The Bugle Limousin - Feb 2018

French speed limit to be lowered to 80 km/h

The speed limit on 400,000 km of French roads is to be lowered to >> Page 8 80 km/h from July November 2016 - Issue #85

Limousin

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February 2018 - Issue 100 - FREE!

Bayeux Tapestry heading to the UK The bone-eaters are back in town - page 9

President Emmanuel Macron has agreed to lend the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK at

a recent Franco-British summit. It will be the first time the tapestry has left France

T

>> continued on page 8

Cross-Channel takeaway curry - pg 12

The Bugle Business Directory - pg 16-23

© Richard Bartz (WikiCommons)

houses the 68-metre-long tapestry, has confirmed preparations are under way for it to be moved, although tests will first be carried out to ensure the delicate artwork can be transported without damaging it. It could be as long as five years before it arrives in the UK, a timeframe that would coincide with the planned closure of the Bayeux Museum for refurbishment.

“At the moment we need to remain calm over the situation because no one knows if it's possible to send the embroidery to the UK,” said a spokesperson for the museum. “We must first conduct analyses to see if it's capable of making the trip and there will be a lot of conditions before it

St-Yrieix takes on New York - pg 5

Nutella discount sparks riots - pg 6

in nearly 1,000 years he Bayeux Tapestry could be a b o u t to leave France for the first time in 950 years after an agreement was made between President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Theresa May to loan the iconic artwork to the UK. The agreement was made after “months of talks between culture department officials in London and Paris”, but it has not yet been decided where in the UK the tapestry will be displayed.

Possible locations include the British Museum, Westminster Abbey or Canterbury Cathedral.

The director of the Bayeux Museum in Normandy, which currently

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Welcome to

I

The Bugle

don't know if there is an equivalent in the print publication world of a telegram from the Queen, but if there is, one should be heading this way as we speak. I can't quite believe I'm about to say this, but welcome to the 100th edition of The Bugle!

It doesn't get any easier pressing the Big Red Button each month and sending the files on their merry electronic way to our print shop in Angoulême. With that click of the mouse, any mistake, omission or inaccuracy is trapped in electronic amber and can not be undone. I remember the first time I hit the BRB on our first ever edition in late October 2009. There was pressure, to be sure, but no one knew what The Bugle was, no one was waiting for it to be printed and our lead headline (“2,000-year-old sausage rediscovered in Creuse”) hopefully nodded towards us not taking ourselves too seriously.

The real pressure came in the following months when it looked like my madcap idea might actually work, advertisers had invested cold hard cash, readers began expectantly enquiring when the next one would be out and I didn't have all summer to prepare each edition.

After graduating, I deliberately chose a profession that did not

require any qualifications, as I always hated exams and the huge amounts of pressure and adrenaline that accompanied them. (Before that momentous day in 2009 - and for about a year afterwards as well - I was a computer programmer, in case you're interested! A science geek with less than zero journalistic experience!!)

Pushing the BRB is probably the worst thing about this job. The cycle of relief, catching up with life (and sleep), then the gradual ratcheting up of pressure in the build-up to the next print day... I can only compare it to sitting a big, scary exam every 30 days!! There are around 15,000 words in each edition to first write, then edit and fit on the page. Along with that, each paper contains over 150 ads and countless other images, graphics and snippets of text. That's a lot of opportunities to get something wrong!

But then again, pushing the BRB is also the best bit. Anyone who went through further education will probably remember that feeling when you wake up the day after your last exam: the sun is shining, the pubs are open and the day is yours to do with as you will.

At that moment, the hardships you have had to endure previously are all worth it for the euphoric sense of relief at it all being behind you.

OK, so three children have put

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pay to lie-ins, all day breakfasts and lazy days in my local's beer garden, but I get to do the middle age Dad equivalent. Getting up 10 minutes before the school bus leaves, not even thinking about checking my phone, before pulling on jeans over pyjamas for the short drive to the bus stop. Then it's jeans off, a cup of tea on the sofa and a few hours of whatever minority sport is on Sky Sports 7... heaven!! When you've worked that hard, there is zero guilt attached to doing whatever the heck you like for a little while!!

On those days, I wouldn't have it any other way... but right now, with hours to go and panic setting in, I do feel myself questioning my sanity!

Despite all that, it is incredibly rewarding and I am extremely proud of what I have achieved over the years and I'm very much looking forward to the next 100 editions. I have some big plans for 2018, so watch this space!!

As I have said many times in the past, a massive thank you should go here to everyone who helps to get this paper put together and distributed each month and for the continued support of our hardworking advertisers. Make sure to let them know you saw their advert in these pages and we can continue to bring you breaking news of 2000-year-old sausage discoveries for many years to come!!

Speaking of advertisers, I have written an article this month about a group of expats who chartered a plane to fetch takeaway curry from Portsmouth because “you just can't get a decent curry in France” (see page 12). This is living proof that you shouldn't believe everything you read in the papers, because

I know many happy customers of Mandy's Curry 2 Go who would loudly disagree. Rather than racking up thousands of food miles, Mandy's home-made curries are coming to a town near you each month... if you're lucky enough to live in the Creuse (see page 20 and the Notice Board for more information).

Until next month!

Steve Martindale, Editor

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INSIDE this edition

3-5 Local News 6-12 National News 13-15 French Life 16-23 Directory 24-26 Community 27-28 What’s On

General: editor@thebugle.eu Advertising (EN): sales@thebugle.eu Publicité (FR): publicite@thebugle.eu Subscriptions: subscriptions@thebugle.eu

Copy deadline:

15th February for March's print edition

LOCAL NEWS ♦ 3

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Hen retirement home to open

Twitter (Elisabeth Laville)

F

ollowing the success of Elephant Haven, the retirement home for elephants in the south of the HauteVienne, a new venture aimed at providing a second chance at life will soon welcome its first feathered friends.

The Poulehouse farm in nearby CoussacBonneval will become the retirement home for thousands of hens who would otherwise have faced the chopping block.

In the never-ending quest for productivity, most commercial laying hens are killed at the age of 18 months when the number of eggs they produce begins to gradually decline, despite the fact that many would happily live on until an average age of six.

It is simply cheaper for the poultry farms to replace them with younger models.

As consumers become increasingly aware of the provenance and ethics of the food they consume, one group of enterprising locals has seen a way to capitalise on this situation to provide healthy, local eggs, whilst also saving the hens from a premature end.

Under the tag line “l'oeuf qui ne tue pas la poule” - the egg that doesn't kill the chicken - Poulehouse will offer a home to retired chickens from partner organic egg suppliers. The ageing hens will in turn earn their rent through the sale of their eggs.

The project finally became a reality after the group successfully raised €25,000 on crowdfunding site Kisskissbankbank and were able to purchase the farm in Coussac-Bonneval. The former cattle farm will soon welcome 650 retirees, with a further 3,000 to follow shortly after.

“Our project is rather simple: the laying hens are removed aged 18 months and sent to the slaughterhouse. We will provide them with a home. They will continue to lay eggs and we will sell their eggs,” explained Fabien Sauleman, one of the three behind the project. Simple when you think about it!

Founded in February 2017, Poulehouse is already working with four organic breeders in Normandy, Picardy and the Loiret, whose eggs are currently available at 150 stores across Belgium and

France, with between 10,000 to 20,000 being sold every week for €1 each. Once their hens are 18 months old, they will retire to the green fields of the southern Haute-Vienne.

For Fabien Sauleman, the general public should be made more aware of the farming practices involved with egg production. “Male chicks are killed at birth and only the future laying hens are kept. These then have their beaks cut off and are killed at 18 months. We are trying to change all that.” ■

TNT frequencies set to change For many expats, the first step to take when arriving in France is to make a call to the local Sky installer.

On the other hand, if you are serious about improving your language skills, one of the best things you can do is to tune in to French radio and watch French television... at least some of the time! If you are a fan of interminable advert breaks and “humorous” round table discussion programmes, however, you may need to retune your television at some point in the near future.

In order to facilitate the introduction of new high-speed mobile networks, the frequencies of the country's TNT (télévision numérique terrestre) service are being changed, region by region, over the coming months.

Paris and parts of southern France have already made the switch, and January saw the turn of western France, including the Charente and Vienne departments. For the rest of central France, things are not scheduled to change until November 2018.

Only those who receive their French television through an antennae will be affected; anyone watching TV via an internet enabled device will not have to take any action. Simply retuning your TNT box via your remote control should be enough, but further information is available at www.recevoirlatnt.fr. ■

CENDRILLON IMMOBILIER Bilingual French Estate Agency in Limousin We have over 200 properties ranging from €8,500 for a barn, up to €1.6 million for a Château.

Ref 3926 - € 21,500. Wonderful cottage in need of renovation with barn and raised bed vegetable garden. It comprises a large kitchen/ dining room with wood-burning stove, additional room currently used as a bedroom and a ‘back’ kitchen/larder with your own bread oven, ecological dry toilet, three bedrooms, one large room with a mezzanine and a room - ideal for future bathroom. Large barn with the property, a cottage garden and sun terrace opposite. Possibility to buy another barn. NO DPE Ref 3925 - € 44,000. 10 minutes from Bourganeuf, village house to renovate with outbuildings and a garden of 2646m2. In need of renovation buy you could live in it whilst carrying out the work.

It comprises: kitchen, dining room with chimney, lounge, shower room, toilet, three bedrooms, a small room - ideal for a bathroom.

Convertible attic, cellar. Old bread oven and a workshop. There is a barn on two levels. The garden of 2636m2 is mainly laid to lawn with mature trees. DPE VIERGE Ref 3927 - € 46,750. Close to Châteauponsac, large stone farmhouse, ready to move in, but does need some modernisation.

Entrance hall, kitchen/dining room, lounge, another room with a shower in, three bedrooms, large attic. Double glazed, centrally heated and benefits from mains drainage. Large attached barn with a small garden of 507m2 behind and in front of the property.

Well priced property ideal for a permanent residence or holiday home. DPE E 286 & F 68 Ref 3909 - €49,400. At the end of a dead-end lane, lovely country cottage with attached barn and 1451m2 of land in a hamlet, 10 minutes from Sardent. It comprises: kitchen/lounge/ dining room with open fire, two bedrooms and bathroom/wc.

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4 ♦ LOCAL NEWS

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Richard the Lionheart castle up for sale

E

ver fancied owning a piece of history? How about the medieval French château where the English king Richard the Lionheart was slain, which is available to buy on classified ads website Leboncoin for just under €1 million? The Château de Châlus-Chabrol, located just to the north of Châlus in southern Haute-Vienne, boasts 15 rooms, a dungeon... and a dark past!

The château has been the home of many notable French families over the centuries, but is most famous as the location of Richard the Lionheart's death. In March 1199, Richard I was in the Limousin suppressing a revolt by Viscount Aimar V of Limoges. As part of the campaign he besieged the virtually unarmed castle of Châlus-Chabrol, many believe due to the supposed presence of a treasure trove of Roman gold, which Richard claimed as his own as feudal overlord.

In the early evening of 26th March 1199, Richard was walking around the castle perimeter without his chainmail.

Missiles were occasionally shot from the castle walls, but these were given little attention. One defender in particular amused the king greatly - a man standing on the walls, crossbow in one hand, the other clutching a frying pan which he had been using all day as a shield to beat off missiles. He deliberately aimed at the

king, which the king applauded; however, a second crossbowman struck the king in the left shoulder near the neck.

The wound swiftly became gangrenous and Richard asked to have the crossbowman, Pierre Basile, brought before him. The man turned out to be a boy who said Richard had killed his father and two brothers, and that he had in turn killed Richard in revenge. He expected to be executed, but as a final act of mercy Richard forgave him, saying “Live on, and by my bounty behold the light of day”, before he ordered the boy to be freed and sent away with 100 shillings.

Richard died on 6th April 1199 in the arms of his mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine. His entrails were buried at Châlus, his heart at Rouen in Normandy and the rest of his body at the feet of his father at Fontevraud Abbey in Anjou.

The property made famous by his death was in the hands of the Bourbon family until the end of the 20th century, before it was acquired by three Dutch nationals. Since 2008, under an agreement between the owners and the local mairie, parts of the property have been open to the public, notably the castle ruins and the former chapel.

There is believed to have been interest from two buyers so far, with the only available details “that they are French, have a tourist project in mind and are

planning to bring the castle back to life”, according to the local estate agents handling the sale. Alain Brezaudy, mayor of Châlus, said that he was looking forward

to working closely with the new owners, taking advantage of the heritage and historical past to make the castle a “commercial, economic and tourist project”. ■

LOCAL NEWS ♦ 5

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St-Yrieix takes on New York Hyperloop in

the Limousin!

I

n a case of David versus Goliath, the town of St-Yrieixla-Perche has taken on the largest art museum in America in a bid to have an ancient artefact returned. The mayor of Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche, a village of just 7,000 inhabitants in the south of Haute-Vienne, has sent a letter to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, colloquially known as the MET, officially demanding that the work of art be returned to its rightful home in central France.

The artefact in question is a 13th century bust, encrusted with precious stones, which is said to contain the skull of Saint Yrieix, also known as Saint Aredius. There is a bust of Saint Yrieix already housed in the French town - which is unveiled once every seven years as part of the Ostentions celebrations - but this is now believed to be a replica which was substituted for the original in the early 20th century.

The original, which has been on permanent display at the American museum for more than 100 years, was made in the 13th century and is priceless.

After years of research, historian Philippe Grandcoing believes that, with the agreement of the local priest of the time, a

J

Parisian antique dealer negotiated the sale of the original to the famous banker and art enthusiast, JP Morgan. It is thought that the relics of Saint Yrieix were then placed in the copy which was kept in the town he founded, Saint-Yrieix-laPerche.

The act of purchase found in the JP Morgan collection states that the bust was sold in 1907 by an English antique dealer for 300,000 gold francs, who himself acquired the bust from a French antique dealer. According to French cultural herit-

age officials, at the time of the sale, the MET “did not verify the provenance of artefacts and no one realised there had been a substitution. It was not until the 1950s, when local Antione de la Tour visited the MET and was shocked to recognise the famous bust of his town, that the deception was uncovered”.

For the Catholic faithful, the most important thing is that the relics of Saint Yrieix are still located in the town, but a dossier has been opened with the ministry of culture to have the original

work of art that housed them returned to its rightful home.

The bust has been described as a “national treasure” by French officials, who claim that it was taken in an “illicit” way. According to experts, the legitimate owner of the artefact remains the commune of SaintYrieix-la-Perche.

The mayor of the town hopes to resolve the situation “amicably” with the New York museum, but warns that the village is well within its rights to take civil action if necessary. ■

ust as residents of the former Limousin region have all but given up hope of a high-speed train link to the nation's capital, a new project is under way that would allow you to travel via a pod in a vacuum tube from Limoges to Paris in just 25 minutes!! If this sounds like science fiction, that's probably because, until very recently, it was.

The technology involved is called Hyperloop, a system of transport in which pods or containers travel at high speeds through a tube that has been pumped into a near-vacuum. The train pods would either float using magnetic levitation technology or float using air caster “skis”, similar to how pucks travel across an air hockey table.

With so little friction in the tunnel, the pods can theoretically travel at immense speeds of up to 1,200 km/h!

The attractions of Hyperloop technology are not only the high speeds, but the low frictions involved mean that they are incredibly efficient once up to speed and pods can leave from the same station as little as 20 seconds apart.

The main voice behind Hyperloop technology is Elon Musk, the entrepreneur behind PayPal, Tesla and SpaceX, who first proposed a commercial Hyperloop transport system in a 2013 paper. Since then, short test tracks have been successfully created and, because the technology is “open-source” - i.e. not owned by any one entity other, smaller companies have become involved.

One of these is Canadian company TransPod, who have narrowed down their search for a test track in France to two locations in the Limousin. Searching for a stretch of flat land, 3 km long and 30 metres wide, the most likely candidate is currently a stretch of former railway line in the commune of Droux, that linked Châteauponsac to Le Dorat.

The company's CEO, Sébastien Gendron, came to Limoges recently to meet with local officials, who have already walked the proposed stretch of land and are hoping that the test facility could be built as soon as 2019. “The visit has allowed us to get an idea of the exact characteristics required,” explained Vincent Léonie, president of the association Hyperloop Limoges. “At first sight everything looks good.”

