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Is Qualité Tourisme label something more businesses need?
Périgueux picks Visitor numbers up award for up as the summer its tourist office goes on and on
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November 2011
Tourist office gets top award –but what lies behind label?
Photo: Mairie de Périgueux
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Only 3% of the tourist offices in France have the Qualité Tourisme label.
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LUCY STUBBS
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finds out if it has value
PÉRIGUEUX tourist office has become one of only 3% of tourist offices in France to be rewarded with the “Qualité tourisme” label which, amongst other things, celebrates excellent customer service. Staff at the office in Place Francheville are proud to be honoured with the award, which can also be given to businesses from campsites to restaurants – but what is it and does it really make a difference to holiday-makers? The label was created in 2005 by the government to encourage good practice in tourist businesses with the hope of boosting France’s profile as a friendly and helpful place for tourists to visit and it has a number of criteria
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that have to be met before it can be awarded. Marie-France Bunel from the Pèrigueux tourist office knows how hard it is and said that it took “more than a year to get the label”. She was charged with the responsibility of compiling the dossier putting forward the office’s case for success. “We had to fulfil a number of criteria from proving we had a good rapport with local tourism businesses and offered good customer service to demonstrating that we had good internal management systems.” And Marie-France believes it does make a difference as far as encouraging tourists is concerned: “If we’re welcoming to We’re very visitors, then they’ll come back. proud to “We’re very proud to have the label have the label – we’re the first – the first Dordogne tourist office to get it – and Dordogne the label offers reassurance to customers tourist office that we have met a to get it high standard that has been set by the Marie-France government. Bunel “It really has given us all a boost.” Amongst the other criteria that the tourist office had to meet was having a fully functioning website in a foreign language – something that will be much appreciated by anyone who has been frustrated by partial translations that either omit or don’t translate often vital information; or, just as bad, sites that are so garbled the information is useless! But whilst the label has been welcomed by the tourist office, does it really make a difference to owners of Dordogne tourist businesses and their customers? Tina Collins, co-owner of the Moulin de Chatain, a campsite and holiday park near Payzac, said she had looked at the label and
Périgueux welcomed many more visitors this Photo: Mairie de Périgueux
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“
Proud mayor Michel Moyrand, on right, as he decided not to apply: “Someone contacted me about it – but I looked into it and decided against. It looked like it would be expensive and I couldn’t see how it would benefit us.” Instead, she has found support in a network designed to help tourist business owners. “We’re in a camping syndicate called Campidor – for us, it has been really helpful. It helps you to keep in touch with other tourist businesses and we give each other discounts. We also get free help and advice.” Asked whether customers wanted to see a quality label, she said: “In our experience, visitors look at the number of stars – we have one – and then they look at what you have to offer;
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The Qualité Tourisme label is for all tourist sectors
MORE THAN 5,500 tourist-related businesses from bars and restaurants to campsites and hotels have successfully applied for the Qualité Tourisme label and kept it; but what does it mean and how do you get it it? The label was started in 2005 by the state because of the increasing importance of tourism to the economy – it is more than 6% of its gross domestic product –
and to help consumers to identify organisations with high standards. It was a bid to get the tourist sector “under control” to boost consumer confidence and raise standards. There are two ways of joining. First, if you are part of a network such as Restaurateurs de France or Camping Qualité you will automatically be allowed to display the logo on your website and publicity mate-
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SUMMER ended with many tourist business owners having a smile on their faces, with indications from around the department suggesting that 2011 has been a good year for tourism. In Périgueux, Marie France Bunel said they had had a “remarkable” summer with the number of visitors up significantly. Other towns such as Bergerac reported similar increases. It appears the rain in July didn’t put people off either. “I think the coastal resorts in Aquitaine lost out,” said Ms Bunel, adding “but it was to our benefit.” Museums and visitor attractions saw their numbers go up as everyone rushed for cover. Here is a round-up of tourist figures from around the department. Périgueux: 60% rise in visits to the tourist office in July and a 38% increase in August. The wet weather in July was great for indoor attractions with Vesunna, the Roman museum and Musée d’Art et d’Archéologie du Périgord reporting almost double the usual number of visitors for the month. Photo: © ATOUT FRANCE/Laurent Marois
summer with a 60% rise in numbers at the tourist office in July when the weather was wet
unveils the valued Qualité Tourisme plaque – although campsites seem less than keen we also have fishing lakes and a bar/restaurant where we run karaoke and events etc as well as the campsite. “I’m not sure people actually look at labels,” she said. “We have been running the site for 10 years and most of our clients, particularly in recent years since the recession in the UK, have been French and no-one has ever asked if we have the label.” Elise Barito from Camping Qualité – whose members automatically get the Qualité Tourisme label – said she thought the scheme was helpful. “Our members benefit from being Camping Qualité members as it helps campers
rial as membership of the umbrella organisation is granted only if you have met the standards necessary to be a Qualité Tourisme establishment. If you are part of a larger organisation, check whether they – and you – have the right to display the logo. Applying as an individual can be more tricky and is, therefore, unsurprisingly, less common. However, the government
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November 2011
to know that the site is a good one”. She added: “As far as the Qualité Tourisme label goes, it does no harm and it is something else we can offer our members.” However, one member, who wished to remain anonymous, said she hadn’t known she could use the Qualité Tourisme label but was perfectly happy not to. She added: “The Camping Qualité label is enough. I didn’t know I could have another label – but I don’t think it would make any difference, anyway.” You can find a list of the sites in Aquitaine that hold the Qualité Tourisme label at www.tinyurl.com/cnxn-qualite
say that whilst applying will be “an investment in time and money” – time to complete the dossier and money as you need to have business expenses and accounts audited – it will be one that will be paid off in increased sales and customers once the label has been awarded. The basic application process is as follows: Download the dossier from the Qualité Tourisme website.
Meet the Mission Qualité Tourisme representative who will help complete it. Your application then goes to a tourism committee and the Comité Departemental de Tourisme de la Dordogne. If successful, your bid will be approved by the ministry of tourism. For details: check www. qualite-tourisme.gouv.fr/ index.php?reference=021
Sarlat: The tourist office reported they felt this summer was busier than 2010 but as yet have no breakdown of visitor numbers available.
Visitors up in long, long summer However, up to October 2011, they had received a staggering two million visitors to the town this year. Bergerac: Reported a 15% rise in visitor numbers. The town also noted that they had an increased proportion of Dutch visitors and slightly fewer British. Estimates suggest an increase in French visitors too – with figures up by around 20%. Brantôme: Figures for July and August were high but no higher than usual. The town, known as the Venice of the Périgord has seen stable tourist figures throughout the economic crisis. However, figures for April, May and June were slightly higher. Bergerac Airport: Figures just published showed the best September on record with 35,000 passengers passing through its doors.
While the tourist office figures for July and August have yet to be officially collated, the Comité Départemental de Tourisme de la Dordogne estimates that just over two million tourists visited the department this summer alone, with an increase in French visitors. Amongst foreign visitors, Britons still top the list followed by Dutch, Belgian, German and Spanish visitors. The surprisingly warm September weather extended the season for many with the Aquitaine regional tourism committee saying that 82% of tourist businesses had rated this September better than last year. According to the survey the big tourist business winners over the summer were campsites, holiday parks and gites, visitor attractions such as museums and prehistoric caves, including Lascaux, and large towns and cities.
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EVERYONE knows that the Dordogne is full of walnuts but dig a little deeper and there is a lot more to the nut than simply as a garnish on a chèvre salad or a flavourful oil used in salad dressings. Archaeologists have found evidence walnuts were grown and eaten by CroMagnon man in the region more than 17,000 years ago – and they have always been a prized and significant part of the local economy. From the 10th century, peasants paid taxes and tithes in nuts; in the Middle Ages, walnut oil was often used as currency, and in the 17th century, the walnut was shipped to Britain, Holland and Germany – bringing wealth to the department. Even today collecting nuts and taking them to a local nut cooperative has been a way of making a little extra money for many families. Nowadays, the walnut is essentially harvested for eating or to make drinks such as walnut wine but our Périgordine ancestors used it to
Walnuts are a vital resource for many in the Dordogne make soap, for lighting, to cure medical conditions, improve fertility and ward off evil spirits. With such a history, it is no surprise the department has used the humble nut to attract tourists – via the Route de Noix – and has worked hard to get recognition of its produce by getting an AOC label for the nuts. The Noix du Périgord got its label in 2002. It applies to four different types of nut:
Marbot, Grandjean, Corne and Franquette, and while most of the AOC region is in the Périgord, areas in the Lot, Corrèze and Charente are also included. Strict rules about when and how the nuts are harvested together with regular tastings ensure quality is maintained, meaning AOC nuts command a higher price. Good news for walnut farmers who produce a staggering 15,000 tons of walnuts every year.
Photo: France 3
From Cro-Magnon man to the AOC inspector...
No decision on speeding MORE than three years after the event a Bergerac man is still waiting for a hearing to be held on his appeal over a speeding fine. Police in Bordeaux stopped Bauduin Breton after recording him travelling at 71kph in a 50kph zone. He pointed out that he had just passed a sign saying 70 but Mr Breton said the police claimed the sign was wrong. Mr Breton paid the fine and accepted the loss of points but then wrote to the justice ministry to contest it. Despite sending photographic proof of the 70kph sign, Mr Breton has yet to receive a reply.
Périgord takes TV top spot
November 2011
BOSSES at France 3 TV are celebrating after its comedy I Love Périgord took second-top spot in evening viewing figures, with more than three million viewers tuning in. Looking at the cultural difficulties encountered
Bullet man is arrested A MAN who sent bullets to the French chief of police in Paris has been arrested in the Dordogne. The 40-year-old was arrested at his home in St-Aquilin, near Neuvic, and has now been released on bail. He said he did not intend to threaten Frédéric Péchenard, head of the Police Nationale, but had sent the bullets along with a note as an act of revenge against a former employer who, he said, was an arms dealer. He had stolen the cartridges from his exemployer’s shooting range.
Rail timings will make us late for work
Parisians flock south ALMOST a thousand Parisians move permanently to the Dordogne every year, say researchers at the national statistics body INSEE. Their study, based on figures from 2008, showed 200,000 people move from the capital every year, with Bordeaux being the most popular destination. Almost 4,000 Parisians relocate to the Aquitaine capital every year.
Woman ran sex ring A SPANISH woman has been convicted of running a prostitution ring in Boulazac. The woman set up online adverts, reserved hotel rooms, made appointments and negotiated fees for the women – who did not speak French. She told the court in Périgueux that prostitutes in Spain who had worked in France had said Périgueux had a “good reputation” for prostitution. The woman was given a three-month suspended sentence and fined €20,000.
Bid to boost road safety WORK is taking place to improve safety on the D60 road near Sarlat. The 7km stretch through St-Cerninde-l’Herm, Besse and Pratsdu-Perigord will get new priority road markings and road signs as well as resurfacing work at a cost of €45,000.
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Périgueux rail commuters not impressed RAIL travellers in the Dordogne are not convinced that SNCF plans to change its timetables will make their journeys better. The national rail company is overhauling train times across France with 85% of timetables changing on December 11. It says this is because much of the network requires modernisation work and because it wants to be able to improve capacity by scheduling trains better. In the Dordogne, which has experienced a lot of work to the infrastructure recently, users on the Périgueux-
Limoges line have voiced concern after seeing a draft copy of the new train times. With trains essentially shifted to run about 15 minutes later than at present, the changes will have a big impact on people using the services to get to work. One service arrives in Limoges at 8.57 and Association Périgord Rail Plus representative Anicet Garcia told Sud Ouest the changes were “laughable” as only people who worked at the station could get to work on time. Now the group is to meet SNCF bosses for talks.
Man denies abusing girls A MAN has appeared in court charged with sexually abusing his daughters more than a decade ago. Prosecutors in Bergerac say the man was encouraged to assault the two girls, then six and seven by his wife – who was suffering from depression and alcoholism. She used the girls to deflect her husband’s interest. Details came to light after the girls were taken into foster care. The father denies the charges. A verdict is due on November 8.
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November 2011
by a young estate agent from London who falls in love with a woman from the Dordogne, it starred Charlie Anson as Darren who travels to Périgord to meet his potential in-laws. Anson, who has appeared in a number of British films
and TV series including Doctors and The Deaths of Ian Stone, is in the middle of a love battle as fiancée Ludovine’s father sees the British as invaders in the Dordogne and has no intention of allowing his daughter to marry one.
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www.dordogneadvertiser.com Produced on a comparatively tiny budget of just €2.2 million, the programme gave many local expat residents the chance to be on screen. It can still be watched, for a fee, at www.joox.net/movies/2011/ i-love-perigord-25073/
Mother wins water fight A DESPERATE mother went on hunger strike demanding her home be connected to mains water. Valérie Castro, 41, a mother of six, bought her house in Brouchaud, near Thenon, four years ago and the house had no mains electricity or running water. Whilst the family initially found alternative ways of producing power – using
solar panels and a wood burning stove – this year’s drought has meant their system of collecting rain water in outdoor water butts had failed and they had no water. Syndicat des Eaux de l’Auvézère president Martin Larre, who is responsible for the water supply in the area told the Sud Ouest that because the property was so remote – 1.5km from the
Go slow residents band together RESIDENTS in Grèzes and Chavagnac have resorted to civil disobedience to try to get access to high speed broadband. They organised “go slow” drives into nearby Terrasson to highlight their plight and set up a protest website titled Snails of the Web. The communes have a joint population of more than 500 but say that 12% of residents get no broadband at all and no village household gets a high-speed service. For information, visit: www. les-escargots-du-web.com/
mains water pipes in the village – there was a double problem in supplying the family. It would not only cost too much but they could not guarantee the water would be safe to drink as it could have spent up to four days in the pipe. Mr Larre said his company was not being deliberately obstructive but “as yet, was unable to find a solution”. However, seven days after Ms Castro began her hunger strike she was called to a meeting at the mairie – on condition she stop her strike. The Syndicat des Eaux has now agreed to try to provide water to the property – on the understanding that it is not fit for drinking. A solution which suits Mrs Castro.
