The Quercy Local September-October 2015

September – October 2015 Issue 21

uercy Local The

The Region’s FREE magazine in English

Inside – Les 2 Jours de Montcuq Organ Donation Roquecor’s Long History Plus: Perennials, Pensions and Plum Jam

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Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

4 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

W

elcome to issue 21 of ‘The Quercy Local’ magazine.

It’s been a busy summer everywhere and although things are due to quieten a little, we’re far from finished with many events still to come.

Montcuq is always a lively place during the Les 2 Jours de Montcuq, if you have not been before then we hope our article (p.8) will entice you along.

All the many, many acres of grapes need to be harvested and so for some people, time is going to be getting shorter and days seeming long and hard. Harvest time produces some of the best vistas with burning colours and early morning mists. Something to look forward to!

2 bits of news from our office. Firstly, we’ve managed to get lower postage rates for magazines going by subscription to the rest of Europe (ironically not France). So now for 11 euros we can post 5 copies to home addresses in the UK and elsewhere.

Secondly, we’ll soon have our new website up and running. Sign-up to our newsletter to get updates about this. Subscription and Newsletter information can be found on our current website.

Anna

The winter edition (last for this year) will be available for the start of November. www.quercylocal.com Email: info@quercylocal.com

22

CONTENTS Les 2 Jours de Montcuq

Organ Donation AE Updates – New Rules

p.14

p.16

Am Dram – Montaigu de Quercy

Little by Little – Life Skills

p.17

p.22

A Short Story by Peter Shoenmaker Aoutas

p.8

p.25

p.26

English Church – Cahors

p.28

Rescued Vegetable Garden

p.34

Dividing Perennials

p.36

Dinning with Heritage and Charm

Roquecor – some History Plum Jam

p.38 p.44 p.49

Getting moving – excercise?

p.50

Postcards from France

p.52

Tax and UK Pensions

p.57

36

52

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For details on the range please call: Resa on 06 40 05 85 00 | resa@chalk-paints.com | www.chalk-paints.com The Quercy Local ISSN: 2116-0392. No part of this publication may be copied, used or reproduced without the written consent of the proprietor. No responsibility is accepted for any claim made by advertisers. All content accepted and printed in good faith. Please check that all advertisers are registered businesses in France or elsewhere in their relevant home country.

The Quercy Local is owned and managed by A Atkinson (Las Razes, Touffailles, 82190): Siret: 518 460 605 00018. It’s produced by the Magazine Production Company, West Sussex, UK. Printed by Gráficas Piquer. Distribution managers (47) - Lorraine & Pete Knowles; (46) and (82) Glenn Jackson. Admin. Valérie Rousseau. Regular contributors; Paola Westbeek, Angie Richards, John and Debbie Wilson.

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 5

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The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

6 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 7

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8 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

LES 2 JOURS DE MONTCUQ

T

here are not many events in the Quercy that attract such an international attendance as the Montcuq endurance horse race, that takes place the first weekend of November, ever since 1977, when Les 2 Jours de Montucq was founded by Pierre Passemard. It has seen riders from far and wide; among the competitors are citizens from Australia, America, Russia, Great Britain, Spain, Portugal, Andorra Switzerland, Italy and UAE. Only world-class riders enter this grand classic 2-day endurance race that covers some of the most rugged terrain in the region.

The preparations begin several days before the weekend of All Saints Day with the assembly of the portable horse stalls behind the Salle de Fete of Montcuq. Already, a careful observer can see several horse vans parked near the gym and some very fit and beautiful horses coming and going from their training runs. Bales of hay arrive, electric lights are set up, watering systems are installed, and names of entrants are posted up on the boxes. Race fever begins to slowly radiate the region.

Meanwhile, the house and office of Pierre and Natalie Passemard, nestled in the heart of the old The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

part of town, becomes the local headquarters for the event, with both immerged in last minute decisions that invariably crop up, and acting as hosts to the foreign veterinarians and officials.

Over the week more and more horses arrive from all points of the compass and are assigned to a stall. The distinct scent of horses, hay, fresh manure and leather lingers in the heavy cool morning air as the mounts are taken out for exercise, groomed or fed. Frequently, one can hear the neigh and nicker of one horse to another and the impulsive stomp and snort of a stallion when another horse parades past the stalls.

By Friday afternoon all the riders and horses are gathered for the first vetting. Arabians are the most widespread breeds in endurance today, followed by Anglo-Arabs and Thoroughbred crosses; one can also find Crillos, Appaloosas and occasionally the rare Akhal Teke from Turkmenistan with its magnificent metallic shiny coat. All the entries are beautifully turned out, and appear to be proudly showing off their individual merits before the many gathered spectators, the judges and veterinarians.

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After the vet check a meeting is held for all participants where the officials go over the rules of the race, mentioning any dangerous conditions that might exist on the course due to weather, and the details of the start and finish for each 100 km leg of the race. Then it is off for dinner and an early retirement to be fresh for the race the following day.

The race begins at 8:00 am Saturday in the center of Montcuq and covers the Castelnau-Montratier, Labastide-Marnhac, Montcuq segment. The horses are all relatively spirited, prancing about in the fresh early morning atmosphere as they gather and begin their slow dance towards the start behind Pierre Passemard’s vintage Fiat Panda; one can almost taste the excitement. Villagers throw open their shutters for a grandstand view or mill about on the sidewalk taking in the equestrian theater before them. The Panda moves forward at 8:00 on the dot, with some 80 horses jockeying for positions trotting or loping behind. Some of the mounts are prancing and snorting about; others calm, and one or two are highly strung competition instruments in need of a serious blowout.

The riders string out at the bottom of the village as they enter a narrow track. The first leg of the race is underway. Meanwhile, back in Montcuq the assistants and the followers scramble for their cars and vans to intercept the race at specified points along the course to water their charges and provide support for their riders. The first leg of the race is

23/07/2014 12:54

over undulating farmland and forest, a rather fast pace can be held for most of the 35 km course into Castelnau-Montratier, giving the horses a chance to unwind and settle down.

Spectators have several good vantage points along the way to watch the proceedings and take photographs, they then should make their way to the grand square of Castelnau-Montratier before the arrival of the first leg to see the preparations set up to vet and care for the participants. For once the riders begin to arrive it can all seem rather chaotic and confusing as they spill into the square, time in, dismount, unsaddle and prepare the horse for the first vet check, then take a break for breakfast. The horses have a mandatory 45-minute rest period where they are examined by the various international veterinarians, who check for metabolic health (heart rate, respiration, hydration, backaches and listen to

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

10 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

the sound of the gut). The mounts must be down to 64 heartbeats per minute within a set period of time (usually 30 min). When all the riders are in, the square in front of the Salle de Fete is a hive of activity, rivulets of water flow into the gutters as the horses are washed down with copious amounts of water, assistants are checking their tack, farriers are busy shoeing horses who lost shoes, reporters are taking photographs and several officials are trying to keep some semblance of order.

Teams check their departing times and soon the riders are off again in the sequence they timed in, for the next leg of 36 km to Labastide-Marnhac.

This section offers a variety of terrain that is more difficult to negotiate than the first run. For spectators the event is getting more exciting and there are many good vantage points to follow and photograph the riders. By now the leaders may have broken away from the pack, making good headway over the flat terrain yet conserving their mounts for the more difficult passages that will confront them. The advantage now goes to the riders who know the course well.

The ‘Old hands’ hold their horse back, fully aware that they should conserve energy for the 100 km the following day.

The sleepy little village of Labastide-Marnhac realizes a vibrant awakening on the 2 Jours de The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

Montcuq weekend. The Salle de Fete is bustling with activity, setting up tables and preparing the luncheon for all those engaged in the race. The extensive grounds are soon to be filled with numerous cars of the followers and officials, plus the horses resting stations. The roped off areas for the vet check and trotting are in place along with large holding tanks of water for the horses to drink and be washed down.

All eyes are eagerly scanning the horizon for the first signs of the leaders arrival and listening for the motorcycles that open the trail and herald the imminent arrival of the riders. Sure enough the bikers pull up and not far behind a string of horses can be seen cantering along the track and filing past the timers. Their grooms rush up and take charge of the mounts, unsaddling them, watering and rinsing them down before the first of 2 vet checks. People behind their computers are formulating the race standings as the times of the arrival are announced.

The vets begin their work, monitoring the horses’ metabolic health and scrutinizing the trotting to reveal any lameness.

Several horses will most likely be eliminated for various reasons, such as fatigue, lameness, dehydration, or a too lengthy recovery.

After 50 minutes the riders are back in the saddle and waiting to make the final 24 km run into the finish at Montcuq. It can be a fast leg of the race.

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Years ago, an English woman named Judy Beaumont ran her Appaloosa mare from Labastide to Montcuq averaging the unheard of pace of 23 km per hour to make up lost time and to win the race. To date nobody has beaten that time. Most of the run is along a dirt trail across a plateau, and then it is down a steep hill into the valley just below Montcuq and up a road into the town. The riders often come into Montcuq on the tarmac at a gallop to cross the finish line just after the 3 cafes on the place.

Many townspeople and spectators are on hand lining the sidewalks, cheering each horse and rider as they come in. The horses are then vetted in front of the crowd and then retired for a much-needed rest to recuperate for tomorrow’s more difficult circuit. The majority of the horses finish still so fresh; their condition defying the conviction that they must be worn out after being ridden 100 km at a fast clip that day. The crowds thin out as the last of the entries cross the finish line and the day retires into night.