The cost of building the test line is around €20 million, half of which is being put forward by TransPod, and they are now looking for local backers to get the project off the ground. For Vincent Léonie, any investment by the region would make perfect sense. “It would send a strong signal by Alain Rousset [president of Nouvelle Aquitaine] to fund such a project, so far away from Bordeaux.”

Ultimately, TransPod have their eyes on building a Hyperloop between Toulouse and Paris, the one major link in France that is poorly served by the TGV network... and one that would hopefully pass through the former Limousin region and its capital Limoges. ■

6 ♦ NATIONAL NEWS

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Calls for the baguette to Nutella discount riots be recognised by Unesco

D

© 2009 - jules/stonesoup (WikiCommons)

P

resident Emmanuel Macron is backing industry calls for the humble French baguette to be recognised as one of the world's cultural treasures. The nation's bakers have long campaigned to have the traditional baguette acknowledged by Unesco, but with the president publicly lending his support, this may now be closer to becoming a reality.

The baguette de tradition is already protected in France by a 1993 law which restricts the bread to being made from just four ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast and salt. It cannot be frozen or contain added preservatives and bears little resemblance to many of the mass-produced “baguettes” you find in many supermarkets.

“When I see the quality of bread in supermarkets, it is impossible not to be indignant.

The bread is frozen, it comes from who knows where... nothing is done according to the rules of the art,” complained Dominique Anract, head of the national federation of baking and pastry.

“A baguette is the symbol of France, like the Eiffel Tower. I want to fight for world heritage status to protect the quality of the traditional baguette. When I see the the growing dominance of French supermarkets and convenience stores in the sale of bread, I say to myself that we must act. Hence my desire to push for the addition of the traditional French baguette to Unesco's list of Intangible World Heritage. Today, there are 33,000 artisan bakeries, employing 180,000 people, who serve bread all over France. This territorial network is unique, we must not lose it.”

Dominique Anract was one of the first to call for Unesco recognition and has now managed to persuade President Macron to back the campaign. “Excellence and expertise must be preserved, and that is why it should be heritage-listed,” President Macron told reporters after receiving a group of master bakers at the Elysée presidential palace in January. “France is a country of excellence in bread, because the baguette is envied worldwide. To include it is not simply to register the name ‘baguette’, but to register the quality of ingredients and the know-how. The baguette is part of the daily life of the French people, in the morning, midday and evening. There is no history of religion associated with it, everyone eats it and it has been part of our humanity since the beginning.”

Campaigners will be encouraged by the inclusion of the pizza traditions of Naples on Unesco's list of Intangible World Heritage at their most recent meeting. Unesco added the art of “pizzaiuolo”, which has been handed down for generations in the southern Italian city. It includes recognition not only for the flamboyant style in which the pizza dough bases are “spun” in the air by hand, but also includes the associated songs and stories that have turned pizzamaking into a time-honoured social ritual.

France has also received previous culinary recognition from Unesco, with “the gastronomic meal of the French” - defined as “a customary social practice designed to celebrate the most important moments in life” - having been awarded world heritage status in 2010.

The UK does not have any entries on the list.

It is one of few countries in the world not to have signed up to the “safeguarding intangible heritage” convention, which was established in 2003.

A century ago, the baguette was a staple of every Frenchman's diet, with every person eating on average three a day. By 1970 this had dropped to just one baguette and today the average person eats just 120 grammes of bread per day - less than half of a standard 250g baguette. ■

uring the French Revolution people fought in the streets over bread, but in modern France it would appear they are more likely to fight over their favourite topping... Nutella. As part of a recent promotion, supermarket chain Intermarché slashed the price of a standard jar of the hazelnut cocoa spread by 70 per cent, to just €1.40. The scenes that followed in aisles across the country would put fear into the heart of the most hardened Black Friday bargain-hunter.

Videos on social media showed shoppers stamping on each other and shouting as they tried to bag the bargains. Some stores resorted to restricting sales to one jar per person, with several quickly running out of stock and having to turn away customers. Elsewhere, police had to be called when over-eager shoppers turned on each other and the safety of staff was put at risk.

“They were like animals. A woman had her hair pulled, an elderly lady took a box on her head, another had a bloody hand. It was horrible,” one customer at a central France supermarket told Le Progrès newspaper.

“People were running everywhere, shouting: ‘That’s my Nutella, it’s mine, stop it, you’re hurting me…’. The security guard was on his own so it quickly got difficult, because

there were nearly 200 people jumping on top of each other. It was crazy,” said an Intermarché employee in the Nord department. Another employee from a store in Saint-Chamond said that she had “never seen anything like it, in 16 years of working at the supermarket”.

With details of the planned promotion emerging the day before the sale began, one Intermarché manager explained how some customers had come up with inventive ways to make sure they didn't miss out. “Customers came the night before the promotions to stash the Nutella pots around the store, and thus prevent others from taking them,” explained Jean-Marie Daragon from the Intermarché in Montbrison, central France. “I tried to solve the problem by limiting the number of pots to three per person, but they just went back and forth.”

The supermarkets ultimately sold as many pots in one day as they would usually sell in three months.

The French have long had a love affair with Nutella, which is the breakfast of choice for many school children and around 100 million pots are devoured in France each year. They are second only to the Germans as the world's top consumers of the spread.

In 2016, a couple were banned from calling their daughter Nutella, with judges saying the child would be mocked as she grew up. ■

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Ref: 82716 - 123,000 € - A 4 bed pavillon on large Ref: 88218 - 286,200 € - 4 bed large maison basement garage/workshop in good order, edge bourgeoise, 1910s, on 7,490m² (~1.85 acre) of town location, on 647m² garden. DPE: 133/36 of park, + house (rented). DPE: vierge

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Bayeux Tapestry to be loaned to the UK >> continued from pg 1 goes ahead. That said, we are very open to working with heritage organisations in the UK and are already very linked with the British Museum.”

“This would be a major loan, probably the most significant ever from France to the UK,” explained the director of the British Museum, Hartwig Fischer. “It is a gesture of extraordinary generosity and proof of the deep ties that link our countries. The Bayeux Tapestry is of huge importance, as it recounts a crucial moment in British and French history, 1066.”

If the tapestry does return to the UK, many are asking what reciprocal loan could be made to France. Top of the list is probably the Rosetta Stone, which was originally in French hands until Napoleon was defeated by the British in Egypt in 1801, shortly after its discovery.

For the British, the Bayeux Tapestry holds a powerful allure, since the Norman Conquest represented not just a tragedy and a defeat, but also a pivotal moment in history that essentially transformed Anglo-Saxon society into the Britain of today. A descendant of William the Conqueror sits on the British throne to this very day.

The tapestry is thought to have been made shortly after the Battle of Hastings in the 11th century, but the first written record of its existence comes in 1476 when it was recorded in the Bayeux Cathedral treasury as “a very long and narrow hanging on which are embroidered figures and inscriptions comprising a representation of the conquest of England”.

The embroidery - the “tapestry” is in fact a work of embroidery made from wool stitched on to linen - is split into 32 scenes that chronicle the Norman

invasion of Britain led by William the Conqueror. The centre piece is the Battle of Hastings, which shows a field littered with corpses, and the famous image of King Harold being killed by an arrow through the eye. This is likely to be French propaganda, however, as contemporary accounts suggest that Harold died from a lance through his chest before being hacked to death.

The more famous version of his death is believed to have originated from the Bayeux Tapestry itself. History is, after all, often written by the victors!

Not only is the tapestry extraordinary, so is its mere survival. The delicate wool and linen have resisted the dangers of time - and moths! - but also French revolutionaries and the invading Nazis, who coveted the tapestry as Aryan propaganda, depicting as it did the conquest of Britain by the descendants of Norsemen and Vikings.

During the French Revolution, the panels were due to be confiscated and used to cover military wagons, but they were rescued by a local lawyer. Before the Allied invasion of France in World War II, the Germans moved the tapestry to occupied Paris to safeguard it in the Louvre museum along with their other loot. The SS chief, Heinrich Himmler, planned to use it to decorate his medieval castle in Germany.

Just hours before the Allies swept into Paris, however, British codebreakers intercepted a signal from Himmler ordering his troops to snatch the tapestry, but they were repelled by French Resistance fighters who took up positions at the Louvre to protect it.

Given its delicate nature, many French experts are outraged that the tapestry will be moved across the Channel.

Isabelle Attard, a former director of the Bayeux Museum, said moving “a

fragile, near-1,000-year-old roll of wool and linen” even a few metres was risky, never mind transporting it overseas. “If you were to ask my advice, despite the regard I have for my English colleagues who I have worked with for many years, I would say no,” agreed the artwork's current curator Pierre Bouet.

To add to the controversy, there are also those who believe that if the tapestry does eventually arrive in the UK, it will in fact be a homecoming. Despite being one of France's pride and joys, a book published in 2006 suggested that it was probably created by English nuns, citing the distinctive Anglo-Saxon style as proof. “There is a reasonable case that it could have been made in Canterbury in southern England,” argues British historian David Musgrove, who authored a book on the subject. “There are a lot of stylistic elements in the tapestry which would suggest it.” ■

NATIONAL NEWS ♦ 9

FEBRUARY 2018 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

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Bone-eaters are back in France

Driving bans for phone users

I

As the speed limit on the country's roads is set to drop this summer as part of the government's crackdown on road deaths (see pg 11), new rules could also see drivers have their licences removed for using their mobile phone at the wheel.

Using a mobile phone while driving is already illegal in France and those caught are currently subject to fines of €135 and three penalty points. Under the new proposals, drivers who are also considered to have caused danger to others, for example using their phone whilst approaching a pedestrian crossing or a school, could have their driving licence removed.

Telephones are believed to be a contributing factor in ten per cent of road accidents in France, according to figures published in October last year by the country's road safety organisation Sécurité Routière.

Despite this, a recent survey revealed that nine out of ten motorists admit to using their phones while driving. ■

© Richard Bartz (WikiCommons)

f you happen to have elderly female relatives living in the Alps, you may want to warn them to take extra care when wandering around outside. That is because, after a 30-year campaign by conservationists, the bearded vulture - otherwise known as the “bone-eater” – has made a successful return to France.

For generations, the bearded vulture inspired fear among the local population and legend held it was responsible for kidnapping old ladies and killing flocks of sheep. It was hunted to extinction in the region in the early 20th century, but now, after a single breeding pair were reintroduced from Afghanistan and Russia in 1987, there are 13 pairs in France and 39 birds in total living in the Alps mountain range.

Despite their gruesome reputation - and an impressive 3-metre wingspan - the vultures live almost entirely on carcasses and do not prey on any living animals. In fact, Europe's largest vulture takes the scavenging lifestyle one step further and is the only bird in the world known to live off bones. It prefers to eat

the bones of small mammals whole, and with a stomach pH of just 1, these can be fully dissolved within 24 hours. A fully grown adult can gobble down a sheep's thigh bone in one gulp.

The bone-eater does not pass up larger bones, however, and will carry these into the sky before dropping them onto the rocks below to break them into smaller pieces... so maybe you really should tell granny to keep her eye to the sky!

The unusual step of surviving off the bones of dead animals means that the bearded vulture can wait until other scavengers have picked a corpse clean, before strolling in to feast at its own leisure.

The birds do not have to compete with any other predator for the fatty, energy-rich marrow contained within.

In further good news for conservationists, evidence from hunters in the HauteSavoie suggests that golden

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jackals are now also living and hunting in the mountains of eastern France. The predators are usually found in North Africa, Asia and south-east Europe, but have been making their way west via the Balkans since the 1980s. Experts say that the images, taken by automated cameras set up to track wolves and lynx, are inconclusive, but if proved correct, would represent the first sightings of golden jackals in France. ■

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NATIONAL NEWS ♦ 11

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Speed limit reduced to 80 km/h France retains tourism crown

P

rime Minister Edouard Philippe has confirmed that the speed limit on the country's roads will decrease from 90 km/h to 80 km/h from July, much to the anger of motoring organisations.

Successive governments have been battling to reduce the number of roads deaths in France. “If I have to be unpopular to save lives, then I accept that,” conceded the prime minister ahead of the official announcement.

The new rules will come into force on 1st July and will apply to all secondary roads with no central reservation. An estimated 400,000 kilometres of road will be affected. Compared to other road safety measures, the reduction in the speed limit is relatively inexpensive; the cost to replace road signs across the country is estimated at between €5-10 million. Much more may need to be spent on public awareness cam-

paigns, however.

A recent opinion poll shows that six out of ten members of the public are against the changes, with 83% believing the move is an attempt to make more money from speeding fines.

The idea has been around for a long time, but the decision to finally reduce the speed limit comes off the back of a two-year trial on three dangerous stretches of road.

The study, performed over a total of 86 kilometres of roads, showed that there were 20 accidents during the trial resulting in 42 injuries and 3 deaths. “In the 5 years prior to the trial, 67 accidents resulted in 108 injuries and 15 deaths,” explained Prime Minister Edouard. “When this is scaled back to two years we would have expected 27 accidents, 43 injuries and 6 deaths.”

The prime minister also highlighted that the slower

F

speed limit did not result in any increase in traffic or congestion.

“If we can reduce the average speed by 10 per cent, we get a 4.6 per cent drop in the number of deaths,” insisted Emmanuel Barbe, France's commissioner for road safety. “This is according to scientific data that has been measured by many studies across the world.”

Road safety campaigners are understandably delighted, but others believe that slower speeds will simply result in more dangerous overtaking manoeuvres. The motorists' lobby group 40 millions

d’automobilistes pointed to an experiment conducted in Denmark which showed that when the speed limit was increased from 80 km/h to 90 km/h on a portion of the secondary network, road deaths were actually cut by 13% over two years.

The law change comes at a time when road deaths have been steadily on the rise since 2014, the longest period of sustained increase since 1972. In 2016 there were 3,469 deaths, with 55 per cent of these fatal accidents taking place on two-way roads outside urban areas, mostly with speed limits of 90 km/h. ■

Mobile operators to invest €3 bn

I

n what could provide a major boost to rural communes across France, the four main telecoms operators have pledged to invest a massive €3 billion to bring a high-speed mobile internet signal to even the darkest corners of la France profonde.

It has been promised many times before, but after 6 months of negotiations with the largest network providers, the government has won a major victory and ensured a huge infrastructure investment in the country's mobile network. Nothing comes for free, however, and in return the State has pledged to forego the auction process that makes new frequencies available to operators.

The last such time frequencies were put up for auction in 2015, the State netted a whopping €2.8 billion.

“It's a paradigm shift. These frequencies will be put at the service of the everyday life of the French people,” explained Julien Denormandie, the Secretary of State for Territorial Cohesion. “That's what makes this deal binding. We are no longer just talking about good in-

tentions. The promised investment will be higher than auctioning the frequencies would have yielded. It was never about giving a gift to operators.”

Despite this, the networks also appear to be happy with the deal.

“For the first time, the public authorities of a major European country are giving up auction rights in order to bring a major infrastructure project to life,” said Maxime Lombardini, the CEO of Free. “Five years from now, France will be the most advanced digital country.”

It is believed that the investment will involve the four telecoms operators - Orange, SFR, Free and Bouyges - installing 5,000 new antennas across France and equipping 30,000 km of railway tracks over the next three years. The agreement also includes sanctions for noncompliance and missed targets.

If the promises are met, the 500-or-so communes across France which currently have little or no mobile or internet coverage will finally have a high-speed connection to the digital world.

The news comes in the wake of a separate government pledge to put aside €100 million to make highspeed internet available to households in the most isolated parts of the country by 2022, as part of its “High Speed France” project.

A recent survey published by French consumer group UFC-Que Choisir revealed a huge divide between France's rural and urban areas and claimed the government's internet project was failing miserably. The highest internet speeds are currently available to 90% of Parisians, but only 1% of residents in the Creuse and Dordogne departments.

According to the organisation, 7.5 million households do not have “good internet access” - defined as at least 8 Mbps - and a further 500,000 have no internet access at all. This is at a time when more and more government services are only available online.

The government has pledged to provide “good” internet access to every household by 2020, and “very high-speed access” - at least 30 Mbps - just two years later. ■

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rance looks on course to reach its ambitious target of 100 million visitors per year by 2020 after figures released by the UN show that a record 89 million tourists visited these shores in 2017 - an increase of six million on 2016. Visitor numbers had suffered in recent years following a series of terror attacks in Paris and elsewhere across France in 2015 and 2016, but holidaymakers are now returning in their droves.