Debt-hit communes safe
Praise for aiding mum A GENDARME and his wife have been praised after helping a pregnant woman who had gone into labour in her car in La Roche-Chalais. The wife found the woman in the back seat of the car as she set off for work and while her husband phoned for an ambulance she helped the woman give birth to a healthy baby boy before the emergency services arrived. The mother and child were then transferred to Libourne hospital and later discharged.
Band hunt for Briton A FRENCH band is looking for a British singer. Playing funk music and with their sound influenced by Jamiroquai and Maceo Parker, the band holds weekly rehearsals in Périgueux at La Filature studios. Anyone interested should contact them through the Star Inn: starinn@orange.fr
6,000 finds on dig site THE long-running dig on the archaeological site at BorieBasse near Prigonrieux has ended and the dry weather allowed research teams to unearth more than 6,000 objects dating from neolithic times up to the Middle Ages. 300 schools also visited to learn some Dordogne history.
Photo: ©Mairie de Sarlat
A NUMBER of Dordogne communes who faced an uncertain financial future when the Franco-Belgian bank Dexia ran into difficulties have welcomed the government’s decision to help in a bail-out. In all, 15 communes including Brantôme and Nontron as well as Dordogne conseil général and the departmental waste disposal collection organisation Syndicat Départemental des Déchets de la Dordogne (SMD3), had local government loans with the bank. Book boxes are popular in Sarlat
Reading boxes back in place SARLAT has reinstated its book exchange scheme “boîtes à lire” after it was abandoned temporarily in July when the boxes were vandalised. Artisan blacksmith Gaëtan Bichon has redesigned the “boites” to be more robust and easy to maintain and to keep to the simple concept: place an unwanted book in good condition in one side of the transparent box and take one from the other side home with you. The scheme was started in 2008 by the late Pascal Bureau, councillor responsible for cultural affairs, who died earlier this year. He had admitted there was a risk boxes could be van-
dalised or abused by users taking more than their fair share but described the boxes as a “test of citizenship” and said he hoped it would strengthen the community. Despite the vandalism his wish appears to have come true and the scheme has proved very successful with residents regularly dropping books, CDs, DVDs and videos into the boxes and going home with new items. Other towns such as Bergerac have set up similar schemes and cities including Paris, Bordeaux, Rouen and Niort have all had a look. You can find the boîtes à lire in Place du 14 Juillet, Place de la Petite Rigaudie and outside Sainte-Marie church.
Pupils’ walk-out was mistake CHILDREN took to the streets in Périgueux after receiving text messages saying school holidays were going to be reduced by a month. Around 100 teenagers walked out to defend their right to keep their holidays – but the rumour was false. In Paris, children were arrested after going on the rampage. Education minister Luc Chatel is thought to have sparked the rumour with a comment about increasing the school year by two weeks.
Dexia ran into difficulties after being embroiled in the Euro-zone sovereign debt crisis and the changing value of currencies in which it held loans. Relief for the communes came when President Sarkozy announced a rescue package which will see Dexia’s municipal council lending arm (Credit Local de France) hived off. This sector of the bank will be amalgamated with the French state bank Caisse des Dépôts and the Banque Postale.
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IT’S FINAL: the village of StAmand-de-Coly is officially one of France’s Plus Beaux Villages. Although it has been classed as one of the Plus Beaux Villages since 2007 it was essentially “on approval” until the documentation was signed last month. Now that has been done and its status confirmed, much to the pleasure of mayor Claude Vilatte. He said: “We are in a touristy area, so having the label makes us stand out. Visitors see the plaque and stop – it has made a huge difference. The village has a lot to offer with the abbey and the beautiful architecture.
Since we put the plaque up, visitor numbers have gone up dramatically.” However, Mr Vilatte said applying for the label was not plain sailing and added: “We had to meet a number of criteria.” The local council had to ensure the village fulfilled three standards: first to prove the commune had fewer than 2,000 residents – it has 390. Second was to show it had at least two sites of interest or protected monuments – the 12th century abbey, believed to be one of the most beautiful fortified abbeys in the Dordogne and the village’s unspoilt traditional Périgord
buildings built from stone from nearby Sarlat satisfied judges on that count. The third criteria was more ephemeral; the council had to prove the village was serious about the bid. A series of public meetings galvanised the population; that, and the promise of increased visitor numbers and trade. Mr Vilatte said: “Now we have the label, it serves as recognition for all the hard work that the villagers have made. It has put us on the map, that’s for sure.” There are around 150 villages with Plus Beaux Villages status, including 10 in the Dordogne.
Shale gas fears eased SHALE gas and oil drilling in the Dordogne looks unlikely to go ahead after President Sarkozy confirmed the government had cancelled three exploration permits, including one from oil giant Total. An area around Sarlat had been earmarked and other permit holders have said they are reconsidering their plans. The controversial hydraulic fracturing procedure is the only known way to get the gas out of the ground but it was banned following protests earlier this year.
November 2011
Photo: ©PHOTOPQR/SUD OUEST/ Jean Christophe Sounalet
Village celebrates its beautiful award
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Swearbox is a boost for charity RESIDENTS round Badefolssur-Dordogne have taken the swearbox idea a step further with bad language helping boost Phoenix Association animal charity. They are using the Auberge Chez Nous Guy Fawkes night on November 5 for a language exchange. It will be French only between 19.30-20.30 and English from 20.30-21.30. Anyone caught speaking the wrong language will have to pay a €1 forfeit. Owner Louise Gordet said customers had asked for a Guy Fawkes night and she decided to go ahead to help Phoenix but also as a bid for the Café de Pays label which requires they have regular cultural exchanges.
Women in jobs fight THREE social workers sacked for gross misconduct after criticising their employers at the SOS Femmes Périgueux women’s refuge on Facebook are appealing against the decision. The women, who are still without jobs, say their communication was private and should only have been read by their Facebook friends. Their lawyer said their conversation was illegally intercepted and the transcript used by SOS Femmes in the original employment tribunal was false.
Man dies in train crash A DRIVER has been killed after his car was hit by a train at a level crossing in Mavaleix near Thiviers. Chef and volunteer firefighter Alain Marcillaud, 55, died when his car was hit by the Périgueux-Limoges train. Police do not know how he came to be on the track but said he had a blood-alcohol level of 2.9g – the limit is 0.5g – and suggest this may have impaired his judgment.
Police lead former assistant mayor Yves Bureau out of the
Recycling to cut 1.5kg of daily waste and go for loose items; WITH every resident of the look out for items such as Dordogne producing 1.5kg of toiletries in recyclable packrubbish a day a new bid has aging; been launched to cut the avoid items such as plastic waste and encourage people carrier bags; to do more recycling. don’t buy more than you European Waste Reduction need and, Week or the Semaine recycle where you can. Européenne de la Réduction SMD3 says recycling means des Déchets runs from November 19-27 and events are being organised by the Syndicat Départemental des Déchets de la Dordogne (SMD3) to remind residents of the importance of waste reduction. SMD3 wants to Think about recycling to cut waste reduce the daily 1.5kg of waste by more than simply putting 7% by 2015 as part of the items straight into the recycle department’s commitment bin and you should think under the Grenelle environabout reusing things such as mental law. plastic food containers or It has made several key sugjars, or donating clothing. gestions for ways to reduce Find out more at the webwaste: site: www.ewwr.eu buy less pre-packaged food
Helicopter surprises village RESIDENTS in St-Front-de-Pardoux had a shock when a Royal Air Force helicopter landed in the village. The Chinook had taken off from Bordeaux bound for London when it had to make an emergency landing when smoke came into the cabin. The pilot was taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation but was later discharged and the helicopter took off again.
Photo: Eléonore H - Fotolia.com
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November 2011
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Man gets life for torture and murder of expat by LUCY STUBBS A FORMER municipal councillor has been jailed for life for the murder and torture of a German woman who had retired to the Dordogne. Yves Bureau admitted killing retired headmistress Edith Muhr, 68. Originally from Cologne, Mrs Muhr had been a lifelong Francophile and had retired to Faux, near Verdon in 2003 with her husband, Rolphe. A keen rambler she had set off in September 2009 for a 10km walk from her house to a local auberge where she was due to meet her husband for lunch. It was a route she regularly followed. She never arrived. Her remains were found two days later; her body had been dismembered and
Cour d’Assises de la Dordogne where he admitted murdering and torturing Edith Muhr
A HOSPITAL in Sarlat has been fined over an outbreak of legionnaires disease in 2002 that killed a 68-year old man and left 21 critically ill. The source of legionella was an air-conditioning unit at the Jean Leclaire Hospital. It had been installed by Suez-Energie but the court of appeal in Bordeaux cleared the firm of any wrong-doing after it emerged the hospital did not have the prefecture’s pre-approval of the system – a mandatory requirement. Hospital director Jacques Roman was given a threemonth suspended jail sentence and fined €2,000. The hospital was fined €12,000. After the outbreak the hospital installed a closed-circuit air-conditioning system.
Smokers caused fire A HOTEL in Périgueux had to be evacuated after two guests caused a fire in their room by smoking despite the No Smoking signs. The fire was confined to the couple’s bedroom but some other guests could not return to their rooms due to smoke damage. The couple – who were said to be inebriated – were taken to hospital and then into police custody to sober up.
Prehistoric art class is ‘discovered’ has not yet been validated – CAVE drawings made in the comes after years of research Grotte de Rouffignac may into hand size and span have been made during what undertaken by Cooney and has been called a “prehistoric colleagues to identify the age art class” by an archaeologist and gender of the artists. from Cambridge University. For Cooney, the discovery Researcher Jess Cooney has has been more than an acabeen examining cave flutings demic one: “I have become – 13,000-year-old markings very attached to the cave.” made by dragging fingers through the soft surface of cave walls and said: “The flutings were made by around eight people and four of them were children. One as young as three years old.” As well as a number of markings at child height, she says she found evidence the children Child fingers may have made patterns had been picked up Cooney said: “I think it is by adults in order to make important to realise that chiltheir zig-zag and criss-cross dren have played a major role finger patterns, as the markin not only the development ings were high up or on the of art and perhaps as well in roof of the cave. what it means to be human.” Her breakthrough – which
Anger as trains withdrawn USERS of the Bergerac-Sarlat train service have accused SNCF of caring more about tourists than regular commuters. The train company closed the line for repairs on September 1 and it is set to remain closed until the end of February. A replacement bus service is in place but commuters have said it is inadequate, with the buses being too full and arriving late.
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placed in grain sacks in a cornfield. Items including a meat cleaver were later discovered in a nearby lake. Landowner Bureau, a farmer and former assistant mayor, was arrested on suspicion of murder and offered police numerous explanations as to how Mrs Muhr’s body came to be dismembered. However, whilst admitting that he had dismembered the body, Bureau continued to deny murdering her. Many of his explanations revolved around him discovering her already dead, and disposing of the body to avoid accusations that he killed her. His trial attracted national and international media attention and, after coming up with a staggering 27 different versions of events, Bureau finally admitted that he had murdered Mrs Muhr.
He told the court that he had taken Mrs Muhr to his barn, tied her to a ladder and, after torturing her, beheaded her with a meat cleaver. He gave no explanation as to why he did it. Prosecutor Jean-Luc Gadaud suggested that jealousy was the motive. Mr Gadaud told the court: “She was everything that he was not – rich, intelligent and popular. “He was crippled by debt, shyness and led a very boring life.” Mr Gadaud also suggested that Mrs Muhr’s nationality may have been a key factor too. “She was German,” he said. “Perhaps it was an act of vengeance. Bureau’s father was arrested by the Gestapo in 1944.” Bureau was told to expect to spend a minimum of 20 years in prison.
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8 Food
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Mince pies – a French connection
NOVEMBER is here already and it’s time for Christmas food preparations, starting with mincemeat. I find Christmas without mince pies unthinkable. All my French friends like them, but they are astonished when I tell them that this traditional British delicacy has a French connection: the original recipe came from a small corner of France. The ingredients for Christmas pies, as mince pies were called, can be traced back to the 13th century when Crusaders returned home with recipes containing meat, fruits and spices. Served at Christmas, the pies became associated with Catholicism and during the English Civil War they were banned by the Puritans. Nevertheless, the tradition of eating mince pies in December continued, although their shape altered from rectangular to round and the
meat content gradually disappeared, leaving only the suet as the recipe became sweeter. Over the years, the original mince pie recipe largely vanished in France, but thanks to an English lord, Robert Clive, a French version of it is still flourishing in the small town of Pézenas in Languedoc. Clive, later known as Clive of India, arrived in the town with his wife in 1768 to convalesce following his avenging of the Black Hole of Calcutta. Rich with loot from India, the Clives rented a château in a sea of vines, and joined a colony of ailing, wealthy nobility drawn to the area by the climate. These incomers had to provide their own entertainment — and food. The Clives hated what they described as the “nasty garlicky” French food, so they started The Picnic Club, to which members would contribute their favourite dishes. The Clives had an English cook who commissioned pies from a local baker. This man was astute enough to realise that the exoticism of the pies, shaped like cotton reels and filled with minced mutton, sugar, dried fruit and spices, would be a winner – and 243 years on they still are. Traditionally served all year as an aperitif with Picpoul de Pinet, the local dry white wine, petites pâtés de Pézenas are indeed a blast from the British past. Home-made mincemeat is easy to make, even in France, and once you have done it you will never buy ready-made again. Shredded suet is available in larger supermarkets with a “British” section. If you don’t have one nearby, order graisse de rognon from your butcher, freeze it, then flour and grate it. I have discovered that the best soft brown sugar is to be found in the Fair Trade (commerce équitable) section.
