The Gascony Local June-Sept 2012

June – Sept 2012 Issue 2

ascony Local The

The Region’s FREE English Magazine

Inside: Jazz in Marciac Tour de France in Gascony The Wonder of Woad Summer Outdoor Feasts The Walled City of Carcassonne

The English Grocer in the Gers Place Scipion Dupleix, 32100 Condom (just behind the covered market)

www.churchills.eu www.gasconylocal.com

Half page vertical ad

Full page ad

64 x 192mm

132 x 192mm

Eighth page ad 132 x 22.5mm

Les Caves de Baptiste at Armagnac Gelas Since 1865 Full Selection of 3,500 Wines, Spirits, Milroy’s of Soho Whiskies, Armagnac Gelas and Local Gascony Foods Wines and Spirits Tasting Dinners all year Shop open Monday to Friday 9 am – 6 pm and on Saturday morning 9 am – 12am

Les Caves de Baptiste at Armagnac Gelas (in front of Carrefour Market – free parking)

Avenue Edmond Berges 32190 VIC FEZENSAC Online shop www.lescavesdebaptiste.com GET A 7% discount by presenting The Gascony Local Magazine

4 • contents

W

elcome to the second issue of The Gascony Local. We have been absolutely amazed and delighted by the response to the first one. We would like to say a big thank-you for all the support and compliments we have received. Thank you to all of you who have decided to advertise with us. The magazine is funded by advertising, so this is very important to us.

We have been delighted to hear your feedback about the support you have received from our readers.

We would also like to thank you our readers. You have enabled us to make the magazine an established part of life in Gascony, after just one issue, and have supported our advertisers. Please continue to support them and tell them that you heard about them through The Gascony Local.

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Our aim is to try and continue to provide a magazine that is more than ‘an advertising leaflet’ we want to produce something that people want to keep hold of. A magazine’s long shelf-life increases the benefit to its advertisers and without them there would be no magazine at all!

It is possible to subscribe and get these magazines delivered to your door and (whilst stocks last) we are able to offer the newly legislated for breath test kits to our subscribers; more details of this can be found inside the magazine and of course on our website.

This next issue promises to be even better. It is a busy season for us all, with visitors (and warm weather we hope) arriving; numerous fetes and feasts to attend; the garden to care for and this year, the added excitement of the Tour de France here in the region.

Keep in touch to recommend advertisers, restaurants and events. We are always available through our website www.gasconylocal.com.

Have a great summer.

Anna & Mary

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CONTENTS Galloways in Gascony

7

Breath Test Kits & Subscription Offer

11

New Rules on Inheritance

11

Food in Gascony

14-17

Local Arts, Music and Events

22-30

Local Author Music in S W France Jazz in Marciac

22 23 24

Foie Gras

14

Perry Taylor – Artist

26

Summer Outdoor Feasts

16

Tour de France

29

Orchestre de Centre Philharmonique

30

Local History and Culture

18-21

The Wonder of Woad Carcassonne – The Walled City

18 20

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For all enquiries please email – info@gasconylocal.com Do remember that a directory or our advertisers can be found on our website – www.gasconylocal.com This magazine is entirely funded by advertising, please do try and support our advertisers whenever possible and do mention that you saw their advert in The Gascony Local.

NOTE – Copy deadlines for the October edition: Editorial – 25th August, Changes and renewal of existing adverts – 5th Sept.

New Advertising deadline – 7th Sept. (or sooner if lack of space dictates) Cover photo by Perry Taylor (www.perrytaylor.fr) Learn more about Perry inside – nobody seems to be able to reflect life in Gascony just as well!

la maison de l’immobilier Eunice TYLER WHITE

English Speaking Agent Mobile: 0688442796 www.immobilier-gers.com urbieta.marciac@wanadoo.fr 3, Place de L’Hôtel de Ville, 32230, MARCIAC Tel: 05 62 08 29 07 15, av. des Pyrénées, 32260, SEISSAN Tel: 05 62 66 24 57 Fax: 05 62 66 29 59 The Gascony Local No part of this publication may be copied, used or reproduced without the written consent of the proprietors. No responsibility is accepted for any claim made by advertisers. All content accepted and printed in good faith. The Gascony Local is published by Red Point Publishing Ltd, (reg. in Eng. and Wales, No. 761556) redpointpublishing@gmail.com.

Gascony Editing – Mary Shepherd, Managing Editor in France – Anna Atkinson; French admin – Rachel Verne; UK admin/accounts – Vicky Byram.

Regular contributors; Angela Clohessy, Neil Tomlinson and Paola Westbeek

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

Supply and Installation of Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms Terry Brown and his wife Carol have been living in Caupenne D’Armagnac since 2005.

With over twenty years experience running a successful Kitchen Furniture and Installation Company, they decided to leave England and continue their business in the South West of France. After the initial setting up and registration of their business they quickly found work, Terry does the design and installation of the business whilst Carol processes the orders of the furniture and liaises with the suppliers.

With their many years of experience they can help clients realise their dream Kitchen, Bedroom or Bathroom.

They offer a professional service providing everything from design to installation. They also offer a supply only service, which includes full planning and free on-site advice if required. This allows the client to use their own tradesmen to install the furniture, or install it themselves with total piece of mind.

If your new Kitchen, Bedroom or Bathroom is supplied and installed by SARL Terry Brown, you will benefit from TVA of 7% instead of 19.6% (if your property is over 2 years old). This can amount to quite sizeable saving, quite often this will more than pay for the cost of the installation.

They have a Showroom of their Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms at Caupenne D’Armagnac.

KITCHENS

They have been supplying and installing Hacker German Manufactured Kitchens in France since February 2005.

Hacker is a family run business established in 1938, which produce a comprehensive range of kitchen furniture.

Planning and Designing Your Kitchen

Before they start to build a plan of your new Kitchen, they gather important information about the dimensions and structural characteristics of the room. This is achieved either by visiting your home or, in the case of new-builds, having access to architects’ drawings.

From a variety of styles, colours and materials and by adopting clever combinations your Kitchen will reflect a style that suits you. They will advise you on these as well as flooring, worktops, sinks, taps and electrical appliances which all have an impact on the overall finish and functionality.

They are able to produce images using 3D Software that produces Plans, Elevations and Colour Perspectives.

This technique allows you to see your finished project even down to the colour of your floor and walls.

Electrical Appliances

They can supply most leading brand appliances with your new Kitchen if required or if you just want appliances for your existing Kitchen they can offer a comprehensive advisory service.

Sinks and Taps

They have a large selection of Taps, and Sinks in materials such as Ceramic, Stainless Steel and various Composite Materials from all leading manufacturers.

Worktops

They can supply and install Worktops in Laminate, Solid Wood, Granite and Silestone.

BEDROOMS

They offer a comprehensive range of Bedroom, Dressing Room and Office Furniture.

BATHROOMS

They are able to offer a wide range of Sanitary Ware and Bathroom Furniture from leading manufacturers.

They provide the complete service from initial concept and design to their comprehensive installation. Their service includes installation, plumbing and tiling of your bathroom.