The report from the UN's World Tourism Organisation shows that global tourism jumped 7% last year, with France well ahead of second-placed Spain. With 82.3 million tourists in 2017, Spain overtook the USA as the world's second most popular destination, despite terror attacks of its own and independence demonstrations in Catalonia. In 2016, America welcomed 75.6 million visitors - 300,000 more than Spain.

Currently, tourism generates 7% of France's GDP although the government hopes to increase that figure to 10%.

In further good news, British magazine The Economist has voted France as its “country of the year” for 2017.

The centre-left leaning political magazine gave particular praise to France for the voting in of Macron and his party La République en marche. They judged that the president, despite coming from a “party full of political novices”, had “crushed the old guard”, “swept aside the ancien régime” and “transformed the national political debate”.

According to The Economist's website: “Rogue nations are not eligible, no matter how much they frighten people. (Sorry, North Korea). Nor do we plump for the places that exert the most influence through sheer size or economic muscle - otherwise China and America would be hard to beat. Rather, we look for a country, of any size, that has changed notably for the better in the past 12 months, or made the world brighter.” ■

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www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2018

T

he British government was forced to issue a statement in January claiming there were “no specific plans” for a cross-Channel bridge after foreign secretary Boris Johnson brought up the idea of a “fixed link” from Britain to France at a recent summit between the two countries.

Johnson is believed to have made the suggestion to French President Emmanuel Macron at the summit while discussing other major infrastructure projects around the world, including a bridge in Japan.

A source close to the foreign secretary said he also thought it was “crazy” that the two countries were only connected by one railway line when they were a mere 30 kilometres apart and Mr Johnson said in a subsequent tweet that the UK and France had agreed that a panel of experts should be assigned to look at “major projects”.

Downing Street said he had been referring more generally to joint Anglo-French projects and not specifically a bridge. “What was agreed at the summit and what the foreign secretary tweeted about as well is a panel of experts who will look at major projects together, including infrastructure. And we want to work very closely with our French colleagues on building a shared, prosperous future.”

A spokesman for the French president confirmed he had indeed had a conversation with Mr Johnson about a bridge and said Mr Ma-

cron had told him that “The issue of access is an important one”, but denied reports the president had responded with “I agree, let's do it”.

Former Lib Dem leader Sir Nick Clegg told the BBC he thought the idea was “a masterstroke in diversion”. “It's all very well talking about a bridge that may or may not be built in decades to come. The thing that worries me much more is he wants to pull up the drawbridge to the economic relationship which has served us so well over such a long period of time.”

Others were quick with the tongue-in-cheek suggestion that the project could be funded by the money saved through Brexit: “Let’s use the £350 million we give the EU weekly to build a monstrous vanity project for #Boris” tweeted @Michael_PLawson. Another Twitter user managed to have a dig at both Mr Johnson's idea and US President Donald Trump: “Boris Johnson: ‘we’re going to build a beautiful bridge, it’s gonna be beautiful folks. And France is gonna pay for it! #BorisBridge”.

Although the idea sounds far fetched, it wouldn’t be the longest sea bridge ever built that honour goes to the 41-kilometre Jiaozhou Bay Bridge in China that opened in 2011. The UK Chamber of Shipping did suggest, however, that building a massive bridge in one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes could pose a few difficulties. ■

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Boris Johnson proposes Portsmouth curry house cross-Channel bridge delivers to Bordeaux

F

or many expats, moving to France means leaving behind certain creature comforts that you can't always find abroad, but just how far would you go for a good pint of bitter, vinegar-soaked fish and chips or an authentic Indian takeaway?

The answer for one group of curry lovers in south-west France in January was all the way to their favourite curry house in England!

The idea was the brainchild of James Emery, a British expat and pilot, who decided to charter a plane to bring food from his favourite takeaway, The Akash Indian Restaurant in Southsea, just outside Portsmouth, to a group of hungry Brits near Bordeaux.

When the 6-seater Socata TBM700 aircraft touched down at Solent Airport in Lee-on-the-Solent - formerly known as HMS Daedalus naval air station - it was loaded up with a total of 89 meals, 70 side dishes, 75 portions of rice, 100 poppadoms and 10 servings of mango chutney, as well as Faz Ahmed, the restaurant's manager. After making the return journey and landing in Saucats Airfield, south of Bordeaux, the meals were reheated and served to the group of 89 diners.

“I am a chilli addict and an aviation

geek so I thought I would combine my two hobbies to get my favourite meal delivered to me in France,” explained Mr Emery, an assessor for French trainee pilots, who revealed he went for his favourite curry, a chicken phall. “I have been getting withdrawal symptoms... they do lots of good things in France but you just can't get a good curry. I have been a loyal customer of The Akash for close to 20 years. Every time I popped in for a meal, I would complain about the bland and uninspiring version of Indian food we get in France. It was on one of these visits that Faz first floated the idea of delivering one to me at home in Bordeaux.”

“We have done nothing like this before,” confirmed Faz Ahmed. “Our delivery radius is three to four miles and here we are doing 500 miles so it is something to be proud of.”

Not only that, but the restaurant honoured its “free delivery over £12” deal and the expat curry lovers paid just £32 per person for their Indian feast, although much of the cost of the charter plane was met by local sponsors.

One happy diner summed up the evening, saying: “Proper poppadoms... mango chutney... my mouth's been on fire!!” ■

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FRENCH LIFE ♦ 13

FEBRUARY 2018 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Pink Grapefruit and Smoked Salmon

by Julia Watson

F

ebruary really doesn’t have much going for it, culinarily or otherwise, so isn’t it fortunate that Saint Valentine was martyred this month. The 14th gives us something to look forward to.

Possibly the most loving action you can take to celebrate his feast day is to establish rules to follow for the rest of the year when feeding your loved ones. Avoid being too frequently seduced by the kitchen shortcuts supermarkets offer us, so handy in these months of shortages in the farmers’ markets: processed foods are stacked with chemicals and preservatives your loved ones’ bodies would do better not to adapt to.

Valentine’s Day itself focuses our attention on aphrodisiacal food, about which a lot of tosh is written. What are really the prime ingredients to best provide a romantic meal, and heighten the chances of an amorous outcome besides?

While it's true that chocolate and chilli both contain natural stimulants that trigger the ‘feel good’ factor in the brain, you are unlikely to feel at ease or seductive with a burning tongue and a mouth that has been glued together by the contents of a heartshaped box of chocolates.

Equally, many ‘romantic’ dishes have a soporific action. Those menus of the 1960s that somehow rise from the dead each Valentine's Day - foie gras followed by any excuse to flambé everything from seafood to meat swimming in cream and alcohol sauces, Grand Marnier Soufflé or Crèpes Suzette - are meals to send you to sleep.

You should also take care with that champagne bottle. If you haven't eaten all day before the romantic dinner, your blood-sugar levels will be low. A couple of glasses of any alcohol on an empty stomach will lower them further, making you feel at best depressed and at worst drunk.

A low libido, it might be handy to know, can be caused by a deficiency of zinc. This may be a reason - aside from the fact that winter is one of the best seasons of the year to eat them - that Valentine's Day is associated with oysters. It's not just the hopelessly slender but nonetheless enticing chance of finding a pearl in one you've shucked yourself, nor the salacious manner you can adopt in slurping them down. It's the fact that they are one of nature's richest sources of zinc. So it's worth developing a taste for them, if only on February 14th.

If you really can't stand the thought of a food that some associate with a heavy cold, turn to cheese also a good conveyor of zinc. As are eggs. (It doesn’t need saying this is not the occasion for knocking out cheese-and-egg-salad sandwiches.) Boiled quails' eggs with a bowl of celery salt to dip them into can become a sensuous starter, particularly if you make a seductive performance in your manner of peeling them.

Surprisingly, quails’ eggs have higher nutrition values than regular hens’ eggs. A 100g serving of both produces 143 calories in hens’ eggs and 158 in quails’, with 281% of your daily cholesterol consumption coming from quails’ eggs, against 124% from hens’. Still, Valentine’s Day is not a day for

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counting percentages.

To cook quails’ eggs, fill a saucepan with enough water to cover eggs by 2.5 cm. Bring the water to a full boil. Gently lower in the eggs with a slotted spoon. Maintain a light boil and cook for 3-4 minutes. Carefully drain out the hot water and replace it with ice cold water and peel the eggs fast, or pass them round for peeling as soon as possible, as hardboiled quail eggs are best served warm.

The following refreshing salad is elegant yet casual enough to eat away from the table (in the boudoir,

perhaps, if you own one...though is a boudoir meant for two? And what is one anyway?). It takes no time to prepare. The Valentine element is in its pinkness, and the fact that you will be able to function after digesting it. It’s light enough that you can afford to follow it with a petit pot de chocolat or the Chocolate Sabayon whose recipe I gave last year that I’m positive you kept, and not come an amatory cropper. ■ Julia Watson has been a long-time Food Writer for newspapers and magazines in the US and the UK.

Pink Grapefruit and Smoked Salmon Salad Shake the last five ingredients in a lidded jar until the sugar has dissolved.

Take a sharp knife and, holding the grapefruit in the other hand, peel it like you would an apple, turning it all the while, taking the pith away with the peel.

Slide the knife between each segment to cut it away from the membrane.

1 pink or red grapefruit ½ a heart of Cos lettuce Small bunch of rocket 250g best smoked salmon ½ teaspoon peeled and grated fresh ginger ½ teaspoon icing sugar 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 teaspoons sesame oil Salt to taste

In a bowl, toss together the grapefruit sections with the lettuce, roughly torn in strips, and arugula, then add the dressing and toss again till the greenery is well coated.

Arrange on a plate, then lay the smoked salmon informally over all.

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14 ♦ FRENCH LIFE

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2018

Madame Guillotine - the terror of France

T

he guillotine is an iconic execution device that made its name during the French Revolution.

In reality, beheading machines had existed since the 13th century, but they were not as efficient - or feared as the guillotine. The most famous predecessor was the Halifax Gibbet, which is officially documented as having performed a total of 52 executions in Yorkshire. The guillotine regularly performed that many a day in Paris!

The guillotine was the creation of Dr Joseph-Ignace Guillotin who, perhaps surprisingly, was not a fan of capital punishment. In pre-revolutionary France, executions were often public, lengthy and gruesome affairs; grotesque public spectacles where the victim was cruelly tortured to death. Executions were designed to deliver both public entertainment and a warning for those present.

During the Enlightenment, however, a growing number of French philosophers called for a more humane form of execution. They argued that capital punishment should not inflict pain, but simply end life. Previously, beheading had been seen as a merciful death, one which was reserved for the upper classes. The social changes taking place in France during the infamous Reign of Terror demanded equality between all classes and many believed this equality should apply to criminals as well.

Dr Guillotin was of this opinion, and proposed the principle of his machine during the early months of the French Revolution in 1789, along with a few sketches. It was designed as a universal method of execution to be used across France. It would be performed in private, would be used irrespective of class or wealth and would involve no torture.

Despite initial concerns, his proposals were eventually accepted a few years later. The design of the machine was given to Tobias Schmidt, a German engineer and harpsichord maker, who completed the first prototype in 1792.

Executions would continue to be public affairs, however, and the first use of the guillotine took place on 25 April 1792, when a convicted highwayman, Nicolas Jacques Pelletier, was executed in Paris.

At some point in the following years the machine came to be called a Guillotine, even though Dr Guillotin had very little input in its actual design after his initial proposals. The blueprints were sent to all parts of France where exact replicas were created and before long all public executions were being performed

by Madame Guillotine. By the end of the Revolution in 1799, the guillotine had executed as many as 45,000 people!

The history of the guillotine does not end with the French Revolution, however, and it continued to be used in France for a further 150 years, as well as elsewhere across Europe. The German criminal and serial murderer, Eugen Weidmann, became the last person to be publicly executed using the guillotine in 1939 and on 10th September 1977 it was used for the last time in France when Hamida Djandoubi was executed in Marseille. Four years later the death penalty was abolished in France.

Contrary to popular belief, Dr JosephIgnace Guillotin did not fall foul of his own creation and lived on to die a natural death in 1814. ■

L

a guillotine est un dispositif d’exécution emblématique dont la réputation s’est faite pendant la Révolution Française. En réalité, les machines de décapitation existaient depuis le 13ème siècle, mais elles n’étaient pas aussi efficaces, ni aussi redoutées, que la guillotine.

L’ancêtre le plus connu fut le gibet d’Halifax, qui est officiellement crédité d’un total de 52 exécutions dans le Yorkshire. La guillotine assurait régulièrement autant d’exécutions à Paris… tous les jours !

La guillotine était la création du docteur Joseph-Ignace Guillotin qui, de manière peutêtre surprenante, n’était pas un tenant de la peine capitale. Dans la France prérévolutionnaire, les exécutions étaient souvent des événements publics, interminables et horribles ; des spectacles publics grotesques, durant lesquels la victime était cruellement torturée jusqu’à ce que mort s’ensuive. Les exécutions étaient conçues pour prodiguer à la fois un divertissement public et un avertissement pour ceux qui y assistaient.

Pendant le siècle des Lumières cependant, un nombre grandissant de philosophes français en appelait à une forme plus humaine d’exécution. Ils arguaient que la peine capitale ne devait pas infliger de douleur, mais simplement mettre fin à la vie. Jusqu’alors, la décapitation avait été considérée comme une mort clémente, réservée aux classes supérieures de la société. Les changements sociaux intervenus en France pendant le règne tristement célèbre de la Terreur réclamaient l’égalité entre toutes les classes et beaucoup pensaient que cette égalité devait s’appliquer aussi aux criminels.

Le Docteur Guillotin était de cet avis, et il proposa le principe de sa machine dès les premiers mois de la Révolution Française en 1789, appuyé par quelques croquis. Elle était conçue comme un moyen universel d’exécution, pour un usage dans toute la France. Elle serait utilisée en privé, indépendamment des classes ou de la richesse, et n’impliquerait aucune torture.

Malgré quelques réticences au début, ses propositions furent finalement acceptées quelques années plus tard. La conception de la machine fut confiée à Tobias Schmidt, ingénieur et facteur de clavecins allemand, qui acheva le premier prototype en 1792. Les exécutions allaient cependant continuer à être publiques, et la première utilisation de la guillotine eut lieu le 25 avril 1792, quand un bandit de grand chemin reconnu coupable, Nicolas Jacques Pelletier, fut exécuté à Paris.

Dans les années qui suivirent, la machine finit par être appelée une guillotine, même si le dispositif final n’avait que très peu à voir avec le projet initial du Docteur Guillotin. Les plans en furent envoyés aux quatre coins de la France, où des répliques exactes furent construites, et, bientôt toutes les exécutions capitales publiques furent réalisées par Madame Guillotine. A la fin de la Révolution en 1799, la guillotine avait exécuté jusqu’à 45 000 personnes !

L’histoire de la guillotine ne s’arrêta pas avec la fin de la Révolution Française, et elle continua à être utilisée en France et dans d’autres pays d’Europe pendant encore 150 années. Le tueur en série allemand Eugen Weidmann fut la dernière personne à être guillotinée publiquement en 1939, et le 10 septembre 1977, la guillotine fut utilisée pour la dernière fois en France pour exécuter Hamida Djandoubi à Marseille. Quatre ans plus tard, la peine de mort fut abolie en France.

Contrairement à la croyance populaire, le Docteur Joseph-Ignace Guillotin ne fut pas la victime de sa propre création et mourut de sa bonne mort en 1814. ■

FRENCH LIFE ♦ 15

FEBRUARY 2018 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Changes to French taxation in 2018 Blevins Franks

From 2018, French residents no longer need to pay wealth tax on savings and investments, and investment income benefits from a new tax rate.

T

he French tax reforms which were first announced in September came into effect on 1st January 2018. The main measures remain unchanged from the initial draft budget, which is good news as it included significant tax cuts for investment assets and income. Here is a summary of the key changes affecting expatriates living in France.

Income tax rates

There are no changes to French income tax rates for 2018 (payable on 2017 income). The income tax bands for each rate have, however, been indexed for inflation.

For example, last year’s €9,710 nil rate band has increased by €97, and the income threshold for the top 45% rate is up €1,523 to €153,783.

charges increases by 1.7% this year for all types of income, so the rates for 2018 are: 9.7% for employment income; 9.1% for pension income and 17.2% for investment income (including rental income).