The weather can be very changeable from one day to the next in late October, consequently, Sunday often brings about a surprise, from heavy rains or fog to even snow, as has occasionally been experienced over the years. The early morning vet check around the stables may disqualify a few more horses due to stiffness and lameness. Then Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

12 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

the race begins below the village, this time where they head in the opposite direction from Saturday’s start. Caution is observed at the start of the race, as the horses have to warm up their muscles from their effort the day before. On the plateau north of Montcuq there are some excellent places to watch and photograph the race, with a background of flamboyant autumn colors at their peak.

By the time the horses reach the Tournon d’Agenais-Cahors road (D656) the riders are jockeying for the best positions, keeping pace with the leaders, yet conserving their own mounts as best they can. The racers have a long hard haul in front of them when the course drops down into Lot Valley and then ascends several very steep climbs on the tract and trails towards Cahors where riders encounter another rugged climb up to LabastideMarnhac. However, before that there is a vet check at Le Tuc camping grounds situated above Belaye, 33 km from Montcuq.

From there, the course rises sharply up towards Villeseque and then through the Cahors wine vineyards, where the pace picks up and the leaders exchange places fairly often. Again, the watchword is prudence; conserve the energy of your mount, as there are 38 km of difficult terrain to complete before the last leg from Labastide-Marnhac to Montcuq. This is a critical point in the race. It is The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

on this leg that a horse can be broken by being pushed too hard, or be well handled to go on to finish and possibly win. The riders are by now pretty spread out, but don’t be fooled into thinking that those near the rear are no longer capable of competing admirably.

For all those waiting to see the first horses coming into Labastide the wait can seem interminable, as the time can differ considerably depending on the terrain and the state of the weather. The welcome chug-chug of the motorbikes is finally heard in the distance and all eyes are focused on the track leading into the control area to see who are the leaders. Excitement builds as the riders stream into view, some alone, some bunched together, some at a slow gallop or trot, others being led across the line unmounted. But again, don’t assume the first horses are the leaders; they might be in front on that leg of the race but be behind the actual leaders in time calculated from the previous day. There is a mandatory 50 min rest period at this juncture, where the horses are watered and washed down, groomed, fed and vetted. And don’t be surprised to see even the first horses to arrive be disqualified for lameness or poor recovery, as this can happen after they have been over the most grueling section of the course of a long 2 day race. 50 minutes later the first horses are convened

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Off they dash one after another, some with seconds between them, others minutes behind.

Assistants sprint to their cars and drive off to intercept their horses at predetermined points along the course to offer water if needed. Many spectators follow on into Montcuq to witness the arrival of the horses. The excitement is definitely palatable.

Hordes of viewers are massed in the square of the town, some seated in the cafés, some milling about the sidewalks and streets, all eagerly waiting for the arrival of the winner.

To offer a better insight into what the finish is like, I will resort to the present tense here and recount a race I once experienced.

Hooves pound the earth like a drum roll, as the lead horse breaks from the start, then levels off, striding fluidly, running against the bit, along the plateau that leads much of the way to Montcuq.

The second mount is on his way 1 1/2 minutes behind tracking the leader at a run stride for stride.

Both horses race by their attendants refusing to pause for a drink. The leader keeps up his momentum trying to shake off the Arab mare behind, maybe break her by keeping up speed.

However, ¾ of the way home that brave mare continues to trail him, now only about 15 lengths behind. The lead rider feels his horse still has a good deal left in him so lets him have more rein. With only 4 km left before the finish the leader is shocked to see the horse behind coming up on his flank at a surprising speed, then breezing by effortlessly, and gaining inexorably with his rider folded over the neck of the mare urging his mount on. 2 lengths then 5 then 10 as the new leader shakes off his rival, all the while asking his mount for more speed, which it bravely gives, digging in, propelling his rider forward and drawing away like an express

train. His contender is far from disintegrating in discouragement and keeps up a furious pace trying to regain ground on the leader, hoping she will tire before the finish. The leader eases up along the tarmac, and does again as she descends down the steep trail to the valley, not wanting to take any chances, during which the challenger recklessly makes up ground. The leader is having none of it, picks up an extraordinary pace again, blazing along, widening her lead, not backing off one second.

Battering the pavement she races up the hill towards the town with no sign of weariness, her competitor some 30 lengths behind. The mare sweeps into town almost on top of the motorbike riders, who are bent low over their bikes riding at full throttle. The rider breaks free of both of them and gallops into the assembled gallery in the square amid roars of approval, shouting and delirious applause as the rider triumphantly crosses the finish line. 35 seconds later the 2nd rider crosses the line with another round of applause from the spectators.

There is no winner until the horse passes the final vetting. When the lead rider presents his horse to the vets, hush envelopes the crowd. The horse is fully examined and is then trotted by a lead, the Arab mare trotted by almost floating over the pavement then turns back to the vets, who unanimously nod their approval, at which the crowd shouts its support in an explosion of joy. The mare wins handily as her rival is later disqualified, it just couldn’t recover in the allotted time.

I have strived to show what the 2 Jours de Montcuq is all about. I hope I have succeeded and that this article stimulates the reader enough to come and witness the next running of the race, if you are a horse fancier, you won’t be disappointed.

By Peter B Martin

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

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Organ donation what happens in France?

T

his is not a subject that everyone likes to discuss. It’s well documented that in the UK there’s a great shortage of donated organs and many unfortunate people exist with a severely impaired quality of life or die whilst on a waiting list.

In the UK (where it’s estimated that 9 out of 10 people believe that becoming a donor is important) only a quarter of the population actually carry a donor card.

Furthermore, there’s a family refusal rate of 42%, compared to France where it is 30%. Spain on the other-hand has a family refusal rate of only 17%.

So whether you want to ‘opt out’ or ‘opt in’ to donating your organs, whilst living in France there are a few things to be aware of.

If you’re a keen donor then historically you would apply for a carte de donneur d’organes as with the UK this is not legally binding but it does signal your wishes to your family and the authorities. However, your next of kin will make the final decision about donation.

So it’s vital that people discuss their wishes with their family. You can apply for this card on-line at www.france-adot.org.

Carrying this Donor Card is becoming less important other than perhaps as a means of informing your family. France is trying to cope with its own shortage of donor organs and so attempts are being made to make the process one of ‘opting out’ rather than an ‘opting in’; as is discussed occasionally in the UK. This move isn’t universally popular and resistance is being met.

From April this year the law has presumed that there was a presumption of consent to the donation of organs. If this is something that you truly want to avoid then you can ‘opt-out’ or make certain ‘exceptions’ by downloading the form at www.dondorganes.fr/046comment-exprimer-son-refus and posting this back to them with the required evidence of identity. The same The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

form allows you to make a number of choices including withholding consent to a post-mortem examination.

It’s possible to make these decisions and submit the paperwork from the age of 13. Currently, however, your family can still over-ride this presumption of consent to donate, so it all comes back to communication.

Whatever your nationality as long as you are resident here, have a French address and appear on the French systems then you may use these facilities to ‘opt-out’ or ‘opt-in’ There is a legislative plan (again being opposed) that suggests that from 2018, every death, where the deceased has not personally ‘opted out’, will be treated as consenting to organ and tissue donation.

Under these proposed changes families will not then be able to object. This change is seen as draconian by many and so it remains to be seen if this planned amendment does become law. Further clarification is expected in 2017.

This magazine supports the need for a greater number of donors and we haven’t talked to anyone who’s allowed a family member’s organs to be donated and who’s then regretted that decision.

A difficult subject but maybe it’s one we all need to get around to talking about.

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Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

16 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

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Things shaking up for the Auto Entrepreneurs

T

here have been several changes to the way that Auto Entrepreneurs (AE) must operate.

The new rules generally came into play at the start of 2015 for new registrations but those already registered have until the end of this year to ensure that they comply. It’s the legal responsibility of each person to find out about the changes and comply with them. Don’t wait until someone official tells you, this is probably not going to happen.

It seems that the general aim is to make it slightly more difficult to ‘simply’ be an AE and avoid registrations by the less committed. This is not an exhaustive list of changes and everyone who thinks any of this may affect them should seek advice to ensure that they make the appropriate changes. Virtually everybody is going to have to make contact with the authorities. The availability of simple on-line information is very limited.

Bank accounts All AEs must now operate a separate bank account for the purposes of their business activities. This doesn’t have to be a business account (which would be even more expensive) but it must be an account dedicated solely to the AE’s activity. This is likely to mean incurring at least a further cost of 150 euro per annum.

It isn’t clear how payments that are received from on-line trading (i.e. Paypal) are to be treated but the aim of the act would suggest that all funds received in this way should be retained in a dedicated account for the AE’s activities.

Insurance This is not a new requirement but rather a reminder and stern warning that all AEs should be carrying the appropriate insurance for their activities. Depending on the nature of your trade you may require more but at the very least everyone must have a minimum of Responsabilité Civile Professionnel insurance cover.

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

Further Registration and Training Courses All new AE Artisans must now undertake the 4 -day SPI (Stage Prealable à l’Installation) before registering.

This course (in French) is to introduce you to the French business administrative organisations and professions you’ll be dealing with, e.g. RSI, tax office, accountants, lawyers, insurers etc.

Artisans that were already registered on the 18/6/2014 and who, therefore have an existing siret number have until the 19/12/2015 to register (again) their activity with the Registre des Metiers (RM). If they fail to do this then they may also be required to do the 4-day course along with the newentrance to the scheme. The SPI course currently costs 192.50 euro.

