, use local suppliers you trust or even better save your seeds or propagate your plants from cuttings and you can swap seeds with friends to broaden the potential.

.

Helping the next generation of ‘rebuggers’ is key. Make sure children can stay fascinated – try not to spread a fear of bugs. The joy and curiosity young children show to these magnificent creatures can be easily stamped out by a harsh word when you see a wasp or spider. Take children on a minibeast treasure hunt – look for signs like leaf mines or empty ladybird pupae cases - and learn how to build bug palaces to give them a nest.

.

Take part in bug watches to help scientists assess the health of different species populations. There are wasp and bee and butterfly surveys which scientists have designed – record what you see in a given time to contribute to their work.

.

If you have a bit more time, do start getting political and campaign for more space for nature, and support for

farmers to use less chemicals. Many organisations make it quick and easy to do this with emails. The lobbying power and budget of big chemical companies and junk food manufacturers is huge, and they are part of the problem. Be part of the movement that pushes back.

.

Build the rebugging movement Take photos and share and talk about them – with friends, family, colleagues.

Talk about why bugs matter.

Bug palaces are simple to make

My book is filled with bug stories and the joy of bugs along with tips on what you can do – in your garden and home, in your community and parks, but also in how you shop and how you act politically. It all matters for nature, for the bugs and for us.

Vicki Hird is a long-time advocate for the countryside & wildlife. ‘Rebugging the Planet: The Remarkable Things that Insects (and Other Invertebrates) Do – And Why We Need to Love Them More’ is available now in paperback, foreword by Gillian Burke, published by Chelsea Green. See www. rebuggingtheplanet.org and follow Vicki on twitter and Instagram @vickihird.

For more cartoons by Stig see www.artisart.com

puzzle answers Across 1. Skipper 5. Comma 8. Lulls 9. Borstal 10. Hawk 11. Cedillas 14. Roe 16. Extra 17. Auk 19. Tapestry 20. Goat 23. Garonne 25. Heath 26. Rural 27. Festoon

www.livingmagazine.fr

Down 1. Sulphur 2. In-law 3. Puss 4. Rub 5. Cardinal 6. Matilda 7. Atlas 12. Enter 13. Seasonal 15. Emperor 18. Kitchen 19. Tiger 21. Otago 22. Thus 24. Elf

Theme: Butterflies & moths

Business Directory

55

ADVERTISE WITH L i ving The leading English language magazine

W

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

Vendée (85)

CharenteMaritime (17)

If you have a business in the region and would like to showcase your services to our thousands of readers, we can help. With over 1,000 stockists, Living is the leading English-language magazine covering your area. Advertising starts from 40€ per month on our monthly payment scheme.

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DeuxSèvres (79) Vienne (86)

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Charente (16)

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Pay monthly by debit/credit card.

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Sat 4: PLATINUM JUBILEE WEEKEND LIVE MUSIC: McKenzie Sat 11: LIVE MUSIC: Chris Kern Wed 15: QUIZ NIGHT

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56

Boucherie Calluaud

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57

Insurance and asset management advice in English Hello, my name is Isabelle Want. For the past 9 years, I have been working for Allianz as an asset manager. Being married to an Englishman and having lived in the UK for 8 years gives me a better insight into what British people are experiencing and what they need. Being French and born in the Charente has enabled me to offer some answers.

I am, as always, available for any free advice on the following subjects: - INHERITANCE LAW - who inherits, how much are death duties, what solutions exist - TAXES - everybody’s fear! Annual tax forms in May, etc.

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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

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.

www.bh-assurances.fr

INDEPENDENT BROKERS

Sell all types of pianos Traditional & modern uprights BABY GRANDS All professionally restored & guaranteed With a lifetime experience in the piano trade, ex-BBC Piano Tuner We are Specialists in piano restorations on all types of pianos Also Tuning and small repairs

We find the best insurer for you, at competitive rates

MOTOR, HOUSE, BUSINESS, TRAVEL MEDICAL insurance: top up and for Residency Permits

For information and quotes contact Penny

16, 17, 79 and west Vienne

pennym.gsar@orange.fr

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

The Fixer

Fluent French speaker with over 15 years professional ‘hands on’ experience assisting expats in France

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

Based in Charente and covering 86, 79, 16, 17, 24 & 33 Siren: 818 390 916

G.S.A.R. 05 53 40 15 71

SIRET: 51031234100017

Personal Taxation – Carte Vitale – Carte de Séjour Business set ups - CPAM – French Administration Tax regularisation and much much more….