A collection of restaurants
Granny’s Mincemeat
November 2011
INGREDIENTS 350g currants – raisins de corinthe 250g sultanas – raisins golden 350g seedless raisins – raisins secs 100g chopped candied peel – écorce de citron et orange 350g tart apple, peeled and chopped 100g almonds, peeled and shredded 450g dark soft brown sugar 450g shredded suet Half a nutmeg, finely grated – muscade Half a teaspoon ground cinnamon – canelle Grated rind and juice of a lemon and an orange 250ml rum or brandy
METHOD Mix together all the ingredients, stir thoroughly. Cover and leave in a cool place for at least 24 hours. Stir again and bottle into clean jars. Seal and store in a cool dry place for at least three weeks before using. Photo: © Monkey Business - Fotolia.com
After she was chosen as the first BBC Masterchef in 1990 JOAN BUNTING was soon writing a food column and doing BBC local radio. Now the former advisory teacher has retired and moved permanently to her home in France, but she is still keen to tell readers about good food.
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Making your own mincemeat is easier than you think, so start preparations now on these little pies that mean Christmas
Photo: © Joan Bunting
Which wine should I drink with this? Caline Montfort, of Julien de Savignac wine merchants (www.julien-de-savignac.com), says: Pacherenc cuvée Vendémiaire 2006 from the prestigious producer Alain Brumont. Retail price at Julien de Savignac, 50cl bottle, €10.80. This lovely late harvested sweet wine from the south-west by Madiran is made from 100% old vines of Petit Manseng white grapes. Harvested by hand, grapes are selected carefully and softly pressed. With its extremely concentrated flavours of raisins, orange peel, ginger, but still with a wonderful and refreshing acidity, this wine will marry beautifully with these delicacies.
in the Dordogne
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Wine 9
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November 2011
BERGERAC PECHARMANT MONBAZILLAC SAUSSIGNAC MONTRAVEL ROSETTE
News from the Dordogne’s wine region
There’s more to wine than just a drink Photo: © CIVRB
The Vin et Société manifesto that promotes the responsible and moderate consumption of locally produced wines was signed by 100 local wine professionals recently at the Maison des Vins in Bergerac. JANICE MOODY explains what it means.
Michel Delpon (right), president of the association of Bergerac wine professionals, with the mayor of Bergerac, Dominique Rousseau, and Vin et Société president Marie-Christine Tardy-Maire, at the signing of the manifesto at the Maison des Vins
THE Vin et Société manifesto is designed to bring together everyone involved in the French wine industry to promote respect and responsibility in the consumption of wine. Part of this is to encourage an appreciation of the industry’s heritage and of the people who maintain it. The first manifesto of its kind was signed in May 2010 in Paris and Bergerac has now joined the many winemaking regions that have followed the example. Speaking at the signing, Mr
Michel Delpon, the president of the CIVRB, the regional body of wine professionals, said it was important to stop talking about wine as just an alcoholic drink: “In doing so, we risk devaluing its rich history and heritage, the men and women who cultivate the vines, the winemakers, those responsible for commercialising it, those who encourage the public to experience it and devote themselves to pairing the right wine with the right food.” The Bergerac wine industry is proud of its heritage, he said, and is keen to continue to share it. Promoting the responsible consumption of wine is part of the process of increasing public appreciation.
A few statistics The local wine industry involves approximately 1,200 winemakers and their families. Roughly the same amount of people work in commerce related to the industry. France is the number one producer of wine in the world. It provides around 250,000 jobs, either directly or indirectly. The wine industry is the second largest exporter in France, worth a total of €6 billion. The wine industry in France contributes 15% of the overall agricultural production for only 3% of agricultural surface used. Vin et Société is an association that represents the French wine industry as a whole and serves as a link to public concerns about wine relating to health, society and a way of life.
What’s on this month Jazz concert Friday November 18 at 21.00 - 21.15 Château des Vigiers Golf and Country club with Slapscat Entrance fee: €14 (wine-tasting + concert). From €40 (wine-tasting + concert + dinner). Reservations advised on 05 53 73 12 25 (concert) and 05 53 61 50 00 (restaurant and concert). Wine-tasting starts at 20.30. Wine has been made on the site of the present day Château des Vigiers since the 16th century. Today the vineyard spans 16.5 hectares and produces red, dry white, rosé and sweet wines. The wines have a reputation for being complex and structured. The château is on the D18 between Eymet and Sainte-Foy-la-
Photo: © Chateau des Vigiers
Grande. It is No. 96 on the Route des Vins map available from the Maison des Vins. See www.vigiers.fr or www.jazzpourpre.com Traditional poultry markets (marchés au gras) Every Wednesday and Saturday from November 12 to March 24, 2012 Place Saint Louis, Périgueux A great place to buy any kind of poultry. For markets with a festive ambiance (marchés primés) with entertainment and wine-tasting make a note of Saturdays November 19, December 10, January 14 and February 11. Truffle fair (fête de la truffe) on Saturday 17 December. Wine-tasting.
The Château des Vigiers continues a winemaking tradition dating from the 16th century
At this time of the year the countryside and markets are abundant with cèpes, chestnuts, walnuts and prunes. Coupled with the seasonal marchés au gras, where you can buy delicious, locally-raised poultry, here’s a recipe that makes good use of them all, along with one of Bergerac’s favourite wines.
Photo: © AAPrA - Prigent
Périgord chicken surprise glazed with Saussignac Ingredients - Serves 6
Seasonal delight: Périgord chicken with Saussignac
Visit the Maison des Vins and local vineyards
1 Périgord chicken (approx 1.8 kilos) 400g pink potatoes (pomme de terre rose valt) 500g cèpes 200g onions 200g Périgord or Limousin chestnuts (vacuum packed, tinned or frozen) 1 garlic head Bunch of parsley Sprig of thyme Sprig of bay leaves 0.75 L of Saussignac wine 0.25 L liquid cream
Pinch of salt and piment d’Espelette * 50g prunes from Agen (destoned) 5cl Armagnac 100g butter 50g Périgord walnuts Method Prepare the chicken: season inside with the salt and the piment d’Espelette, chopped onions, thyme and bay leaves. Put to one side. In a wok heat the butter then add the potatoes followed by the cèpes then chestnuts. Mix togeth-
er then add the prunes, walnuts, garlic and parsley. Optional: add the gizzards, heart and liver. Stuff the chicken with the mixture. Truss and cook for one hour, occasionally basting with the Saussignac wine. Remove the stuffing and flamber the chicken in the Armagnac. Reduce the cooking juices and add the cream to make the sauce. Season to taste. * Piment d'Espelette is a long, red pepper cultivated in the Basque region of France.
Maison des Vins de Bergerac 1 rue des Récollets 24100 Bergerac Tel 05 53 63 57 55 www.vins-bergerac.fr
10 Business
www.dordogneadvertiser.com ALEXANDRA THEVENET has more than 20 years of international business experience. She set up and developed the Franco-British Chamber of Commerce & Industry in the Dordogne between 2005 and 2009. She now runs The Link providing assistance to anyone wishing to settle down in France, and also set up a business here. Services include translation, language tuition, advice and guidance, along with project management. Here she introduces a novel marketing and communication technique.
WHAT is Dordogne Jelly? Kirsten Stroud: Our aim is to bring home workers, freelancers, small business owners and entrepreneurs together in a relaxed, informal working environment to maximise creativity and minimise the isolation that being your own boss can bring. Since the introduction of the autoentrepreneur status in France, there have been more and more people working alone in the area, myself and my husband included; although we found it great being in charge of our own working hours, we soon found the lack of social interaction pretty difficult to deal with. I quickly missed the interaction with colleagues, having a chat over a coffee and sometimes bouncing ideas off each other. Jelly offers just that; with the added bonus of taking place in an informal and relaxed atmosphere. The Jelly concept originated in NewYork in 2005 when two freelancers, working alone in their apartments, decided it would be nice gathering friends to break up the monotony of working alone. The idea soon took off with groups starting up all over New York and has since spread worldwide. The Jelly name comes
November 2011
FINANCE Sponsored by
Declaring gifts can avoid tax problems Photo: © Joachim Wendler - Fotolia.com
Dordogne Jelly was set up in August 2011 by Kirsten Stroud and inaugurated last month at Château de Vigiers in Monestier where I spoke to Kirsten about why the social side of networking is becoming increasingly important to many freelance workers.
Photo: © Joanna Urwin Video & Photography
Jelly shakes up networking
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Kirsten Stroud gives the lowdown on Jelly Co-working in the Dordogne from the simple fact that the two men were eating jellybeans when they came up with the idea! Jelly events are already very popular in the UK and were the inspiration for the first French Jelly group set up by Annette Morris in Languedoc earlier this year. I heard about Jelly from Annette when she started posting about it on Facebook and immediately thought it would be very relevant to the Dordogne, which has an exceptionally high number of freelance workers, whether autoentrepreneurs or not. How does it work? First and foremost it is completely free and open to everyone, and I am running it on a voluntary basis. Unlike most existing networks, the primary objective of Jelly events is not to find new business or clients but to give a chance to mix with a wide variety of people, share tips, ideas, help each other, and learn from other people’s experiences. Over time, I hope to be able to offer free workshops on various relevant topics such as social networking for small businesses, marketing tips, bookkeeping, etc. All you need to bring along to a Jelly is what you would need to work “on the move” – a laptop, a mobile phone, a notepad or a sketchbook. Jelly events take place over a full day
but are organised on a drop-in basis, meaning you can spend however long you like there. The only set times are when free workshops are being organised, the timetable for which will be on the website. What are the upcoming events? It has been quite a challenge deciding where to hold the events and then finding free venues to welcome us. I soon realised that, as the Dordogne is such a large area, it was not enough to offer just two main venues and that I was going to have to find places in various corners of the area to allow as many people as possible to take part in these events. I have now managed to find four venues to cover most of the Dordogne. I’m really pleased with the positive response I’ve had – our first event has been very constructive and led spontaneously to a presentation on QR codes. Upcoming events: Nov 8 – 10.00-16.00 Jelly co-working day, Château des Vigiers, Monestier Nov 15 – 10.00-16.00 Jelly co-working day, Auberge Chez Nous, Badefols-surDordogne Further event details: www.dordognejelly.org Contact: dordogne.jelly@gmail.com Tel: 06 46 47 21 95
alex@thelinkservices.fr - +33 (0)6 70 11 58 88 www.thelinkservices.fr
Cash gifts should be declared to avoid problems I am tax-rresident in France and my son is tax-rresident in the UK, with joint British-F French nationality. Are there tax and legal implications if I give him occasional cash presents of €1,000 on his visits a few times per year? GIFTS made by parents living in France to their children in the UK will fall under French rules as it is the location of the donor that matters under the terms of the UK/France succession tax treaty. In this instance, your son’s nationality has no effect on the inheritance tax situation. Many would argue there is little point in declaring such small amounts; however, clearly I can only talk about tax law as it is, which obliges you to report such gifts (which are set out in Article 281E of the French tax code, section 3) and the potential penalties for not doing so. There is no separate gift tax, as such, in France but merely inheritance tax which is applied to lifetime gifts. Article 779 of the tax code details the allowance as €159,325 per child. This allowance was, until recently, reset every six years but this has now been changed to 10 years. The rules are that every time a gift is made, a form called the ‘déclaration de don manuel’ (form number 2735) is completed and submitted by the donor to the French tax authorities. This form is available from the ‘impôt’ website www.impots.gouv.fr, or from your local tax office. This form states who the gift is from; who to; for what purpose, and how much. The form is short and simple to complete, however, in the face of extra paperwork, you may decide it is better to increase the amount and reduce the frequency. Naturally, as long as you stay below the threshold over a rolling 10-year period, there will never be any inheritance tax to pay. You did not mention ages, but if your son is under 18 and you are aged under 80, there is a further allowance of €31,865 (French tax code 790 G). This is on top of the above-mentioned allowance, but also resets every 10 years. If you fail to report gifts where there was a tax liability, the penalty may be up to 80% of the tax due (French tax code 1728-9). If the amount gifted is above €15,000 the declaration must be submitted to the tax authorities within one month of the gift being made. We would always advise our clients to complete a declaration as doing so makes it very difficult to fall foul of the rules, and mistakenly becoming a tax evader. This can happen where ad-hoc gifts have been made and then a substantial sum is offered and the smaller sums are not included in the total; not realising this causes a tax liability, which goes undeclared.
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November 2011
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Helpguides 11
Connexion helpguides Up-to-date, impartial information on a range of topics for life in France
From
€5 ...and many more helpguides available To help readers make the most of life in France The Connexion has produced a series of helpguides on practical topics. The guides address questions about everyday life in France that we frequently receive at our offices. These include how to fill out a French income tax form, residential taxes, employing help at home such as a gardener and letting out your French home. The helpguides, priced €5 and €7.50, are produced independently by Connexion journalists or in partnership with Conseils des Notaires de France.
Download the helpguides at www.connexionfrance.com or call FREE from France 0800 91 77 56 or for just 4p/min from the UK 0844 256 9881
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Government austerity measures mean that the price of top-up health insurance is likely to rise even further in 2012 and this could be especially hard on older people. Most health contracts expire at the end of the year, so now is the time to consider switching policies for the best and most cost-effective cover. ESTELLE PHILLIPS explains THE vast majority of people in France have private health insurance policies, or mutuelles, to cover them for the proportion of medical bills not reimbursed by the state. But the levels of reimbursement have been falling as the government tries to cut public expenditure and this has led to steeply rising fees for top-up policies. Those charges are expected to rise even more next year as taxes are increased for mutuelle providers, so if you have a policy, now is the time to check that it covers everything you need and offers value for money. If you are not convinced, shop around for a better deal. The consumer group UFC Que Choisir says that state reimbursement of healthcare costs last year reached its lowest level since 1973 and has attacked what it calls the government’s “abandonment of solidarity”. At the same time, the group points out that Prime Minister François Fillon’s announcement that the tax rate on health insurance companies is likely to reach 7% before 2012 will mean that providers will have to increase client contributions. UFC Que Choisir health affairs expert Mathieu Escot says: “There are a number of factors affecting the rising cost of insurance. We saw in 2010 and 2011 that these increases hit hardest those people aged 60 and over, with their monthly payments rising by 11.8%.