You do not need to pay social charges on your pension income, including lump sums, if you have EU Form S1 and/or do not have access to the French healthcare system.

Flat tax on investment income

Over recent years, investment income was subject to the income tax scale rates, but this has now changed.

From 1st January 2018, investment income is liable to one fixed rate of 30%, regardless of the amount earned. This 30% flat rate includes both the income tax and the social charges – so the income tax part is equal to 12.8%.

This new flat rate applies to investments over €150,000 per individual (i.e. €300,000 for a joint investment for married/PACS couples). Households in lowincome brackets will keep the option for progressive income tax rates (otherwise they would pay more tax with the new system). The current abatements on dividend income and gains on share sales (only for small and medium-sized companies) remain in place if the taxpayer opts for the scale rates.

Income

Tax Rate

Up to €9,807

Nil

€9,807 to €27,086

14%

€27,086 to €72,617

30%

Assurance-vie policies

€72,617 to €153,783

41%

Over €153,783

45%

This new system also applies to assurance-vie, but note that in this case, it applies to all policies set up on or after 27th September 2017, although the flat rate only applies for withdrawals made after 1st January 2018. This can actually be more beneficial for individuals with a higher marginal rate of tax.

For policies set up before 27th September 2017 the old fixed rate system will still be available. If you top it up after this date, the proportion of the gain element relating to the top-up will be subject to the new flat rate of tax.

The allowance for policies held for more than eight years stays in place for all policies (€4,600 for individuals and €9,200 for married/PACS couples).

The ‘exceptional tax’ remains in place for 2017 income. This charges an extra 3% or 4% for income over €250,000 and €500,000 respectively, with higher thresholds for families.

Income tax is payable on salaries, selfemployment income, pensions and rental income (see below for investment income) and you are taxed as a household rather than as an individual. Take advice to make sure you are taking advantage of available tax-efficient structures in France.

Social charges All income is subject to social charges as well as income tax. The contribution sociale généralisée (CSG) part of social

Wealth tax This is perhaps the biggest tax reform

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President Macron has made so far.

From 1st January 2018, the scope of wealth tax is limited to real estate assets.

Therefore, any savings and investments, including assurance-vie policies, are now exempt from wealth tax.

The previous threshold of €1,300,000 stays in place and the scale rates of wealth tax remain the same as before.

The 75% limitation will also stay in place.

Other measures The limits for the micro-regimes for business income have increased significantly. The limit for income taxed under the BIC-regime (including income from gîtes) has increased to €170,000 from €82,800. For income taxed under the BNC-regime (unfurnished rental income, etc.) the limit has increased to €70,000 from €33,200.

Changes to the calculation of taxe d’habitation will mean that, from 2020, 80% of French households will be exempt from this tax. The changes are being phased in gradually so that in 2018 30% of households will be exempt, increasing to 65% in 2019.

The main corporation tax rate remains 33.33% for 2018, but will reduce to 31% in 2019 and then reduce further to reach 25% by 2022.

These reforms make this an excellent time to review your tax planning.

Establish exactly what the changes mean for you, and whether you need to consider re-structuring your assets so that you can take full advantage. Seek personalised, specialist advice, so you can ensure your tax planning is designed around your circumstances and objectives, and you are not paying any more tax than necessary. ■ Tel: 05 53 63 49 19 Email: bergerac@blevinsfranks.com Web: www.blevinsfranks.com The 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.

Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www.blevinsfranks.com

16 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2018

BUSINESS DIRECTORY WOOFERS RETREAT

Animals & Pets

Holiday Home for Dogs

Home from Home Established 7 years Pet Sitting available 19510 Masseret Tel: 05 55 97 27 33 Mob: 06 61 05 06 13 debbie_shiralee@hotmail.co.uk

Top Dog

Dog grooming in your own home Fully trained and qualified in Knightsbridge London dog salon.

40 years full-time experience.

Tel: 05 55 78 62 28

siret 804 476 802 00017

Dog Guest Home (NOT KENNELS)

Based near Marval (87440) covering ~30km radius Siret no. 832 850 929 00015

La Tour des Chats Luxury holiday home for cats Château-Chervix (87380) 12 € / day Spacious rooms, outside space, video surveillance.

Payment: CB, cheque and cash.

Contact Jessica 06 31 94 63 87 / 05 55 58 86 52

www.latourdeschats.fr

Your dog(s) looked after in our country home, safe enclosed garden area.

Walked twice a day in our woods and surrounding fields.

Visits welcome. Introductory offer on referrals.

References provided on request.

Nr. Châteauneuf -La-Foret, Linards, 30 mins from Limoges airport.

15€ / night

Bookings being taken now for Spring/Summer... limit on numbers.

(Also carved custom made garden signs to order) Call Jane:

05 55 00 34 79 / 07 62 60 22 17 or Emily:

06 71 15 15 65

waggingtails87@hotmail.com

siret: 818 954 669 00013

Siret: 792 142 341 00017

Valhalla dog holidays

Champlong Chatterie

Caring, quiet accommodation just for cats Alison & Ray

Tel: 05 55 60 27 83

champlongchatterie@me.com www.champlongchatterie.com

Open 365 days a year Call Leanne on:

leaberry24@yahoo.co.uk

sales@thebugle.eu 05 55 41 17 76

RING BILL! Registered Car Mechanic 05 55 81 31 85 ■ Services ■ Brakes ■ MOT Prep

(contrôle technique)

SIRET: 494 617 798 00017

LA BRAUDERIE BROCANTE

Antiques Vintage Retro Lovely French finds from the Limousin Open most days on D15 4 La Brauderie, 23160 St-Germain-Beaupré

Tel: 07 80 00 46 23 UK Mob: +44 (0)7902 838 776

For more information on advertising in the Bugle Business Directory, give us a call or send us an email: sales@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76 Auto Services

SIRET: 520 896 671 00010

05 55 80 42 47 siret: 810 192 807 00016

Antiques/ Brocantes

JUNCT 22 off A20, Arnac la Poste

Small, friendly English-run kennels in Bétête (23270)

or email

Animals & Pets Antiques/Brocantes Auto Services Building Services Chimney Sweeps Cleaning Services Computers/Satellites Food & Drink Garden Services Gifts & Crafts Handholding Services Health & Beauty

■ ... much more Dept. 23 & surrounding areas

RING BILL! Registered Car Mechanic

05.55.81.31.85

See Display Ad Below

>> pg 16 >> pg 16 >> pg 16 >> pg 16-19 >> pg 19 >> pg 19-20 >> pg 20 >> pg 20 >> pg 20-21 >> pg 21 >> pg 21 >> pg 21

House Clearance >> pg 21 Insurance & Finance >> pg 22 Language Services >> pg 22 Pest Control >> pg 22 Pools & Spas >> pg 22 Property Maintenance >> pg 22 Property Sales >> pg 22 Retail & Commerce >> pg 22-23 Transport/Removals/Storage >> pg 23 General >> pg 23 Businesses for Sale >> pg 23

MOTOR PARTS CHARENTE

Suppliers of Car & Van Spares & LHD headlights, anywhere in France JOHN SOWERSBY

+44 (0)1377 538 639

motorptscharente@aol.com www.motorpartscharente.com

Building Services Architects/Surveyors

Planning & Translation Services • Planning permission dossiers prepared with all necessary drawings & paperwork • Professional advice on ecorenovations, energy-efficiency, government grants & RT2012 • Translation of official forms, formal letter writing & hand-holding service

info@arcpod.org www.arcpod.org 06 59 04 27 31

siret: 814 486 213 00014

At Masterplans.eu we can help guide you through your planning application in France.

From initial feasibility to completed dossiers.

We will compile all the relevant drawings and complete the necessary paperwork to ensure your application proceeds smoothly.

We are equally at home working with clients here in France or those living abroad.

Tel: 05 55 80 72 83 Mob: 06 33 07 29 72 Email: info@masterplans.eu www.masterplans.eu Siret: 790 016 984 00011

CHARTERED STRUCTURAL ENGINEER

Pre-purchase & Structural Surveys.

Verbal & written reports.

Structural calculations & drawings.

Redevelopment ideas & solutions.

Tim Haw B.Eng C.Eng M.I.Struct.E

FR: 0033 (0)6 05 56 42 81 UK: 0044 (0)7448 466 662

Web: www.versineer.com Email: enquiries@versineer.com Siret: 498 843 051 00018

sales@thebugle.eu 05 55 41 17 76

Architectural DRAWING SERVICE Renovating your French property?

New build?

Dossiers prepared Permis de Construire Déclarations Préalables

Tel: 05 53 52 36 05

lavieilleabbaye@orange.fr SIRET: 493 770 358 00015

Your advert here 05 55 41 17 76 Advertise here from just €36 HT / month

05.55.41.17.76 sales@thebugle.eu

DIRECTORY ♦ 17

FEBRUARY 2018 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Building Services Carpenters/Joiners

CARPENTER AND BUILDER

QUALITY WORKMANSHIP SINCE 1986 Building • Roofing • Kitchens • Joinery

Portfolio available to view at

www.jonesentreprise.com Jeff Jones: 05 55 62 46 21 Mob: 06 38 25 74 62 e: jones23entreprise@orange.fr siret: 810 322 123 00011

Carpenter All types Best Rates Available Immediately References available Call Mark:

06 45 82 34 03 Siret 798 692 778 00011

Lumiere Service et Energie

Classical Carpentry

www.classicalcarpentry.fr 05 55 65 15 31 / 06 02 25 41 58

Steven Rofe 28 Years' experience

see main ad below

Neuvialle Menuiserie

Mike Christie 05 55 64 35 11 / 07 55 20 42 90 see main ad below

Building Services Electricians

Carpenter & Joiner 06 35 12 10 66 see main ad - pg 11

INSTALLATION23 - Electricity - Plumbing - Small renovations (bathrooms, kitchens, etc.)

- Fully Insured Dutch and English spoken Creuse / Puy-de-Dôme

menuiserie23@yahoo.com siret: 793 679 440 00016

06 49 66 44 25 87800 Jourgnac Siret N° 750 725 780 00019

Available for all types of electrical work New builds, renovations, rewires Consuel assistance and certification service available Fully insured with 10 year workmanship guarantee Based near Châlus (87230)

Fosse Septique Specialists

Planning permission arranged Design and installation Supply and servicing DIY and trade kits Free site visit and devis

Email: barwick.shaun@gmail.com

05.55.64.11.73 06.70.47.52.96

Siret: 753 054 030 00014

siret: 794 282 368 00016

siret: 824 706 444 00018

Carlos

SAS Masters

Steve Johns Assainissement

www.masters-energies.com 05 55 78 66 35 see main ad - pg 11

Siret No. 829 638 741 00019

From small repairs to complete installations Boiler Servicing Over 35 years experience Fully Insured lorrainemquintana@gmail.com

05 55 62 28 70 / 06 88 96 09 14

▪ Emptying septic tanks ▪ Unblocking pipes ▪ Cleaning wells ▪ Group rates available between neighbours Call David - 24/24 7/7

Tel: 09 72 35 74 73

05 55 62 63 82

Oak barn doors from €1,700 Oak stairs from €1,900 Oak windows from €395 Oak shutters from €245 All prices fitted... Hard/softwood available Covering Limousin and surrounding regions Call Matthew:

ANGLO SCAFFOLDING HIRE

Mob. 06 40 56 96 12 Tel. 05 55 67 57 64

Based between Gouzon & Boussac, serving Dept 23

Made to measure joinery

LES VIDANGES LIMOUSINES

BARWICK Fosse Septique 23 ÉLECTRICITÉ Steve. JOHNS. SARL SHAUN BARWICK QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN

Electrician/Plumber

Menuiserie23

Building Services General

Siret No. 501.792.386.00010

E-mail: installation23@gmail.com

A. Wright

• NICEIC approved Electrician in the UK • Rewiring • External & garden lighting • All aspects of electrical works • Fully insured - (10 year Decennale) • Departments covered 87, 23 & 19 05.55.69.75.67 / 06.89.47.69.71 email: rofesteven@yahoo.co.uk www.lumiereservice.com See full list of works carried out on the website

Building Services Fosses Septiques

Your advert here 05 55 41 17 76

SALAMANDRE

électricité Keith SLOPER

Tel: 05 55 64 94 20 Mob: 07 86 38 09 61 * Qualified electrician * All types of electrical works carried out * Free estimates * Fault finding * Consuel certification arranged * Temporary and permanent EDF supplies arranged * Departments 23 and 87 No Siret: 494 916 760 00015

fosse-septique23.com

05.55.64.11.73 - see pg 6

For more information on advertising in the Bugle Business Directory, give us a call or send us an email: sales@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

UK scaffolding supplied and erected here in France Qualified and fully insured FREE no obligation quotes Call Ian on

06 34 24 64 11 or see

www.lakesidebandb.net

Email: akbrunnstrom@yahoo.co.uk SIRET: 799 067 939 00014

Max Huggett

Experienced and fully registered builder with 10 year Décennale Insurance Offering a broad selection of building services in depts. 87, 19 & 23.

From one off installations to complete renovations, construction, decorating, landscaping and ground works.

E: info@maxhuggett.com

T: 05 55 69 37 64 M: 06 80 92 23 82

www.maxhuggett.com

English & French spoken - Siret: 518 511 340 00011

upvc-solutions uPVC windows, doors, porches & conservatories

Available in white, beige & oak woodgrain.

Visit our website for more information.

www.upvc-solutions.webs.com email: upvc-solutions@orange.fr siret: 503 133 159 00015

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE...

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 05 55 41 17 76 Mini Digger

with Driver for Hire

Landscaping, Ditching, Land Clearance etc.

Hedge Removal and Stone Wall Construction 87440 Marval

05 55 78 62 29

siret no. 523 183 580 00019

john.bonella@gmail.com

DAVID CARDWELL PROFESSIONAL

BUILDER

Visit our website

www.classicalcarpentry.fr

Keith Brown Roofs, stairs, shutters, decking, gazebos...

30 years’ experience.

Full décennale insurance guarantee. keith@classicalcarpentry.fr

T: 05 55 65 15 31

M: 06 02 25 41 58

NEUVIALLE MENUISERIE JOINERY

no job too small - very competitive rates 30 Years’ Experience Joiner Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms Flooring & General 2nd Fix Finishing, Joinery & Decking Emergency Lock Services Mike Christie 05 55 64 35 11 (Home) 07 61 76 97 41 (Mobile) mgchristie2013@gmail.com

debarrasser87

House Clearance Specialists

Home renovations / Ground works Block works / Verandas, Abris & Terraces Barn doors & Shutters Also available: digger & driver Planning permission assistance and design available HNC and ONC qualified, 15 years experience & 7 in France Based near Lubersac (dept 19)

We are able to offer a wide range of specialist house clearances including hoarded property clearance and clearances where there are unsanitary conditions.

Tel: 05 55 98 24 12 - Mob: 07 82 78 01 31 Email: dave.cardwell@yahoo.co.uk

05.55.69.68.44 / 05.55.37.45.35 - http://www.ferraille87.com

We offer an efficient, affordable and honest service.

Siret: 802 265 728

John Bonella

Classical Carpentry

18 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2018

ADVERTORIAL

“SolarVenti”- the solar solution to damp and humidity

A

simple solar energy system that runs on its own, even when you are not there! – And provides a free heat supplement in winter.

The Solarventi air panel was invented more than 20 years ago

by Hans Jørgen Christensen, from Aidt Miljø, with the backing of the Danish government.

He wanted to use the sun’s energy for airing and ventilation of the thousands of holiday homes on the West coast of Jutland, - houses that were left empty and unheated for long periods - houses with damp problems, mould and bad odours - houses that left their owners with discomfort, lots of work and expense. He wanted a system that would be safe, simple, without the need for radiators, water and/ or mains electricity. Slowly but surely, the first Solarventi model came together.

How it works The principle behind Solarventi is simple: a small, built-in, solar cell powers a 12V fan that is connected to an air vent, a control unit and an on/ off switch.

Whenever the sun shines, the air in the solar panel is heated and the fan, receiving power from the solar cell, introduces warm, dry air into your home at the rate of 20 to 100 cubic metres per hour.

The initial models were more than capable of keeping the cottages dry (and ventilated), even with the limited sunshine hours available in Denmark during the winter season. Since that time, the technology has really come along in leaps and bounds. Now, more than 20 years later, the 3rd and 4th generation Solarventi have exceeded all expectations.