As with their Kitchens, they are able to produces images using 3D Software for Bedroom and Bathroom Projects.

SARL Terry Brown Le Tillet 32110 Caupenne D’Armagnac Tel: 05 62 08 38 96 Mob: 06 77 69 13 19 Email: letillet@wanadoo.fr www.terrybrownkitchens.co.uk www.terrybrown.fr

6 • the gascony local

Advertise your business in an 1/8th page advert in the October edition of this magazine, from only 40 euro, per edition* *book before the end of July to secure this rate.

www.gasconylocal.com info@gasconylocal.com The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

gascony • 7

Galloways in Gascony “It feels like they’re ‘our cows’!”

By Boude Hommel

S

pring 2001 – and after much consideration we’re going to find a house in western France. After hours at the computer ‘the verdict’ was: we want an old house with character.

For many years, we’ve spent our summer holidays in Bourgogne, Drome, Ardeche and Cevennes.

Nice hot weather (for a week or four) but too hot for comfort and those extremely cold winters, brrr……..

On our next holiday we discovered areas of western France. We’d a great time with great weather, good food and drink, and friendly people.

Firstly, we went to the Loire; which was special, but not special enough and too far north. Then we tried the Limousin which was wonderful but the mountains were too high for people from the very low country (we’ve lived most of our lives 12 18 feet below sea level).

Finally, we arrived in the unknown department of the Gers. Wow, this felt good; ‘it fits like a coat’ is what we’d say in Holland in this kind of situation. We met a Dutch man who’d lived in France for years and talked to him about our house-hunting. Believe it or not, he knew somebody!

In January 2002 we received telephone call from our contact,

who’d selected 10 properties for us to visit, we cancelled our plans and came back Gascony. We’re apparently fast decision-makers as we soon decided to buy our current home, an old Armagnac farm with 30 acres!

‘No probs’ said our contact. You can let the land to a farmer, who’ll also take care of the grounds. So we let the land for 3 years to a farmer who lived in the next village.

Our first experience with a French farmer had been with the former owner of our home. She was a very friendly woman; she introduced us everywhere and helped us with all the utilities and during our first fete in the ‘foyer-rural’ she stayed by our side. After a while we called her ‘our French mother’.

Our second ‘farmer’ didn’t much like to work, drinking was the art he understood; but he didn’t do too well at ground care. After a lot of requests and pressure, he (or his father) mowed the land only once a year. So, after 2 years we decided not to renew his lease, he went wild and we almost ended up in a fight.

Our next ‘caretaker’ was a young female farmer. She ploughed, tackled the blackberries and during two seasons we enjoyed some amazing sunflowers. Sadly, after two seasons she fell in love and stopped cultivating our ground.

So, for third time, we needed to find a farmer. Living in France feels more like a party to us; we appreciate the nice weather, friendly people, good food and drink, quietness and our international friends. It seems, however, where French farmers were concerned, we found the wrong people.

Sometimes, it’s possible to look for solutions too far from home. Our neighbour is a farmer; he farms organically and keeps Galloway cows and little black Gascony pigs (for their meat). We looked at the beautiful, robust cows around their farm. So during the village fete we had a chat and asked them if they wanted to graze our land with their stock. Their answer was positive – just what we wanted to hear!

In a nutshell, our land now has organic certification and 40 beautiful Galloway cows (large and small) mow our land. What’s more our garden-seat with its views over our meadow and the sunsets has never been used so much.

At first our cats struggled to get used to their big, new neighbours but now when we go to the gardenseat they gather their courage and follow us. There the four of us sit, watching the Galloways and it feels like they’re now ‘our cows’. Life is better than ever!

To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

8 • the gascony local

La Maison de Pédeloup sarl Two Artisans, One Enterprise

• • Martin Scott undertakes general joinery, door & window manufacture, bespoke furniture & solid wood kitchen commissions.

•

M anoirs et Chateaux exists to match the most discerning and exacting buyers with the best properties available to buy.

I f you are selling such a property, our international network of high-level contacts and our focused prestige marketing means that you can be confident we will find the right buyer, whether you require appropriate publicity or total discretion.

W e offer an office-based bi-lingual point of contact and an expert legal liaison team.

Beaux Villages Manoirs et Chateaux Tel: 00 33 (0) 5 56 71 40 78 Email: info@manoirschateaux.com Website: www.manoirschateaux.com

Carol Scott makes madeto-measure curtains, loose covers, deck chairs & pool loungers a house speciality.

Le Vieux Presbytère 2 gites and 1 chambre d’hote with swimming pool Between Eauze and Vic-Fezensac

www.escapetogascony.com

Free personalised quotations upon request Mon - Fri 9.00 - 12.30 Weekend 14.00 - 18.00 (by appoint)

Carol et Martin Scott

Pédeloup 32240 Monguilhem France Tel(0)5 62 08 77 95 Port:(0)6 81 54 19 70 pedeloup@orange.fr www.pedeloup.com The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

the gascony local • 9

DNA-TV offers a fast, friendly & professional service installing Sky TV, UK Freesat & French TNT throughout France with very competitive prices.

DNA-TV provides a complete range of services from simple dish adjustment to a full installation. DNA-TV are happy to give free quotes, information & advice. All work, material & equipment supplied by DNATV has a 12m guarantee and full after sales service. Decoders are covered with a manufactures’ warranty.

We supply a complete range of Digital TV systems from Sky TV with or without subscriptions (no UK address required), UK Digital Freesat TV and French TNT all in High Definition. Professional installers to Homes, Bars, Sports Clubs, Hotels, B&Bs, Apartments, Chateaux & Yachts.

For more information please visit our web-site or give us a call.

www.dna-tv.com

Approved installers with tous au numerique

With Sky+, you have a twin tuner which will enable you to record one channel while watching another.

Add to this the 5.1 surround sound, and you have the ultimate in home theatre experience.

With High Definition (HD) you also get 4 times better picture quality of standard definition, a truly great experience.

You can select from the 160 GB Hard Drive, or the gigantic 1000 GB, either way, you’ll never miss your favourite programmes again.

10% OFF

equipment prices with the Local magazines. Valid to 1st Nov 2012

I am very happy with the service and performance of DNA-TV. Arrived on time – did the installation work quickly and efficiently – at the quoted price. Everything working very smoothly – absolutely no complaints. I would recommend their services to anyone.

Just a quick note to say thank you again for you prompt and excellent service – much appreciated.

Mr & Mrs Newman – Dept. 47

Mr Ryan – Dept. 82 DNA-TV making connections throughout France. Siret no. 520 970 823 00016 To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

10 • the gascony local

Your Local Allianz Office Some things seem very difficult, if not impossible, when you first move to another country and some of the most important things in life have to be re-organised. Most of us may have the basics like insurance, reasonably well sorted in the UK but suddenly, we’re faced with a completely different set of needs and regulations and in a language we don’t understand. Help is at hand!

I have discovered that Allianz Insurance, with offices in Nogaro, Eauze and Plaisance are eager to welcome English speaking clients.

They’re able to deal with all forms of insurance: car, health, house etc. Quotations are translated into English but the particular conditions are in French.