There are also compulsory further registration requirement for all other trading activities and commercial activities, registered with the Registre du Commerce et des Societes (RCS); again with a deadline of the 19/12/2015. Contact needs to be made to find out what is required of you and your particular trade. Some occupations are regulated and require further paperwork. All existing AEs should make contact with their local Centre Formalités des Entreprises (CFE) to make sure they are not missing the deadlines and that they understand what additional paperwork is going to be required. There is likely to be a charge for this registration but if you visit the Chambres in person they may guide you through the requirements.

This information is simply to highlight that changes are taking place and in many cases time is running out to comply with the new rules. Everybody’s case is different and your local Centre Formalités des Entreprise (CFE ) office will be able to give you the information relating to your circumstances. It will be easier to sort things now than leave things right up to the deadline or even miss it entirely.

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 17

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Montaigu Salle des Fêtes SEPTEMBER COMEDIES The rehearsals for our 3 One Act Plays are underway and going well. ‘The Proposal’ is the first time the Troupe have attempted a Chekhov comedy – and we are having great fun rehearsing it.

‘Little Grimley Presents Strictly Sex Factor on Ice’ is once again a catalogue of disasters just waiting to happen for our four hapless friends. This is yet another incredibly funny play by David Tristram, the second to be performed by the Troupe and we are loving every minute.

Over My Dead Body, is a “Who Dunnit” The plot is set in a country house with all the usual suspects.

You won’t have a “Cluedo“, every one with a grudge and everyone with a skeleton in the cupboard or at the very least a guilt secret, a recipe for a spoof murder – Shakespeare eat your heart out! Confusion reigns and the cast are enjoying getting the hang of it.

Do, please come along and see these very funny plays and have a great evening.

Over My Dead Body

by Pat Baker & Directed by Tom Hurst ‘By arrangement with Lazy Bee Scripts’

Next productions: 17 & 18 September 2015 Thursday 17th September 2015 Dinner Night, 6.30p.m. e20 Friday 18th September 2015 Bring your own Picnic, 6.30 p.m.

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The Proposal

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Little Grimley Presents Strictly Sex Factor On Ice

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Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

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The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

20 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

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Full and part loads including complete house moves throughout Europe.

We have many different types of vehicles in order to transport household belongings, building material, tools and vehicles.

Please contact Jon on Jon@SafeHandsHaulage.com (from UK) 00 33 5 53 79 26 48 (in France) 05 53 79 26 48 Mobile (from UK) 00 33 6 50 54 86 80 (in France) 06 50 54 86 80

www.safehandshaulage.com

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 21

La Chaumière Immobilier was established in 2005 by the owner Marie-Annick COLAS who has been joined by Daniel TAYLOR who has 14 years experience particularly with an international clientèle.

We are looking for properties (country and village houses of all types and condition) in the Quercy and surrounding areas to meet an increased demand from French and foreign buyers.

If you are selling or thinking of selling don’t hesitate to contact us!

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

22 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Little by Little “Little by little one travels far” – anonymous

B

ob goes to Barcelona and while he is in the taxi from the airport to the hotel he discovers that the taxi driver is studying English.

“Everyday...” boasts the taxi driver “...I memorise ten words. That means that in two years I learn seven thousand!”. “Seven thousand...” remarks Bob impressed, “...wherever do you store so many words?” The taxi driver winks knowledgeably, taps the side of his head and says “Here... in my bum!”

Remember the film ‘The Shawshank Redemption’?

Starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, it tells the story of a banker who is mistakenly given life imprisonment for a murder he didn’t commit. It’s one of my favourite films – a classic! It has many things going for it. But what makes it stand out for me is not the theme of maintaining dignity and honour in a chaotic environment, nor the ability to achieve happiness where it doesn’t usually exist. No, what for me stands out the most is that the hero (Robbins) manages to dig over 17 years a two foot diameter tunnel, about ten feet long using a small rock hammer.

The power of applying a constant force, little by little for a long time can move mountains – literally! Day to day, the process can be imperceptible just like the

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

growing up of our children. But in exactly the same way, given that children do constantly grow a tiny amount each day, over the period of a year the resulting change can be quite surprising.

On the one hand the ‘little by little’ technique is the most normal thing in the world. Everything you’ve learned you’ve learned little by little: walking, talking, reading or doing your tax returns. Nobody is born with a ‘knowledge chip’ in their brains and no one can take a pill to instantly know how to drive (at least not at the moment). None of this is surprising. We accept it because… well, because there’s no alternative.

But, on the other hand, maybe we forget ‘little by little’ when we think about some task which we consider to be rather large. Instead of looking at it as a series of lots and lots of tiny little tasks we see it as one great big fat, formidable task.

One simple example of this was the top draw of my desk. Over many happy years of work my top draw had developed into some sort of ‘wormhole in space’ sucking in all sorts of office debris: thousands of things that didn’t work, fit or belong. Biros with no ink, staples of bizarre sizes, keys which belonged to no one, bits of printers that no longer existed… you know exactly

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 23

what I’m talking about, don’t you? I knew full well that one day I’d have to clean it out but as it was a rather daunting task (what if the bits started to fight back?) it always seemed to get put off another year. Then one day I remembered the ‘little by little’ technique and I decided that instead of sorting out my top draw in one go I would remove just one object each day (or maybe more if I were feeling brave). The result? In less than a month I had things under control. Easy! Just by dedicating a few seconds each day I was able to deal with something that had taken my years to get round to.

Obviously a desk draw is a trivial example. But consider for a moment how many things do you have on your ‘to tidy up’ list? Your kitchen work surface, the bathroom cabinet, the boot of your car, your garage (there was actually a time when your car would have fitted in it, remember?) not to mention the attic! In such cases ‘little by little’ could be the ideal solution.

It’s late, you’re tired and thinking of going to bed but there are still the dishes to do and you just don’t have the energy. Not doing any of the washing up means that you’ll have exactly the same amount of work to do tomorrow (if not slightly more as the grime becomes more incrusted). But if you do just a little now, even if it is just the wine glasses or maybe a saucepan if you’re feeling up to it, then tomorrow there will be less. And you never know, after you’ve done those wine glasses maybe a couple of the smaller plates and then…

If you apply the ‘little by little’ technique constantly throughout the day the results can be surprising even for yourself. For one of my clients, Barbara, there weren’t enough hours in the day and she couldn’t cope with everything. After considering all her options we decided that she would dedicate just thirty minutes at the end of each day to doing something, anything that appealed to her at that moment. The important part was not ‘what’ she was to do but that everyday she would do something. After just one month she said the change was ‘amazing’. Thirty minutes a day is fifteen hours of work. If you could spend fifteen hours to your home what could you achieve?

And so it is with many of the things that we want to do in our lives. Whether it be tidying the house, getting fit, learning a new language or becoming the world’s leading authority on underwater cheese tasting, dedicating yourself to taking a small step every day will guarantee that before you know it you find that you have travelled a great distance, much further than if you had tried to do it all in one go.

So why not think now where to apply ‘little by little’ and you can start to move your mountain today!

Ian Gibbs Personal coach and writer

Quercy Counselling Quercy counselling offers English-speaking counselling and psychological services on all manner of issues. It’s based in Belveze and offers services face-to-face, via telephone and Skype.

For more information please see the website:

quercycounselling.blogspot.com.

Or contact Elizabeth Cross on +33(0)788279014 or quercycounselling@gmail.com

Regular van deliveries to and from the UK

Mob 0044(0)7841220980 www.fourgonconclusions.co.uk

Place de le Croix – 82150 Roquecor General supplies, Bread, Newsagents, Postal Point We also stock a supply of British products and a great selection of wines from local producers

Local and convenient – a true village shop 05 63 95 25 78 / 06 82 84 56 30 lacroixroc@orange.fr (SARL Lacroixroc) Delphine and Jean Longueteau

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

G M Construction A skilled and loyal workforce of British & French tradesmen

All aspects of building projects both new and renovation, including project management, swimming pools & ground-works If you are looking for a British/French speaking builder operating in 46, 47, 82 & 24 Contact Greg:

06 37 67 49 89 / 06 76 92 28 68 ggmconstructionfr@hotmail.com www.englishbuilderinfrance.com Siret No:- 50741519800013

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 25

A short story by Peter Shoenmaker - from his collection of short stories ‘Breakfast in Gascony’ which is easily available from Amazon

Rural France Is Much Livelier Than You May Think P hilippe, our French estate agent, was already at ‘our’ house to open up the shutters, when his bi-lingual colleague Leontine was still busy translating the house’s deeds for us in the notaries’ office. We knew we still had to improve our French, but it became more evident half an hour later, when Philippe ran towards us, shouting ‘Frelons! Frelons!’

We heard the French version of ‘hurrah, hurrah’.

The reality was a little different.

Leontine explained that had we opened the shutters ourselves, we would probably not have survived. During the year or so that the house had been vacant, squatters had taken possession of the space between the shutters and the windows of one of the upstairs bedrooms. Thousands of hornets had built an enormous nest there. If a frelon stings you it has the same effect as being stung by four hundred wasps. The next day we stood and admired…from a safe distance, the exterminator who was called to remove the nest. In his shorts!

Anyway, that was how we met the one of the inhabitants of France that the travel magazines never tell you about.

Our second encounter followed a few days later when we couldn’t stop scratching ourselves.

We were itching all over in, let’s say, delicate areas. As these villains appear in August they are called aoûtats. These microscopically small insects live in grass, and should you walk bare foot through this infested grass they will take advantage of you, climbing your legs in search of somewhere warm and moist to make another home, and just to let you know they have ‘moved in’ they cause small, red and very itchy fluid filled blisters.

The French swear they are immune but still sell a lot of bottles of Tiq d’Aoûtats in their pharmacies. It’s a preventative spray that you have to apply a few times a day if you want to keep your body to yourself.