Useful Websites
www.ameli.fr (Online guide to healthcare insurance in French)
www.platines.sante.gouv.fr (In French; has hospital details allowing you to find specialists)
www.cancersupportfrance.info (In English; a network of support groups for cancer sufferers)
We do not yet know the percentage increase for next year, but it will be at least this. France is different from other countries in that you don’t have to pay higher contributions if you have health problems. But the older you are, the more you spend because you tend to need to see specialists more often and so you are charged more by your insurance.” There is no obligation to have top-up insurance, but 94% of French people have a policy. “It is highly recommended that you take out additional health cover,” says Mr Escot. “If you don’t, you risk having very high bills each time you seek medical assistance. People who don’t take out top-up health cover are usually the people who could not afford to pay medical bills.” Most mutuelles have an annual renewal date and can be cancelled at the end of the year, in line with the notice period set by the company. Even where the policy is taken out mid-year, the renewal date is often subsequently fixed at the beginning of January. However, a handful of contracts started mid-year 2011 may not be terminated until the same time next year, so it is worth checking on your renewal notice. When you receive your renewal letter, which will inform you of any rise, you are able, should you wish, to cancel and change to a different policy or firm. This must be done by recorded delivery letter, within 20 days of the postmark of the renewal letter. It is important to make sure that your top-up covers the elements of healthcare you are most likely to need, and at suitable percentages. Ask French friends, or your pharmacist or doctor,
if they can recommend a mutuelle that might suit your requirements and ask firms to give you a quote (devis) showing the breakdown of what they can offer, at what cost. These are based on the set state tariff for a given procedure. For example, a GP visit costs €23, of which the state reimburses 70% (€15.10). A 100% mutuelle will reimburse you up to 100% of the set tariff. However, many doctors work in what is known as “Sector 2” of the health system, which means they can charge fees much higher that the set tariff, but the difference is not covered by state reimbursements, so you could be faced with a hefty bill. It is possible to take out a 150% or 200% mutuelle, which will topup as much as twice the so-called tarif conventionnel. Such policies may be for you if you often visit specialists, many of whom charge high fees, or live in Paris or the PACA region, where the majority of doctors and specialists fall into “Sector 2”. Be aware, though, that the set tariff is so low for some things – eye care and spectacles, for example – that even such an enhanced policy would not result in your getting all your money back. And you never receive back more than you have paid. The choice of mutuelle providers ranges from the larger insurance companies such as AXA, Allianz and Swiss Life, to non-profit organisations that include Harmony Mutuelle, Mutuelle Générale and Malakoff Médéric. There is no real price difference between the two, but the non-profit groups tend to favour the allocation of funds to support people in financial and social difficulty. See also below on these pages and our directory pages for dedicated English-speaking companies. If you are on a low income (2011 figures are €7,611 for a single person and €11,417 for a couple, for all income), the state can also provide a top-up cover and this is known as the CMU Complémentaire. You should note that if you have no rent or mortgage to pay, this will be taken into account when assessing your income against the ceiling. Those with incomes no more than 26% higher than the ceiling for the CMUC may be eligible for a benefit that helps towards paying for a private mutuelle, the Aide Complémentaire Santé. The amount varies according to your age (mutuelles cost more the older you are): up to €100 a year for people under16 and up to ia.com
Is your health cover right?
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12 Healthcare
Healthcare 13
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November 2011 Photo: © Alexander Raths - Fotolia.com
SWITCH: Consider changing your mutuelle to avoid rising top-up healthcare costs in 2012
Who you should call in the Dordogne YOUR first port of call when considering top-up insurance should be your local health insurance office. If you are self-employed, contact your local RSI office for further information. Otherwise, contact your local Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM) which has branches throughout the Dordogne and can give advice. To find your local office, visit its website and put in your postcode: http://www.ameli.fr/assures/votre-caisse/index.php Alternatively, you can phone the CNAM (the national umbrella body for the CPAMs) English-speaking helpline: 08 11 363 646. If you are having problems accessing health care then you can phone CLEISS (the European social security helpline) on 01 45 26 33 41 TO FIND out about the different top-up insurance companies or if you have any trouble in your dealings with them, then contact the consumer group UFC-Que Choisir en Dordogne. This offers impartial advice and can help you if you have a complaint against an organisation. The main branch is in Périgueux but it has regular clinics in towns throughout the department. Opening hours and contact details below. Main office: 1 Square Jean Jaurès, Périgueux Tel: 05 53 09 68 24 / Fax: 05 53 06 71 09 Open Monday-Friday. 9-12 and 2-5 Bergerac: Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Hours as above. Le Bugue and Mussidan: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month 9-12 Nontron: 2nd Thursday of the month: 2-5 Riberac 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. 9-12 and 1.30-5 Sarlat: 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month. 9.30-12.30 and 2.30-5.30 St Astier: 2nd Tuesday and 4th Wednesday. 9-12 and 2-4. Phone Périgueux office first to fix appointment. Thiviers: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. 9-12 and 2-5. Again, phone Périgueux office first to arrange appointment.
€500 for the over-60s. You only need to make one application per household. When choosing a mutuelle, look carefully at what is on offer for dental and eye care costs because these are poorly reimbursed by the state. Cheaper mutuelles may focus mainly on hospital stays. You can take them out, for example, with dedicated health
insurance firms, some catering especially for expats, or highstreet insurance companies. If you are married or have children, check whether dependants (personnes à charge) can be included in the policy. Companies offer cards to be handed to the doctor or pharmacist along with the state’s carte vitale, to organise their part of the payment.
The Connexion newspaper has a 20-page helpguide which explains a range of French healthcare issues, including top-up insurance, obtaining a carte vitale, how reimbursements work, hospital stays, pharmacies, dentists, eye and ear care, mental health and cancer care. Download a copy for €7.50 at www.connexionfrance.com or call 0800 91 77 56 for a printed version to be sent to you
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er
14 What’s On
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Dordogne Advertiser
November 2011
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Périgord Blanc Périgueux
notice board
FAMILY
November 4, 5, 6 Salon du Bien-Etre, the exhibition park at Marsac-sur-l'Isle will be open for three days to help you discover different ways of looking after yourself. Discover reflexology, talk to dieticians or have a massage.Workshops will also be offered. Call 06 08 28 09 27
Périgueux
MUSIC
Photo: © Philippe Seitz/MAXPPP
Aquitaine Historical Society will hear of the Black Prince
Black Prince leads way for historian A 1,300-MILE journey is the focus for the Aquitaine Historical Society at its next meeting when it welcomes author and historian Peter Hopkins. He will give a talk entitled ‘In the Steps of the Black Prince’, an account of his voyage through France following in the tracks of the Black Prince in 1355. Mr Hopkins has unearthed original documents and talked to
numerous local historians about the Black Prince’s trip. The talk will focus on that journey and include information from Mr Hopkins’ book of the same title. The meeting takes place on November 16 in the mairie at Montagrier at 11.00 and will be followed by a “pot luck” luncheon. For more information, contact: Erica Lainé 05 53 90 37 75 or eleslaine@gmail.com.
November 3 Les Tambours de Tokyo - Ready your eardrums for this spectacular performance from the Japanese percussion group O Edo Sukeroku Taiko. Spectacular not only for the sounds they can produce from their instruments but also the way they perform on stage. Théatre Odyssée, Call 05 53 53 18 71
Périgord Vert
Varaignes FAMILY
Remembrance Day honours MEMBERS of the Royal British Legion will be holding Remembrance Day wreath-laying services on Sunday, November 13 at 10.30 at the Commonwealth War Grave in Talence, Bordeaux and simultaneously in Monteton 47120, near Miramont. Poppies are available from collection points in the Dordogne and surrounding departments, including: The Dordogne Chippy and Monsieur Frites; Entente Cordiale in Abjat sur Bandiat; various markets including: Monségur, Ste-Foy-la-Grande, Duras, Eymet, Villefranche de Lonchat, Montpon, St-Méard-de-Gurçon and St-Seurin-sur-L’Isle. For details of your nearest poppy collection point, contact local organiser, email gordon.merrett@wanadoo.fr THE Chaplaincy of Aquitaine will hold an English-language Remembrance morning prayer in Chancelade from 10.30 on November 13 and also holds holy communion services in Bertric Burée and Limeuil on Sundays. It has regular services on Sundays as well as some mid-week services throughout the department and all services are in English, in the local parish church except in Bordeaux,
where services are held in the Chapelle de l’Assomption, 370 Boulevard Président Wilson. In addition, the chaplaincy has a concert with classical and contemporary guitarist Dan Jones in the Salle de Fetes at Sorges on November 5. For details, visit the website: www.churchinaquitaine.org CANCER Support France is holding its Marché de Noël in the Salle de Fetes in Monteton on November 19 from 10.00-16.00. The market has a large variety of gift ideas, crafts and food and this year has many new stalls as well as many old favourites, together with homemade food at reasonable prices. Fresh coffee, tea and soft drinks will be available, plus a glass of wine at Chater’s bar. There will also be a good selection of old and new books for sale. Entry to the market, which is the main fundraiser for CSF Dordogne Sud, is free. The work of Cancer Support France benefits many people suffering from, or affected by, cancer. Please call 05 53 54 46 67 if you would like support, or would like to discuss getting involved in CSF.
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November 11 Foire aux Dindons - the turkey festival.The little community of Varaignes will welcome more than 20,000 people again this year for its famous Foire aux Dindons. Get the chance to see the huge birds close up as they walk through Varaignes. As well as the parade there is an amusing competition to find the turkey that makes the best gobbling sound. A competition that is apparently very hard to judge even by the most experienced farmers. The château there will also be organising activities throughout the day and food will be available.You can reserve a place at the banquet or dinner in the château Call 05 53 56 35 76
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November 2011 Photos: © provided by the Pays du Grand Bergeracois
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Périgord Pourpre Monestier
ART
All month Exhibition Les Metiers d'art in situ - In partnership with the Pays du Grand Bergeracois the Château des Vigiers opens its doors to host an exhibition by artists and craftsmen of the Bergerac region.The works will be presented in situ around the château in its many rooms and in the gardens. More than 20 artists were chosen to participate in the event. Feel free to go along and discover this exhibition in an exceptional setting. Call 05 53 61 50 78
November Eymet MUSIC
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November 12 and 26 The Maquiz'art Festival continues over winter with Le Off jazz concerts. On November 12 go along to listen to the Melody Players and their guest, the international musician Flavio Boltro who has played with people such as Jimmy Cobb and Freddie Hubbard. November 26 sees Ernest Dawkins, Philippe Gaubert and Hervé Saint Guirons come together to entertain you. Both concerts will take place in the Salle des Fêtes. www.maquizart.com
Sarlat
FILM
Bergerac FAIR November 26 Christmas Fair - Dordogne Ladies Club International will once again hold their Christmas fair with all proceeds going to local charities.Various stands will be available; pottery, embroidery, food, books plus many, many more. 10.00 - 16.00, Salle de l'Orangerie
Périgord Noir
November 8 - 12 Sarlat will celebrate 20 years of holding its annual film festival this year. Over the years this festival has become recognised as one of the region’s most important festivals and it now has the backing of local and national institutions.This support means it also attracts famous French actors and directors.The festival shows several premières of national French films and also short films made by media students.To see what films are on offer, visit www.ville-sarlat.fr/festival
All month - Rupestres.The Pôle International de la Préhistoire continues its exhibition this month which brings together prehistoric and modern art.Today's artists have used their imagination to create unique pieces that create a link between these two eras. Call 05 53 06 06 97 www.pole-prehistoire.com
Photo: © Sergio Ponomarev - Fotolia.com
Photo: © Chico.Ferreira-flickr.com
Les-Eyzies
ART
16 Directory
www.dordogneadvertiser.com
DORDOGNE
ADVERTISER
November 2011
Dordogne Advertiser
Advertise here ALL YEAR from just €165HT Call free on 0800 91 77 56 or email directory@connexionfrance.com
DORDOGNE DIRECTORY English-speaking firms near you For your security, we check that the French businesses in this section are officially registered with the authorities
Find registered tradespeople quickly and easily 2/3 page, maximum 1,000 words plus photo, €400HT We will keep you up to date with features and special events in your area of France in all our publications
B&W Colour
€396HT €555HT
La Creme de la Creme Small, Caring, purpose built DOG FREE cattery near Nontron.