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

N° ORIAS : 07020908

Email: isabelle.want@bh-assurances.fr

Experience you need....Results you want

For all your insurance needs in France

102 ave de la République 16260 Chasseneuil sur Bonnieure tel : 05 45 39 51 47

Val Assist

Siret N°48825664500018

Translation Services

Insurance, Help & Advice

Ask for Corinne

10 bld du 8 mai 1945 16110 La Rochefoucauld tel : 05 45 63 54 31

Beauty, Music, Insuarnce

RENAISSANCE - hair, beauty, nails

Orias: 07007057

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

ANN’S PIANOS MR. PIANO MAN

Visit Alison, Stephanie & Laura at...

English Speaking

BH Assurances

- INVESTMENTS - what is available, what rate, etc.

- LIFE INSURANCE - how to protect your loved ones - FUNERAL COVER - preparing for the inevitable, unfortunately!

- TOP UP HEALTH INSURANCE - why you need it and how much it is - INSURANCES - get a free quote to see if you can save money We also have a dedicated bilingual person to deal with claims. And, finally, we have an English website with all sorts of useful information and tips on all of the above subjects.

Professional administrative HelP

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

I CAN HELP WITH RESIDENCY (wherever you live in France)

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

HELP & ADVICE Long established service at reasonable rates Depts 16 & 17

Personal taxation Legal matters Phone calls & meetings

8 place Gambetta 86400 CIVRAY Office: 09.50.52.27.68 M: 06.33.11.64.05

Andrew Harrison

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

eloisa@efficientranslations.fr www.efficientranslations.fr

Quote 'Living' to help keep this magazine free for readers

Help & Advice

Business set-up

Siret No 520 382 805 00049

Expert in French Administration

HELP WITH ALL FRENCH ADMINISTRATION MATTERS Administrative Assistance & Solutions Private Individuals & Small Businesses Translator: English, French, Portuguese (cert.) & Spanish Professional Liability Insurance

Help & Advice, Home Services

58

SOLUTIONS

Karen and her team of associates are here to help you with: • Business set ups - all regimes • Foreign firm set up and payroll • Accounting for UK Ltd companies by our Chartered Accountant • Book keeping / accounting for French businesses, TVA returns

• • • • • •

Tax returns - UK & France Carte Vitale, Carte de Séjour Vehicle registration, driving licenses Access to financial aid Legal paperwork Dispute mediation

All areas of France covered

Bike Hire, Associations

Alcoholics Anonymous

05 45 36 19 09

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.

Tel: Angela on 05 49 87 79 09 or Roger on 05 55 76 22 65

www.aafrance.net

Britain’s leading supplier

For your unoccupied home solutions Key holding & property checks House & garden maintenance Meter reading Mail forwarding and more Siret 901 854 836 00011

Short-term, long-term & flexible packages available, contact us for a free quote: 06 71 07 45 38 / +44 7481 475379 thehomecheckers.fr@outlook.com Based in 79190 Sauzé-Vaussais. Fully insured.

contactsolutionsfrance@gmail.com

Transport Services, Concierge

The Homecheckers

Chemin des Gordins, 16700 Ruffec M: 07 80 44 37 00 solutions16700 solutions-france.com Comprehensive administration services for individuals and businesses

SIRET/SIREN 510046261 00010

thehomecheckers.fr

Freemasons

Did you know?

There are Englishspeaking lodges in France.

Our lodge in Cognac (16) meets 6 times a year.