Maybe these little nuisances are why we seldom see a Frenchman in shorts without his socks and heavy shoes (including our exterminator and roofers and they are on ladders!).

Maybe another specimen we soon stumbled upon influences their dress code. The French told us they could never in live in Spain ‘as they have scorpions and snakes’. Their answer to the question ‘Is that not the case in France too?’ is ‘Non, non, non, just snakes’.

Well, the confirmation of that came soon enough when we (dressed in proper pants and wearing heavy boots) started clearing the brambles that were taking over the empty stables. Our walls were made of loam

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

26 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

from our own land, (I’ll come back to that later) and the brambles were not only rooted in the ground, but also partly in the walls. Tearing at the roots we pulled away a chunk of wall and six wriggling small black eels!

Neighbour François, who was passing by knew better: ‘Vipères!’ he declared.

Another deadly local resident to avoid like the plague. Didn’t we have a First Aid kit for snakebites, including syringe and serum? François was appalled that we didn’t. Everybody had one, some people never left home without such a kit about their person! He took a spade and hacked the writhing serpents into pieces. Voila!

Other ‘experts’ have told us all one has to do is make sure to reach a hospital within half an hour after a snakebite. Reassuring? Non! Imagine how we felt when we were having a wellearned glass of wine outside and suddenly heard something rustling in an old rosebush nearby.

Neighbour F. had already warned us to get it removed it as soon as possible as it was far too close to the house. We had not understood why and as it still had nice flowers, there by the house it remained. What now crept from under it was only three centimetres in diameter, but one…two...almost three meters long. Green, with black and yellow stripes. If it was more afraid of us then we were of it, it must have been terrified! We were panicking! If a small viper of only twenty centimetres was deadly, this monster must be a giant killer.

Fortunately, before we could call the estate agent to ask him to re-sell our property, a friend who has had a house nearby for years called by. We shared our horror story. No sweat, we were told, the monster we had seen was just a coulouvre.

Completely harmless, well harmless unless threatened and even then a bite was just a bit painful for a week or two.

Pffft! I was already sharpening my shovel!

PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN TARN, TARN ET GARONNE, AVEYRON AND THE LOT. We are an English speaking agency based in the village of Caylus with many years of experience selling properties from full renovation projects to beautifully renovated stone houses and chateaux in this area of the Midi Pyrénées just north of Toulouse.

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Anthony & Gillie Pearce AllezSouthWestFrance, Ave de Pere Huc 82160 Caylus 0563 250 956 / 0612 518 505

Itching, scratching and things getting under your skin?

For most of the year some beastie is probably having a nibble at you, but in late summer and into autumn it can be particularly bad and for some reason some people seem troubled more than others.

Introducing – Aoutas (Trombiculidae) as mentioned in Peter’s story (p.25), these pests are also known as berry bugs, harvest mites, red bugs, chiggers and scrub-itch mites. They’re very small (rusty-orange coloured pests) often only 0.4mm in length and are picked up from grass, weeds and other plants. They love low, damp areas, fruit bushes and orchards but just to make life difficult they also thrive in drier situations, particularly where the vegetation is low so – lawns, parks and golfcourses. The name Aoutas (which is given in France) is due to them appearing in large numbers in August.

These absolute horrors are a relative of the tick and during their laval stage they take up residence on bodies to feed on skin which causes extreme irritation. They inject digestive enzymes into the skin that break down skin cells. They don’t actually bite, they make a hole in the skin, called a stylostome, and then chew up bits of the inner skin, this causes severe irritation and swelling.

The itching is accompanied by red, pimple-like bumps or hives and skin rashes. In the case of humans, itching usually occurs after the larvae leave the skin.

After feeding, the larvae fall to the ground and become nymphs, then mature into adults which have 8 legs and are harmless to humans. In the post-larval stage, they aren’t parasitic and instead feed on plant materials. The females lay 3-8 eggs in a clutch, usually on a leaf or plant roots, they then die by autumn.

The problems and irritation caused by Aoutas are complex and so one solution does not work for everyone. Milder problems and itching may be eased by an over-the-counter treatment. The Pharmacist is going to be the first port of call. More serious infections may require medical advice. Washing in hot soapy water can help remove the pests from the body and clothes that have been in contact with the pests need to be put through a very hot wash to try and kill them off.

I am sure that anyone with an itch will feel better for knowing all this!

info@allezsouthwestfrance.com www.allezsouthwestfrance.com The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

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28 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

English Church of Midi-Pyrénées & Aude

Update from the Cahors Congregation (please see our website for full contact information)

A Season of Invitation – would you like to join us?

We are entering a very busy time in our Church at Terre Rouge with several services that may be of interest to those who do attend church Sunday by Sunday. Traditional services such as Harvest and Remembrance have a particular resonance with ex-pats. If you have been recently bereaved we hope you will find comfort in the All Souls & All Saints service.

At Terre Rouge we love to invite new people to join us so here are some dates for your diaries: Back to Church Sunday – 20th September – Morning Prayer at Terre Rouge – 10am The first of our 6 invitational events is Back to Church Sunday.

This is a great opportunity to invite those who may have been to your church before for a wedding, baptism or funeral. Lots of people that we know may have been to church when they were younger for Sunday School – but haven’t been back since. You can then invite them back again to Harvest, Remembrance and the Christmas Services at your church.

Harvest Festival – Sunday October 4th at 10am “We plough the fields and scatter the good seed on the land, But it is fed and watered by God’s almighty hand” Our second invitation is to our Harvest Festival Service which stirs memories of childhood, school assemblies and tins of baked beans, fruit and vegetables in boxes to be taken to school or church.

This much loved and very popular festival is actually pagan in origin and almost as popular as Easter and Christmas! The Harvest Service at Terre Rouge – the English-Speaking Anglican Church in Cahors – takes place on Sunday October 4th at 10am and will be followed by a bring-and-share lunch. All are welcome and being in France we celebrate the wine harvest too!! Our donations go to Secours Catholique – the homeless charity in Cahors.

Our third invitation is for Bible Sunday – Anyone can join the celebration – at Terre Rouge on Sunday 25th October at 10am As an individual: Take time yourself on Bible Sunday to get deeper into the Bible. As a group: Use our Bible Society resources for a fresh approach to the Bible in your home group and share the stories of people waiting for the Bible in their own language. As a church: We’re holding a service to celebrate the importance of the Bible – do come and join us.

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

Our fourth invitation: All Saints and All Souls Day – Sunday 1st November – Terre Rouge at 10am Five years ago at Terre Rouge in Cahors, the Anglican Church held a very special service for the first time – the All Saints and All Souls Service. This coincided with our French Catholic friends’ celebration of la Toussaint when the dead are remembered all over France by the placing of chrysanthemums on family graves.

Many people had thought the service would be unbearably sad – in reality, there was a certain joy as we prayed and remembered our loved ones. This service now holds a special place on our calendar.

We name aloud all those people whose funeral had been held in the chaplaincy in the previous 10 years and those whom members of the congregation wish to remember. Every name is represented by a white rose to symbolise peace. These white roses are then placed in a large container holding a single red rose to symbolise the love of Christ. After the service, relatives and friends are invited to take the white roses to be kept and dried as a memoire.

Our fifth invitation is for Remembrance Sunday – November 8th at Terre Rouge at 10am At Terre Rouge we always have a traditional Remembrance Sunday service with the 2 minutes silence, but it is worth remembering that France, our adopted country, suffered horrendous casualties and deaths too – on their own soil.

Remembrance Day (11 November) is a national holiday in France. It commemorates the armistice signed between the Allies and Germany at Compiègne, for the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front, which took effect at 11:00 a.m. in the morning – the “eleventh hour of the

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 29

How about Flying a Microlight over the Beautiful French Countryside?

Rob Keene has been flying for 30 years and now he has a French base for his flexwing mircolight.

As a leading UK instructor Rob is able to offer you the chance to simply ‘try and see’ or even to go on and complete a course of instruction. Rob is based at an airstrip just outside of Albefeuille Lagarde (82290).

France is the perfect venue for flying, with its kinder weather, longer seasons, stunning landscapes and vast open spaces.

Visiting the area or living here and longing for a look ‘from above’ or maybe to learn a new skill? Then speak to Rob for more information.

Vouchers for Taster Flights are available.

eleventh day of the eleventh month.” Armistice Day is one the most important military celebrations in France, since it was a major French victory and the French paid a heavy price in blood to achieve it. The First World War was considered in France as the “Great Patriotic War”. Almost all French villages feature memorials dedicated to those fallen during the conflict.

In France the blue cornflower (bleuet) is used symbolically rather than the poppy.

www.overfarmmicrolights.co.uk, 00447831237353 or email: rob.keene@btinternet.com

The final invitation is for our Christmas services, which will be featured in the next edition of the Quercy Local. For further information on all these invitations please look at our website on www.churchinmidipa.org

GET YOUR BUSINESS SEEN! Advertise from only 40€ per edition for 1/8th page or 20€ per edition for 1/16th page See all the options at:

www.quercylocal.com or email us for details

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The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

LEGGETT R E A L E S TAT E

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Excellent communication skills are a must and basic IT skills, an advantage.