Tel: 05 53 56 05 17 email: colfi.day@gmail.com www.la-creme-de-la-creme.com siret 51963554400017
Chenil Les Mille Calins English Run
5 Star accommodation for Dogs/Cats Underfloor heated kennels Qualified staff Top Quality food and exercise Only 45 minutes south of Caen Convenient Ferry Access
www.goldenwaypets.com Telephone 02 33 37 49 19 Emergency 02 33 38 41 32 Fax 02 33 38 44 16
CLOS FLEURI Luxury Cattery
Between Bergerac and Bordeaux Individual Love Care and Attention Given
Tel: 05 53 24 16 08 Susan.fairweather@sfr.fr www.closfleurionline.com Siret: 524 348 596 00015
WAGS AND WHISKERS British owned boarding kennels and cattery 35 years experience
Tel: 05.65 35.46.51 tina.wagsandwhiskers@googlemail.com SIRET: 500607858
The Cats Inn Luxury Cattery - Cales near Lalinde - Very Spacious - Lots of Love and Attention Tel: Paula 05 53 24 14 42 www.thecatsinncattery.com paulaL24150@aol.com Siret No.520 980 269 00010
THE DORDOGNE CATTERY
PENSION POUR CHATS NEAR SARLAT, OPEN-AIR, INSULATED AND HEATED CONTACT ANNA MASLEN 05 53 31 95 88 / 06 86 94 85 78 p.maslen@wanadoo.fr www.dordognecattery.fr
Yellow
47mm x 75mm
(31-45 words)
Orange
Treble
Colour
Red
47mm x 50mm
€285 €399HT
call 0800 91 77 56 Light Purple
Double
HT
B&W
Dark Purple
(16-30 words)
DB
LB
DG
LG
DP
LP
R
O
Y
GOLDENWAY INTERNATIONAL PETS & LIVE ANIMALS
World Wide Pet Relocator Ministry approved No. 61195004 – 61195001 Offices CDG Airport Paris Offices and Kennels Normandy Tel: 01 48 62 87 25 CDG Paris Tel: 02 33 38 41 32 Normandy www.goldenwaypets.com Siret: 397549551
ANIMAL COURIERS
Experienced couriers specialising in pet travel between France / UK / Spain or within France. Pet passport advice. Tel: 0044 (0) 1483200123
Animal Care
First Aid 4Animals Cert, References established Animal Charities
Tel: 06 43 28 32 32 animalcarer1@hotmail.fr Siret ; u47011658505
Landscape Architect
FREE CONSULTATION Site analysis, schematic designs, construction plans, cost estimates construction observation, Contact Michael Stanton Tel : 05 53 54 63 65
www.landplan.fr - E-mail: mike@landplan.fr
HOUSE PLANS Plans drawn & submitted for as little as €1,500 HT Visit:
www.houseplansinfrance.com Tel: 05 55 85 25 63 Email:info@houseplansinfrance.com
PARKES et DUCELIER
Architectes
UK and French Registered Architects Dossiers for Permis de Construire Interior and Landscape design Ordre des Architectes No. 1867 Tel: 05 53 09 33 45 E: mail@parkes-ducellier.com W: www.parkes-ducellier.com Depts: 16,19,24,33,87
Email: animals@animalcouriers.com Web: www.animalcouriers.com
House Sitting Yours/mine
Rounded
Light Green
} }
Colour
Standard
Dark Green
47mm x 25mm
€165HT €231HT
B&W
HOW TO BOOK AN ADVERT Choose the size of your advert from the examples on the left. You can have a black and white advert; or you can choose a colour from the list below. Finally, you can choose to have rounded corners to the box to help make your advert stand out (See right). Then, when you have made your choice,
Light Blue
Single
(1-15 words)
paper The Connexion or sister papers in other regions? Get 50% off your second directory advert.
Dark Blue
Directory adverts are available in 3 sizes and in colour or black and white.
which could help to boost your business. Your ad included in our online directory for FREE. Want to advertise in our national
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By advertising in our directory you get the chance to run advertorials (the articles you see on these pages.) 1/3 page, maximum 500 words plus photo, €200HT
Siret: 488 165 564 00011
GARDEN SERVICES Creation of Garden Maintenance & Tree surgery High quality in respect with nature Philippe Brulé -30 years experience
Tel. 05 65 34 09 91 Working dept: south 19, 46 Email: brule.philippe0346@orange.fr
PLASTERING POINTING RENDERING & GENERAL BUILDING “Quality & Reliability” 35 Years Experience Tel : 05 57 47 48 19 Email : pessacweb@yahoo.co.uk
Areas 24,33 Other areas Considered. Based St Foy La Grande Siret: 482 710 175
Paul Gent Fully Qualified & Insured Builder including:
• Renovation • Masonry • Plastering • Plus Hard Landscaping Tel: 05 53 29 08 86 Mob: 07 60 52 43 40
email: barbgent@gmail.com 30km radius Sarlat ( 24 ) Siret : 513 209 189
ABP SASU Renovation and construction of buildings and swimming pools. New timber framed constructions. Negotiation of diverse products
Tel Alan Fisk: 05 53 56 68 87 Email: abp.sasu@orange.fr
Architect
Renovation - new construction. Projects, all phases of construction. Sarl d'Architecture David Besse Architecte dplg Grange Neuve 24140 Saint Martin des Combes.
05 53 82 44 75 - 06 17 51 26 00 besse_archi@yahoo.fr
RON HARRISON
General Builder
City & Guilds qualified, 35yrs experience, reliable, ALL WORK GUARANTEED Tel: 05 53 80 42 91 Mob: +44 759 286 5010 Email: angelaharrisson@orange.fr 25km radius Mussidan(24) Siret: 51352715000017
Dordogne Advertiser
Directory 17
www.dordogneadvertiser.com
November 2011
ADVERTISING FEATURE
A helping hand to getting the right healthcare policy Exclusive Heathcare is devoted to helping expatriates access quality healthcare in France at an affordable price. With a team of experienced advisers on hand, the company can help you to pick the right policy for you and your family EXCLUSIVE Healthcare is concerned exclusively with health insurance, which may extend to dependency. It is geared exclusively towards advising the English speaking population in France. The key personnel in SaintRaphaël, who pick up the telephone to customers’ calls, are Pam, Polly and Johanna. These three ladies have now several years of experience and should be able to solve most of the problems that expatriates find themselves confronted with. The company can also lean on Ron Wright, formerly a senior civil servant for the Department of
Health, who monitors the constantly evolving insurance legislation, particularly in relation to UK-French agreements. The chairman, Charles Wilson, is a Scottish chartered accountant, who has spent many years in the French insurance industry. The electronic claims service (tiers payant), has been subcontracted to a French firm, Ascore, but should a problem arise then the SaintRaphaël team will step in to put things right. Johanna is the expert in this field. For those who want a local service, the company has an agency network. The principal agencies are on
C&C CONSTRUCTION SARL
CARPENTRY - BUILDING - RENOVATION
Qualified Builder 15 Years Experience 10 Years Insurance Guarantee All Building/Groundworks undertaken Tel: 05 53 62 13 38 / 06 63 84 79 99 Email: cc-construction@orange.fr www.cc-construction.fr
Excideuil - Hautefort - Terrasson Rob Hayward Siret: 45340867600022
MEDIUM/LARGE PROJECTS UNDERTAKEN 10 YEAR INSURED GUARANTEE
Mob: +33 (0) 6 44 01 70 63
www.bati-top.com 05 53 73 02 88 - Siret: 9868562700016
Email: creation.ex@gmail.com Telephone: Simon - 06 37 21 24 02 Glen - 06 71 85 43 24 Siret: 5045 8000 2000 13 - 5206 6045 7000 18
Tel: +33 (0) 5 53 51 87 53 / +33 (0) 9 70 40 82 31
E-mail: John@JohnAin.org
siret: 505 346 676 00016
Bergerac Renovation & Building
PC-TECHNICA
Family run building company with over 30 yrs experience
All construction works undertaken large or small incl. masonry, carpentry and roofing Based nr. Sarlat Free estimates - References available
Tel: 06 31 21 32 04 Email: simon.dobson@neuf.fr
From groundwork, fosse septiques, masonary, interiors, to rooves. Free estimates & advice
Tel: 05 53 81 60 73 christopher.jarrett@wanadoo.fr
GENERAL BUILDER Chris Danaher
20 Years Experience FREE ESTIMATES
Tel: 05 53 05 80 17 Mobile: 06 71 40 35 39 danaherone@aol.com Siret:51064303400018
SMALL BUILDING WORKS Repointing, Plasterboarding, windows, doors installed. Translations, planning permissions. Tel: 05 53 56 36 89 Email: daveindordogne@sfr.fr www.dordognedave.webs.com Regions Covered 24,16,87 - Siret: 51913926500010
JUST PLASTERING Ceilings, walls, floors Time served tradesman
24, 33, 47, other regions possible Contact Mike Tel: 05 53 58 17 19 Mob: 06 67 03 30 48 Email: thewebbsonweb@free.fr Siret no: 42424381400011
MGF Counselling Services English Speaking Counselor. M. Glenys Forrester (B.Sc.psych.) (M.Sc. psych.)
Offering individual / couples counselling. (Depression, Stress, illness, bereavement etc).
Tel: 05 53 50 07 28 Mob: 06 47 17 60 78
Email: mglenys.forrester@gmail.com Web: www.mgfcounselling.com Regions Covered: All - Siret: 520 314 824
Siret: 517 566 196 00013 Regions Covered: 19,24,87
For all your electrical requirements contact
AK Electrical
30 years experience/Fully insured
ak-electrical@hotmail.co.uk
Tel 06 32 31 61 85 siret: 494 064 322 00014
Property-legal-birth cert., driving licences Administrative help Expat assistance Valid everywhere with 25 years of experience Regions : All FRANCE Karen RENEL-KING Tel: 06 18 03 18 38 Email: karen.king@wanadoo.fr Web: www.certifiedfrenchtranslation.com Fast and affordable Siret: 38058374000028
HOUSES ON INTERNET Do you want to sell your house quickly? Our fee is only 2.5% Find out how on: WWW. HOUSESONINTERNET.COM
Tel: 05 55 65 12 19
Dordogne
alan keenan
tiling
all wall & floor tiling, pool surrounds, terraces, concrete & sand / cement work, plasterboarding
Tel: 06 19 50 34 28 or 05 53 23 24 54 Email: alankeenano@gmail.com Regions Covered: 24,47 Siret: 47794615600015
Kennedy Electricite Services Installation, rewires and repairs. 20+ years experience. Fully insured. No job too small. Contact Justin or Melissa Kennedy. Tel: 05 55 56 37 36 Email: justin.kennedy@orange.fr
Tel: 02 33 90 92 15
Regions 87/24 Siret 503 417 04000014
WEBSITES
Tailor Made French Lessons In Your Home
www.rob-tomlinson.com
By an experienced French teacher ALL LEVELS Group, Individual or Conversation
Regions: All France Siret: 419 490 297 00027
38, rue Jean Jaurès, 24800 THIVIERS Tel: 05 53 52 49 91 E: lapetitemaisondeslangues@orange.fr W: www.lapetitemaisondeslangues.com Learn French and feel at home again ! Small groups, 1to1, weekly or intensive courses and translations
Tel: 05 55 97 18 10 Email: brimacelectrical@supanet.com
Tel: 05 53 50 04 68 www.lefrancaischezvous.com
pennygraphics.net
Tel: 05 62 67 39 98 rt@rob-tomlinson.com
La Petite Maison des Langues
maintenance, breakdowns, renovations, rewires, new build, interior & exterior 30 years experience
home or Castel-Merle, 24290 Sergeac. Amanda and Emilie Millinship
Professional, bespoke design, websites you can edit. Hosting and domain name included.
Boost your business with an affordable, high-performance website that you can edit yourself
Brian Macey - Electrician
LE FRANCAIS CHEZ VOUS Tailor made tuition in French at your
Tel: 05 53 59 48 54 Email: contact@pc-technica.fr www.pc-technica.fr
quality websites
French Without Tears
04 94 40 31 45 www.exclusivehealthcare.com
All legal translations by FrenchEnglish speaking sworn translator
Solutions to all your computing needs... PC Support/Sales & Website Design
Penny Graphics
of business and perhaps a sign that the helping hand is working?”
CERTIFIED TRANSLATIONS
Voilà! Web Solutions Exclusive multilingual websites competitively priced. Personalised Facebook, Twitter and blogs part of a complete service to make your business highly visible on the Internet. www.voilawebsolutions.com info@voilawebsolutions.com Tel: Harvey 05 53 81 03 78
3D CONSTRUCTION
and carries a large amount of general information. Charles added: “At Christmas time we receive a number of cards from our clients. We believe this is rare in our line
Siret: 521701474
Internet by satellite, Streamed and satellite TV on computer, Networking and network streaming, Cloud computing.
CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION
The Exclusive Healthcare team on a recent trip to England
Your Own Personal Language Course. Tuition with Accomodation www.cours-a-cucugnan.com Tel: 06 78 15 19 29
Tel: 05 53 51 90 80 Mob: 06 70 89 72 06 hayward.artisan@gmail.com
BÂTI-TOP SARL
Team of English artisans for all your renovation needs in the Perigord Noir
the Riviera (Bagnols-en-Forêt and Marseille), in the Languedoc (Narbonne) and in the Dordogne (Villeréal). “One of France’s many advantages is the availability of first class medicine,” said Charles. “Our aim is to ensure customers can find an appropriate insurance policy that will finance their access to this service and the proof is in the pudding, as the saying goes.” If you are finding health insurance complex or would like to see whether your current conditions are fair, then call Exclusive Healthcare. For more information, go to the website, which shows prices clearly
Tel: 06 83 48 82 05 Siret : 530585181
ALL ELECTRICAL/ PLUMBING WORK Underfloor Heating/ Aerothermie Premiere service guaranteed St Yrieux / Brive / Perigueux / Sarlat
Tel: 06 37 09 55 13 Website: http://eurolec24.com/ Email: james.gunn@club-internet.fr Siret: 489 542 589 00010
To advertise here call freephone in France 0800 91 77 56 / from UK 0844 256 9881 (4p/min)
18 Directory
www.dordogneadvertiser.com
Dordogne Advertiser
November 2011
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Furniture for your French home Furniture supplier Brian Muir explains why his company will save you time and money when it comes to tastefully furnishing your French home are also at the right price. It was as a result of this obvious gap in the market that Brian Muir founded Furniture for France in 2000. Furniture for France is now in its eleventh year of supplying high quality UK-made furniture and sofas directly to clients’ properties in France. Despite the austerity measures Furniture for France supplies a wide range of and general difficulfurniture, from dressers to elegant dining tables ties in the UK and beyond, 2011 saw the company’s FURNISHING your home in France best ever start to the year, evidence can be something of a challenge. It that both the furniture and its repuis not easy, when living the French tation for great service will see it rural idyll, to find good quality clasthrough the difficult times. It has sic and contemporary designs that
€ U R R E N C Y
£ R A N S F E R
PIONEER FRANCE Best rates from the market leader info@pioneerfrance.com www.pioneerfrance.com/currency Tel: 05 53 07 06 27
AXA INSURANCE J. LECLUZE ST HILAIRE DU HARCOUET - 50600
HOME - CAR - HEALTH We insure UK registered cars ENGLISH SPOKEN (call Angeline) - 02 33 49 12 34
englishspokenlecluze.e-monsite.com
always strived to offer good quality furniture and give clients reliable trouble-free delivery - and with up to 50% of deliveries as a result of repeat and referred business, this company has built up a solid reputation over the years. Brian has opened a showroom near Brive in Chabrinac where customers can see some of the products on sale and discuss their requirements in person. In addition, Brian has a new look website making it easier for customers to browse the wide range of furniture available from stylish sofas and traditional tables to double pedestal dressing tables and rustic mirrors. The solid furniture is of the highest quality and does not come flat packed, yet delivery to your door is possible whether you live in a ski apartment, country farmhouse or Mediterranean mansion. “The alternative is to try to find
BOUCHERIE A LA FERME Traditional English family butchers and farmers in France.