They offer a 24hr help service and, if required, can visit clients at home. In addition they are offering a

15% DISCOUNT IF YOU PRESENT OF A COPY OF THE GASCONY LOCAL. It doesn’t stop there! Allianz are happy to give advice on other aspects of French life and will help you with French Administration issues. So if you want to work in France, need health insurance, advice on how to organise your taxs, or savings and investment then this company could be your first port of call and will provide a valuable support for you in years to come. For genuine good service in English contact: Natalie Manas 06 0 7 82 22 41 email: h932451@agents.allianz.fr. Natalie works with many English speaking clients and she is also prepared to also give talks and presentations to interested groups. Mary Shepherd

Nathalie MANAS (English Spoken) Tel. 06 07 82 22 41 Agence Patrick FRANCH – Allianz Nogaro – Vic Fezensac – Plaisance www.allianz.fr/franch email: h932451@agents.allianz.fr.

15% discount with a copy of this magazine

Insurances Car Household Health Business Also: Savings & Investments

ARBRESERVICES Matt Strawbridge Tree Surgeon Elagueur Arboriste The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

Tours 47340 Cassignas 05 53 95 80 27/ 06 45 25 65 58 matt@abreservices.com www.abreservices.com SIRET NO. 5025222200004

To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

the gascony local • 11

New Breath-Test Kit Rules From the 1st of July all drivers of vehicles and motorbikes (bikes under 50cc are exempt) will have to carry a breath test kit in their vehicles.

There’s no requirement for the kits to be used, the police can’t require you to use one if you’re stopped, you simply have to have one with you (and in working order). Anyone stopped by the police and found without a kit will face a fine of e11. If you intend to use the kit then you need to ensure you’ve two kits as you’re obliged to have one ready for use following any earlier use (they cannot be re-used). Although this logic could be extended to the need for many more kits in case you have multiple sudden reasons for using a test!

The same rules apply to foreign visitors to France and to those hiring a car in France, so it’s worth making sure that your visitors, friends and family are aware of the rules.

The kits themselves must be kept between 10 and 40o so keeping them in your car may not be possible! Perhaps the kits will have to be removed from vehicle when parked and carried in your bags or pockets!

A period of grace exists and the fines will not commence until 1st November. The kits should be replaced every 2 years

and bear the logo NF (Norme Française). There’s already a shortage of kits and manufacturers are now backed up with orders.

Magazine Subscription Offer…

We’ve secured a supply of NF breath-kits and are offering to send one or two kits out to people subscribing to receive the magazine in the post. Stocks are limited and as soon as we’ve exhausted our supply we’ll make this clear on the website. We’ll be mailing the kits in October; you cannot get fined until November and as the kits are only valid for 2 years it seems pointless to send them any sooner.

To receive your copy of the magazine by post please visit www.quercylocal.com or www.gasconylocal.com and follow the link to Breath-Tests Kits / Magazine subscriptions – submit your order, we’ll email an invoice which can be paid for by bank card or Paypal, on-line. This will reserve the kits for you, which will then be mailed to you in October. If you’ve any queries about subscriptions then please email: subscriptions@localinfrance.com.

Inheritance Rules for French residents – and proposed EU changes from 2015 As I hope most of you already know, under French law, if a French resident individual has children, they cannot leave assets to who they wish. Strict inheritance rules mean that children have certain rights to their deceased parent’s estate.

For someone with one child the reserved portion is 50%, 67% for two children and 75% for three or more children, split equally between them. The remaining percentage is considered the unreserved portion and may be left to whomsoever the owner pleases.

Whilst the French forced succession rules are not changing, new EU rules on succession have recently been agreed, and once finally adopted (expected in the summer of 2012), will come into force 3 years later, in 2015.

These new regulations will give expatriates the right to opt for the succession law of their country of nationality to apply on their death.

Without an appropriate will, the French succession rules above would continue to be applied to a French resident’s estate.

However, with a correctly drawn up will, it should become possible from 2015 to opt to use the law of the country of your nationality. For British nationals, this should mean that you can opt to use British rules – leaving your assets as you wish via an appropriate will.

It is vitally important to understand that, whilst it will become possible to choose to use UK law for the distribution of your estate, it is only this that has changed, as the new regulations will not apply to tax issues.

For example, whilst it will become perfectly possible to leave all of your assets to your spouse in the first instance, assets left to be divided between children and step-children would still result in the step-children facing a punitive 60%

French inheritance tax on anything over a minimal allowance of e1,594.

At first glance it would appear that this will be a significant advance, since inheritance issues are the main concern of most British residents in France. However, in many cases, using the many techniques available under French law to ensure that your wishes are met and taxation is kept to a minimum, is likely to be the preferable option, so no action should be taken without professional advice.

Marjorie Mansfield – Regional Manager of Siddalls France, Independent Financial Advisers specialising in investment, pension, tax and inheritance planning for the British community in France since 1996.

05 56 34 75 51 or visit us at: www.siddalls.fr

To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

12 • the gascony local

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

the gascony local • 13

The English Grocer in the Gers Offering a wide variety of British groceries, including sausages, bacon, pies, battered cod, cheddar cheese, baked beans, steam puddings, teas, marmalades, cereals, crumpets, custard, sweets, chocolates, curries, condiments, quorn & Linda McCartney.

Also Crown Paints.

Come & see our selection of beers, sherries, household products & greetings cards Churchill’s, Place Scipion Dupleix, 32100 Condom (just behind the covered market) Tue – Fri 10.00-12.30 & 14.00-17.30.

Sat 10.00-12.30 www.churchills.eu 05 62 68 43 89 To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

14 • food in gascony

Fois Gras – Gastronomy and Animal Rights

By Angela Clohessy

T

he production of foie gras (the liver of a duck or a goose that has been specially fattened) involves the controversial force-feeding of birds with more food than they would eat in the wild, and more than they would voluntarily eat domestically.

The production of the pâté involves the forcefeeding of ducks or geese, known in French as gavage, to create fatty livers. The birds, usually made to swallow food through a tube, end up with livers swelling up to 10 times normal size. The practice is banned in Germany, though the consumption of foie gras is not.

Foie gras was first discovered by the ancient Egyptians when it was observed that after gorging themselves in preparation for migration, the livers of geese and ducks became fattened.

About 37 million ducks and 700,000 geese are slaughtered each year to make French foie gras. The force-feeding practice is said to date to 2,500BC, though it is unlikely the ancient Egyptians took to fattening their fowl on the industrial scale found in France, where foie gras and its controversial production method is enshrined in law as part of the country’s so-called cultural exception. France produces about 75% of the world’s foie gras; other sources include the US and China.

Foie Gras in France Ninety percent of France’s foie gras is produced in the Perigord in southwest France, by far the largest foie The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

gras-producing region in the world. This still does not satisfy the French appetite for foie gras: France still imports about 20% of its foie gras from Hungary and about 5% from Bulgaria and a few other countries.