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

Cotswold Eco Wood-Fired HOT TUBS in France

2, 6 and 8 person available

RELAX. REPLENISH. REWIND. Easy to install in even the most remote locations Shhhh...one of the quietest air bubble systems on the market Efficient wood-fired boiler - minimal electricity used for bubbles and LED lighting Robust wood and fibreglass construction means years of weather-resistant service Thoughtful design ensures they are hygienic and easy-to-clean Comfortable seating allows users to immerse their shoulders, perfect all year round Bespoke range of options and colour combinations

For more information, please contact Nicola or Tim: E: hottubsinfrance@gmail.com T: 07 49 19 46 84

www.hottubsinfrance.com

siret: 879 912 855

Facebook: HotTubsinFrance | Google business: hot-tubs-in-france.business.site | LinkedIn: hot-tubs-in-france

59

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

15 mins from La Rochefoucauld & 20 mins from Rochechouart

Contact David Glenn davidrexin@gmail.com

www.palmaexp.com

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

Call Jane on 05 55 00 34 79 or 06 18 58 93 88 or Emily 06 71 15 15 65

FRANKLINS REMOVALS Packing services Full/part loads to and from the UK Vehicles transported • Containerised storage Competitive prices • Transit /storage insurance Call Stephen or Ben Franklin on 0044 121 353 7263 or email sales@franklinsremovals.co.uk

www.franklinsremovals.co.uk

FRANGLAIS DELIVERIES Moving In France?

Relocations in France Packing & Storage Options

FRANGLAIS DELIVERIES

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

Franglais Deliveries

George White European Transport

Full & Part Loads

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

Transport

“I would recommend Dave again and again” “Excellent service”

Regular trips throughout Europe

Your dog(s) looked after indoors at our country home in a safe 2-acre enclosed area. Walked twice a day in our woods and surrounding fields.

Must be able to socialise with other dogs.

Free introductory trial: am or pm Nr. Châteauneuf-La-Foret, Linards 30 mins from Limoges airport 24€ / 12€ per half day 20€ per per night night/10€ Please email first to waggingtails87@hotmail.com

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

Owner/operator cost effective transporter Hundreds of successful cross Channel deliveries Read our 5-star reviews on Trustpilot

The UK’s Premium Pet Transport Company

Siret: 502 021 660 00019

For those of you that don't already know us, we are a purpose-built kennels with a large secure paddock area where dogs can run free and play while having their 2 walks per day on or off the lead.

Large family kennels are available.

You are welcome to call if you have any questions or would like to visit the kennels.

Lime Tree Kennels

(not kennels)

Siret: 792 142 341

Siret: 822 175 527 0016

Anita Frayling - Le Baillat, 16220 Rouzede T: 05 45 66 14 62 E: anita.limetreekennels@gmail.com

Animal Care, Transport

Guest LIME TREE KENNELS Dog Home

www.georgewhiteeuropean.co.uk

Furniture for France

fff

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

These local businesses are waiting for your call!

Pools

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

60 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Trust our local experts with the management and rental of your French property

Property Management Rental Management Key Holding Property Check-ups Changeovers Guest Services Mail Forwarding Visit our website for details or contact us for a FREE estimation hello@leggettpm.fr 09 80 80 83 89 www.leggettpm.com

We are recruiting! Become a Property Manager. Get in touch for further information.

ANGLO FRENCH

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

Transport, Pools

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

‘Your French Connection’

Weekly services to & from SW France Internal moves within France Containerised Storage Range of Packing services available Over 35 Years’ Experience

Full or Part Load Removals To & From France UK: +44 (0) 1237 431 393 FR: +33 (0)5 45 89 49 57 Email: info@anglofrenchmail.com

YOUR ONE-STOP TRANSPORT SERVICE

www.anglofrenchremovals.co.uk UK Registration 543 77 60 UK

F o r Po o l s • Installation • Renovation

Pools

• Cleaning and Maintenance

For Outside Living • Terraces & Patios • 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

Complete Pool Care Gardening | Home Maintenance 05.45.25.05.37 www.charenteassistance.fr

POOLS BY JONATHAN 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 47994761600021

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

EURO REMOVALS

61

HOME SWEET (COLOURFUL?) HOME It would be fair to say that most of us have spent much more time this year at home than normal....and for many of us the enforced lockdown gave us the opportunity to give our homes a little TLC. We ourselves did plenty of painting & decorating, especially during the early weeks, and decided to use strong, bold colours - not our normal style but perhaps it was a reaction to the situation we were in....an unconscious decision to lift the spirits!