To find out more or apply contact:

Sarah Edwards, Head of Recruitment. Email: recruitmentinfos@leggett.fr

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Tel: 0033(0)5 53 56 84 88 Head Office: La Maison du Chapitre Route de Riberac 24340 La Rochebeaucourt France

32 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Quercy Builders (82150) Stone work and all aspects of renovation Subcontractors to the trade and a professional service to the public References available No obligation quotations

info@quercybuilders.com www.quercybuilders.com 06 52 24 49 95 06 52 49 03 57

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A new life for an abandoned village garden Moving to Verfeil-sur-Seye from Cornwall a year ago meant a new life for my husband and me, in more ways than one. Gardening first in Canada and then in England, the latest chapter in my life of turning the soil presented itself within days of our arrival.

O

My first crop of tomatoes!

ur village house came with a small terrace garden, not big enough to grow more than pots of herbs and flowers. I asked the previous French owner if she knew of anyone who had a bit of land that had fallen into disuse. Being an old bastide village, land was located on the outskirts of the village to be used for growing fruit and vegetables then excess could be sold at market in the village Halle.

Madame knocked on the door, took me by the hand and introduced me to our neighbours, who kindly offered me the use of their family garden, The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

once one of the best in the area but abandoned for over twenty years. My first visit was a mixture of excitement and dismay. Nature had taken its course.

Brambles covered most of the trees, ground and the well. All the fruit trees were in desperate need of pruning, many of them hanging with dead branches.

The grape vines were out of control but had survived due to overflow water from the well. That was good news for the vines but the flow was undermining the garden wall.

As soon as the house was in reasonable order, I spent the next seven months pulling brambles,

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 35

pruning trees and vines, clearing piles of rubbish, twisted metal, broken glass, shifting stones, burning and turning the soil, and then covering future beds with flattened cardboard boxes saved from our move. By January, I was able to plant garlic which I had bought in a local market and it was ready to harvest in the first week in July. Trips to the local tip meant finding 9 good wooden pallets from which I built my compost bins. Planting was started 2nd week in May as is the custom here.

These months of activity did not go unnoticed.

The garden runs alongside a road which is a favourite, shady promenade for villagers. Before long, I was happily engaged in conversations about what I was doing and was told potted histories of the garden and the previous owner. Seeds and tools were offered along with gardening advice on how to plant and how to get water from the well.

Did I know about Bordeaux mix for blight on fruit trees, how to water when the weather gets hot, the pruning of grape vines and suggested spray mixtures to get rid of garden pests. As an organic gardener, new to these conditions, I applied much of what I was told.

One of my greatest sources of pleasures was spending two days cutting brambles and self seeded trees to reveal the well. This lovely structure was still in near perfect condition and was once the main source of water for the village. Across the road is the lavoir, where women used to wash laundry. I access water from the well using an electric pump, storing it in a large water tank.

Unseasonably hot weather started in late May and continues as I write. No rain for over 11 weeks, temperatures in the mid 30’s, sometimes reaching 40 degrees, have meant that everyone’s garden has suffered. All that planning and work resulted in salad crops, peas, herbs, shallots, spinach and radishes not making it. Beetroot, carrots, onions, haricots, courgettes, pumpkins, parsley and chives have done well given an early, daily watering.

What has really made it all so worthwhile is the tomatoes! Being in a climate that is capable of producing tomatoes is every gardener’s dream.

Heat, plenty of well composted donkey/goat manure and deep-root watering has rewarded me with an incredible crop. I have more to learn but, at last, I have arrived!

Joanne Schofield

Garden before clearing August 2014

Source before clearing August 2014

Source after clearing and handmade bamboo trellis

Garden starts to grow May 2015

Tomatoes ripening July 2015

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

36 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Papaver Nudicaule

Perennials – the big divide!

A

ll clump-forming herbaceous perennials can division is most successful when the plants are not in be divided. While there are a few variations active growth. You can divide both potted plants and to timing and techniques for divisions, the those planted in the ground, and likewise, you can general practice is that of digging up the plant either plant or pot-on the resulting plants. and splitting it up into a number of pieces, to be To make a division, lift the plant gently with a fork, replanted as smaller plants. This is useful on a working outwards from the centre of the crown, to number of levels: it reduces overcrowding, increases limit root damage, then shake off excess soil until the the health and vigour of the plant, and increases roots are clearly visible. Some plants, such as Ajuga, your plant numbers. Agapanthus, Anemone, Aster, Acaena and Sempervivum, produce individual plantlets Bergenia, Crocosmia, Dianthus, Eryngium, Euphorbia, (babies) which can simply be pulled off and replanted.

Geranium, Helianthus (perennial varieties such Also, small, fibrous-rooted plants, such as Heuchera, as Helianthus Mollus or Helianthus Salicifolius), can easily be teased apart by hand, small clumps for Hemerocallis, Hosta, Iris, ornamental grasses, replanting. However, large, fibrous-rooted perennials, Salvia, Sedum, and Verbena are all good over such as Hemerocallis, require the use of tools. Place here in Southwest France and will all benefit two garden forks into the crown, back-to-back, and use from regular division. them as levers to loosen and break the root mass in Dividing is mostly done from autumn through until half, then make further divisions, either with the forks spring and most perennials can be divided every two or a sharp knife or axe. Plants with woody crowns, such or three to maximise the health TICKETS of the plantFOR ANYasPERFORMANCE Echinops, Helleborus, Perovskia, and plants with WIN years, 3 PAIRS OF FRONT-ROW OF and HENRY V THIS SUMMER (though for the purpose of propagation, it can be doneHOW? fleshy roots, such as Delphinium and Papaver, will need more frequently, up V’s to once a year).

Plantswas can through actually which cutting with aline sharp like a spade knife. Each Q. Henry claim to France family histool mother’s or hisorfather’s? be divided at almost any time, as long as they are clump you produce should contain between three to five Simply email us with the answer before June 1st – please include your name and address well-watered afterwards, but with autumn to spring, healthy shoots. and a note of which performance you would like toOnce attend.

Email to: info@quercylocal.com the weather is on your side, rather than the less helpful you have divided your perennials, plant or potOn the 1st of June three ‘correct’ responses, will be drawn fromasasoon hat! The winnersIfwill heat and dryness of summer. Autumn and winter are on your divisions as possible. youthen know where tickets by directly thewant production company. luck! also useful as thereceive plants their are dormant at email this time, and fromyou them, putting themGood straight in the ground

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

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Hemerocallis Autumn Red

Liatris Spicata Kobald

obviously saves you future work and allows the plant to begin establishing itself in its permanent position Alternatively though, pot them on to allow them to bulk up, and overwinter them in a frost-free environment such as a greenhouse or sunny windowsill. Either way, water them in well.

Some plants benefit from slight variations on the basic techniques and timings. Spring-flowering plants, such as Irises, for instance, are best divided in late summer, after flowering, when they produce new roots. Some plants, such as Crocosmia, Dierama and Liatris, do not favour autumn divisions and are best divided in spring. The roots of these perennials form chains of corms, which can be individually separated for replanting. To remove the corms without damaging them, dig down 30cm (1ft) before lifting. Remove wizened or diseased corms and old leaves then replant

sections at their original depth. It is worth bearing in mind that some plants don’t require frequent division.

Some, such as Dieramas, do not like being disturbed, and will take some time to flower again after division, while others easily tolerate overcrowding, and in fact, actually like it – agapanthus and crocosmias flower most profusely when crowded – so don’t be in too much of a hurry to divide them.

Overall, plant dividing is fairly straightforward, especially when it is carried out between autumn and spring. Always water plants liberally, as it’s important to make sure they don’t dry out while they are re-establishing, and, whatever your favourite method, it’s also a good idea to employ a bit of slug and snail control, as these are ubiquitous pests for perennials. That done, relax and enjoy your new costeffective plants, either increasing your own garden stock or creating beautiful gifts for friends and neighbours. Keep an eye out for local plant swaps too – we run them at our nursery, Le Jardin des Espiemonts, every spring and autumn – for an opportunity to share your bounty, pick up some lovely new plants for free, and meet fellow gardeners.

John and Debbie (Le Jardin des Espiemonts) lejardindesespiemonts@gmail.com, 05 63 64 68 76, www.lejardindesespiemonts.fr

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

38 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

HERITAGE, HARMONY AND WHOLESOMENESS 2 Great Little Restaurants

T

ête d’Ail and Le Pigeonnier de Moissac are very different restaurants but with a similar enthusiasm for good food and motivated by a desire to find new uses for old, redundant buildings.

Tête d’Ail (garlic bulb) in Roquecor now breathes colourful life into an old, previously uninhabited, village building, giving its ancient facade new purpose and the old fireplace an opportunity to welcome anew.

Le Pigeonnier de Moissac, has saved a crumbling disused pigeonnier, dating back to between the 16th and 18th centuries. It was rescued by the skill and passion of local artisans with a dream of creating a place for people to gather and eat together.

Both these re-inventions bring traditional values, drive and vision quite literally straight to our tables.

Tête d’Ail From the centre of Roquecor, a little way down the road towards Lacour de Visa, you’ll find the ‘associative restaurant’, created by Pablo Tweer, tucked under the ancient frontage of a lovely old building. Swinging from the old front beam is a large Tête d’Ail – you will know you’ve arrived!

Pablo wanted to create a welcoming space for people to sit and eat with friends and family or for those alone to join in with others. With the help of friends he restored the building and opened his restaurant in October 2013.

In summer the terrace is dotted with small wooden tables and brightly coloured cloths, indeed there are many colourful clues to Abigail’s (Pablo’s wife) Mexican roots. Inside the character and charm continues and sitting at the tables set around the huge fireplace allows you to see into the open kitchen where Pablo prepares your meal.

Pablo offers different tastes on each plate and always makes the most of the simple and seasonal; very local growers and producers supply his kitchen. You may find yourself served with the freshest of tomato and garlic tarts, or perhaps a nettle soup with acacia flower.