In Southern Europe, Solar-

Building Services General La Noneix

Construction & Property Services

Established, Professional and Personal Building Services. Fully registered with décennale insurance covering all works.

●Renovations ●New builds ●Roofing ●Stonework ●Carpentry ●Ground works

Large or small projects undertaken - please view our website.

Contact: Paul or Joanne Rands

05.55.66.44.06 www.lanoneix.com Paul.rands@orange.fr SIRET: 501 144 596 00019

Scaffolding Hire

Large stock Rapid response Good rates for long & short term hire Erected or self-erect Delivery or collection All areas covered Call Dave:

venti is not only used for ventilation/dehumidification purposes; with far more winter sunshine hours, it also provides a substantial heating supplement. Several technical and governmental studies show that incoming air temperature can be increased by as much as 40°C. A DIY Solution?

The installation process is very straightforward and should only take two or three hours. All that is needed is a drill, hammer and chisel to make a hole in the wall. Roof installations are also possible. In fact, the Solarventi was originally designed to be a DIY product - in Scandinavia it still is.

There are no electrical or water connections and it can be safely left running, even when the property is empty. Solarventi requires no maintenance

Davis & Davis

30 years' Experience in Construction, Renovation & Project Management Quality Workmanship Guaranteed Internal/ External Developments Barn conversions, loft conversions, new-build, drylining, plastering, rendering, spray rendering, tiling, installation of kitchens/ bathrooms, painting, carpentry, replacement doors & windows, velux installation, groundworks, landscaping, decking & much more...

No job too big (or small). Give us a call for a free competitive quote.

05 55 60 29 50 / 06 04 13 30 57 email: davis-davis@sfr.fr

Based Arnac-la-Poste - Covering depts 87, 23 & 19 Siret: 498 203 652 00017

WASTE REMOVAL SERVICES • house/barn clearance (pre sale / post sale) • garden/land clearance • dechetterie runs • rubbish removal

Specialist equipment available: • tractor with flail mower, rotavator, etc.

• vehicle with 1.5 tonne crane

05 55 37 45 35

06 42 73 83 37

wasteremovalmultiservices@gmail.com

Your advert here

Dave Cardwell - Builder

siret: 795 207 067 00013

05 55 41 17 76

siret 532 981 198 00015

05 55 98 24 12

See our Display Ad pg 17 Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

- if the property is unoccupied during the hot summer months, then it can be left running at low speeds for ventilation and dehumidification purposes or simply switched off.

With a range of panel sizes, and the option for wall or roof mounting, Solarventi is suitable for all types of buildings, caravans or even boats!! Following the patenting of its design in 2001, Solarventi has only recently been actively commercialized. Over the last six years, Solarventi units have been installed in more than 24 countries and demand is increasing rapidly. From Greenland to Australia, Solarventi is finally getting the recognition it deserves. ■ Units start from €490 TTC. Several ex-demonstration models available at reduced prices, call for details.

Masonry & More

General building Renovation , Roofing Reliable, good quality work 30 years exp Scaffold Hire Martin Sprague

05 55 61 93 07

martin_sprague_1@ hotmail.com SIRET: 531 768 182 00010

Stephen Cullinane & Son

SOLARVENTI - Available in the Limousin From Harlequin Developments Tel: 05 55 68 67 56 Mobile: 06 06 60 46 97

KWIKSTAGE Scaffold Hire DIY or Full Scaffold Service See our website or phone for details

05 55 89 69 46

www.entreprisehines.com robert.hines@orange.fr

RSW Entreprises

Fosse Septiques/Micro stations

05.55.80.00.57

MINI DIGGER

Harlequin Developments

see main ad - pg 11

est. 2007

All aspects of renovation and refurbishment, big or small, undertaken.

Kitchens fitted and tiled Replacement doors and windows Parquet flooring Oak framed porches Plasterboard and Insulation

05.55.68.67.56 06.06.60.46.97

• 10yr Décennale Assurance • Full house/barn renovation • Plasterboarding walls and ceilings • Tape and Jointing • Kitchen Installation • Roofing works • Carpentry • Patios/Decking

harlequindevelopments@live.com www.harlequindevelopments.com

Tel: 05 55 69 28 12 Mob: 06 73 18 63 47 Email: pauljones@orange.fr www.pauljonesrenovation.com

sales@thebugle.eu 05 55 41 17 76

siret no: 495 067 829 00020

See Main Ad - pg 17

A. Wright

GODSON

Experienced and fully registered artisan, offering a high quality finish and service

05.55.78.62.29

john.bonella@gmail.com

See our Display Ad - pg 8

Carpenter & Joiner 06 35 12 10 66

Paul Jones Renovation

Mini-Digger with driver

SIRET: 503 169 237 00016

From the foundations to the roof Established 9 years in France 05 55 81 00 53 - see pg 4

Travaux Publics www.fossepro.com 05.55.62.61.12 - pg 3

Building Services Groundworks

SIRET: 494.501.067.00016

With driver for hire

Work to High standard Concreting work undertaken Contact Michael: Mob: 06 44 24 10 17

Email smeaton.diane@orange.fr Area 87, Bellac

For more information on advertising in the Bugle Business Directory, give us a call or send us an email: sales@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 05 55 41 17 76

DIRECTORY ♦ 19

FEBRUARY 2018 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

ADVERTORIAL

Is your pool losing water or just showing its age and in need of a makeover?

W

e are fibreglass lining specialists who are based in both the UK and in France, just outside Limoges.

We can take your old or leaking pool and transform it to look like new again. Using your drained down pool as a mould, we will fibreglass line the floor and walls using our specialist g.r.p. system.

This will give you a beautiful onepiece lining which is fabricated using raw materials to the exact contours of your swimming pool.

Building Services Painters/Decorators Simon Carter

Painter & Decorator Qualified craftsman with over 25 years UK

Existing coping stones need not be disturbed as we can recess and dress the lining in underneath.

Once finished this can then be heated to whatever temperature you personally prefer to swim in without the worry of sagging or damage to your new liner. Our fibreglass linings are used in hydrotherapy pools so are used to running at a high temperature.

A large number of our customers in France use our method of lining their pools as they are suitable for high summer use with their gîte businesses and can (water table permitting) be drained down fully for cleaning at the beginning of the season without the normal stretching that can occur with plastic linings. No need to alter existing fittings whether it is a tiled or liner pool.

As we all know, fibreglass has

been around for many years in the boat and car industry and has proved itself time and time again to be hard working and resilient in many applications. A fibreglass lining will give you a flexible, hard finish that will bridge cracks and problem areas which are unsightly

sales@thebugle.eu 05 55 41 17 76

Building Services Plumbing & Heating

Building Services Plasterers

experience, now based in Haute-Vienne.

Specialist services: Interior & exterior painting & decorating, wallpapering, plastering.

Web: www.sjcmontluc.fr Email: sjcmontluc@yahoo.fr siret: 792.130.932.00017

CALL KATH Painting and Decorating Interior and Exterior Colour Consultations Room Re-designs Kathleen Willis

05 55 63 53 06

kathleen.willis@orange.fr siret 802 262 35200015

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

After

New steps, Lining & Tile band

POWERFLOW A Plumber that speaks your language Honest – Professional - Affordable Servicing, Repairing & Installing gas, oil & LPG appliances An expert in cleaning and protecting heating systems to make them run efficiently using modern cleaning pumps & Thermal Imagery Call the best, flush the rest

FREE QUOTES

Tel: 05 87 19 91 50 Mob: 07 81 26 88 65

Before

Plastering Rendering Screeding Dry-lining Covering depts. 36, 23 & 18 Contact for a FREE no obligation quote Chris Andrews +33 (0)7 85 49 16 55

chrisandrews331@hotmail.com siret: 830 316 485 00010

CHRIS

THE PLASTERER A genuine plasterer French and English spoken Traditional Plastering Rendering, Stud partition dry lining Lime mortar stone pointing

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTATION

05 55 63 53 06 06 23 29 48 19 christopher.willis@orange.fr Le Bourg, 23360 Nouzerolles SIRET: 504 612 441 00015

and are hard to keep clean.

Most customers choose white or light blue, or sometimes a bespoke colour. This can be complemented with one of our digital printed tile bands, fabricated around the water line and clear coated, which then becomes integral to the fibreglass lining itself.

This will lift your pool to look like new again and can be installed over tiles, marblelite, painted or drop in liner pools and even in ground steel or plastic panelled

structures.

You could even use the opportunity to have us build you a set of quadrant steps in the corner of your pool before the new fibreglass lining to do away with your shallow end steps. ■

MUMFORD TOITURE

LA RAMONEUSE

Roofing & Plastering/ Plasterboarding Service

25+ years roofing experience All aspects of roofing, large or small 15+ years experience plastering/boarding Fully registered and insured Trading in France since 2007 Call Mark for a free quotation

info@powerflowfrance.com 23260 St Maurice pres crocq SIRET 519 624 084 00017 (est. 2010)

Building Services Roofing Eurl Réno-Gén

ROOFING SPECIALISTS All types of roofing External insulation Carpentry work Dormer windows Velux windows Zinc guttering Chimney repoints Lead flashing, etc.

Contact Phil Andrews:

Mob: 06 42 38 54 22 Tel: 02 54 30 11 20 Email: philip.andrews@orange.fr siret: 509 180 410 00011

www.fibreglass-lining.com Email: grplining@yahoo.co.uk Call Dave Roberts on +44 (0)7825 916 573

THE LADY SWEEP Established since 1986

Brush & Vacuum

05 55 44 71 44 / 06 78 60 96 16

All types of chimney

Siret No. 493 159 412 00011

Fully Insured

mumford.toiture@gmail.com

Call Ruth Clear

Building Services Sandblasting

02 54 31 48 50

Sand and Blast

Cleaning Services

www.powerflowfrance.com

05 55 67 35 02 07 69 22 26 30

Please see our website for many more photos and information:

We provide a fully operated

sandblasting

service for wood, stone and metal.

Perfect for stripping away years of grime or paint.

Contact us for a free quote, or see our website:

www.sandandblast.com

05 55 76 31 59 / 06 77 40 95 92 bobby@sandandblast.com steve@sandandblast.com SIRET: 812 727 253 00013

Chimney Sweeping • Flue ways cleared • Birds nests, vermin & debris removed • Smoke evacuation & gas tightness tests • Official certificates of cleaning issued (Certificat de Ramonage)

www.stovesellers.com

05 55 63 78 72

- P5 18mm tongue and grooved water repellent chipboard. Available in 8ft x 2ft sheets.

- C.L.S. stud work: 2.4, 3 & 4.8m lengths.

- OSB 8ft x 4ft sheets, 9mm and 18mm in stock.

- Plywood all in 8ft x 4ft sheets. External grade, suitable for construction use.

- Skirting board & Architrave in stock.

- Insulation earthwool, 100 & 150mm. R value for 100mm - 2.25.

- Rigid board insulation Xtratherm R: 40/75/80/90 &120 mm. R value for 40mm - 1.73.

Open Mon-Sat 8.30am to 6pm - www.reclamation-yard.com - Only 1km from Confolens on the D952 Ansac-sur-Vienne road

siret 504 218 454 00016

Nettoitout

Professional Cleaning Services Windows Conservatories Garden maintenance Offices

Chimney Sweeps

50,000 sq ft of covered showrooms & 2 large external display areas

06 25 61 84 95 (SMS only)

Siren: 502 409 949

For a free and personalised quote please don't hesitate to contact us on:

07 81 39 21 49 CONTINUED NEXT PAGE...

Advertise here from just €36 HT / month

05.55.41.17.76 sales@thebugle.eu

20 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2018

Advertising in The Bugle Business Directory Advertising your business couldn’t be easier. Text only, boxed listings are available in our Business Directory from just €12.50/month.

Alternatively, why not spotlight your business with an Advertorial, available from 1/6 Page (€50 HT) up to Full Page (€300 HT).

Both Directory Adverts and Advertorials represent a cost effective way to put your brand in front of more than 30,000 pairs of eyes each month!!

For more information on any of our advertising options, please feel free to give us a call on 05 55 41 17 76 or send an email to sales@thebugle.eu

6-Month Contract

12-Month Contract

Small b&w Directory Ad

€100

€150

Large b&w Directory Ad

€130

€195

Small Colour Directory Ad

€140

€210

Large Colour Directory Ad

€180

€270

All prices exclude TVA (20%)

Large Directory Ad 46mm x 71mm (Actual Size) 45 words max Small Directory Ad 46mm x 46mm (Actual Size)

30 words max

Directory Advertising is available either in black and white or colour, and in either small (30 words max) or large (45 words max) format.

Directory adverts may only contain text (small logos may be allowed when supplied). The minimum contract length is 6 months.

Advertising is payable on publication. All prices are HT.

WEBSITE No6 DESIGN

Cleaning Services

Food & Drink

before

MIMI HOME CARE Bilingual home care near Guéret (23) - Cleaning & Ironing - Grocery shopping - Tutoring (for children under 11) - Baby-sitting (for children over 3) - Pet-sitting - Help for elderly or impaired people (walks, meals, conviviality...)

- English and French lessons - House maintenance during absence (watering the plants, emptying mailbox, looking after pets...)

Tel: 06 21 33 60 99 Email: mimihomecare23@yahoo.fr siret: 818 225 526 00016

- Free quote / discussion / meeting / assessment of current site during

- Refresh / redesign your existing site - Create new one page / multipage / shop / gite booking system site afterwards

- Update your own site if you like!

- Enjoy a fully maintained site - Enjoy full website support contact@no6.co

06 38 75 32 97

www.no6.co Siret: 80493524500014

For all your TV and satellite installations and repairs (Sky TV, Internet etc.)

Call Patrice:

06.79.07.91.56

Computers, Satellites & Web Design

libre.antenne87@gmail.com Fast dependable service Based Séreilhac (87) siret: 353 613 227 00035

Dish Satellite GOODWIN Bigwww.bigdishsat.com SATELLITE 05 55 78 72 98

SALES & INSTALLATION OF ALL SATELLITE SYSTEMS & AERIALS. FAULT FINDING.

see main ad - pg 15

Dept 23 & surrounding areas

sales@thebugle.eu 05 55 41 17 76

Tel: 05 55 62 05 61 Mob: 06 52 38 67 65 Email: garygoodwin@wanadoo.fr siret: 453 067 910 00019

26, Ecurat 23150

Le Restaurant Ecurat Atelier d'Art du Jardin

Restaurant du soir.

Our menu changes monthly.

Special occasions and parties welcome.

Fish and chips and mushy peas €11,50 the last Friday of each month.

Open Mon - Sat * Reservation in advance please* For more information:

Allo Allo

Petticoat Lane 5 Rue Nationale – 16150 Chabanais

1 rue Saint-Roch, Le Grand Bourg

Tel: 05 45 29 03 99

see main ad - pg 6

Visit: www.petticoatlaneshop.com E-mail: sales@petticoatlaneshop.com English groceries, Fresh Beef & Steaks (to order only), Gammon Steak, Bacon, Sausage & Cheddar Cheese.

Wide range of frozen items including vegetarian.

Traditional English beers, Sherries & Wine.

Cards for all occasions.

Opening hours: Tue - Sat, 10am- 6pm

Rés: 06 73 37 45 01

Restaurant AUX CEPES LA veytiZoU, 87130

Tel: 09 64 00 14 51 see main ad - pg 9

tel: 05 55 81 31 85

Mandys-curry-2-go

Your advert here

2km from Chénérailles and the Chateau Villemonteix.

For menus and venues:

05 55 41 17 76

email: ecurat123@hotmail.com

Try Something Different

Chez Jacques Marsac (23) • Cosy atmosphere • Speciality Crêpes • Large burger menu • Around 115 single malt whiskies • Selection of bottled British ales • Book corner, pool table • "Mouclade" nights • Curry nights

05 87 40 02 83 closed Wednesdays

Visit us and compare our prices

Mobile Curry Take Away

www.mandyscurry2go.com Follow us on facebook e : mandyscurry2go@gmail.com

m : 07 70 39 12 23

Parties 20+ & events catered for

Garden Services

siret: 498 199 306 00016

Le Creusois

Sherrie et Steve Jardiniers

Les Genêts, Azerables

Gardening

Bar/Restaurant

High quality British & French food at reasonable prices.

Menu du Jour €12, Traditional Pub Food, Vegetarian dishes, Childrens & Snack menus also available

All general

Undertaken

No job too small. Reasonable prices.