France produces over 16,000 tons of foie gras annually, which represents two-thirds of the foie gras sold in the world. The French consume 75% of the world production. Between 1992 and 2002, French production doubled, with 95% of the foie gras coming from ducks and 5% from geese.

Alsace in Eastern France with its capital Strasbourg also has a long tradition of producing foie gras and is known for its technical innovation. Small quantities are also produced in a few other regions of France.

Based on expertise borne of generations of experience, France has defined this business and set strict limits on what can be called foie gras in France. From the very old and highly respected firms to the many specialized local markets and the stays or cooking classes offered by small producers, foie gras in France is much more than business: it is a highly cultural aspect of life and society.

Animal rights and welfare groups Animal rights and welfare activist groups such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and the Animal Legal Defense Fund argue that foie gras production methods, and force feeding in particular, consist of cruel and inhumane treatment of animals. Specific complaints include livers swollen to many times their normal size, impaired liver function,

To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

food in gascony • 15

A farmer in France funnels corn into a duck in the production of foie gras paté.

expansion of the abdomen making it difficult for birds to walk, death if the force feeding is continued, and scarring of the esophagus.

This is not true. In fact, it has been shown the liver shrinks back down to its normal size when a bird returns to lesser amounts of food intake.

In modern foie gras production, force feeding takes place 12–18 days before slaughter. PETA claims that the insertion and removal of the feeding tube scratches the throat and the esophagus, causing

irritations and wounds and thus exposing the animal to risk of painful and mortal infections.

In 2005, the organisations APRL, IDA and PETA released a video narrated by Sir Roger Moore showing footage the groups took inside the three U.S. foie gras farms and several in France.

PETA wants this practice, which they say is cruel, stopped. Various American celebrities have lent their voices to this public campaign. Most recently in April 2009 PETA released a letter written by the late television and stage actor Beatrice Arthur to TV chef Curtis Stone deploring the practice of Foie gras.

Animal rights groups support the humane treatment of all animals, even when they are raised for human consumption. There is no evidence that the tube feeding method used to produce foie gras is inhumane. Being fed through a tube may sound unappealing to humans; however, it is important to remember that the esophagus of a duck or goose is very different from ours. In nature, these birds are accustomed to storing fish and other foods in their esophagus, sometimes for long periods of time.

It is a shame that after thousands of years of foie gras production and enjoyment, there is a threat of limiting the accessibility of a product in which so many find such great pleasure.

To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

16 • food in gascony

Summer Outdoor Feasts The summer is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Why not take your picnic basket to a quiet spot under a shady tree as you listen to the birds sing and feel the grass between your toes while you walk?

Or enjoy lunch outside on a beautifully decorated table complete with pretty tea lights, your best silverware and bright shades of pink and green?

Here are three quick and easy to make recipes that demand to be enjoyed under sunny skies. The salad makes a perfect light lunch, the chicken is great for a sultry summer evening’s barbecue and the muffins will be the star of your picnic basket.

Bon Appétit !

Salade d’été During the warmer months, salads are not only healthy, but also deliciously refreshing. If you allow yourself to be inspired by nature and use fresh ingredients you will see that the variations in taste, colour and texture are as big as your imagination. Served with bread and paired with a good wine, they make the perfect light meal. Pure, fresh and bursting with vitamins!

This salad is truly summer-on-a-plate. The delicate flavour of the baby greens combined with the sweetness of the dressing form the ideal background for the rest of the ingredients: fragrant, crunchy walnuts, crusty bread topped with a creamy layer of grilled goat’s cheese, paper-thin slices of raw ham and as a finishing touch, sunny raspberries that with their deep ruby colour shine like edible jewels between the salad greens.

For 2 people (or 4, as a starter) For the dressing: 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 3 tbsps walnut oil 1 tbsp sherry vinegar 2 tsps honey fleur de sel freshly ground pepper For the salad: 50g walnuts, roughly chopped 2 slices pain de campagne 4 petits chèvre doux (soft goat’s cheese) 100g mixed baby leaves 100g fresh raspberries 6 slices raw ham (approx 60g)

The salad makes a wonderful, light lunch for two, but you can also offer it as an elegant starter for four. If you serve the salad as a starter to a barbecue, follow it with a grilled leg of lamb and rounds off the meal with a creamy dessert such a crème brulée dusted with a touch of lavender sugar.

Method Whisk all the ingredients for the dressing in a large bowl until they emulsify. Roast the walnuts in a dry frying pan until they release their delicious aroma. This usually takes 2-3 minutes. Spread the goat’s cheese on the slices of bread and place them under a hot grill until the cheese begins to bubble and brown in some places. Place the baby leaves in the bowl with the dressing and toss until each leaf is coated with dressing. Divide the salad among two plates and sprinkle with the walnuts. Top with the fresh raspberries and the ham. Cut each warm slice of bread in half and lay both halves on top of the salad. Serve immediately, preferably with a lively, aromatic Sancerre.

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

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food in gascony • 17

Poulet en Crapaudine Making ‘poulet en crapaudine’ may appear difficult, but it certainly isn’t. The only thing you have to do is remove the chicken’s backbone and then press firmly on its breast so that it lays as flat as possible. If you don’t have a pair of heavyduty kitchen shears, than this is a job you might want to leave to your butcher. The chicken gets its tenderness and warm, rich flavour from a marinade of fresh herbs, garlic and lots of lemon juice. ‘Poulet en crapaudine’ is great on the barbecue served in combination with grilled green asparagus, crusty bread and a full, ‘fleshy’ chardonnay.

Serves 2-4 1 free-range chicken 1 lemon sliced in half 1tsp fleur de sel 2 tsps pink peppercorns small bunch of thyme small bunch of rosemary 3 cloves pink garlic (ail rose), thinly sliced a large, sealable plastic bag * Save the backbone for chicken stock

Method Place the chicken on a large platter, breast side down and feel for its backbone. Use heavy duty shears to cut down one side of the backbone and then down the other side. Turn the chicken over and press firmly on its breast and legs so that it lies as flat as possible. Squeeze half of the lemon over the chicken and sprinkle with the salt and the pink peppercorns. Sprinkle the herbs and the garlic on the chicken and put everything into the plastic bag. Squeeze the other half of the lemon into the bag, close it and massage the ingredients into the chicken. Allow the chicken to marinate in the fridge for 2-3 hours, remembering to take it out of the fridge half an hour before grilling it. Grill the chicken for about an hour, turning it frequently. You can check if the chicken is ready by making a small incision between the leg and the breast. If the juices run clear (no longer pink), the chicken is done.

Muffins with raspberries and pépites de chocolat For these muffins you’ll want to get yourself some wonderful raspberries, fresh from the market. You can also substitute blueberries and if desired, add a little dash of lemon zest.

Bonus: the muffins do not have any butter or oil! They do call for full-fat yogurt and two nice, organic eggs.

For 12 muffins 270g flour 2 tsps baking powder 100g white pépites de chocolat (feel free to just chop up a bar of white chocolate) 200ml full-fat yogurt 2 eggs 2 tsps vanilla extract 170g caster sugar 125g fresh raspberries

Method Preheat oven to 200°C. Prepare a 12-hole muffin tin. Combine flour, baking powder and chocolate morsels in a bowl.