Your main course may include, something similar to, roast carrot loaf with grilled veal and aubergine with fresh herbs. There’ll be home-made bread and (this The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 39

is where Abigail takes over) a simple and tasty desert, maybe fresh fruits and fromage blanc or perhaps an oat and apricot bake served with crème fraiche. All served on pretty plates and bowls unearthed from flea markets and laced with a sense of wholesome living.

The set menu changes daily with a vegetarian option.

You can enquire about what’s being served when you ring to book. Booking is advised and the restaurant is open on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm.

Some afternoons the lovely old building is used for gatherings of like-minded people for chatting and story-telling and even for a group of knitters! Some evenings there are small concerts, with a chance to hear different types of music and what’s more there’s also a piano in the corner for anyone to take up the challenge of serenading fellow diners. All-in-all what Pablo and Abigail have created is a convivial space that feeds the mind, body and soul.

Tête d’Ail, Roquecor (82150) 05 63 94 77 54

Le Pigeonnier de Moissac The transformation of an almost hopeless ruin into an attractive, popular meeting and eating environment first started with a desire, amongst some friends, to open a restaurant. The search was on to find a heritage building to bring back to life with hard work and good food.

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

40 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

The pigeonnier which had stood decaying behind the Maison de l’emploi et de la solidarité, and close to the Centre Culturel in Moissace had been acquired three years ago from the Mairie by Jérémie Barbe (Charpente d’Antan), who’d been waiting for a chance to renovate such a building. Helped by local craftsmen he worked for 2½ years to complete the transformation of his old building and enliven the tired square it had occupied.

In March 2015, Gilles Herve’s and Paul Baquie’s passion for food took-over as a fitting tribute to the restoration. Gilles and Paul opened their restaurant with the aim of getting good food and plenty of people together to continue this old building’s new lease of life.

The building is too small to accommodate diners, so it houses the bar and kitchen and the diners are seated under an arbour, along a long rustic table, made from Cedar of Lebanon; creating an amicable The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

space that allows diners to meet and enjoy food together.

You can expect to be served a starter of tasty things to try; such as apple and blackpudding tartlets, marinated tomatoes, crisps of belly-pork – but what is served depends on what’s fresh and good locally.

The main course may include, for example, a home-made chicken pie with a delicious celery cream. Followed by tempting desserts and all served with wines or home-made syrups with seasonal flavours.

The menu changes each day and everyone eats the same choice however it is possible to choose between a meat and a vegetarian option.

Gilles and Paul’s driving force is the use of local and seasonal ingredients; serving organic and/or ingredients from local farmers and growers adds to the authenticity of their cooking. They may be a little way from the popular centre of town but it’s worth a little wander to appreciate these talented people’s vision.

Once or twice a month cultural/musical events are held at the Le Pigeonnier and for anyone popping in by car – there’s plenty of easy parking. The restaurant serves weekday lunches without reservation. For the weekend and evenings reservations are required.

Le Pigeonnier de Moissac, 4 Rue Poumel (82200) Moissac 05 63 95 06 97

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 41

www.immo46.com The experienced team of IMMO46 are here to offer their friendly professional advice on the selling , purchasing and renting of your home in this beautiful area of France.

P1872

198 000 € FAI

IMMO46 prayssac 2, avenue Maréchal Bessières 46220 PRAYSSAC Tél. : +33 (0)5 65 30 66 67 prayssac@immo46.com

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IMMO46 cahors 27, Bd Gambetta 46000 CAHORS Tél. : +33 (0)5 65 22 55 55 cahors@immo46.com

Auberge de Miramont (Chez Bernadette) 82190

A very popular restaurant serving local specialities in lovely, cosy dining-room and in summer on the beautiful terrace.

Great atmosphere and food.

Popular for Great value lunches and special evening meals – reservations recommended Stephane & Karen look forward to welcoming you.

Miramont de Quercy

05 63 94 65 57 / 06 30 64 79 43

www.aubergedemiramont.com – check opening hours Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

42 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

ADVERTORIAL

The Château de

Goudourville A 1000 years of history

The Château de GOUDOURVILLE was built in 1081 by Hughes de Gasques on the site of the ruined Bonneval Abbey. This Château owed its importance to its position on the border of the Quercy region; essential to the French Kingdom.

The fortunes of the Château have varied and a 1000 years of changing destiny and people cannot be covered briefly. It’s safe to say that this beautiful building has been touched by Kings, Popes and all types of warfare and intrigue. Some players have preserved and renewed whilst others destroyed the buildings structure.

For instance, during the ‘Renaissance’ the Lustrac family made huge improvements, including a new tower with a stunning curved staircase built in white, Quercy stone.

By contrast, in 1652 during the civil wars of the Fronde period, Royalists captured the Château and its defences were destroyed by Cardinal Mazarin.

If this Château could tell its secrets they’d include tales of some of the most important players in the history of France. Visit today and you’ll find a classical ‘V’ formed structure, two main sections with large square towers as well as the crenelated Lustrac tower. Then amongst the many architectural treasures are: • An original medieval guards room, dating from 1081 and with a barrel vaulted ceiling with transverse arches.

• The salon (in honour of) Pope Clement V where balls, banquets and dances are hosted, and which boasts a XVIth century French-ceiling and an impressive XIIIth century Gothic fireplace.

• A remarkable XVlllth wooden structure, high above the staircase, built by carpenters, from Brittany, in the form of an inverted boat hull.

• Intriguing Venetian gargoyles from the XVIIth century.

• Then from the top of the tower you can see a panorama which includes 22 villages, and on a clear day – the Pyrénées.

Why not visit and find out the full story of this remarkable historical location? You can arrange to visit for a tour or maybe treat yourself to a short break amongst its historical charms.

Château de Goudourville welcomes you for: • Luxurious and history filled B & B Guest rooms from 135 euros • Exclusive rental of the whole Château from 3500 euros a week • Seminars and Meetings facilities • Guided tours – 5 euros per person (please book) • Craft courses (including – cooking, heraldry, illuminations, calligraphy)

Château de Goudourville, Lieu dit ‘Le Pech’, 761, Chemin du Château. 82400 Goudourville chateau-goudourville.fr ( 0563290906 0669130906 The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 43

SAT CONSTRUCTION (82150)

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Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

44 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Roquecor’s Long History Roquecor is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the valley of the Petite Seoune surveying river and road traffic going between the Quercy (Lot) and the Agenais (Garonne)...

The rock and the area from where it was detached are still visible down below the chateau. Studies of the names include Roque (from the Occitan Roca) which is the designation of a chateau constructed on the edge of a promontory and Cor (from the latin Cornu) which indicates pointed.

Ferrussac, on the hill at the other side of the Petite Seoune River opposite Roquecor also boasts troglodyte caves (indeed antiquarians proposed a troglodyte ‘village’).

In the Iron Age a defensive settlement or oppidum was created by the Gauls at Espermons Haut (previously called Aspremont) to the South-east of Roquecor on the other side of the river, so that they could overlook and defend the Petite Seoune valley below. (Because some of the earthworks are so imposing, it has been suggested that the site was later re-worked by the English during the Hundred Years’ War as a lookout position.)

ROMAN

It is commonly claimed that Roquecor is a medieval village which started with the construction of the Chateau by the Aspremont family in the XII Century, but evidence is piling up that it was an active, occupied place from Pre-historic, Celtic (Gaulois), Roman, and Medieval times through to the present day.

PRE-ROMAN Troglodyte caves at Roquecor were identified by antiquarians in the mid 1800s. While these may have been re-used over many centuries, there are indications of early occupation. It is from these caves, and their overhangs that the village gets its name… Roqecorn, Ruppe Cornu or stone horn.

The ‘horn’, also called ‘Lou Roc des Nobis’ is reputed to have crashed down on a wedding party during medieval times killing several people including the bride.

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

Roman activity is widespread. The areas around Roquecor, including St Julien, Couyssels, and La Gardette are rich in Roman archaeology – as is Ferrussac.

At St Julien in 1882 grey marble columns, a paved floor of hexagonal tiles, tegulae, and several internments indicated Roman burial practices. In the same area in 1974 during the preparation for a house build, more evidence of Roman life turned up in the form of partial stone capitals, animal bones, oyster shells (that snack food much loved by Romans) and tesserae from a mosaic floor.

Ferrusac has the remains of a Roman villa. It is mostly buried by the church. Field walking on the valley paths east of Ferrusac turns up pottery fragments to this day.

Discoveries goes on… In 2015, there are indications of a Roman villa which is yet to be explored on the valley floor below Roquecor towards Montaigu de Quercy, and evidence of another building not far from the 12th Century medieval church of St Martin. Pottery finds have also been found near an orchard on the road heading out of Roquecor towards the D656 junction opposite the Chateau de l’Hoste.

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ROQUECOR

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 45

Up on the high ground on the border with the Lot & Garonne, there is a strong hypothesis that La Gardette, which is just north of the D656 roundabout, was a Roman ‘mutationes’ or way station where horses could be changed. It is exactly one day’s ride from Agen. Recent field walking on the site has produced slag from metal working, a range of coarse and fine pottery (including samianware) and even some pieces of glass. Archives also indicate that finds have been discovered which cover a long historical period, proving constant usage from the Roman era right up to the present day.

A farmer in the Petite Seoune Valley below Roquecor found amphora in a field which would have bordered the river before it changed its course. The Roman Road archaeology Longitude : 0° 56' 26.6" E © IGN 2015 - www.geoportail.gouv.fr/mentions-legales Latitude : 44° 19' 40.2" N group members who talked with him blanched when he said he threw this pottery over his shoulder into the ditch to clear the field. He found our horror very amusing and on investigation of the field evidence of Roman occupation of the site was found.