We are slowly seeing some more colour coming back into carpets too....not everything has to be grey or beige!

Look at these 2 of our suppliers – Adam Carpets & Westex Carpets – literally hundreds of colours across their ranges, all available anywhere in France.

If you want to see samples of these, or any other examples, give us a call and we’ll make a free, no obligation visit.

Makes yours a HOME SWEET (COLOURFUL?) HOME this year!

jonthecarpetman

Website Construction & Maintenance All Departments: Remote or On-Site Data Privacy Guaranteed frapaconsultants@gmail.com www.frapaconsultants.com 06 29 61 47 88 Siret: 889 641 726 00019

PM

Parquet Specialist ~ Floor Sanding, Restoration & Repairs Bespoke Furniture & Staircase Restoration Based in Blanzay 86400 ~ Assurance Décennale

CARPETS & FLOORING

For all your flooring needs

Tel: 07 86 72 08 91 Email: info@parfaitparquet.fr www.parfaitparquet.fr FB: BradQuarlessparfaitparquets

• We supply and fit a range of carpets to suit all budgets • We also fit amtico, vinyl, wood and ceramic tile • Over 25 years experience, 100% customer satisfaction • Now selling a selection of wool and mixed fibre rugs Contact Paul on 06 60 07 54 78 or 05 45 84 27 75

www.pmcarpetsandflooring.com

www.nettoyage-services-dordogne.fr PROFESSIONAL CLEANING & HYGIENE SERVICES 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

Chimney Sweep Nick Wright

• Certificates issued for every sweep • Over 10 years’ experience • Covering departments 16, 17, 79 & 86 Registered with the Chambre de Métiers et de l’Artisanat Siret 81968203000013

Contact Nick on email: nickthesweep@gmail.com or T. 05 45 71 33 36

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

Home services, Cherry picker

ARC EN CIEL Nettoyage Professionnel

Siret: 8415819290020

Siret: 827 978 636 00013

Windows, OSx/iOS, Linux, Android

Furniture & Flooring

IT, Flooring

PCs, Networks, Laptops, Tablets, Phones

Les Rivières, 19260 TREIGNAC

PARFAIT PARQUET

Frapa

IT Service & Support Computer Help & Advice Problem Solving Repair & Maintenance

SHOWROOM ADDRESS

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

www.jon-thecarpetman.com

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

L’Atelier de Fer Fraser W. Eade

hold the QualiSol and QualiBois accreditation. Our website www.enershop.eu has lots of information on our services which include : • Solar thermal domestic hot water • Wood gasification boilers • Wood / Pellet boiler stoves • Pellet boilers • Accumulation tanks • Air source heat pumps

Website: www.enershop.eu

Jeff’s Metalwork

www.jeffsmetalwork.com

General Engineering Turning, Milling, Welding Quality & Precision Guaranteed Forgeix, 87200 Saint Junien

05 55 71 41 75

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

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

Ornate interior / exterior designs Gates constructed / refurbished Industrial furniture General Welding ~ Over 25 year’s experience ~ Tel: 06 17 73 56 87 Mob: 07 77 83 77 10 or 0044 7917 03 02 49 jeff@jeffsmetalwork.com

WELDING & ENGINEERING SERVICES PROJECT MANAGEMENT City & Guilds Mechanical Engineer Design & manufacture of gates railings etc On site welding service / repairs Emergency call out service

SAS Ornate Ironworks Vaudrude, Corgnac Sur L'isle 24800 E: ornate.ironworks@gmail.com Tel: 06 27 17 18 13 www.ornate-ironworks.com

Enershop

M&M PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Depts 16 & 17

Painting & decorating services Tiling / Flooring Plasterboarding Suppliers of Crown Paints Providing a quality service since 2005 Kevin Smith

Siret 482 718 640 00022

62

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

South West France Fosse Trained-Approved-Recommended

by SPANC Can you trust your installation to anyone else?