In a measuring jug, whisk the yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract and sugar. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and gently combine everything with a wooden spoon. Gently fold in the raspberries. Don’t worry if they fall apart a bit.

Fill the muffin tin with the batter and bake for 15-20 minutes. Test after 15 minutes with a wooden skewer. Allow to cool on a rack before serving.

‘Francophile to the core, Paola Westbeek is a food writer and recipe developer. Besides writing, she also offers cooking lessons and organizes culinary/creative vacations in Burgundy together with her husband. For more information visit:www.ladoucevie.nl.

Hans Westbeek is a photographer, filmmaker and epicure. For examples of his work, visit: www.mediamedia.biz’ To advertise with us email info@gasconylocal.com

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

18 • Local History and Culture

The Wonder of Woad

By A Atkinson

A

n unlikely source of wonder this miraculous crop is both weedy and inconspicuous and is even related to the humble cabbage!

Isatis Tinctoria maps a route through history starting as far back as the Neolithic period; it’s then glimpsed in Egyptian times and again throughout the Middle East and Europe during almost every period ever since. Woad (common name) is a plant that links Leonardo Di Vinci to Napoleon Boneparte and both of them to the tribes of ancient Britain. Commonly known as ‘pastel’ in France woad has cured the sick, terrified the warlike, inspired artists, distinguished armies and generated architectural splendour.

Woad throughout history.

Woad is, in fact, an English name for this plant; the French had different names including Guède, Pastel des teinturiers or Herbes du Lauraguais. Before the term woad was brought into use in England, the English name was ‘wad’ leading to the term ‘wadders’ for the people involved in the production of the dye. In England there are many place names that suggest a local history of woad production including the towns of Waddicar (Lancashire) and Waddon (Dorset and Surrey).

In the Renaissance-period as crops of woad appeared in Europe it soon became apparent that it was more than your average ‘cash crop’. In France it was the area around Toulouse, Albi and Carcassonne that became synonymous with the growing and processing of the woad plant and at that time much of the region’s wealth was directly attributable to this crop and the growing class of woad merchants. So impressive was its influence that the region became known as ‘Pays de Cocange’ (a land of milk and honey) a place where you could simply watch your wealth accumulate as you dried your harvested crop. The The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

personal wealth accumulated by these merchants was a catalyst for a whole new architectural style which became known as ‘pastellière’; a great example of this style can be found in Toulouse – the Hôtel Delfau built in 1495.

What was the pigment used for?

In ancient Britain woad was used as war-paint to strike fear into enemies of battling tribes. Perhaps, even then they had discovered the pigment’s ability to deter insect life, making it particularly useful as a treatment for wood (blue shutters) and historically even cows’ horns.

Perhaps these ancient Britains also realised woad’s medicinal potential. It’s been seen as having healing properties and it was once suggested as a cure for jaundice. More recently, the Isatis Tinctoria plant has been found to produce glucobrassicin (which deters cancer tumours) as a defensive mechanism, when its own leaves are damaged. Oil produced from this plant contains 40% essential fat acids, vital to healthy human cell membranes and increasingly used in products to help control skin moisture. Although presumably without the use, in this instance, of the blue pigment!

Currently there’s a revival in the popularity of woad which had previously been in decline due to indigo dyes from other parts of the world. This revival is not unsurprising as it’s an entirely natural product with many additional useful qualities above and beyond the wide spectrum of shades of blue it provides. History has seen other revivals of the plant’s fortunes, for instance, Napoleon Bonaparte, drawn by the intense blue the plant produced insisted on its use to produce the vivid blue of his army’s uniform. It was this interest which led to the modernisation of the production processes.

As well as being used as a textile dye, woad is today used to produce soaps, skin treatments, specialist water-based paint for woodwork, and art materials (inks

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Local History and Culture • 19

and pastels) linking current artists to those of the time of Leonardo de Vinci who was also known to have used the pigment all those centuries ago.

How was woad obtained?

It’s amazing that anybody first considered that this inconspicuous plant might hold the secret to such an intensely blue pigment. With its bright green foliage and a bright yellow flower this cousin of the broccoli and cabbage plant almost perfectly hides its ability to yield a pigment that produces its now famous and alluring shades of vibrant blue. It’s only as the leaves become ready for harvesting that a small tell-tale tinge of blue appears at the leaf tips. Even with this hint of its potential use, it’s hard to imagine how early civilisations then worked out the processes required to produce pigment from simple leaves.

Historically, the process meant harvesting and then crushing the leaves into a paste and leaving them to ferment for several weeks then moulding the paste into tennis-ball sized balls (known as cacagnes). These would then be left to dry until they darkened and shrank to the size of golf balls. There then followed a further series of fermentations (with the aid of workers’ urine, which in the 15th century had a suitable P.H. level.

Incidentally, modern diets would not produce the same required P.H.), grindings and drying of the product, drawing the process out for months and months.

In these historical times it was believed that growing the woad crop exhausted the land and so it was necessary to move to new areas at least every two years (there appears to be no scientific evidence or explanation why this crop would have exhausted the land). So Europe saw the development of a nomadic work-force, with small wooden villages (often with a mill) appearing and disappearing as the crop was re-located. One acre of land would produce (in a one year period) 2kg of woad powder, by cropping 10 tons of leaves, twice a year. Modern woad production isn’t seen as damaging to the land and modern agricultural techniques don’t require such particular crop rotation.

Woad – from ancient to modern!

The production of woad balls was discontinued by Napoleon who was unwilling to wait so long for the blue pigment; he introduced a system of wet fermentation which speeded up the process considerably. Producers in England continued to use woad balls for some while longer. Napoleon in his modernising also pioneered the use of lime-wash to help recover solids from the watery solution.

The major processor of woad in France today is based in Lectoure, situated in the northern Gers.

Bleu de Lectoure has developed modern and efficient

processes to produce the pigment on a larger scale.

Lime-wash is no longer used and the modern producers make use of highly technical methods of oxidation to achieve the solid residue. All plant crops are now managed by farming cooperatives and the valorisation of the pigment is now handled by an efficient extraction unit able to process several tons of the green leaves every day.

The work undertaken by Bleu de Lectoure marries perfectly the centuries of local tradition with the expediency of modern methods to increase the availability of this (importantly) ‘entirely natural’ resource. It’s this untainted and natural quality of the woad extract along with the exquisite and highly desirable shades of blue it produces that’ll surely ensure its continued popularity with the modern consumer.

The technical processes involved in the production of the blue pigment are beyond the scope of this article.

It’s sufficient to say that those involved in its production have chosen to tackle one of the most complex procedures possible. In the end, however it’s the amount of sunshine that the crop receives that affects the intensity and colour depth of the final pigment, which is why different global regions can end up with a different intensity in their pigment. Working with woad represents the chance to combine an extra-ordinary level of know-how and modern technology with one of nature’s most powerful natural tools – the sun.