His story suggests that the Petite Seoune may have been navigable and that goods were being transported for Roman use or that a Roman Road was nearby. Both these ideas are possible. Evidence is being sought to prove that a Roman Road follows the river valley all the way to the Garonne valley, which would have passed below Beauville, Cauzac Le Vieux (where a Roman villa was discovered when work was done in the cemetery), Naudou Chateau and Mill near La Sauvetat de Saveres (with Roman mosaics found indicating a Roman villa), and the famous Roman site at Castelculier.

The raison d’etre for Roquecor’s Roman past, was probably the proximity of an important road nearby.

The Roman Road Archaeology Group has identified the Agen/Cahors road called the Camino de Na Bruniquel which passes close to Roquecor. It snakes loosely along clear double boundaries (indicating a trackway) show the modern D656 and there is a fork in this road which up in the Napoleonic maps of the early 1800s. Walkers leads to the Roquecor area. The names of fields with can still follow parts of the road as it wanders through a topography describing antique roads and sites, and fields and past orchards.

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

46 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

A large number of these Roman sites appear to have been destroyed towards the end of the Third Century A.D, when the Samartians and Alans, who had swept down past Perigeux and destroyed it, moved into this

area and ravaged the Roman economy before heading south to Spain. Many of the villas and workshops were never re-built, though with a rise in prosperity in the Fourth Century several large villas were constructed with rich mosaics and bathhouses (Castelculier, Seviac and Fauroux).

If you look carefully in old stone villages, hamlets and farms, you can find old houses with very neat little dressed stones in their walls, looking more like square bricks than rough field stone. These houses are probably built from stone salvaged from those destroyed Roman villas. History re-cycled.

What is touching about history is how it repeats itself.

The site of the new roundabout, where the modern D656 crosses the D47 Montaigu de Quercy to Valeilles road, replaces what we believe to be a major Roman road ‘Carrefour’ only 50 meters away.

by Lindsay Hoyer Millar and Angie Murray (Richards) Image credits – Hoyer Miller and Atkinson

Restaurant ‘La Sirene’

Help! Hand in Hand Have you got some free time?

Are you interested in languages?

Are you willing to help our members express themselves in English or in French in a relaxed atmosphere?

If so, we need your help on an occasional basis to expand our language project in Luzech.

Come and join our team of voluntary helpers to take or assist in our French and English sessions.

If you are interested don’t hesitate, call Jayne on 05 65 31 59 02 or email languagehandinhand@orange.fr or langagehandinhand@orange.fr The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 47

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

48 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

RENCH

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Services

support, training, advice

ARBRESERVICES Matt Strawbridge Tree Surgeon Elagueur Arboriste

www.fhp-services.co.uk siret: 513 668 277 00017

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

Régis CASSÉ

Traditional Stonework ~ New and Restoration 82190 Fauroux ~ 06 40 20 68 94 ~ English spoken ~ angeregis@hotmail.fr

www.libertedesanes.com

AUTUMN BOOK SALE in aid of POORPAWS DOG RESCUE & CANCER RESEARCH

Saturday 24th October

PLEASE NOTE NEW VENUE !!

Salle de Fetes 46800 St. Pantaleon (5 mins from Montcuq)

10am – 4pm Books / DVD’s 1 euro Yummy home-made cakes & snack lunches Further info & book collection/delivery

susan.glibbery@orange.fr The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

Les amis des chats – a charity dedicated to the welfare of pet and stray cats.

Les amis des chats ensures a better quality of life for hundreds of village and country cats each year.

Help us to help them., www.les-amis-des-chats.com

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 49

In the Lot-et-Garonne you can find the most delicious of plums; purple on the outside, bright yellow on the inside and bursting with sweet, juicy flavour. Though the plums are usually dried and sold as a regional delicacy, they are also perfect for making jams and chutneys.

CÔTÉ JARDIN

You will love this beautifully aromatic and easy-to-make plum jam which is enhanced with a shot or Armagnac, a wonderful match with the plums. Serve it on your morning toast or over a bowl of vanilla ice cream or thick Greek yoghurt.

Bon Appétit !

Sunny Plum Jam 850 small, ripe plums (‘pruneaux d’Agen’) 250g sugar 2 tbsps Armagnac 2 tsps vanilla extract uercy Local The

Make a small cross on each plum with the tip of a sharp knife.

Put the plums in a bowl and pour hot water over them until covered.

Allow them to stand for a few minutes. Drain carefully and rinse with cold water. You can now easily peel off the skins. Remove the pits and put the fruit in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the sugar and cook over a low heat while stirring for three minutes. Raise the heat and add the Armagnac and vanilla extract. Continue to cook the jam for an additional 20 minutes while stirring. Transfer into a sterilised jar. www.quercylocal.com

CELEBRATE PLANTS AND THE GARDEN

The Region’s FREE magazine in English

3rd Edition

12th & 13th September DATE FOR THE DIARY Saturday 12th September at 7pm Local Private Sales of Plants,uercy Flowers and Garden Decorations.

Followed by a Gastronomic Meal in the luxurious surrounds of Château de Pompignan The

www.quercylocal.com

Paola Westbeek is a food, wine and travel writer with a good dose of joie de vivre. She is passionate about French cooking, old-fashioned chansons, Rembrandt and life.

Paola is available for all kinds of recipe development and culinary advice.

For more information visit www.ladoucevie.eu or contact Paola at pwestbeek@gmail.com.

The Region’s FREE magazine in English

Reservations by Sept 5th More info: www.cotejardincotecoeur.fr

Paola also has a cooking channel featuring easy French recipes every week. Subscribe and you’ll be the first to see them: www.youtube.com/user/LaDouceVieFood Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

50 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

ISABEL & DIDIER WEBER Saturday 10h30 /12h30 et de 15h /18h30 Sunday morning 10h30 /13h Et sur rendez vous.

22 bd des thermes - 82 140 Saint Antonin Noble Val Tel: 06 83 15 33 59 histoiresetjardins.com

Metse, Les Espiemonts, 82160, Caylus, Tarn et Garonne Phone: 05 63 64 68 76 Mob: 06 81 76 02 30 Email: lejardindesepsiemonts@gmail.com www.lejardindesespiemonts.fr 44°16'12.15"N 1°44'0.92"E Perennial and Alpine growers. Small, specialist nursery. Open Mondays 10 – 4. Visits on other days by appointment.

IT’S SEPTEMBER AND SOME EXERCISE MAY BE CALLED FOR! Outdoor activities during the summer, including the chance to give those swimming pools some use, may have given you a taste for keeping fit. Or, perhaps your family’s arrival meant an excess of food and drink and now it’s time to put things right!

We all know that enjoyable physical activity, undertaken with care can boost your energy and well-being and mean a greater fitness to meet the challenges of the winter months ahead.

Taking exercise is great for your state of mind and it gives relief from stress and anxiety. Some time for yourself and a chance to relax!

A sedentary life, sitting, working on a computer etc., is after all a health risk.

If you find it difficult to stick to an individual exercise programmes then you might find it easier to join a club, find a group, practise with a friend or perhaps try something completely new. There are options for all levels of fitness, ages and experience. Below we’ve included some links to help you find more information. These represent only a fraction of what is available. Do some research in your own area and see what you can find! These websites are in French but don’t let this put you off. Well-being is universal!

For calm activities that you might consider Tai Chi, Yoga or even smooth/toning gymnastics, all of which can be relaxing friendly and healthy activity. Doctors’ surgeries are a great place to find details of local classes. You can also find out more about Tai Chi on this website: http://lafilledejade.free.fr/Pages/Page_Cours.html For slightly more activity you may take a look at Gymnastics, The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

Rambling and even Nordic Walking. These are covered by http://www.sport-sante.fr/ou-pratiquer where you can enter your postcode to find something local to you. Remember also that most areas have informal walking groups that you could easily join. A chance to find all the local routes around your home.

Or what about a martial art such as Judo, Aikido or Karate.

There are a number of clubs for all of these in the region.

Lauzerte (82110), for example, has a welcoming Aikido club http://www.lauzerteaikido.com/cours-horaires.html Broader information about the sport can be found at http://aikido-midipyrenees.org/1415/ Dance is very good for you as it moves the muscles and improves your coordination and memory. There are great opportunities for salsa, ballroom, country and modern-dance classes. Grégory, the regions very own ballroom champion and TV dancer is going to be giving lessons again in Lauzerte from the 16th Sept (facebook – Dansélite Lauzerte). Also do check your local Mairie for leaflets and posters and also your local bakers – always a great source of information!

Zumba, remains a firm local favourite and if you have not found a group locally then you can take a look at www.zumba.com/fr-FR/party Many clubs will welcome you for one or two taster sessions.

So the excuses are hard to find, you can increase your energy, make friends, improve your health and spirit – in fact the potential gains are immeasurable. By Valérie Rousseau

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QUERCY OAK F o n b i g o u , M o n s é g u r, 4 7 1 5 0 0604171973 mob 0675518913 mob laquercyoak@gmail.com http://greyrobert4.wix.com/quercy-oak

Q U ER C Y O A K

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Carpentry, joinery, roofing, bespoke kitchens and furniture, stairs, doors, flooring.

Timber-frame houses, property renovation and barn conversions.

Charpentier * Menuisier * Couverture * Maison Bois

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

52 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

A 10 Year-Old’s Post Cards from France Being 10 and staying in France with Granny might seem rather exciting but just what do you do when you have swum until you’re growing gills and you’ve consumed an excess of chocolate croissants all by yourself?