British style Beef, bacon, Sausages, gammons pork & lamb Bespoke insulated packaging used for delivery throughout France. Raymond&Sophie Hicks www.boucheriealaferme.com Tel: 05 55 97 95 66 Mob: 06 45 51 34 58 Siret: 509 528 014 00012
To advertise here call freephone in France 0800 91 77 56 / from UK 0844 256 9881 (4p/min)
Brian and his wife Deborah run Furniture for France which is now in its eleventh year suitable furniture in France, deal directly with French suppliers and organise deliveries, which is not as easy as one might imagine,” said Brian. “With the fall in the exchange rate over recent years, it means buying furniture in France in euros, which is far more expensive,” he added. “Of course you could consider buying furniture elsewhere, storing it, hiring and loading a van, driving it to a channel port, crossing the channel, driving all the way to your property in France - with fuel prices at an all time high - unloading and
Jardins du Périgord
installing it all yourself, and then driving the van back to UK. But when Furniture for France will do all that for you from just £99, why would you want to?” www.furnitureforfrance.co.uk Showroom: 05 55 22 31 46 Out of hours: 05 55 25 02 68 Mobile: 06 46 49 73 45
www.jardinsduperigord.com
Exclusive Healthcare
TIP TOP
Your Helping Hand to the French Health System
- Design - Creation - Garden management High quality work by qualified gardeners
Garden & Property Services
Garden Maintenance Hedge Trimming - Trees Cutting - Strimming General Property Maintenance Property checks/Keyholding Photo updates
+33 (0) 4 94 40 31 45 www.exclusivehealthcare.com
Contact Barry On Tel: 05 53 29 03 52 Mobile: 06 24 07 31 14 E: paula.grainger@wanadoo.fr Dept 24 - Radius 50 kms Sarlat Siret: 49372365400015
€ U R R E N C Y
£ R A N S F E R
PIONEER FRANCE Best rates from the market leader info@pioneerfrance.com www.pioneerfrance.com/currency Tel: 05 53 07 06 27
FRENCH INSURANCE IN ENGLISH For people who live in / own property in France Straight-forward, honest advice on the best house, car, life & health insurance policies for you Over 15 years experience in French insurance markets English, Dutch & German spoken. Philippe Schreinemachers www.insurance.fr Tel: 33 00 05 62 29 20 00 Email: cover@insurance.fr RCS Auch B479 400 657 - Regions: All France
EXECO PARTNERS Certified Accountants (FR) Serving English Clients in France
Accounting, Payroll, Business Setup and registration, Individual & Business Taxation and more... Please feel welcome to contact:
Mr Pierre CHERON (Expert-Comptable) on Tél: 05.53.54.48.91 Email: contact@execopartners.com www.execopartners.eu
To advertise here call freephone in France 0800 91 77 56 / from UK 0844 256 9881 (4p/min)
SAPEG expertise et conseil Registered Chartered Accountants
St Pool Piscines
Concrete Piscines. Cost effectively engineered. No expensive over design, expertly constructed Order now for 2012. stpoolsfrance@gmail.com Stuart Roberts B.Sc (c.eng) Phone: 0553914518 www.aquapierre.com
Roots & Shoots
Professional tree surgery Call Mark for a free quote 05 53 75 05 48 - 06 89 79 05 02 rootsandshoots.fr@gmail.com. www.roots-shoots.fr Siret number 452-803-539-00017
pools-piscines.com Swimming pool construction and repairs Natural pools - Replacement liners standard and liner 'armé' 150/100 NW Dordogne/South Charente
tel 06 89 46 15 08 / 09 77 90 94 51 www.pools-piscines.com siret 322 963 190 000 36
24 SERVICES Complete Home and Garden Maintenance
Bourdeilles 24310
- Business set up and registration - Business accountancy - Income tax,Wealth tax - Payroll and legal services
Tel: 06 02 34 85 38
Contact Alain: 05 53 92 50 00 Email: a.clisson@sapeg.expertscomptables.fr www.sapeg.experts-comptables.fr
PISCINE AMBIANCE
www.24services.fr Siret: 52841725600013
More than 20 years as regional leader in reinforced concrete pools. Thanks to exclusive technology and no outsourcing, 98% of our clients readily recommend us! With PISCINE AMBIANCE invest in happiness! PISCINE AMBIANCE - ZAC du Mazaud 19100 BRIVE - + 33 (0)5 55 18 98 18 contact@piscineambiance.com www.piscineambiance.com
IN DEEP PISCINES Maintenance, leak detection, servicing, repairs
tel: 05 53 22 79 18 / 06 84 68 84 92 email: indeeppiscines@gmail.com
regions: 47, 32, 82, 24, 33 - siret: 504576802100020
Prêt à Plonger
Café Church Bergerac
Complete package including groundwork, terracing/decking and pool security.
An English speaking approach to contemporary Christianity
Piscine installation, repairs & maintenance. Bespoke pools, no project too big or small.
Simon & Julia Holt 0619 071121 or 0553 620152 or Julia: 06 32 10 39 92 simon.holt@wanadoo.fr www.pretaplongerpools.com Siret: 49397835700017
MOLE CATCHER NO MOLE - NO FEE! Call johnthemoleman
tel 05 53 22 07 32 mob 06 06 40 92 97 e-mail johnthemoleman@aol.com siret 51249460000012
To advertise here call freephone in France 0800 91 77 56 / from UK 0844 256 9881 (4p/min)
SUNDAYS
October 23, November 27, January 22
Tea and Cake from 5pm Cafe Church from 5.30pm for about an hour Sponsored by and held at L'Eglise Evangelique Libre de Bergerac, 5 Rue Durou
For more details contact Reverend Derek & Pam Cook derekcook3@sky.com 05.53.57.83.30 www.christiansindordogne.com
LIMEUIL CHURCH (at Limeuil Haut) ANGLICAN SERVICES EVERY SUNDAY 10.30 AM
Everyone is warmly welcomed
TEL: 05 53 31 18 04 www.churchinaquitaine.org
Dordogne Advertiser
Directory 19
www.dordogneadvertiser.com
November 2011
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Satellite can speed up rural internet access Getting an internet connection through a satellite can be cheaper and more reliable than other internet services in rural areas says John Ainsworth MOST British arrivals in France want to maintain contact with events and friends, or continue business activities from their new French homes. For some this is not a problem, but for those living in rural areas it can be. They find that internet services, which city dwellers take for granted, are simply not available or are extremely low quality and unreliable. “The French phone companies supply a combined service for telephone, internet and French television, but in the countryside their promises are often far from the reality of their delivery performance,” said John. “The speed of the internet service is far too often less than half of the promised level and the phone and internet service will be unavailable
or low quality during bad weather. The television supply will not exist although the customer still has to pay for it.” Discussing these problems with suppliers can often mean hours of time spent on phone calls, or it is simply not possible. As a result both email and telephone become unreliable, and the internet is not there when it is most needed. “There is an alternative - new developments in technology and new satellites mean that internet via satellite is now a possibility at a reasonable price,” said John who adds that it will usually be less expensive, better quality and more reliable. In many cases internet speed has been known to increase five to ten fold in comparison with the existing system.
'Massages and well being at Castelnaud la Chapelle' With
Sophie NALIN, massage practitioner
One stop for all your renovation works. Specialists in kitchens and bathrooms. Free devis/quotes. Contact details.
Phone: 05 53 61 77 28 / 06 85 16 35 69 e-mail: renovation4u@hotmail.com
“People question if a satellite system is vulnerable to the weather,” said John. “This is possible, but experience shows that it is far less so than telephone and internet connections from French suppliers to rural areas.” Satellite internet is not delivered by a phone line or cable, but by satellite dish. It is available at different levels so it can suit those just wanting to use email at home and surf the web as well as those with business needs. “There is usually a small initial payment for the equipment and then better quality, faster speed and reliability can be enjoyed for what often is a lower cost,” added John. An existing telephone service can easily and quickly be replaced by one of the many internet telephone services. “Most of these offer unlimited calls all around Europe at cost of less than €8 per month and worldwide for a very little more,” said John. “Plus, of course, calling
PLUMBING & HEATING INSTALLATIONS SERVICING & REPAIRS
RENOVATIONS, AIR-CONDITIONING SOLAR SYSTEMS - TOTALGAZ APPROVED INSTALLER Contact: Wayne Merry Mob: 06 85 58 64 65 Tel: 05 53 64 34 05 Email:wayne.merry@sfr.fr
- Relaxing massage with organic oils - Wave and vibration massage techniques - Energising massage - Shiatsu Amma Assis
Supply & Installation of :
Tel : 05 53 63 43 87 / 06 06 41 08 85 Email : maswan@live.co.uk All depts covered Siret 50406233200011
Dordogne-Correze-Properties
Makeovers & Design
Property Finder Service helping the buyer find their dream home.
English Kitchens/ Bathrooms/appliances direct from UK manufacturers Full range of French kitchens supplied Free design/planning service Installations/Makeovers/ Installations Only/Tiling Granite and Stone worksurfaces available
Telephone: 06 45 10 21 54 john@dordogne-correze-properties.com www.dordogne-correze-properties.com
Areas: 24 33 47 Call 05 53 58 09 32 or 06 58 92 09 97 siret: 510 011 554 00019
Siret 508 891 983 00019
ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS & GEARBOX REPAIRS
WWW.LANDYPOINT.NET
0545622720
HEATHROW LEFT HAND DRIVE CENTRE LTD Rear Of 55 Cowley Road, Uxbridge UB8 2AE Tel: +44 (0)208 8487407 Tel: +44 (0)1895 81 23 23 Mobile: +44 (0)7811 784766
Discover all 7 Golf Courses
Reduced fares between 20 - 30%
We Specialise in buying and selling Left Hand Drive quality vehicles.
We have a variety of cars mostly on French/Spanish and English registrations. We have over 11 years of professional experience in the motor trade. Web: Heathrowlhdcentre.com E: info@heathrowlhdcentre.com
Challenging 18-hole course, driving range, pools, tennis, bar, restaurant, accommodation
www.souillaccountryclub.com
Tel : 05 65 27 56 00
Siret. 493688626
ASBESTOS ROOFING ALERT! Act before EU forces removal and bans DIY disposal Save up to 75% contractor costs
Phil B Entreprise
All Building Works Undertaken Inc Electrical, Plumbing and Heating Based 47, 24
Email: enquiries@stoves.fr Tel: 05 53 84 36 81 Mobile: 06 72 02 88 29 Experienced and registered
Ceramic floor and wall tiler
Tel: 09 62 27 94 39 email info@siteclear.eu Siret no. 51438447800012
Tel: 05 53 80 63 93 Email: contact @starsatellite.fr Web: www.starsatellite.fr
Regions: Dordogne and surrounding Departments Siret: 50196266600019
Tel: 05 55 78 43 71 / 06 67 81 63 46 www.sandandblast.com
SURFACES Polished Concrete Floors, Walls, Worktops Sinks & Furniture
STONE & TILE Restoration, Colouring, Sealing. Web: www.surfaces24.com Email: info@surfaces24.com
Tel: 06 82 38 21 12
Siret 51500573400014
Mini digger hire from 100 Euros per day HT Hammer, auger, dumper, roller etc available
Sarlat, Gourdon and Souillac areas
SARL Maxima
PLUMBING - HEATING - BATHROOMS - GEOTHERMIE AND ALTERNTIVE - ENERGY INSTALLATIONS - GAS INSTALLATIONS
we undertake Plastering - Partitioning - Plasterboarding
Tel April on 0613232249 or 0553312115
QUALIFIED ARTISAN - QUALIGAZ REGISTERED - FRENCH REGISTERED BUSINESS 12 MONTH WARRANTY ON ALL WORK FULLY INSURED
Siret: 381 076 967
Siret no. 498 524 032 00022
E B Creations
Balcony & Stair Railings Window & Door Grills.