Contact Steve or Sherrie

05.55.63.90.79

www.lecreusoisbistro.com

M: 06 58 72 03 43 E: sherrieetstevejardiniers@gmail.com

SIREN: 483 988 853

Siret No: 811 161 835 00001

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 05 55 41 17 76 Wanted Experienced shopfitters Experienced shopfitters required for installs all across France.

Granulés du Limousin

Joiners, electricians and labourers also required.

Email: contact@reactive-resource.com

Très Jolie

Ladies fashion accessories Beautiful scarves, purses, handbags, jewellery & gifts

(See Notice Board for where to find me)

Paula Bonella

05 55 78 62 29 06 04 08 29 53

tres.jolie1@orange.fr Facebook: search for “Tres Jolie Milhaguet” siret 753 125 061 00014

DIRECTORY ♦ 21

Spring Clean your Finances!

I

t’s that funny time of year when we are a month into the New Year, all the celebrations are truly behind us and normal service has resumed, or at least it should have!

Now is also the time that many of us take stock – some decide to move house, some just spruce up and get that DIY or painting done that you’ve been staring at for the past few months, but how many of us take the opportunity to take stock of our finances and get that annual review done?

All too sadly, I am speaking to people that have either inadvertently left their finances to ‘sort themselves out’ or taken the time to do it, but have been subsequently left to their own

GARDEN SERVICES Paul Brown

All gardening work: Grass Cutting Strimming Hedge Trimming General Maintenance

devices and not reviewed in a long time.

Some things are changing constantly, both locally and globally that can have consequences on our situations and that we maybe don’t truly understand and then other things remain constant.

In this sense I can’t stress enough how important it is to regularly review your life from a financial perspective.

Our all too busy lifestyles mean that time is a precious thing and when you do sit back and take time to look at your finances you may have pensions that may be in several places and investments and savings that may be in more than one country it seems like a daunting task to begin. However, this is possibly one of the most important things in your life – your future, that you are neglecting and the reality of leaving them in a ‘safe’ place may have disastrous consequences when you reach an age when you actually need to rely on these, if you haven’t already.

The harsh reality is that most investments are not actively managed

Très Jolie

Gifts & Crafts

Ladies fashion accessories 05 55 78 62 29 / 06 04 08 29 53 see main ad pg 20 26, Ecurat 23150

Dept 23 & Surrounding Areas

Atelier d'Art du Jardin

Tel: 05 55 89 57 40 brownpaul006@gmail.com Siret: 483 059 242 00030

Mon Chic Cottage

Cross Cut Tree Surgeons

Le Dorat 87210

for all your tree requirements pawsonbeverley4@gmail.com 05.55.60.62.14 / 06.78.38.42.44

see main ad below

T.A.D. 23

(Travaux d'Accès Difficiles)

All aspects of garden maintenance • Tree Surgery • Garden Clearance • Strimming • Pruning

T: 05 55 81 14 51 M: 06 85 78 81 32 siret: 788 438 562 00019

Your advert here 05 55 41 17 76

and in the ever-changing environment that we currently find ourselves in this could have disastrous consequences meaning that your ‘safe’ investment has underperformed the marketplace and in the medium/long term this can have huge consequences on their performance and growth. Even just leaving your savings in your UK bank, whether it be an ISA or otherwise, if it is not achieving interest at the current rate of inflation, i.e. above 3% the real value of your savings is being eroded.

Add to that constant changes made by the government and your savings, investments and pensions could be a massive disadvantage to you without you even knowing.

Despite Brexit people are still moving around the world, whether it be for work, sun, a happy retirement or even love and we work with some of the world’s largest institutions that recognise that and offer solutions that can consolidate your investments into one safe location, in a fully French tax compliant way, allowing you to also easily access and easily transfer them

Tea Room

www.monchiccottage.com Chalk Paint, Little Greene Paint, Fat Quarters, Annie Sloan Paint Workshops

Artisan art for your garden

2km from Chénérailles and the Chateau Villemonteix

Wed-Fri 10h-16h

tel: 05 55 81 31 85

Tel: 05 87 77 95 59

email: ecurat123@hotmail.com

Ivan Petley

3D Puzzle Maker Handmade, fully interlocking, multi-layered 3D puzzles from just €9.

Keyrings €2 plus other unique gift ideas.

Customisation and personalisation possible.

Come and visit the workshop by appointment.

Tel: 05.55.80.29.98 Les Bregères, 23150 St-Martial-le-Mont alison.petley@wanadoo.fr

'ROUSSIS MAID'

HAND-CRAFTED CARDS AND APRONS All products made in France.

Cards also available at Carole's Hair Stylist at Le Buisson, near Saint-Bazile.

Email for more details: ellinghamroam764@yahoo.com See Notice Board for details of where you can find us at local markets.

Send an email to sign up to the newsletter

Tel: 06 86 89 81 02 siret 528 539 448

Handholding Services

back to the UK if that is your next destination.

Whether in retirement, or still aiming that way, our hard earned savings need to work harder than ever for you now and not against you, to help you enjoy the life in France that you moved here for.

Not everyone has a huge amount of savings, but whatever you have needs protecting, so please do not hesitate to get in touch to see if I can help you do that and give you some straight forward advice to get that ‘Spring clean’ sorted and move forward for a positive year ahead.

All initial consultations are without obligation or cost..

If you would like to arrange an independent, professional and impartial consultation, please contact me by email: Rosemary. sheppard@blacktowerfm.com or call me on 06 38 86 99 70. Blacktower Financial Management has over 30 years’ experience helping expats to make sure that their money works for them.

The above information was correct

The Advice Service Tel: 05 55 68 76 46 see main ad - pg 2

For more information on advertising in the Bugle Business Directory, give us a call or send us an email: sales@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity.

Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) through whom we have a registered branch and passport for financial services in France. License number 00805B.

Osteopathy & Acupuncture Linda & Paul Bodimeade

Back, Neck, Joint Pain, Arthritic conditions?

Anxiety, Headaches, Sports Injuries?

Insomnia, Stress, Sinus, Hayfever?

Based in Châteauneuf-la-Forêt (87130)

Tel: 09 52 32 34 87 or 06 95 46 25 38

lindabodimeade@eircom.net paulbodimeade@eircom.net

siret: 791 847 429 00010

ADVERTORIAL

siret: 793 539 826 00016

FEBRUARY 2018 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Mobile hairdresser Grand-Bourg & surrounding area

Call Teddy:

06 11 96 19 78- pg 12

Your advert here

sales@thebugle.eu 05 55 41 17 76

05 55 41 17 76

French lessons & handholding services

Health & Beauty

House Clearance

A HELPING HAND

COUNSELLING

Sophie Arsac

05 55 89 15 74 - pg 14

Translation/interpretation Dealing with utilities/banks Permis de construire Sourcing/supervising artisans Notaire/tax/hospital meetings

05 55 62 50 38

Lesley Kidd MSc

UK Reg. Counsellor & Psychotherapist Senior Accred. MBACP 548379

• French Reg. Conseille de Vie & Coach • Based on borders of 87-19-23 • Meet in person or via skype

05 55 38 33 35

Jonathan Critchley jcritch.7@gmail.com

lesleykidd@hotmail.co.uk

siret: 792 285 025 00013

SIREN: 818 604 654

debarrasser87

House Clearance Specialists www.ferraille87.com see main ad - pg 17

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE...

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 05 55 41 17 76

Cross Cut Tree Surgeons

for all your tree requirements 30+ years experience Free quotes and advice We will not be beaten on price or standard of work Reliability guaranteed Fully qualified arborist - Fully insured Covering depts: 87, 23, 86, 36, 19 & 16

pawsonbeverley4@gmail.com

05.55.60.62.14 / 06.78.38.42.44

siret: 530 840 958 00017

22 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2018

ADVERTORIAL

Online radio station for English-speaking expats Ex-patradio.com is an online internet radio station, which launched live on 21st March 2016. The station is designed for English-speaking expats around the world.

The aim is to have a variety of shows, ranging from chat shows through to music programming, covering a full spectrum of musical tastes.

Our shows include: • ‘The Golden Oldies’ with Mick Hennell, featuring tracks from the 50s and 60s • ‘The Beat Goes On’ with Steve Bell, showcasing new expat bands, musicians and singers • ‘The Blend’ with Ira, our American presenter, with the best of Creole and Swamp music through to rare blues cuts • ‘The All Day Special’ with station founder, Dave Hailwood • ‘The Roast Beef’ with Wayne Allen, also “Nashville Calling” • ‘The Retro Chart Show’ with Dave Mac • ‘In Bed with the French’ Talk Show with Christine Caldi • ‘Country Classics’ & ‘The Nostolgia Club’ with David Sibbald • ‘Bridget’s Mix’ with Bridget Waterhouse

sales@thebugle.eu 05 55 41 17 76

• ‘Classical Gems’ with Bridget Waterhouse • ‘Digital Blues’ with Ashwyn Smyth • ‘The Culture Gap’ with Vincent • ‘Soul Time’ with Max Morrison • ‘Essential Rhythms’ with Peter Simmons • ‘Musicial Memories’ with Sir Owen Gee • ‘Sunday Bandstand’ with Chris Helme • ‘Writers Salon’ with Hazel Manuel • ‘The Message Kids’ with Expat Kids • And lots more new shows coming soon!

Our live “Coffee Morning” chat shows with station founder, Dave Hailwood (an expat from the UK) and our regular guests from around Europe. We feature regular topics such as women’s issues, gardening, sport, travel, cooking and schooling... in fact anything that affects expats.

Language Services

Pest Control

Central France Pest Control

Insurance & Finance

Dératisation, Déinsectisation, Désinfection The Spectrum IFA Group

02 48 60 83 72 / 06 74 33 02 38

Tony Farrell

www.applicateur3d.com

Independent Financial Adviser

Email: info@applicateur3d.com

05 55 89 57 94 - see pg 9

Blevins Franks International tax and wealth management advisers

www.blevinsfranks.com

Curative and preventative

AmiLangues

Administrative support www.amilangues.fr

See our main ad - pg 15

06 37 08 92 09 - see pg 13

Blacktower Financial Managment Group

Jenny Homer BA hons, PGCE Proud or ashamed of your French?

Make a real difference in 2018

Rosemary Sheppard 06 38 86 99 70 - pg 13

HiFX

International money transfer

www.hifx.co.uk For more information on advertising in the Bugle Business Directory, give us a call or send us an email: sales@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

My lessons, held in Eymoutiers: • help you to speak and understand better • focus on real life, at the vet's, dinner invites, emergencies, over the garden wall chat • help keep Alzheimer's at bay Small groups with a level to suit yours.

Free taster class: 3 hours and includes coffee and cake.

Email: homer.jennifer@gmail.com If you have French friends who would like to improve their English, maybe they would like to join my TEFL classes, Beginners or Intermediates.

Sophie Arsac

French lessons & handholding services 05 55 89 15 74 - pg 14

Your advert here 05 55 41 17 76

rats, mice, moles, flies, woodworm, bed bugs, fleas, wasps, hornets

La Petite Barre, 18210 Bessais Le Fromental

Our audience is encouraged to join in via email or phone with comments, questions and requests. Ex-pat Radio aims to be an international station, with an approachable local feel to it. To our surprise we also won “Best Foreign Radio Station” in France as voted by the readers of Paris publication “Expatriates Magazine”, which we won with 75% of the vote.

Email us with requests, stories, jokes, local events in your area, sports groups, and anything else. We want to hear it all...

So get typing to: expatradio.request@gmail.com Like us on Facebook: "expatradiofrance" Tweet us: @ExpatRadioCom And listen live now!

www.ex-patradio.com

Limousin Spas Alongside the amazing "Rotospa" spa range, we are now able to supply the "Durasport" & "Strong Spas" ranges of quality spas.

All our spas are manufactured to the highest standards & have full manufacturers warranty.

These spas have relatively low power requirements & are very economical.

Dave Roberts

Fibreglass Specialist Fibreglass swimming pool linings that can be applied over all finishes: tiles, marbelite, concrete, etc.

Perfect for new pools, old pools, or pools leaking water Laminated on site, one piece and seam free For more information or a quote, contact Dave: +44 (0)1903 893 451 +44 (0)7825 916 573

www. fibreglass-lining.com

see main ad - pg 5

see main ad - pg 7

Live in Limousin www.liveinlimousin.com liveinlimousin@orange.fr see main ad - pg 9

Cendrillon - Bourganeuf

www.limousin-spas.com or telephone: 05 55 63 26 20

www.limousin-bilingual.com

Numéro Siret: 752 157 610 00011

Property Maintenance Inside Out Property Services Offering a wide range of building/joinery/fencing services We pride ourselves on the quality of our workmanship, providing the client with a high quality finish at competitive prices.

Servicing 23 and surrounding areas.

Ring Dave: 05 55 64 22 98 Email: insideout288@googlemail.com Siret No. 821 348 323 00014

Property Sales

Bilingual Estate Agent in Creuse

05 55 54 95 85 - see pg 3

Houses on Internet www.housesoninternet.com

+31 (0)6 41 20 73 69

See our Display Ad - pg 3

Retail & Commerce R.S.M.DISTRIBUTION

Beds Mattresses Furniture in stock

DISCOUNT WAREHOUSE SHOP

Leggett Immobilier

Joussé (86350) - By appointment only

05 53 56 62 54

Tel: 05 49 87 67 34

www.leggettfrance.com see main ad - pg 4

Self Install Pools Beaux Villages Immobilier naturalispools.com 06 31 17 25 60

Agencies across Central France www.transaxia-bourganeuf.fr

Prices start from €3,750.

Models seat 2 to 7 people.

For more information on our range check out our website:

SIRET No. 498 544 741 00024

Pools & Spas

Transaxia

www.beauxvillages.com

Freephone: 08 05 69 23 23 see main ad - pg 12

email: ray.mole@wanadoo.fr Siret 531 167 443 00013

Eco Entrepot Get down The Shed

87230 Bussière-Poitevine

05.55.68.74.73 - see pg 6

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 05 55 41 17 76

DIRECTORY ♦ 23

FEBRUARY 2018 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Chez Amanda Depot Vente des Vêtements Dress agency and gallery, specialising in designer and high quality pre-owned clothes for women and children, together with accessories, footwear, jewellery, gift items, and hand made furniture.

8 rue Principale, St Mathieu, 87440

Email: soieetbois@gmail.com Web: www.soiebois.net Tel: 05.55 48.28.89 SIRET: 510 995 681 00010

Moulin de Tintin Furniture, interiors & gifts

www.moulin-de-tintin.com 05.55.79.57.60 - see pg 3

Stove Sellers www.stovesellers.com 05.55.63.78.72

See our Display Ad - pg 12

Transport, Removals & Storage

Bonner Prestige Classic and high value vehicle transport throughout the UK and Europe

Bonner Prestige is a dedicated vehicle transportation service offering professional vehicle transport throughout the UK and Europe.

We offer a bespoke service to suit our customer requirements.

Our fully enclosed vehicle transporter allows for vehicles to be moved securely and safe from the elements.

For more information contact Trevor Bonner:

UK: +44 (0)7871 975 859 France: +33 (0)7 69 72 44 86 bonnerprestige@gmail.com

Central France Storage

www.centralfrancestorage.com Dry, safe & secure storage Brexit Busting Prices!!

Vehicle storage options We also do internal moves!

Tel: 09 66 03 52 89 Email: lasout@live.com siret: 494 123 847 00019

SAFE GARDE Secure self storage units in Guéret

Whether you are a business or a household, we are here to make your storage a worry free experience at affordable prices.