You can visit the workshop and shop in Lectoure or many of the products can be purchased on line from – www.bleu-de-lectoure.com. Bleus de Pastel de Lectoure, Ancienne Tannerie, Pont de Pile, 32700, LECTOURE Tel 05 62 68 78 30 BleuLambert@aol.fr Opening hours: Mon-Sat.: 9h30-12h30 & 14h00-18h00. Sun. and holidays: 14h00-18h00 Closed between Jan 01-Jan 15.

Readers presenting a copy of this magazine at the shop will be entitled to a 5% discount at the till. (valid to 31 12 12).

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The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

20 • Local History and Culture

Carcassonne (The Walled City)

By Angela Clohessy

I

f you were approaching Carcassonne in France would be excused for supposing that you are coming into a fairy tale world. This beautiful fortified city stands majestically on a hill overlooking the lush countryside in the Aude department, in the former province of the Languedoc, and the distant Pyrenees Mountains.

The closest large city is Toulouse approximately 60 miles to the northwest.

Carcassonne history goes back as least as far as Roman Gaul; parts of the city’s fortifications date from 1st century AD. Located at the strategic intersection of two historic trade routes, from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean and from Spain to the center of France, Carcassonne’s defenses were strengthened by successive owners. In the 5th century, the Visigoth’s extended the Roman defenses and for many years after Carcassonne Castle proved impenetrable to invaders.

It is divided into the fortified Cité de Carcassonne and the more expansive lower city, the ville basse.

Carcassone was founded by the Visigoths in the fifth century, though the Romans had fortified the settlement earlier. The fortress, which was thoroughly restored in 1853 by the theorist and architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1997.

Carcassonne became strategically identified when Romans fortified the hilltop around 100 BC and eventually made it the colonia of Julia Carsaco, later Carcasum. The main part of the lower courses of the northern ramparts dates from Gallo-Roman times. In 462 the Romans officially ceded Septimania to the Visigothic king Theodoric II who had held Carcassonne since 453; he built more fortifications at Carcassonne, which was a frontier post on the northern marches: traces of them still stand. Theodoric is thought to have begun the predecessor of the basilica that is now dedicated to Saint Nazaire.

In 508 the Visigoths successfully foiled attacks by the Frankish king Clovis. Saracens from Barcelona took Carcassonne in 725, but King Pepin the Short (Pépin le Bref) drove them away in 759-60; though he took most of the south of France, he was unable to penetrate the impregnable fortress of Carcassonne.

In 1067, Carcassonne became the property of Raimond Bernard Trencavel, viscount of Albi and Nîmes, through his marriage with Ermengard, sister

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

of the last count of Carcassonne. In the following centuries, the Trencavel family allied in succession either with the counts of Barcelona or of Toulouse. They built the Château Comtal and the Basilica of SaintNazaire. In 1096, Pope Urban II blessed the foundation stones of the new cathedral, a Catholic bastion against the Cathars.

Carcassonne became famous in its role in the Albigensian Crusades, when the city was a stronghold of Occitan Cathars. In August 1209 the crusading army of Simon de Montfort forced its citizens to surrender.

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Local History and Culture • 21

Raymond-Roger de Trencavel was imprisoned whilst negotiating his city’s surrender, held in his own dungeon and allowed to die. Montfort was appointed the new viscount. He added to the fortifications.

Carcassonne became a border citadel between France and the kingdom of Aragon (Spain).

Carcassonne France came under control of the French crown in 1247. King Louis IX (St. Louis) and his successor Philip III further strengthened the fortifications of Carcassonne Castle and built the “new town” outside the defenses. English troops laid siege to the city during the Hundred Years War, but once again in Carcassonne history, the fortifications proved impenetrable.

In 1659, the Treaty of the Pyrenees transferred the border province of Roussillon to France, and Carcassonne’s military significance was reduced.

Fortifications were abandoned, and the city became mainly an economic centre that concentrated on the woollen textile industry, for which a 1723 source quoted by Fernand Braudel found it “the manufacturing centre of Languedoc” One legend from Carcassonne history is the attempted siege by Charlemagne in the 9th century.

According to the story, Madame Carcas cunningly fed the last of the city’s wheat to a pig in full view of the invading army. Believing that the besieged townspeople had an inexhaustible supply of food, Charlemagne retreated from the walls and the town was renamed in honor of the ingenious lady. Carcassonne France took its name (or a version of it) even before the Roman conquest of Gaul.

For the next several centuries of Carcassonne history, the fortified walls were allowed to fall into disrepair. In the mid-19th century, the French government proposed demolishing the walls. A popular uproar saved Carcassonne Castle and the architect and historian Eugene Viollet-le-Duc was commissioned to restore the medieval fortifications. (Viollet-le-Duc also restored the famed Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.)

The restoration, though not strictly authentic, proved a great success. Today, over three million visitors come to Carcassonne France every year. The double walls stretch over 2 miles around a maze of medieval streets and museums. Over 50 towers rise from the fortifications to overlook the River Aude River and the surrounding green countryside. Admission into the walled city is free for visitors.

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The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

22 • Local Arts, Music and Events

Local author, Andy Frazier, combines his love of

farm animals and a good tale in the new children’s book ‘The Amazing Adventures of Oinky Grub’

A

ndy Frazier moved to South West France five years ago, where he now shares his life with his partner Wendy, a flock of sheep and some powertools which he is afraid to switch on! “Writing children’s novels is a very enjoyable way to get out of doing real work,” says Andy, who in more recent years earned his living as an IT consultant until it nearly bored him to death.

During his years growing up on a farm in the English Midlands, Andy Frazier had a pet baby pig, which he named Oinky Grub and used to take for walks in the local village.

Quite a few years later, after an eclectic selection of careers which

including grooming cows for the rich and famous, Andy somehow ended up as a children’s author, living on a smallholding in S W France.

Andy’s books for children have generally centred on farm animals, with previous heroines including Princess (a bullied half-breed calf that goes on to overcome many hurdles and great adventures). In his latest novel Andy introduces young readers to Oinky Grub – a small but very brave piglet. If you are looking for a different and original read for your children or grandchildren then maybe you should introduce them to this new and local character.

The Amazing Adventures of Oinky Grub In this novel, aimed at readers 10 and upwards, Oinky gets his tail chopped off, sold on ebay and has a short career as a racing pig, among other things. Towards the end of the story the villainous Dick Pyle (who in real life runs the Truffle Tree www.truffle-tree.com) spots Oinky in a Toulouse marketplace with his young owner, and introduces him to truffles. Spotting that the pig has a fine nose,

Arbres ornementaux Parc – Jardin – Paysage Bernard et Louise Kunneman Le Hour - St. Amand (Route de Lannepax, D626) 32800 Eauze Tel/Fax 05 62 09 73 42 l Mob. 06 86 67 15 39 www.pepiniereslehour.com Please visit us on our open weekend, 25th & 26th August The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

Dick coverts Oinky in an attempt to help him dig truffles from his orchards. Without spoiling the ending, the threat of a bbq emerges to hilarious and somewhat chaotic consequences.