Siret No. 480 789 197 00013
All interior and exterior ironwork. Dept 47,33,24 covered.
see rates at
www.maximalocation.com
Tel: 05 53 83 68 15
Manufacture/Repair/Installation. williamsonsteel.com williamson_steel@yahoo.com
Siret No. 452 215 403 00018
05 53 90 20 17
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mobile phones with these services is usually cheaper.” People considering this solution will find that many satellite internet providers also have a Fair Access Policy For people living remotely, satellite internet can be (FAP). more reliable, cheaper and provide faster access The satellite internet and have small downloads, company can limit a customer’s FAP is not likely to affect them,” throughput if system usage exceeds said John. “For those in rural areas a certain threshold for a period of this really is an time. Typically, the restrictions will alternative well worth looking at,” he be lifted within 8-12 hours of the added. original FAP application if the cusFor more details contact John tomer’s usage in this period stays Ainsworth, who is based in below the threshold. Sergeac (department 24), by email FAP ensures all subscribers have or telephone. fair and equal access to satellite internet access, so that bandwidth is john@johnain.org not taken up disproportionately by a 05 53 51 87 53 small percentage of subscribers. 06 44 01 70 63 “For home users who just surf the
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To advertise here call freephone in France 0800 91 77 56 / from UK 0844 256 9881 (4p/min)
20 Directory
www.dordogneadvertiser.com
Dordogne Advertiser
November 2011
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Let property finders source your dream home Looking for a property in France can take weeks and months of searching. If you are looking in the Dordogne or Corrèze area John Starr’s property finding company can help you to discover the right property without wasting time and money DORDOGNE-Corrèze Properties was set up in 2008 by John Starr to help English-speaking people find properties in the beautiful north Dordogne and west Corrèze. It is part of the FrenchEntrée network of property finders throughout France that are fully registered and insured and operating under the strict code of practice from the FNCI (Fédération Nationale des Chasseurs Immobiliers). “Being part of FrenchEntrée has really been a great back-up to the business,” said John. John does not sell property nor does he have properties on his books for sale. “We are not estate agents or immobiliers, but property
finders called chasseurs immobiliers in France,” he said. The process begins by John taking a brief from a potential purchaser. He then seeks to find properties on the market that meet the buyer’s criteria. The immobiliers see this as an additional source of business for them as they know that John is the customer’s representative on the ground and only acts for serious purchasers. John can visit up to 20 properties for a client and takes his own pictures and details to forward on to them. He also explores private sales, which account for the largest part of the French market. Having a summary list of properties he discusses
them with the client and then arranges an itinerary so the client can come and view the properties. The immobilier or seller knows that when John’s buyer comes to see a particular property they are seriously interested in purchasing. “I have helped people from the United States, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the UK to find their dream property in this part of France,” said John. “This service has been very popular with clients and has saved them wasted trips to France, which can be very expensive from the UK as well as other parts of the world.” Searching for your ideal property in France can take months. There
budget advice and support and are lots of properties to see and guidance through the buying driving distances may be long. process. Having local market knowledge is John added: “We can help people essential for successful negotiations. realise their dream without the norIt also helps clients decide on what mal stress and anxieties of buying a they are really looking for. It can be property abroad.” too easy to buy quickly and realise later that you did not really have all the information to make the best choice. “When we moved to France this type of service would have been a great help to us when we were originally buying properties,” said John. “We would have got to see the properties we really wanted to view and saved money at the same time. When buying a property you need to know what is around them to really appreciate whether you would buy it or not. The only way to do that is to have a representative on the ground who is looking after your interests. “I am really looking forward to helping others find their ideal home in this sought-after area of rural France.” John Starr Dordogne-Corrèze Properties 06 45 10 21 54 offers a bespoke service tailored john@dordogne-correze-properties.com to customers’ needs, as well as www.dordogne-correze-properties.com
Car boot sales around the area this month November 5 - Riberac November 6 - Bergerac, Lamonzie-SaintMartin, Périgueux, Saint André d’Allas, Saint Capraise de Lalinde, Saint-Estèphe, Verteillac November 7 - Hautefort November 12 - Thenon November 13 - Brantôme, Carlux, Saint-
Tips on making a living from teaching English Many people come to France with the hope of teaching English as a job option but the fact that you are a native English-speaker is not always a good enough qualification. This is especially true in France where certificates and proof of education are of the utmost importance and grammar is dissected into the smallest detail meaning you will have to be extremely well prepared for lessons. IF YOU are serious about wanting to teach but you do not have any teaching qualifications or experience then a good place to start would be to take a TEFL or equivalent course. There are many different bodies that offer these courses for teaching English as a foreign language. The most well recognised here are TEFL, TESL or CELTA. Make sure you pick a course which corresponds to the age group you hope to teach - there is little point doing a TEFL course on business English if you are hoping to teach primary or high school children. Sometimes having a relevant university degree is enough depending on the employer but, even then, they will often ask you to obtain a paper giving them an official French equivalent. To aquire this you need to contact NARIC France. The next step is to actually find a job. Firstly you should be aware that it is very rare for a nonFrench person to be employed in a state school - except as a foreign assistant. This means you will probably be doing the job of a teacher but getting paid a lot less. To hold an official teaching post in a state school you will need to pass a French teaching certificate relevant to the level you are teaching, for example the CAPES for secondary level. These are notoriously hard to obtain but can be done if you are prepared to put in a lot of hard work. The places to start looking for work are the private language schools or private higher education schools. Look in the Yellow Pages to spot schools near you and send in
your CV to let them know you are available, also look on the Pole-Emploi website and in local papers and magazines for jobs advertised. Contracts for teaching jobs are usually short term. Some are only for the school year - September to end of June which means that unless you find a summer job you will have no pay for two months. Some schools only pay you the actual hours taught whether it be because you have not been able to make a class or the students have cancelled so be prepared for a fluctuating monthly salary. If you are employed by a company that offers English lessons for businesses be prepared to travel as often you will be expected to go to the company's premises to give the lessons. This kind of contract means you need to be prepared to work out of school hours as the lessons will often be arranged to fit in with the clients' working day so over lunch, at end of office hours or as evening classes. If you are lucky enough to get a full-time job in a state school, do not be surprised if they say your full time job is 18 hours a week, this actually translates to around 20 hours a week in class but paid a full-time salary as preparation and marking time are paid on top of your teaching. If you cannot find a job this way, you could set up your own business offering one to one and small group tuition. A living can certainly be earned from teaching English in France if you are prepared to put in the hours and consider working for several schools to make up a full-time job. Teaching English often does have the added bonus of not needing to speak fluent French which may be needed in other jobs.
Astier, Saint-Capraise-de-Lalinde November 19 - Thenon November 20 - Piégut-Pluviers November 27 - Chancelade, Coux-etBigaroque, Eymet, Lamonzie-Saint-Martin, Le Buisson de Cadouin, Notre-Dame-deSanilhac, Sarlat-la-Canéda
POLE EMPLOI JOBS PART-TIME ENGLISH TEACHER Issac and Cazoules Job offer numbers: 940257L and 940091L, a two-month contract available for each position. English teacher required for a secondary -school (collège) pupil. You will be a qualified teacher with fluent English. No experience required. Pay €15-20/hr, 5H week. E-mail CV and covering letter with job offer number to Mr Touboul at the company Laureat: cv@laureat.fr MANAGER OF A BEAUTY PRODUCTS COMPANY Périgueux Job offer no: 611963V, permanent contract.
You will be responsible for the reception desk and checking product quality. You will be involved with sales development and will manage a team of three people. You have a good knowledge of the spa and well-being industry. Working days are Monday to Sunday with two consecutive days off. Tasks include taking money from a sale and filling in client data, monitoring stocks and ordering new items, admin, team management. One-two years managerial experience, HND or equivalent in Cosmetics and body care or Business Studies, good English and experience using Word and Excel required. Pay €20,000/year, 35H week. Apply on pole-emploi.fr website. SALES ASSISTANT Terrasson-Lavilledieu Job offer no: 601707V, permanent contract.
Your duties will include receiving and treating client orders, dealing with transport, promotional offers, technical data, mail, planning for future orders, resolving any legal disputes, compiling statistics and analysis of sales for a company in the food industry. The role will involve among other tasks, answering telephone enquiries from clients with regard to their order and checking manufacture time, availability of products, cost, etc. You will then draw up a quote for clients, advising him/her about delivery times and taking payment or transferring to the relevant department. HND Business Studies or equivalent required in training and one-two years experience in a similar post. Fluent English required, good level of Spanish in addition would be an advantage. Experience of Word and Excel needed. Pay €1,800/month, 13 month contract with benefits. 35H week. Apply on pole-emploi.fr website. MANAGER OF FOOD SECTION, NOT INCLUDING PERISHABLES Trelissac Job offer no: 608290V, permanent contract.
You will be in charge of a hypermarket wine cellar. Your tasks will include developing sales strategies, analysing market trends, managing relations with providers and ensuring good presentation of the wine sales area. Good wine knowledge, two years experience and minimum HND or equivalent in wine study or HND/degree in Business Studies or wine sales required. Good English preferred. 35H week. Apply on pole-emploi.fr website.
Dordogne Advertiser
Directory 21
www.dordogneadvertiser.com
November 2011
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Stock up on your favourite English food If you long for battered cod with your chips or Quality Street at Christmas time, then Anglo Foods could be just the store you need LAST November Montguyon-based Anglo Foods opened for business, offering customers a wide range of frozen, chilled and dry goods - from Cheddar cheese to scampi and milk chocolate digestive biscuits. The shop was set up by Rachel Pritchard and Sam and Sally Appleton after they would make family trips back to the UK to stock
Anglo Foods is on the border of departments 16, 24 and 33
Accommodation Management Services Services Include:
up on all their favourite foods that they could not buy in France. Once Anglo Foods was established, they organised regular, temperature controlled deliveries that ensure the freshness of the products and that the shop is always fully stocked. As the word has spread Anglo Foods has gone from strength to strength and the family is now planning for its expansion in 2012. “Some of the brands we stock are Iceland frozen foods, Young’s Seafood, Pukka Pies, Hollands Pies as well as Richmond sausages,” said Rachel. “The pies and the Young’s battered haddock and cod are our best-selling products, particularly with English customers as they miss their fish and chips.” The “platters” are another popular range, which offer Indian, Chinese, seafood, barbeque and desert selec-
Working with the Movers Tel: +44(0) 1304 822844 doverinfo@aandsselfstorage.co.uk www.doverstorage.co.uk All France George White European Transport
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Special rates to S/W France 13.6m/45ft trailer - Full/Part loads Removals/materials/vehicles Owner driver. RHA member
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SIMPLY BRITISH INDEPENDENT BRITISH GROCERS Large range of food - fresh and frozen, books, greetings cards and gifts
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tions. “There are 75 pieces in the Indian platter that only take approximately 25 minutes in the oven to cook,” said Rachel. While the stock is already varied, if there is a product a customer wants then the team are only too happy to order it in. The girls are currently taking pre-orders for Christmas and the book is filling Young’s frozen up fast. battered haddock “For Christmas we offer a huge fillets are a best seller range, including frozen turkeys, beef roasting joints, lamb, gammon, der of departments mince pies, Christmas crackers, 16, 24 and 33 it Quality Street, Heroes, Roses and welcomes a wide range Celebrations - it is forever growing,” of clientele. In terms of prices, the said Rachel. “We also stock team works hard to keep them Christmas cards and proper English down. “We are able to keep costs wrapping paper - not like the sort down because we don’t have a card you often find over here that rips payment option, so people pay by easily,” she added. cash or cheque,” said Rachel. The shop is open every week day With the way that Anglo Foods is from 10am to 5pm (and does not growing, development for the shop’s close for lunch) and on Saturdays expansion will soon be under way. from 10am to 3pm. It is closed on “Next year we will move towards Sundays. As it is located on the bor-
Trading Since 2005
www.anglofoods.com Come and stock up on all your Christmas needs including Crackers, Chocolates and Turkeys
Tool & Plant Hire From Diggers, Dumpers Rollers To Small DIY Projects Floor Sanders - Rotavators Scaffolding towers - Mixers Tel: 05 53 83 40 67 Email: loca.plastow@wanadoo.fr
Tel: 05 46 48 32 44
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English butchers and farmers in France.
Beef, Lamb, Pork Pasties, steak pies, pork pies. Bacon, gammon, sausages. Bespoke insulated packaging used for delivery throughout France. Raymond&Sophie Hicks www.boucheriealaferme.com Tel: 05 55 97 95 66 Mob: 06 45 51 34 58 Siret: 509 528 014 00012
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OAKWOOD FLOORING Wide boards
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OAKWOOD FLOORING Wide boards
Large stocks available Prime & Character grades Oiled & waxed finishes Special offers from 12 € / m² www.oakwood-import.fr email: franceoak@gmail.com tel: 06 80 33 93 57 siret 49426348
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WOODBURNERS.FR Traditional cast iron multifuel and woodburning stoves. Option for fire back boilers on most models. Delivered to your door or installed. Also coal now available. Contact us for (solar) renewable energy air source pumps to replace your gas or oil fired systems. See our website on
www.woodburners.fr Tel/fax or Email 05 53 84 36 81 Mob 06 72 02 88 29 enq@woodburners.fr Siret no 45204687300017
Anglo Foods stocks a wide range of branded frozen, chilled and dry goods products having an online presence as well as a home ware, clothing and DIY section,” said Rachel. To view more products and place Christmas orders, please visit the website. 05 46 48 32 44 www.anglofoods.com
KANGAROO KARDS Leaps Ahead!
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kangarookards.co.uk
Furniture for France
A wide range of quality indoor furniture and sofas supplied and delivered direct to your French property saving you time and money. New showroom "Meubles New Ideas" near Brive(19) now open. For full colour brochure please e-mail info@furnitureforfrance.co.uk or call 0033 (0) 6 46 49 73 45 or 0033 (0) 5 55 25 02 68 www.furnitureforfrance.co.uk
PAINT - BRAND NAME Top Quality Uk Emulsion White & Magnolia 10LTS - Unbeatable Price Local Drop Off Points - Dept 24 Ring or Email for Further Details & Prices - Tel: 09 62 21 46 27/ 06 78 17 47 53 Email:paint4less@me.com
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22 Property
www.dordogneadvertiser.com
Dordogne Advertiser
November 2011
That touch of France D I Y t i p s
With shabby chic interiors and timeless pieces, giving a French feel to your home can be an effortless way of adding some style and matching the original features of the house. REBECCA LAWN reports.