Why not take a look at our website or give us a call... we are here to help you!

www.safe-garde.com

05 55 63 58 85

safegardegueret@gmail.com

Smart Moves For a fully insured, careful service

FORTNIGHTLY SERVICES TO FRANCE FULL OR PART LOADS WELCOME WE COLLECT FROM ALL AREAS OF THE UK AND DELIVER TO ALL AREAS OF FRANCE Please CALL or EMAIL Stephen

smartmovers@hotmail.co.uk

+44 (0)1253 725 414

siret: 821 846 318 00011

www.smartmovesremovals.co.uk

Watson European

Transition Removals

International Removals

www.watsoneuropean.co.uk see main ad - pg 4

(+33) 05 55 34 19 46

www.transitionremovals.com see main ad - pg 9

POLISH MOVERS

tel: +44 (0)208 903 9227 mob: +44 (0)7739 351 786 www.polishmovers.co.uk

MICHAELS MOVERS Removals

UK ↔ France ↔ UK Full & Part loads All size of vehicles, from Man & Van through to 18 tonne truck Storage available in the Limousin, Dordogne & Sussex UK free phone:

0800 840 3058 Mob: +44 (0)7808 338 386 www.michaelsmovers.freeindex.co.uk

Buggs Car Hire Bergerac & Limoges Airports

www.buggscarhire.com see pg 8

Affordable Moves Europewide 18m3 Van / 4.5m load length 29m3 available on request Full loads/ part loads/ single items Regular UK runs.

www.themanwithavan.info vanrouge@mail.com

(+33) 07.61.21.85.15

Your advert here 05 55 41 17 76 General

We specialize in domestic and commercial removals

We offer a moving service that will guarantee you a smooth move.

Our service includes moving from the UK to all EU countries and from anywhere in the EU to the UK. We do not charge VAT, we are fully insured.

VAN ROUGE

• Man with a van service • Friendly, Mature Service, Ex-Police • Living in Limousin, specialising in moves between UK and France • Competitive Rates • Fully Insured Please call Mick for further info

UK: 0333 022 0359 FR: 07 68 64 22 54

W: www.milenlighthaulage.co.uk E: info@milenlighthaulage.co.uk

Man & Van Transport

Genuine/Reliable/Honest Local + Europe + UK runs Now also available for House/Barn clearances!

14m3 capacity 4.2m load length English & French Spoken

09 82 12 69 73 87150 Oradour-sur-Vayres

www.frenchvanman.eu Siret 530 213 644 00012

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

Carrefour du Bois Limousin

www.chauffagebois-limousin.com 05 55 63 72 45 - see pg 20

Businesses for Sale FOR SALE Established & Profitable Gift & Home Interior Shop in the heart of Le Dorat, 87210.

For sale enquiries contact Jay:

Tel 09 62 53 75 40

Cash paid for scrap All Limousin covered Anything considered Any quantity

Tel: 05 55 37 45 35 Mob: 06 74 21 47 71 siret 532 981 198 00015

BABY/INFANT EQUIPMENT FOR HIRE

To raise funds for the SPA dog rescue centre in Guéret.

High chair, buggy, travel cot (plus mattress/bedding), changing mat, etc.

Each item will incur a hire charge of 10 euros, plus a refundable 10 euros deposit.

For more INFO or to HIRE Call Vanessa: 05 55 64 32 08 or email: eq6763@gmail.com

FOR SALE:

Proxi Supermarket In the heart of the market town of Ahun (23150) • Alimentation Générale • Tabac • Lotto/FDJ For more information call:

06 38 39 33 99

FOR SALE: Commercial Lease For a shop (all types of commerce) on main street in Limoges. Easy parking.

60m2. 2 large commercial spaces of 20m2 and 25m2 with a room to the rear kitchenette, WC. Very good condition.

Contact for more information.

Tel: 06 20 82 89 43 agnespierre.tricard@gmail.com

KICK-START YOUR BUSINESS IN 2018 WITH ADVERTS FROM €12.50 HT / MONTH SALES@THEBUGLE.EU

05 55 41 17 76

24 ♦ COMMUNITY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2018

CLUBS, CHARITIES & ASSOCIATIONS Charities The Hope Association Charity Shop 87 NEW ADDRESS: 2 rue de la Vieille Tour, 87120 Eymoutiers The shop is run by a group of volunteers with the sole aim of raising funds for abused & abandoned animals.

Opening hours: Sat 10h-13h, Wed & Fri 14h-17h, 1st & 3rd Thu morning 10h-12h.

We offer a selection of items including pre-loved clothes, jewellery, greeting cards and much more.

We are happy to accept anything in good sale condition either directly to the shop or email shopeightyseven4hope@gmail.com.

SPA Creuse The SPA Creuse dog refuge centre is based in SaintSulpice-le-Guérétois near Guéret and provides an invaluable service to the community by rescuing dogs that otherwise would have nowhere to go.

Each year we re-home over 100 dogs which find themselves at the SPA though no fault of their own.

We have dedicated staff who work alongside a network of French and British volunteers, all of whom have one aim in life, which is to do the best they can for the dogs until they find their forever homes.

In order to do this they need to raise funds; along with walking the dogs every day, volunteers also organise fund-raising events and vide-greniers throughout the year.

We are a friendly bunch and always on the lookout for more like-minded people and so if you are interested in becoming a volunteer, making a donation, or adopting one of our lovely dogs, then please visit our website www.spa-creuse.com.

Noah's Ark Noah’s Ark is a French registered charity run by Cindy and Lauren Maasik who have spent the last five years rescuing animals and caring for them on their farm near Saint-Mathieu.

A warm welcome awaits you at their shop and tea rooms in Rochechouart, with home-made cakes, tarts, and quiches followed by plenty of tea or coffee.

For more info visit www.noahsark.fr or Facebook: Noah's Ark Tea Rooms and Brocante, 6, Rue de Poitevin, Rochechuart. Open Tues - Sat 10h-17h. Tel: 05 87 41 26 16.

Farm visits for animal adoption are welcome at La Ferme, Les Dognons, 87440 Maisonnais-surTardoire. Tel: 05 55 70 64 76. Email info@noahsark. com Phoenix Association Phoenix Association is a registered charity that has existed since 2001 to deal with the sad plight of the ever-increasing number of abused and abandoned animals in France.

Phoenix does not have a 'rescue centre' as such.

Sadly, many of the animals it saves have only ever known confinement and isolation, so instead, the animals are placed in foster homes all over SouthWest France while they wait for their loving and permanent forever homes. This gives Phoenix a better chance of assessing the animal in the normality and comfort of a home which leads to the virtually 100% successful adoption rate.

Phoenix is not state funded and so relies on fundraising and donations to cover the very high rehoming and veterinary costs. Phoenix is formed of a committed but fun and positive team of volunteers, and is always on the lookout for more, so if you are interested in adopting an animal, foster caring or becoming a Member, please visit the Contact page of the website at www. phoenixasso.com and www.facebook.com/PhoenixAssociationFrance Church Notices Anglican Holy Communion St. Martin's Anglican Church, in the hamlet of Moussac-sur-Gartempe, near Montmorillon 86500.

With great regret, all services from 1st November onwards, at 3:00 pm, are hereby CANCELLED. Marriages, funerals and baptisms (christenings) can still be undertaken elsewhere.

Contact: revrobertleone@gmail.com or saraheleone@gmail.com Monthly Worship in English If your journey of life has brought you here to France, why neglect your journey of faith? We look forward to giving a warm welcome to everyone from whatever Christian tradition (or none) on the 3rd SUNDAY of the MONTH at 3pm. Where?

At the Temple in Thiat (in the north of the Haute-

Vienne) – we are part of the Parish of the BasseMarche of the Eglise Protestante Unie de France.

The Temple is on the main road close to the Mairie.

After worship there is tea/coffee and cake – and a chance to chat.

If you want to know more contact Rev Derek Lawson on 05 55 68 53 03 or Rev Stephen Sawyer on 05 49 84 33 86.

English-speaking church services Guéret Come as you are... This is an invitation to join us at our CHURCH SERVICE IN ENGLISH. Whether you have a faith or would just like to attend a church service you are welcome at 3pm on the 2nd Sunday of each month at the Eglise Evangélique, 9b Place Bonnyaud, Guéret, 23000.

We welcome all who want to join a group of English-speaking Christians for a time of worship and learning together. Children are very welcome.

For more details contact Jim & Pat Scott on 05 55 67 54 78 / email scott.james@neuf.fr The International Free Church in Creuse The church presently meets at 10, La Chaudronnière, a small hamlet mid-way between Crozant and Eguzon. Sunday worship meetings are held on the first and third Sundays of the month at 10.30am. Fellowship meetings, for mid-week prayer, bible study and discussion are at the same venue every Thursday at 7.30pm. For further information contact Eric Sutton tel 05 55 89 26 62 Fitness & Fun

DISCOVER BRIDGE 2nd edition After the success of the first edition, Saint-Junien Bridge Club is organising a class for beginners from Monday 19th to Friday 23rd February 2018, from 10 am to 12:30 pm in the club house (4 rue des Binlaudes, 87200 Saint-Junien).

Price: 50 euros.

For further information or to register please contact Mireille Drouet Martin on 06 30 20 45 13 or at mireille.drouetmartin@orange.fr.

Tutors are English speaking.

The club proposes weekly tournaments on Mondays and Wednesdays at 2:15 pm and Thursdays at 6 pm.

INSPIRATIONS – Art & Craft Group We are a small group of artists and crafters who meet every Friday from 2 pm until 5 pm at the Salle Barbara, Droux 87. There is no formal tuition but we all help, advise and encourage each other to perfect our skills and learn new ones. New members welcome, from absolute beginners to experts. Materials can be supplied for try-outs.

Please contact: inspirations.droux@gmail.com Art Classes Mainsat The class runs every Thurs (term time) at the Salle du temps libre in Mainsat from 14h-16h.

We do a little bit of everything: pencil, charcoal, watercolour, pastel, acrylics, oils and sculpture, etc. Contact Susan Neill for more info: Tel 05 55 83 12 18 / Mob 06 87 99 31 37 / Email thomas-susan. neill@hotmail.com La chance de danser Dance classes for adults in La Souterraine.

Tue Bums & Tums - Stretch & Tone 10:00-11:00.

Salle des fêtes Saint-Léger-Magnazeix; Tue Tap from 19:00-20:00. Salle des fêtes La Souterraine; Wed Beginners ballet from 10:30-11:30. Salle de danse La Souterraine. €5 per class.

For more info contact Jan Pitwell on 09 66 96 44 85 or at lachancededanser23@gmail.com.

Photo Club La Meteorite (87) Rochechouart All welcome, all levels; we meet fortnightly at 3-5pm on Sundays. Field trips, friendly critique, conversation and competitions (to contact and more details go to photoclubmeteorite.org).

Chabanais Bowls Club Recognised as the premium short mat bowls club in the Charente, Chabanais Bowls Club offers gentle, convivial exercise throughout the

Managing Editor: Steve Martindale Editor-in-Chief: Steve Martindale Registered Address: Les Quatre Chemins

23150 St-Yrieix-les-Bois SIRET: 514 989 748 00017 Printed by: Charente Libre

16340, L’Isle d’Espagnac Monthly circulation: 15,000 copies All copyright, unless stated otherwise, is reserved to The Bugle. Reproduction in whole or part of any text without permission is prohibited. Dépôt légal à parution.

forthcoming winter months, together with a social programme to suit all tastes. Our next major event will be our annual Christmas, presentation lunch.

Due to the unique construction of the salle des fêtes at Chabanais, the home of our short mat bowling club, it is possible to slide back an entire wall to let in the light and the air, without compromising on our flat playing surface. We play every week on a regular basis with just a few days off around the end of the year.

The salle also allows us to lay out up to 5 mats so there is lots of room for both all current members and to be able to warmly welcome any new ones that want to join our friendly, but competitive club.

Sessions of 3 hours duration take place every Tuesday, starting at 10 am and every Thursday commencing at 2 pm with a 30 minute tea/coffee break during each session.

The Club has all the equipment that new bowlers require to get started or old hands can use their own indoor or outdoor bowls to enjoy a relaxing and enjoyable game.

And it’s not expensive, with a one-off joining fee of 10 euros, a yearly fee of 25 euros and a rink fee of just 2 euros. The first two ‘sampler’ sessions are free, only the rink fee to be paid.

Currently all our members are English, it is difficult to encourage the French to roll a ball, most being senior citizens, many bringing over their skills from the UK. If you are considering taking up the sport again, trying your hand at something new or simply coming along for a closer look, just pop down when our sessions are on or contact Brian on 05 45 71 14 06 or Terry on 05 45 89 14 05.

Drawing and painting classes At Saint-Junien with the CAPCC (art club). All levels welcome, every Monday and Thursday, English and French spoken, friendly atmosphere, materials provided by the club. 45€ / half-term.

Contact: lindsaycox@club-internet.fr for brochure with full details.

Keepfit (Bonjour La Forme) Held at Saint-Sulpice-les-Champs in the Salle Polyvalente: Mon evening at 19.45-20.45 for cardiac and muscle exercises; Thurs afternoon at 15.00-16.00 for gentle exersises.

All are welcome to join us. Contact Jeanette 09 62 58 49 03 (Eng) or Catherine 05 55 66 67 30 (Fr) for more info.

Tai Chi, Pakua & Qigong Tai Chi, Pakua & Qigong classes organised by the ACAMIES (association culturelle d'arts martiaux internes et d'exercices de santé). Wed: Jarnages, 18h30-20h, Salle Polyvalente. Thu: Bétête, 19h-20h30, Domaine de Tournessac. Individual classes, courses, massage & treatments also available. Contact: 06 48 00 02 07 http://acamies.e-monsite.com Keep Fit Amazing abs, breathtaking buttocks! Come and join our group at the CAPE in Pontarion. We are all ages, all sizes, men & women, but are serious about keeping fit.

Our “monitrice” is English and will happily provide bilingual instructions. We meet every Thursday at 8p.m. in Pontarion Town Hall, for a one-hour workout.

Come for a free trial, or call 05 55 64 98 87 or 06 32 42 95 68 for more details.

Indoor Bowling at Oradour-sur-Vayres If you already play or have never tried indoor bowling then come along to a meeting. It's great fun and easy to play. If you have never played it before we will show you how. We meet every Monday evening starting at 18.30 hrs at La Chapelle, avenue des Chapelles, 87150 Oradoursur-Vayres. Come and try it - it's free. If you require further information or directions to our venue please contact me - Email: Oradour-Bowling@ gmx.com or telephone: 05 55 08 41 75 Zumba!

Regular zumba classes across depts 36, 18 & northern 23. For more info tel 06 58 37 17 04 email evezumba36@gmail.com and for details of classes visit www.zumbazumba.fr Indoor Short-mat Bowling at Cussac 87150....and now Outdoor too!

As the premier bowls club in the Haute-Vienne, we are going from strength to strength with members seeking us out and travelling great distances to continue their love of bowls or simply to 'try us out'. Our reputation as a "very friendly and welcoming club" goes before us. If you've never tried the game, just come along and take a look; there is far more to it than first appears!

We are a formally registered association within the

Directeur: Steve Martindale Rédacteur-en-chef: Steve Martindale Siège: Les Quatre Chemins

23150 St-Yrieix-les-Bois SIRET: 514 989 748 00017 Imprimé par: Charente Libre

16340, L’Isle d’Espagnac Tirage mensuel: 15,000 copies Tous droits réservés. Toute reproduction, totale ou partielle, des articles et illustrations du présent numéro est strictement interdite. Dépôt légal à parution.

The Bugle cannot accept responsibility for the claims of advertisers or their professionalism. We strongly advise readers to verify that the company you are dealing with is a registered trading company in France or elsewhere in the world.

French system and benefit from assistance from our local commune by use of a wonderful indoor venue. AND NOW...the use of a synthetic outdoor court where Flat-green, Crown and Short-mat can be played. Just imagine the summer evenings with a drink in your hand, watching fellow bowlers enjoying the quiet of village, interrupted only by the 'click' or 'tunk' of bowl against bowl!

Our regular sessions indoors are Wednesday evening at 8pm and Thursday Mornings at 10am.

Outdoor sessions will be arranged as the spring arrives so keep in touch. Serious bowlers and beginners are welcome - club bowls are available for use.

For further information contact cussacbowlsclub@gmail.com or telephone 05 55 78 66 45.

Association Equilibre, le mouvement du corps Yoga for all levels: Tue 18:30 Aubusson, Pied au plancher (Espace Philips); Wed 18:30 Vallière, salle polyvalante. Pregnancy/Post Natal: Tue 17:00 Aubusson, Pied au Plancher (Espace Philips) For further information tel 06 83 24 62 72 or visit www.spaequilibre.yolasite.com Chinese Gym & Karate Mondays & Thursdays at the DOJO, Allée JeanMarie Couturier, Aubusson. For more info tel 06 08 92 30 53.

Tai Chi at Boussac and La Châtre Tai Chi classes in Boussac (Tue 18.15 - 19.45) and La Châtre (Thu 18.15 - 19.45). The first two lessons are free, the subscriptions are 36 euros per month and members can go to both venues having paid this fee. The style is that of Yang. All ages and abilities welcome, but folk must bear in mind that they will be on their feet, doing the equivalent of what one might classify as light exercise, for about an hour and a half. For more information contact 05 55 65 08 20.