The Amazing Adventures of Oinky Grub (ISBN 978-1470985141 – Chauffour Press) is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle. www.andyfrazier.co.uk For more information, please contact Andy Frazier on andy@andyfrazier.co.uk

Specialist Computer Services at your office, home or our workshop.

Satellite ADSL Broadband Internet Access and Satellite TV. The perfect solution for where there is limited or non-existent internet access through telephone services.

phil@gersit.com www.gersit.com Tel. 05 62 08 40 26 siret 51153456200018

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Local Arts, Music and Events • 23

Music in the South West of France

By Geoff Dunnell

W

ith the influx of English speakers over the years the SW of France, among other regions, has seen a steady rise in the number of people who play instruments or sing for their or other’s enjoyment, adding to the already rich musical talent in the area.

However one of the biggest problems with trying to join together with other like-minded people has always been the tyranny of distance, France is a big country, making the contact with other musicians difficult.

There has also always been a problem with finding venues that are convenient for a group of musicians to meet or are willing to let people play or practise.

There are many bars, cafés, restaurant, salles des fetes, other commercial venues or even private houses.

The problem appears to be convincing owners that musicians are not a bunch of wild anarchists but mostly dedicated artists who enjoy their music, in-fact most of the people who play are retired!!

Some individuals, over the years, have developed “Open Mic” sessions where musicians turn up with their instruments & play together or individually just for the fun of making music! This leads to a wide range of styles & music to enjoy (not to be confused with Karaoke). If you know of any venue that may be interested in an Open Mic night or already hosts live music please let us know (contacts on the web sites).

We are also looking for venues to host live music nights or in which to perform or even other “open mic”

sessions already established in the SW Region, (not Karaoke).

It was through these Open Mic nights that several local musicians got together with a fairly new arrival in the South West, Steve Walton. Steve has been well known around the music scene in both the UK & the Paris region, having already released 3 CDs. From this chance encounter was born The Steve Walton Band www.thestevewaltonband.com. The band plays Rock & Blues mainly from the golden era of the 60s, 70s & 80s.

The band has already built up a following in the South West and later this year are playing alongside Dr Feelgood at a large festival in the Haute Pyrenees, an Elvis convention near Bordeaux & possibly a Cancer charity night in Paris! They have also just recorded & released a CD of some of their most popular live numbers together with 3 of Steve’s classic tracks.

Considering the youngest member of the band is well into his 50s the energy created on stage is very infectious!

The band would very much like to spread the word that live music is very much alive in the South West and would love to hear from any like minded musicians or venues looking to host music nights.

We can be contacted via the band’s web site (see above), Musicgers@aol.com or via Steve’s own web site www.Stevewalton.co.uk. Let’s keep music alive & kicking in the South West!!

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The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

Jazz in Marciac 24 • Local Arts, Music and Events

By Mary Shepherd

M

arciac is a small fortified town founded at the end of the thirteenth century and is today a rural community with a population of around 1200 people nestling in the green heart of the Gers, half way between Auch and Tarbes.

It boasts a village square with preserved medieval arcades, a lake which is popular with windsurfers and a church with the tallest spire in the region.

Every year in the fortnight leading up to the 15th August, a giant marquee is erected on the rugby pitch and thousands of visitors assemble to celebrate music.

It is Jazz in Marciac – a festival with a difference, now known all over the world. This year it celebrates its 35th anniversary and to reflect this, the programme will last for a longer period.

The festival, which was originally based on traditional jazz, brought New Orleans style jazz bands together. As the years passed, the festival became progressively longer and more varied, thanks to the tireless work of Jean-Louis Guilaumon, who at that time was head of the local secondary school and who is now Mayor of Marciac and a member of the Regional Council for the Gers.

With its growing success and popularity, fans came from all over Europe. Jazz in Marciac began inviting internationally acclaimed musicians of the calibre of Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Stan Getz, Oscar Peterson, the Modern Jazz Quartet, Stéphane Grappelli, The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

Michel Petrucciani, Sonny Rollins, Gerry Mulligan, Herbie Hancock, Keith Jarrett and Wynton Marsalis to name but a few. To this list we can add the best international Gospel groups.

That Jazz in Marciac (JIM) has become one of the biggest and most popular festivals in Europe, and THE date in August, can be attributed to Jean-Louis who has convinced the local community to live with the rhythm of jazz during the festival: shopkeepers, restaurateurs, everybody takes part in the swinging feast! Every willing-hand (and there are many of them) is necessary, so that the festival can run smoothly.

The marquee seats 5,000 people for the evening concerts, but many more people spend time at the side attractions. All day long, the town is the scene of a myriad of activities: free concerts in the square, art exhibitions, films, a market for local

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products and craftwork, not to mention the cafés and bars on every pavement. There is a real fête atmosphere, centred on jazz, which attracts over 100,000 visitors each year.

One of the trade marks of Jazz in Marciac is the top quality programming. No leeway is given to passing fashions and also no room for popularity ratings. The aim is to teach and to widen horizons. Over the years blues, rhythm’n’blues and soul music have appeared, with well-known names such as Lucky Peterson amd Maceo Parker and

Local Arts, Music and Events • 25

Latin jazz from Tito Puente, Irakere and Ray Barreto and the festival has featured the most avant-garde artists, from Ornette Coleman and Michel Portal’s free jazz to Joe Zawinul’s world music, thus appealing to an ever-widening public.

The bull ring becomes a second evening theatre, featuring traditional jazz, brass bands, a typical Gascon tradition, blues and salsa formations. Another Marciac tradition is the 15th August gospel mass held in the 13th – 14th century church.

Gascon hospitality (warm and uncomplicated) means that this festival is like no other – it has developed a unique character and an international reputation for itself and the Marciac area. Gascon specialities such as foie gras, confits and maigrets washed down with the

local Côtes de Saint-Mont wine, followed by a glass of Armagnac, certainly add to the quality of the welcome reserved for people who come here. The relaxed atmosphere, light-hearted and often irreverent, in the best jazz spirit, delights public and musicians alike. Many of these ask to play here or ask for a return invitation.

The organisers had the foresight to see that the festival couldn’t remain a once a year event, no matter how prestigious it may be, but that it had to be the pinnacle of a permanent activity. For the last few years concerts have been held at monthly intervals from October to June, with top names playing. These concerts are linked to weekend courses open to amateurs who want to improve their musical skills, courses which are led by renowned musicians. This is a follow-up to the creation of the first-ever jazz section in a state school in France. In addition, there is the ‘Territoires du Jazz’ museum, an astonishing creation which uses up-to-date audio-visual technology to take visitors on a tour through the universe of Black American music.

These are all elements in a huge project which aims to make Marciac a major cultural and tourist centre in the Gascony region. Marciac is a place that is worth going out of your way for – for the love of music, for the tourist attractions, for the food and for the experience!

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The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

26 • Local Arts, Music and Events

Perry Taylor Our Cover Artist & Humourist Extraordinaire...

By Mary Shepherd

M

any of you will be familiar with Perry Taylor’s humorous sketches of life in South West France and we are delighted that he has designed the cover for this issue.