With over 30 years’ experience

Etudes  Conception  Surveys Maintenance  Service  Remedial

Tel: 06 04 14 84 86 See all our work on

southwestfrancefosse

Email: southwestfrancefosse@orange.fr

www.southwestfrancefosse.com

Affordable UK Designs

Fitted Kitchens, Upvc & Aluminium Double Glazing

63

Free plAn, Design & costing throUghoUt soUth West FrAnce - other AreAs by ArrAngement Upvc Windows, Doors & conservatories in all colours. Aluminium and Upvc Bifold doors Made to UK Spec in French styles!

Made in the UK Fitted in France

phone: 05 49 42 99 41 Mobile: 06 63 71 09 81 E: scott.braddock1@yahoo.com www.affordableukdesigns.com

ReIiable, Affordable Maintenance & Renovation Service

Specialist Carpenter/Joiner

Decorating Ceramic Tiling u Dry Lining u Wooden Floors u Decking and Patios u Bathroom & Kitchens u Stone pointing u & lots more... u

Bespoke Joinery & Renovations Doors - Shutters - Stairs Flooring - Kitchens

✓ Fully equipped workshop ✓ 40 years’ experience ✓ Lots of solutions for your requirements ✓ References available Siret: 508 248 747 000 18

05 45 31 14 58 / 06 63 20 24 93 adrian.luke.amos@gmail.com

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

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

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

30km around 86400 (Saint Macoux)

English spoken Siret: 900 570 490 00012

Contact John Pearson www.hmjmaintenanceservice. weebly.com E: HMJMaintenance@outlook.com M: +33 (0)6 18 42 24 49 T: +33 (0)9 81 37 43 95 Work area 79/85/49, based 79380

Jb Plumbing

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

Based in dept 79 near Sauzé-Vaussais Fully insured Siret: 804 390 862 000 14

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

PAINTER & DECORATOR Interior and

Kitchen & Bathroom exterior painting installation Paper hanging, tiling, Tiling flooring & dry lining Plumbing Repairs ADAM BLACKABY Artisan Peintre Tel: 06 29 90 24 89 E: mrbirky2@yahoo.com

ELECTRICIAN

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

Cleaning & maintenance of all types of sewage treatment plants.

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

David GABARD adamblackaby@aol.com T: 06 71 83 16 69 / 05 49 87 27 29 Areas 16, 17, 24, 33, 79, 86 Siret: 441 490 992 00027

These local businesses are waiting for your call!

E: info@vf-services.fr 2 Verrières, 86400 CHAMPNIERS

Covering south 86 & 79, north 16

Building services, Artisans

ANDY MS

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

Siret: 789 563 392 00016

u

Graham Medhurst Renovations

Building services, Artisans

Adrian Amos

SIRET: 513 577 809 00017

64

Andy Quick

The Roofing Company

BLISHE TA

D

ES

Zinc work ~ Guttering ~ Chimneys Repairs ~ Insurance Quotes 07

SINCE 20

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

N

I

www.building-services-france.com

FRANCE

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

IK-ROOFING

Covering 1h radius around Mareuil 24340

~ Free quotes ~ Decennial insurance

07 82 19 22 37 igor.kulenovic@gmail.com

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

05 46 49 78 30 / 06 70 40 66 01

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

Building services, Artisans

A1SL COUVERTURE

(ROOFING SERVICES)

Shaun B LLOYD

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

Building services, Artisans

Renovations / new builds Roof repairs Velux installation Guttering Insurance claims

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.

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

JAMES RICHARDSON

Ian Dickinson BSc (Hons)

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

Departments: 16, 17, 24, 79, 86 & 87 Siret: 492 277 918 00024

Tel: 05.46.98.22.01 Mob:

06.02.33.90.58

E: iancdickinson1960@gmail.com

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

05 49 87 09 63 Siret: 48115588500017

SEAN THEOBALD

Barry Baldwin

Carpenter

Cabinet Maker & Joiner

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

These local businesses are waiting for your call!