B

eing 10 is not always easy, you’re old enough to get taken along events that Granny’s friends are having.

You’re reminded many times that you’re taller than you were last year and then the dancing starts, to music that had been written before Lady Gaga was even born!

Mum also sent ‘homework’ and I had to do some maths every day. ‘Would you believe it’ Granny does not think in centimetres and metres, she does inches, so that was a bit complicated. First we had to find an old diary so Granny could find help. She called it a conversion table – but what I needed was not a conversion but a diversion – something to get me away from all this adding up.

This is a little bit of what I managed to do – Beauville Arts I spent a week in Beauville (47470) taking part in a performance of The Lion King. It was very hot and we all worked very hard. I loved all the singing and dancing and especially making the props. The performance was great and we loved every minute – the audience loved it too and even in the heat they clapped for more.

Meeting other girls and boys from around the world is fun and I can’t wait to come back and do it again. https://www.facebook.com/beauvillearts www.beauvillearts.com Painting Pots Somethings I do every year and this is one of them. I reminded Granny that it was a family tradition – she loves traditional things! At Le Caillau (46700) I usually try to make a present for someone and this year it was a money-box for my step-brother. Grandad came as well and we had a lovely lunch first. This year I had the most delicious

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

chocolate pudding. The great thing is that we have to go back the next week to collect the pots so we have lunch again and another delicious pudding. https://www.facebook.com/lecaillau www.lecaillau.com

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 53

Love from France x Libby (aged 10)

Canoeing Grandad decided we needed an adventure. So we packed a picnic and set off to the River Lot. We’d arranged to hire a canoe from near Fumel (47500) and the man took us, in a rickety old vehicle, to Touzac. Then we had to paddle all the way back! We had to take the canoe out of the water to get around a weir that was a bit of a drama! We were rescued by some French boys who were also canoeing. After the weir there were less rocks and I really enjoyed it, we saw lots of lovely houses at the side of the river. We had our picnic on the bank and eventually got back to the start. 4 hours of paddling (and apparently me chattering) and Grandad needed a sleep! There are lots of places to hire canoes, were not sure if this was actually the best organised but it was definitely a great experience.

Vintage Cars I love cars. I know I’m a girl but I’ve always loved them and I know all about them so it was great to go and see some old (and not so old) ones at the car rally in Touffailles (82190). This takes place every year, at the start of August, and this year if was very hot and very busy. My favourite was the bright orange Ford Escort.

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

54 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Henry V One evening Granny and I went to see Shakespeare’s Henry V, in Lauzerte (82110).

I knew a little bit about Shakespeare from school and I absolutely loved this performance.

All the actors were in WWW1 uniforms and there was some great singing. We felt so close to the action and it all felt very real. Also (and Granny agreed) Henry V was very cute! http://www.anticdisposition.co.uk/ Art Exhibition If people think a 10 year-old wouldn’t be interested in art they’d be wrong. We went to see Stefaan Eyckmans’ paintings at his Open Studio in Saux (46800). He paints still-life and I found, around the studio, lots of different pots, jars and jugs that appeared in the paintings. I loved the paintings of the strawberries and Granny decided that her favourite was a painting of some grapes and a ginger jar (it did not look at all ginger to me!). Grandad pulled a face when Granny said she’d like it for the house, but I think she’ll find a way of getting this home! http://stefaaneyckmans.com/en/ www.facebook.com/eyckmansstef

May-June 2015 Issue 19

20 2015 Issue

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Inside – Pétanque Val St Antonin Noble Gardening for Bug Control Pleasures Summer Food y, Plus: Alchem n Arts & the Aveyro

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Inside – Marrying in France Hidden Gold Win Tickets for this Summer’s Henry V performances Plus: Microlights, Roses, Restorations and more...

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You can either visit our website, and follow the link to ‘Subscribe’ and fill in the simple form with your address. Submit this and then you will very quickly receive an electronic invoice to cover the cost of postage and packing.

The costs for getting 5 copies sent to you are – 19 euro for an address in France or 11 euro for elsewhere in Europe.

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The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 55

SPQR

Venez pratiquer l’anglais avec des anglophones autour d’un verre!

Come and practise French with French people while having a drink!

7 minutes en français : 7 minutes en anglais. Puis on change de table!

Une façon agréable et ludique de pratiquer l’anglais et se faire des amis quelque soit votre niveau It’s a fun way to improve your French and make some friends.

Participation 5e (boisson non comprise) à régler le jour même Cahors - www.aalec.com

Satellite Television

Everything from new installations to servicing and adjustments for all service providers, including, Humax, Freesat, Sky, Sky+HD, TF1, Orange, SFR and many others!

Call to arrange a free estimate.

Always top quality service at an affordable price!

Matt Piper: 06 72 56 73 77 or 06 88 88 28 62 email: mattsnipe@live.co.uk

Emergency numbers Medical Help/SAMU 15

www.poorpaws.com For information and enquiries about rescue dogs – so many dogs desperately looking for their ‘forever’ homes. contact Sue on 05 65 24 53 03 email: susan.glibbery@orange.fr

Police/Police Nationale (Gendarmerie) 17 Fire & Accident/Sapeurs Pompiers

18

SOS – All Services (calling from a mobile) 112 Child in Danger (child protection) 119 Missing Child

116 000

New Social Vegetable Gardening Project

Jardin de Cocagne sur le Quercy Pays de Serres – is now open!

The project farms 4,3 hectares in Brassac (82190). Agreement has been received by the ‘Direction du Travail du Tarn et Garonne’ and even with the very difficult summer-heat work has now begun in the garden.

Due to the efforts of members Leeks are already growing and soon we’ll be welcoming our first gardeners, all coming to learn a skill and perfect their knowledge of market gardening.

From next spring we will be taking orders to provide you with baskets of the very best vegetables.

We would like to thank the ’Communauté de Commune du Pays de Serres en Quercy’ for helping get this project off the ground.

Information – Jeannette Estève, project manager: Tél. 07 85 28 80 49 – Mail : jeannette.esteve-aqps@orange.fr Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 57

HOW ARE UK PENSIONS TAXED IN FRANCE? If you are retiring to France, your pension funds and the income they can produce will play an important part in financing your new life there.

There are two key issues you need to consider and understand: what the options are for your funds, especially following the UK pension reform, and how pensions are taxed in France.

if you exercise your right of withdrawal because of an ‘accident of life’.

Taxation in France

Social charges

State retirement and pensions

Besides the tax rates above, all pension income is subject to social charges at 7.4% each year.

UK state retirement pension is always taxable in France and will be paid gross in the UK. Income from retirement and disability pensions are taxed in the same way as income from employment, and are therefore subject to the scale rates of income tax. The tax rates currently range from 0% for income under €9,690 to 45% for income over €151,956. There is a 10% deduction (maximum €3,707) for private pensions. In France you are taxed as a ‘household’, which benefits couples where one spouse receives a much higher income than the other.

Social charges may also be payable, see below.

Occupational pensions and annuities from personal pensions Occupational pension income is taxed in the same way as state retirement pensions.

Government service pension Unlike other pension income, UK government, civil and military service pensions remain taxable in the UK, and so are not directly taxed in France, unless there has been a transfer out before the pension commences (and usually before age 59).

Although the income is not taxed in France, you still need to declare it. The income is included in the calculation of your taxable income and a credit equal to the French income tax and social charges that would have been payable is given.

Drawdown from Personal Pension Schemes This is a grey area as no similar arrangement exists in France, but regular income drawn from the fund should be declared as ‘pensions’ and will be taxed as such.

Pension lump sums Lump sum payments from overseas pension funds are now taxable in France. There is one exception, which is

Lump sums from UK pensions are taxed at a fixed 7.5%, provided there is no possibility of taking another lump sum in future. So if you take your entire UK pension at once as a lump sum, it will be taxable at 7.5%; otherwise it will be taxed as income.

However, if you do not yet have access to the French health system or have EU Form S1, your pension income is exempt. You are entitled to Form S1 once you start receiving your UK state pension.

Receiving your pension without UK tax So that you do not pay tax twice, you need to arrange to receive your pension (other than government service) and annuity income gross. You need to file a form FRA/ INDIVIDUAL (FD5) with your local French tax authorities, who will stamp the English part to confirm that you are tax resident in France. This is then sent to HM Revenue & Customs who advise your pension provider to pay the income gross.

UK pension reforms The new “pension freedom” regime from April 2015 provides pension holders with many more options for their pension funds.

If you have a defined contribution scheme and are aged over 55, you can now make withdrawals of any amount whenever you need to, with the balance remaining invested. You can take regular income through income drawdown. You can even take the whole fund out as one lump sum. You also still have the option to take a secure regular income through buying an annuity.

You need to carefully consider each of the options, how they affect you personally, and the tax implications in France. The French tax regime may provide opportunities, depending on your situation and objectives.

Your situation is unique, so do not presume that what someone else is doing will be right for you. What you do with your pension fund now is a major decision, and you need to get it right. Seek specialist, and personalised, advice.

Peter Wakelin, Regional Manager of Blevins Franks France part of the Blevins Franks Group the leading international tax and wealth management advisers to UK nationals living in Europe, with decades of experience advising British expatriates moving to and living in France. Telephone 05 56 34 75 51 ~ bordeaux@blevinsfranks.fr ~ www.blevinsfranks.com Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual is advised to seek personalised advice.

Published March, May, July, September and November each year

The Quercy Local • September-October 2015

58 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

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