I first saw Perry, sitting at his easel, on a sunny Sunday, in the marketplace in Aignan. He was surrounded by examples of his work, both prints and originals. His prolific collection depicts many of the simple pleasures of French country life; all with his characteristic details which make you smile.

For the past eight years Perry has lived in France and recently has been able to concentrate on his painting.

However, he has done many other things in life before being able to live his dream of painting and exhibiting throughout the region. For 25 years he worked as an advertising art director, designing and directing for companies as diverse as Nissan and Bacardi-Martini.

He has always drawn and painted as part of his work, ever since his grandfather spotted his talent and arranged training for him.

Although Perry’s main talents lie in his creative and artistic skills, he is also very good in communicating with customers, through the exhibitions he holds, his presence at fairs and markets throughout the area and, not least, his website www.perrytaylor.fr. This is one of the best websites I have seen, giving details of his work The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

and future exhibitions and, most importantly, it makes buying his products straightforward.

In all his ventures he is ably supported by his Dutch wife Caroline. She plays the role of logistics manager for most Perry Taylor Art matters, giving Perry the creative freedom he needs. Their latest exciting venture will take place in Marciac during the Jazz Festival from 27th July to 15th August. Perry will have his own gallery Galerie d’Art Rue des Cinq Parts, shared with painter Jon Wainwright and ceramist Veerle van Gorp. This will be well worth a visit during the festival.

This month’s cover features the Tour de France.

The Tour is coming through the region this year. For me, Perry’s sketch exactly captures the ‘past in a flash’ nature of the race. Look out for Perry along the route.

He is sure to be out capturing the excitement and humour of the event.

For this summer’s upcoming events check Perry’s website. Perry can be contacted on 05-62 35 69 83 and via e-mail at: perry@perrytaylor.eu. Other links for Perry are as follows: www.facebook.com/perrytaylorart https://twitter.com/#!/perrytaylorart

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the gascony local • 27

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The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

28 • Local Arts, Music and Events

Is drinking costing more than money?

Alcoholics Anonymous If you or someone you know has a drinking problem, there are now a number of English-speaking meetings of A.A. in the SW of France. A.A. is a Fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for A.A. membership and A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

Contact Ewen 05 53 05 76 62, Ken 09 67 01 74 60 E-mail Publicinfo.swfrance@aa-europe.net Or check our website at www.aafrancesud-ouest.com for details of English-speaking meetings in SW France.

A warm welcome awaits you at L’Aioli L’Aioli Restaurant/Bar. Open every day: 08.00 ‘til late.

Menu de Jour: 12 euro. Menu ‘a la Carte’ Concerts.

Tel: 05 62 09 22 47 17, Place de Colonel Parisot, 32290, Aignan Proprietor: Vivaldi Christian English Spoken The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

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Local Arts, Music and Events • 29

2012 Tour de France Neil Tomlinson

A

s we all know there are many advantages to living in Gascony. There is the food and good wines, the rolling hills and scenery, the climate and the joviality and hospitality of the Gascon people.

But there is another principal advantage as, every year, the Tour de France passes through our area on its way to the Pyrenees. The Pyrenees, along with the French Alps, have a mandatory visit from two hundred professional cyclists who spend hours slogging up steep gradients in hot conditions.

This year the Pyrenees boasts 11 high category mountain climbs as opposed to only 6 for the French Alps.

This year the 15th stage will start in Samatan on Monday July 16th. This will be the first time that the town has hosted the start to a day’s stage. The journey that the riders will take that day will be through the rolling countryside of the Gers, ending in Pau. In contrast to Samatan celebrating its Tour de France debut, it will be the 64th occasion that Pau has hosted the Tour. Indeed, on the following day,

the riders have the benefit of a rest day in the city in readiness for two very stiff days of mountain climbs to come before heading to Paris.

Whilst none of the exact routes and timings for each stage have yet to be published, it is known that the route on the 16th July will take in Lombez, Saramon, CastelnauBarbarens, Auch, Barran, L’Isle de Noé, Montesquiou, Bassoues and Marciac before heading towards Pau. If you see any of the roads around these locations being re-surfaced and potholes being repaired, then it is a good bet that you are on the route of the Tour.

For those with a penchant for mountain air and the desire to see top notch athletes really suffering,

the Tour continues on the 18th to Bagnières-de-Luchon and the following day to Peyragudes. If you are planning a visit to the mountains, it is essential to travel very early in the day to your planned location, as the police will close the roads several hours before the riders are due.

Towards the end the Tour will be close again starting in Blagnac, otherwise famous for Toulouse Airport and meandering northwards to Brive-le Gaillarde, a total of 215kms.

So what are the chances for glory for British cyclists? After all, the pundits predict a golden haul in London this summer. The man to watch will be Mark Cavendish, nick-named the Manx Missile who so far in his career has notched up 20 stage wins. Unfortunately, his sprinting capabilities far exceed his ability to climb mountains, but it will be a surprise if he doesn’t win three or four stages and the route to Pau should suit him.

The Tour de France is the sporting event that attracts the greatest crowds in the world each year – it is well worth going along to enjoy the atmosphere.

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The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

30 • Local Arts, Music and Events

Orchestre de Centre Philharmonique (OCP)

F

or lovers of operas, oratorios, lyric and symphonic concerts or simply ‘music’, the OCP has brought all these to life in intimate locations, to the delight of local audiences for the last 20 years. So close to home you can catch performances by classical musicians and vocalists from all over Europe.

Richard Beswick, artistic director and co-founder of the OCP, is a concert entrepreneur who leads the orchestras, composes and makes events accessible and enjoyable to all. It’s his desire that people put aside any pre-conceived ideas and quite simply come and take from the music whatever they personally enjoy. Richard believes that the OCP is building a bridge between those involved in the community of ‘Philharmonic’ (meaning – music-loving). These include the chorus (amateurs who’ve committed incredible energy); the musicians and soloists (many at the conservatory, or newly qualified and looking

for experience); and the public (sometimes regular audiences but also those coming for the first time).

Staging events is expensive, OCP recovers about half their costs from ticket sales but rely also on memberships and sponsors. The OCP are determined that their future is positive – with many stunning performances yet to be staged! You can contact the group at www.ocp-verteuil.com.

The next performances – The Gipsy Baron by Johann Strauss, June 6, Verteuil d’Agenais (47260); June 7, Casteljaloux (47700); June 8, Puy l’Evêque; June 9, Bergerac (24100); June 10, Penne d’Agenais (47140).

Adults 20e: 10e 12–18, unemployed etc; under 12 free. Tickets at the door or reserve 05 53 41 91 49.

Enquiries (Eng) 05 65 36 45 98 The OCP expects to perform its usual orchestral concerts around the All Saints weekend in early Nov. Please check the website nearer the time for details.

What’s On...

Chamber Music at the Chateau. Thurs 2nd Aug, Sat 4th Aug and Mon 6th Aug. Details: www.saintemerefestival.net 7th Annual Shakespeare Presentation 18.00 5th Aug. Chateau de St.Angles. St. Arailles: Entry free.

Details: Sandyjudy@wanadoo.fr

The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

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The Gascony Local • June-Sept 2012

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