Furniture Restoration Manufacture of staircases, doors & cupboards 16240 La Fôret de Tesse T: 05 45 30 39 85 Covering depts 16, 79 & 86

Siret: 804476 034 00017

Building services, Artisans

HAVE YOUR SHUTTERS SEEN BETTER DAYS?

66 | living Language

Pardon?

I

t’s funny to think of languages as living things, where words are born, live and die on a daily basis.

I’ve just been reading a biography of famous English lexicographer Samuel Johnson (pictured) and his 9-year Herculean task of creating an English dictionary. Largely, this was in response to France having set up the Académie Française in 1635 to preserve, conserve and standardise the French language, although it would take them a good 59 years to actually create their first dictionary. If you’ve ever been part of a French committee, you might understand why Johnson was able to do in 9 years what it took a committee to do in 59.

Just as the Académie Française periodically rail against Anglicisms, so Johnson railed against French imports.

Dictionaries are often a symbol of national identity as much as they are a list of words. Johnson refused to include words like bourgeois, champagne or cutlet and even the word unique failed to find a home in his dictionary.

He liked escargatoire, a nursery of snails, and we see cultural whims at work alongside fashion.

Dictionaries also have to serve as a record of obsolete words, so that we can understand our Shakespeare and our Molière. Some of these words are particularly delicious and it’s a shame whimsy and fashion have served to remove them. Author and lexicographer Susie Dent has a wonderful Twitter feed where she picks out an obsolete word of the day that always seems particularly apt considering current politics.

A recent favourite was a ‘maw-worm’, a 19th century term for ‘one who insists they have done nothing wrong, despite

evidence to the contrary’. Coming from Isaac Bickerstaffe’s 1769 play ‘The Hypocrite’, it might well be time for a revival. Of course, the fashion of words makes it especially difficult for foreign language students to even find a definition of what the word means if it’s been unceremoniously booted from modern dictionaries. It’s easier for English speakers to work out what a maw worm might be, especially if they’re from north of the borders or they’re a student of ‘Macbeth’. This, of course, gives translators a real headache.

Like English, French also has some beautiful words worth saving that are probably difficult to translate.

La badauderie is one of my favourite French expressions that I’d like to see resurrected. It’s a word coming from Provence for un badaud or une badaude, or a person who wanders around aimlessly, open-mouthed.

Perhaps we might call un badaud a ‘gawker’ in English, someone who wanders around unconsciously, les yeux vitreux, a glazed expression on their face. Une badauderie would be a crowd of such gormless individuals. Dictionary

Linguist Emma-Jane Lee champions a language revival… translations suggest ‘onlooking’ but that just doesn’t quite get to the heart of the empty-headed, purposeless and expressionless qualities implied by un badaud. Yet the original French dictionary expression from the 18th century suggests a gullible and credulous person.

The verb débagouler is another one I’d like to bring back from retirement.

It means ‘to speak inconsiderately’.

We can of course say raconter (to tell or to speak about) but it just doesn’t have that same sense of a mouth spilling out a whole load of thoughtless words.

I also love the hard sounds that add a certain je ne sais quoi to the word.

The final word I’d love to resurrect in French is fesse-mathieu. Just the whole notion of being buttock-cheek-Matthew is childish enough and silly enough to really warrant revival. Like the term grippe-sou, it’s so much more evocative than avare or ‘miserly’. Grippe-sou, that notion of hanging on to the tiniest penny or sou, and fesse-mathieu comes from an abbreviation of les fesses de Saint-Mathieu, the buttocks of the patron saint of money exchangers.

‘Skinflint’ doesn’t really cut it. Like grippe-sou, fesse-mathieu conveys a little of Dickens’ delightful description of the the avarice of Scrooge when he calls him a ‘squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous old sinner’ in ‘A Christmas Carol’.

Language will always evolve, but sometimes delicious old words from the past warrant a revival.

Emma is a jack-of-all-language-trades, writing English textbooks, translating, marking exam scripts and teaching languages. She lives near La Rochefoucauld with her growing menagerie. See www.english-tuition.weebly.com

L i ving

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