Sponsored by
Restoring wrought-iron and metal furniture
Photos: © SARL DesignWorks
Photo:© Spreader - Fotolia.com
INTERIOR designer Paula Mitchell, who runs DesignWorks France in the Gironde, believes that once you’ve sorted out the structure of your French house – exposed the best features and opened up rooms – you can start to play. “The basic houses are beautiful, with their stones and beams, and lend themselves to very sympathetic interiors,” she says. “Most people want a look that’s soft, gentle, elegant, comfortable, and pretty. The aspirational French country home has a rustic charm, faded shabby look, embroidered old linens, simple checks and whitewashed walls.” Each room in your home can be given an authentic French touch. If all-out traditional is what you’re after,
Colours, fabrics, furniture, wall finishes – even an ultra-modern touch – give your house the look it needs
think toile patterns and calico fabrics. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns. In kitchens, it isn’t unusual, though not to everyone’s taste, to see motifs of farm scenes. Hanging copper pots and pans can also make for a nice feature, and look out for wrought iron pieces such as end tables, stools and candle holders at home centres or
brocantes. As for the dining room, give it a French twist, with distressed furniture. A rustic solid table with high-backed chairs works well and decorative chandeliers on high ceilings can make a big impact. For the master bedroom, a modern style with a few older pieces, such as an armoire or hand-carved mirror, can cre-
ate a relaxing and romantic atmosphere, while in the bathroom, a free-standing bath and bare, stained boards work well. As well as patterns, French country homes also work well with colour, especially rich warm tones. A stucco finish is good for walls – use plaster to create the look or try faux wall treatments bought from craft stores. Exposed stone walls are also popular. If you’d rather try a different look but choosing a theme or style is proving difficult, find inspiration in favourite places and be bold: you could even try a different one for each room. What about a Venetianinspired dining room or a bedroom that reminds you of your travels? “It’s something that’s great fun to do if you’re interested in it,” says Paula Mitchell. However, she points out that you must take account of the style of the house and the overall impression you create. “You have to be consistent in the treatment of the building. One way to do this is through flooring. You could have the same tiling throughout, something neutral that will blend, and then within the rooms you can play with colours, textures and light to create different moods.” Also, keep in mind that not all houses suit all styles. “A farmhouse with big beams is not going to lend itself well to a chic Art Deco look,” Paula says. However, if some styles don’t fit, you can still change the feel or character of a room through clever use of colours and fabrics.
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THE AUTUMN is a great time for restoring wrought-iron and metal garden furniture. It might take you time and a little elbow grease, but the results will give your furniture a new lease of life for the summers to come. The techniques used can also be applied to any indoor metal furniture and objects you might have. The most important and tedious step is to get rid of all existing finish and rust on wrought iron. Start by scrubbing off as much rust as possible with a wire brush. If there is a lot of finish or the rust is quite deep, continue with a coarse sandpaper then finish off with a medium grain sandpaper. If you have a large piece of furniture to restore, it might be worth investing in some chemical remover, available from DIY stores (look for décapant fer.) Once rust and old finish have been removed, brush away all existing dust, rinse the furniture and dry it thoroughly. The next step is to apply a rust resistant primer, antirouille pour fer. When you are sure you have covered the whole piece of furniture with the primer, and it has had time to dry, then paint it with paint specifically for iron, peinture fer. It is important to use the correct paint as not only will it last longer once on but it also contains chemicals that will help preserve the iron against the elements. To assure a greater protection it is advisable to apply two layers of acrylic water-based top coat. When it comes to other metal furniture, use a wire brush to remove loose paint and rust then scrub the metal with a non abrasive scouring pad that has been dipped in kerosene. Once all metal has been treated like this rinse with warm water and dry. To repaint, lightly sand down so that the paint can adhere to the metal. Apply a primer, sous couche, and then finish with an adapted metal paint, peinture pour métaux. Apply as many coats as you need to obtain a uniform colour, especially if using bright colours. For both wrought iron and metal furniture, either aerosol or normal paint can be used. To maintain the furniture once you have restored it, follow these simple steps: Don’t leave the furniture outside over winter. Try to keep it as dry as possible, so don’t place it near a swimming pool or a sprinkler system. It’s better to place the furniture on a stone patio or decking rather than on grass. If you’re expecting a lot of rain, cover the furniture. In autumn, make sure you don’t allow wet leaves to accumulate on furniture.
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Dordogne Advertiser
November 2011
Gardening Facts
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Houses for sale in and around Dordogne Buying or selling a property in or around Dordogne? We can help. Our website www.connexionfrance.com carries details of more than 14,000 homes for sale across France.
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Property 23
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We also feature properties for sale in this dedicated section of the paper each month. To find out more about any particular property, go to www.connexionfrance.com and enter the ref: code shown under the property. For sellers, the adverts are also displayed across a range of popular Englishlanguage websites and are seen by thousands of potential buyers EVERY
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Pick the last pears, prune and plant for next year
Mists, fruitfulness ... and work to do by STAFF REPORTER NOVEMBER offers cooler days and a slower pace for the gardener, but there are still garden chores calling and you need to to schedule some time outside before the start of bad weather and the holiday season. Now is the time to plant deciduous shrubs, fruit trees and roses. If you live in a frost area, protect roses by heaping soil around the crown and covering the central bud. Tie climbing flowers and plants to prevent wind damage. Take time to dig and rake your vegetable patch and prepare the garden for its winter rest. Force bulbs such as hyacinth and amaryllis so they can be enjoyed over the festive season. If you’re thinking of planting a live Christmas tree this winter, dig the hole now, before the soil freezes. Cover over the ground removed from the hole, so that it can be replaced unfrozen. In the fruit garden, November is the month to collect the last remaining pears and chestnuts and plant next year’s apples, pears, quinces and medlars. Prune apple and pear trees which are trained along wires. If you are in a frost area, water trees and bushes until the ground freezes. In the vegetable patch, harvest cabbages, lettuces and root vegetables such as celery, carrots, beetroot, pumpkins and radishes. The herb garden will also give up its treasures this month and you will be able to enjoy salads spiced with chives, parsley and mint. Carrot seeds can be sown in a polytunnel and asparagus, shallots, garlic and spinach can be planted in the garden. Broad bean seeds can be sown in warmer climates. White onions, Batavia lettuce, endives and chicory can be transplanted and manure and compost can be dug into the soil. You will probably have stopped mowing your lawn by now. Keep weeding and continue to rake up dead leaves, especially if they have collected around tree roots, as they may carry diseases. If you suspect this, you should burn them, otherwise add them to your compost heap. Once you have prepared your lawn, you could cover with a layer of turf. Clean sprinklers and tidy away pipes. Protect your water meter if it is outside and you are in a colder region. Clean, sharpen and lubricate garden tools. Cover your compost heap to avoid flooding and leaching of nutrients with winter rain. In the flower garden, sow wild flower seeds in frost-free areas. Plant azaleas, camellias and the tropical fruit trees which grow in your area, as these become available to buy. Keep an eye out out for insect pests, which may be hardy enough to survive any cold snap.
JARDILAND ROUTE D'AGEN BERGERAC OPEN 7am-7pm 05.53.63.54.70
€97,000
€108,000
Ribérac This renovated stone cottage, set in a quiet hamlet, comes with a bread oven in the garden. It comprises a living area with a kitchen, a shower room, and 2 bedrooms.
Eymet This lovely village house comes with a pretty courtyard. The rooms are all fairly large and the property currently offers 3 bedrooms, a living room, a bathroom and a kitchen.
REF: 33654
ENERGY RATING = Not given
REF: 32892
€152,600
€181,000
Champniers et Reilhac Detached home in tranquil location set in nearly 2 acres of gardens comprises of 3 double bedrooms, kitchen, lounge, covered terrace and large sous-sol garage.
Cantillac Located 5 minutes from Brantome, this single storey house has 5 bedrooms, a kitchen opening onto a large living room of 40m² with fireplace, 2 bathrooms, storeroom.
REF: FP-20341TC24
ENERGY RATING = Not given
REF: 6559321
€214,000
€230,000
Montagrier The property has a gite and a large barn attached and all of this has huge development potential. The rooms are all large and airy and the garden has mature fruit trees.
Sainte Alvère A stunning 4 bedroom village house, with small garden and vine-covered terrace. A perfect lock-up and leave property. The village is known to have existed since the late Middle Ages.
REF: RAC6710
ENERGY RATING = Not given
REF: FP-20600LD24
€250,000
€270,000
Dordogne This 4 bedroom stone village house with lots of features. The lounge/dining area/kitchen area of 45m² is fully equipped with oven, hob, extractor, microwave, fridge, and dishwasher.
Bergerac The house comprises of living room 40m2, kitchen, dining room, drawing room, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, outside Swimming pool 10m x 5m, covered terrace, wine- cellar.
REF: 71199
ENERGY RATING = Not given
REF: FPBG1232L
€293,000
€310,300
Ribérac Possibility for 'hotel or gite' with 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, magnificient living room with fireplace and dining room with fireplace, central heating, workshop, 2 garages and barn.
Belvès Large family house with spacious rooms comprising: living room, dining room, lounge, kitchen, 5 bedrooms, bathroom, attic, cellar, garage and terrace with country views.
REF: RJF6130
ENERGY RATING = Not given
REF: 200297
€330,000
€363,800
Brantome The main house of 165m2 habitable space. Contains 7 rooms including 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, kitchen/dining room of 32m2. Lots of potential!
Le Buisson-de-Cadouin Comprising: Living room 50m2 with fireplace and exposed beams, kitchen opening on to a covered terrace. First floor: Mezzanine 16m2, 2 bedrooms, bathroom, WC and attic 50m2.
REF: 6678837
ENERGY RATING = Not given
REF: FPBF1070L
€399,000
€424,000
Thiviers This 17th century farmhouse comprises of living room, dining room, kitchen, utility room, 6 bedrooms or 5 bedrooms and study, nursery bedroom, 3 showers, 1 bath and 5 toilets.
Villetoureix On the heights of Riberac with great view, beautiful 5 bedroom house in very good condition with 11 rooms (250m2) with pool, garage and pergola. Enclosed ground of 7000m2.
REF: IFPC15483
ENERGY RATING = D & E
REF: 4985705
ENERGY RATING = Not given
ENERGY RATING = Not given
ENERGY RATING = Not given
ENERGY RATING = Not given
ENERGY RATING = Not given
ENERGY RATING = Not given
ENERGY RATING = Not given
The adverts above cost from just €179TTC for a whole year of web advertising and one edition of advertising in The Advertiser. 10,000 copies of The Advertiser are distributed at key points across department 24 including Bergerac and Brive-Vallée de la Dordogne airports. Let our distribution get you a sale. Contact our sales team on 0800 91 77 56 (freephone in France) or email sales@connexionfrance.com
24 Profile
www.dordogneadvertiser.com
Dordogne Advertiser
November 2011
Art has taken over my life SHAYNE GIRARDIN is rushed off her feet: “I thought when I turned 50 that life would slow down; but, if anything, the reverse is true.” Until 2007, Zimbabwe-born Mrs Girardin was a wife, mother-ofthree and English teacher at the University of Avignon – but since then a combination of events has seen her life taken over by promoting Zimbabwean art in the heart of Périgord Noir. She said: “I was teaching English to cultural study students and they asked if there was anything we could do, in the run-up to the presidential elections in Zimbabwe in 2008, to raise awareness of the country. “Because of the course they were doing, the most obvious thing was to set up some sort of cultural exchange project so they organised an art exhibition for Zimbabwean artists, who came to the university to exhibit their work.” The Villa des Courtissous exhibition was supposed to be temporary but when Mrs Girardin saw the art, she didn’t want to let it go. “I didn’t plan any of it, but my husband Bernard and I had just bought a big B&B at Saint-Rabier, near Sarlat, and I didn’t know how to fill the space – so I asked the artists if we could move the exhibition to our house and have it as a permanent exhibition.” That was three years ago – and an exhibition of artwork is still there. Mrs Girardin also takes it to other
Bernard and Shayne have created more than a B&B at Villa des Courtissous – it is now a popular and inspirational continuing art exhibition exhibition spaces to spread the word about Zimbabwean art. She said: “I do my bit to get their work known. They’re very good. So talented. “I have enormous respect for them: Zimbabwe is full of creative artists, in part because of the political situation; one artist told a group of students that it is because no-one knows how long they’ve got to live. Police can come and take them in the night – so they don’t waste time, they just get on with things.” Then, inspired by her contact with the African artists, she started invit-
ing artists to stay with her and Bernard in the summer months. “We had five artists in residence this summer; three Zimbabweans and two artists from Cameroon.” As well as a painter, they included stone sculptors, an mbira [thumb piano] player, a story-teller and a percussion artist who uses river water to create music. “They were all incredible. I sent information to the local town halls to let them know these artists were coming,” says Mrs Girardin. “We visited primary schools, a col-
lege, a day-care centre and a town hall. I also took them to meet the students in Avignon.” Mrs Girardin has also discovered another Zimbabwean art lover in the Dordogne who introduced her to stone and metal sculptors. She said: “Our garden is full of sculptures now; and the house full of art. “I’m doing what I can to get these young artists known. Their art is inspiring and their talents amaze everyone. We’ve met such interesting people – and I’m having a lot of fun, too.”
Forthcoming projects include a marché de solidarité to raise funds for Zimbabwean artists in December and converting her basement into a large gallery space to house yet more art. To find out more about the art at Villa des Courtissous, visit the website: www.tinyurl.com/cnxn-shayne or phone Shayne: 05 53 50 27 20. Mrs Girardin is also on the lookout for exhibition space for Zimbabwean art elsewhere in the Dordogne and Haute-Vienne so if you can help, just let her know.
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