Gym Bien-être Would you like to be more supple? Come to our gym class on Thursday mornings from 10.30 to 11.30 am, where we do gentle exercises to help all our muscles and joints. The classes are held in Rochechouart in the Capitole building, upstairs. Our group is part of a National Federation of Gymnastics (EPVG www.sport-santé.fr) For information contact 07 83 22 38 63 or gymvolontaire-087168@epgv.fr Learn to Meditate Learn to meditate and meet other like-minded people. Simple mindfulness technique. Dechen Choling, Le Mas Marvent, St-Yrieix-sous-Aixe, 87700. Also, ongoing regular group meetings and events. Contact tel Christina 05 55 03 82 01 www. dechencholing.org Gardening Les petits jardiniers du Limousin L'association des petits jardiniers du Limousin started in 2010 with the aim 'to provide and promote opportunities for local people to develop their interest and knowledge in horticulture and gardening and any related topics'. Since that time we've held monthly meetings on many different subjects, visited gardens and garden related industries such as a distillery, a paper mill and a commercial vegetable grower to name but a few. It's about meeting people with like-minded interests, sharing plants and seeds, learning more about growing plants, flowers, fruit, vegetables and trees in our region and having some fun along the way.

We meet on the third Thursday of each month (excluding February) in the Mairie at St-Amandle-Petit (between Eymoutiers and Peyrat-leChâteau). Meetings start at 2.30 pm and visit timings will be advised. Do come and join us, we're a friendly group and our meetings are open to everyone. For more information contact us at pjlimousin@gmail.com.

Agenda for 2018: Feb - No meeting; 15 Mar - Growing unusual vegetables – pots, compost and seeds provided; 19 Apr - Photographing your garden; 17 May Wildflower gardening; 21 Jun - Visit to The Potting Shed with a talk on planting in shady areas; 19 Jul - Pond life: how to make and maintain a pond; 16 Aug - Visit to Al Gaulia arboretum with picnic and lotus tasting session; 2 Sep - 6th Annual Show; 18 Oct - AGM followed by Pumpkins: edible and decorative; 15 Nov - Spring bulbs plus sale of bulbs; 13 Dec - Christmas party Club Liseron – Gardening Club Meets on the 2nd Mon evening of the month at 19.30 at the Salle des Fêtes in Massignac. We're a mixed bunch of English & French, who are united by a passion for gardens and gardening, sharing plants, seeds and information. For further information contact: veronique.granet@sfr.fr Aux Plantes, etc.

We are an association of independent, ethicallyminded and passionate plant producers. Our aim is to encourage consumers to know more about the plants they buy, how they were produced and their needs, thereby avoiding the disappointments that so often come with mass produced plants. It’s not just about us selling you plants - we want them to thrive and do well for you!

Current members include plantspeople specialising in unusual shrubs & trees, butterfly plants,

heritage vegetables and flowers, irises, perennials and drought-tolerant plants.

For more info contact Michelle Pierce 05 45 89 36 54 or visit: www.auxplantesetc.jimdo.com Les Jardins de Sirius Based in Pressignac, Charente, we are a small association of people who are keen on gardening.

As well as finding plants an endless source of interest, we believe that the simple fact of gardening has numerous positive benefits for health, stress, social interaction - in other words, our daily lives - and we'd like to encourage this aspect. If you'd like to get involved, have more info on the association or become a member, please contact Michelle Pierce on 05 45 89 36 54 or at unjardinenfrance@gmail.com Integration Café Franglais Organised by the Amitiés Internationales du Pays de Boussac (AIPB). Every Wednesday starting at 18h30 until 20h00 in la Maison des Associations, Quartier Pasteur, 23600 Boussac. Come and join us for an informal chat to improve your French or English with native speakers in a café atmosphere whilst enjoying a drink and nibbles. Last evening before the summer holidays will be on 5th July. For more info please call 05 55 65 03 69.

Association Rencontres Franco-Britanniques The Association Rencontres Franco-Britanniques, based in Bourganeuf, was created in January 2012 and aims to help British people, resident in the Communautés de Communes surrounding Bourganeuf, to become integrated in their communes and local life.

We organize a range of cultural and social activities for our members.

The fortnightly conversation groups are an important part of our association. At these meetings British members can improve their spoken French, and our French colleagues may improve their English.

We would very much like to welcome new people, both French and English, into the association. Our meetings and events are fun and take place in a happy and friendly atmosphere. We currently have 90 members. The annual subscription for membership is €12 per person.

For further information on the association's activities contact: Christine Gee 05 55 64 22 25 email: geeinfrance@gmail.com - www.francobrit. com Bessines-Accueil Bessines-Accueil is a group based in Bessines-surGartempe (87250) which seeks to welcome new arrivals both to the town and to the surrounding region and to assist them with integration in the community.

The group is comprised both of French and English members and meets weekly, generally on Thursday afternoons, in Bessines-sur-Gartempe, when various activities take place, all aimed at promoting a friendly and welcoming ambiance.

Through these activities, which include visits, talks, entertainment and much more, the group aims to discover and promote an appreciation of the life, the history and the heritage of the area and to help new arrivals settle.

For more details or to join please contact the President, Bernadette Ruffenach, on 05 55 76 11 19.

Les Franglais de Banize (23120) French and English people meet every Wednesday at 2-3 pm in the mairie in Banize to share English and French language and lots of laughter.

We all learn from each other, in both languages and about aspects of both cultures. In general the English try to speak in French and vice versa. As far as possible!

The meetings have been going on for seven years now but new arrivals are always welcome.

For more information please contact Anne Chadwick at lesfranglaisdebanize@orange.fr or tel 05 55 67 53 60.

Connect87 CONNECT is a group for English speakers of any nationality in the area of St-Yrieix-la-Perche.

Our Objective is to help people make friends and exchange information. We hold fun events and a Monthly Coffee Morning on the First Friday of every month at Espace Ferraud, rue du Docteur Lemoyne, St-Yrieix-la-Perche. We are a non profit making group and we are run by volunteers, there are no membership fees.

For Further information visit our website www.connect87.info or contact Nikki Evans at nikkifleurie@gmail.com or on 05 53 55 09 83.

French Conversation Group at Les Billanges (87340) We are a small group who meet fortnightly for an hour and a half on Tuesday evenings during term time in Les Billanges, 87340, close to the Creuse/ Haute-Vienne border. We are accompanied by a retired French schoolteacher and a current French teacher of English. Discussion is informal, loosely based on everyday topics, including some grammar plus general discussion. We need a few more people to help keep it vibrant and to cater for inevitable absences. The only cost is yearly membership of the local Association, about €16, which brings with it other social opportunities.

To find out more please contact Chrissy Smith at chrissysmith@talk21.com

COMMUNITY ♦ 25

FEBRUARY 2018 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu Familles Rurales in Peyrat-le-Château Association Familles Rurales now offer assistance in English and Dutch to all non-French speaking people (British, Dutch, German, etc.) concerning all kinds of administrative steps. The service is available in Peyratle-Château and surrounding communes. We will try to provide information and help you find your way in social and administrative matters. We will also do our best to help you with practical matters such as language problems, payment of bills, hiring workmen, etc. Find Heleen Tichler-Botermans at the AFR office in Peyrat-le-Château on Mondays from 9 am to 12 pm and Wednesdays from 9 am to 1 pm. You are welcome to drop in or make an appointment. www.famillesrurales.org/peyrat-le-chateau E-mail: familles-rurales.infopeyrat@orange.fr Telephone: 06 41 20 06 83 Office address: 19 avenue de la Tour, 87470 Peyrat-leChâteau Familles Rurales 2 in St-Yrieix-la-Perche Weekly courses in French for foreigners (mainly English and Dutch) living in the area. Held at five different levels, all with the same native French teacher, so it is easy to move from one class to another if you feel out of place.

Level 1 (beginners) - Mon 10h30-12h; Level 2 - Thur 10h30-12h; Level 3 - Tue 10h30-12h; Level 4 - Sat 10h-12h; Level 5 (top) - Weds 14h30-16h30.

All courses are held in Familles Rurales' premises at 1 rue de la Piscine (former swimming pool), 87500 St-Yrieixla-Perche. For more info tel 05 55 09 30 86, or Mark GRIEVES (English-speaking president) tel 06 76 64 89 94 will be pleased to answer any questions you may have.

Aubusson’s Network - International Apero Reseau We have changed our name to “Aubusson’s Network” and are now meeting at the cafe “ Les Balladins” opposite Aubusson’s Gare Routière car park. We continue to meet between 11.30 am and 1pm every Saturday.

You can contact us by phone, Catherine on 06 86 17 80 88 or email jan.senior@yahoo.co.uk We continue to meet to exchange views, make new friends, help and advise one another and help integrate newcomers. We are a friendly group of French and English who enjoy conversation in both languages.

Learning Together – Apprenons Ensemble We are a friendly club based in Rochechouart and our aim is to promote good relations amongst the local French-speaking and English-speaking community. We offer courses of tuition in English and French as well as organising social and cultural events including visits to places of interest.

For further information please visit our website www.learningtogether.moonfruit.com, email us at learningtogether87@gmail.com or telephone our President Alan Bretman on 05 55 49 08 75. We look forward to hearing from you.

The Melting Pot We are a group of about 50 people who meet regularly to discuss and propose different ideas and activities with the aim of integrating more fully with the French community.

Our meetings are held at the Ancienne Ecole in Darnac every Wednesday morning from 10h-12h, except on the first Wednesday of the month when we meet at 19h30.

Our meetings are varied and include curry evenings, quizzes, plant swops, table tennis, pétanque tournaments, BBQs and more.

Newcomers are very welcome. For more info visit: www. meltingpot-limousin.com CLE – (Charente Limousine Exchange) CLE is a not-for-profit organisation whose members form a valuable resource for the exchange of news, views, ideas and information. We lobby and work with key organisations to help protect our members' best interests, particularly when Government or other proposals threaten to impact the well-being of expatriate citizens. We organise a range of events, workshops and seminars throughout the year, plus social activities including coach trips, activity days and charity events. Our special interest groups include a Fishing Group, a Pudding Club and Gourmet Club which holds regular lunches at some of the region's better restaurants where we negotiate set menus a cut above the typical 'plat du jour' but still reasonably priced – all activities to help members make new expatriate and French friends. www.cle-france.com Email: contact@cle-france.com Tel: Barry Leech 05 49 87 19 85 Libraries & Books Open Door Association – English Language Library & Cultural Exchange Group Based in the Old Mairie at Morterolles, commune of St. Pardoux-Morterolles, we have a selection of around 5,000 books, DVDs, etc. The library is open Mondays and Saturdays from 2-5 pm. Feel free to drop in and browse, borrow, chat or enjoy a free tea/coffee.

The association organises a variety of activities throughout the year including a number of visits to places of cultural significance. In 2017 these have included vineyards, sites of historic and artistic interest and sites of natural beauty. A wider programme is currently being planned for 2018.

We welcome new members of all nationalities. For further information, visit our website on www. opendoor23.com or contact the President, Peter Edmondson, on 06 47 54 20 09 or peter.edmondson2@ orange.fr Sale of Second-hand Books, La Croisille-sur-Briance On the 18th of every month, during the monthly market at La Croisille-sur-Briance (87130), there is a sale of second-hand books (both English and French) from 9am to 12 noon, at the former restaurant in La Place, opposite the bar/tabac. All proceeds go towards the local school funds (for La Croisille-sur-Briance and St-Méard RPI).

La Souterraine English Library and Information Centre Located in the historic Porte de Puy Charraud, at 10 rue de Portail, La Souterraine, we are a lively, well-stocked

CANCER SUPPORT FRANCE Charente Plus

Grizzly

Free confidential support for Englishspeaking people touched by cancer

CSF 24 HOUR HELPLINE - 06 45 35 32 30 email: csfcharenteplus@gmail.com

Facebook : Cancer Support France - Charente-Plus English language library with almost 10,000 books and media available to borrow. We have an attractive cafe which serves tea, coffee and a range of home-made cakes. There is also a regularly changing display of works by local artists.

The library hosts a lively mixed conversation group for French and English speakers and also organises AngloFrench conversation groups in association with the Municipal library in La Souterraine. There are also a number of thriving special interest groups, such as the Gardening Group, Camera Club, Friendship Group, etc.

We also provide support & assistance in bureaucratic and administrative matters for both existing British residents as well as newcomers to the area. Whatever your interests don’t hesitate to pay us a visit and you will be made most welcome.

We are open from 9.30 am until 12.30 pm, Mon, Fri & Sat and 2 pm until 4.30 pm on Thurs.

For more info tel 05 55 89 57 62 during opening hours or visit www.englishlibrary.fr The English Library, Dun-le-Palestel The English Library, which has now been established for over 5 yrs, is situated in the Route des Rateries, beside the Bibliothèque Municipale, Parc Benjamin Bord. The library is a very welcoming meeting place, where you can come and enjoy a cup of tea, or coffee, whilst you browse through our collection of around 7,500 books, DVDs and talking books. Our opening hours are Thursdays, 10h00 – 16h00 and Saturdays 10h00 – 12h30.

Also, on the first Tuesday of every month, 10h00 – 12h00, you are invited to join us for our Club Franglais, which welcomes people from all nationalities, to chat in French, English or any language you wish(!) whilst enjoying a cup of tea, and a piece of home-made cake.

We host a range of other activities too, including the Café Philo, and Club Scrabble, More information can be found on the Entente Cordiale website at www. ententecordiale-creuse.org or email us at library. ententecordiale@yahoo.com Music Le Petit Tralala Le Petit Tralala was founded seven years ago by Sylviane Cahannier in Cluis (Indre). Until now, Sylviane has created the shows (music hall parodies) and the costumes.

The troupe is always looking for new members. There is absolutely no need to sing perfectly or dance, as most importantly we have fun.

Rehearsals are programmed in line with the date of the show and the availability of the troupe members.

There is no obligation to speak French for the songs (playback performance), but it will be a relief for Sylviane who does not speak English. However, that must not discourage you from calling her for further information! Tel: 06 09 13 46 15.

“Le Jeudi Meta Blues” Organised by the association Nessgig this takes place every 4th Thursday of the month, from 19h30 to 22h at “La Petite Charrue” pub, Le Bournazeau, Château-Chervix (87).

All music lovers who would like to share and exchange information and stories around blues, folk and rock, in French AND in English, or who might like to jam a little, are welcome.

Free admission! For more information email nessgig87@ gmail.com or tel 05 55 09 99 34.

Open Mic Night If you like music and have ever fancied getting up and having a go, why not come along to our Open Mic Night at “Le Loch Ness” in La Souterraine town centre every Friday around 8.30pm.

L'Orchestre Philharmonique de La Souterraine If you or one of your family are interested in playing in an orchestra and think your standard might be adequate do get in contact with us. We meet weekly on Friday evenings in La Souterraine (apart from the summer holidays) to rehearse. Most of our concerts are around Xmas or May-July. Our members come from all over Limousin so lifts to and fro may be possible if necessary.

Contacts: French language Marie-France Martinie 05 55 30 76 23 / English language Alan Kerr 05 55 56 34 52 The Harmonics This is our 6th season of singing as a group. Our music is varied classical, madrigals, spiritual, songs from the shows etc and we sing in French, English, Swahili, Latin - whatever the music demands. Our concerts are in support of a variety of charities including the British

Legion, L'Oregon at Civray and Retina and thus non profit making. We meet Wed 14h – 16h in the Salle d'Annexe behind the Mairie in Civray. Interested? We'd love to see you so contact: David Lee tel 05 49 87 53 93 email dave.lee@cegetel.net or Dolly Ait Boualou email sylvia.murray@wanadoo.fr Support Alcoholics Anonymous If you or someone you know has a drinking problem, there are now English-speaking meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous at Limoges, Périgueux and the recently opened meeting at Civray.

Alcoholics Anonymous is a Fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for A.A. membership and A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

For details of the meetings or other information contact Roger 05 55 76 22 65 (Limoges), Ewen 05 53 05 76 62 (Périgueux) or Angela 05 49 87 79 09 (Civray).

Other meetings in South-West France can be located on our web-site at www.aafrance.net English-speaking council surgery ...for residents of the commune of St-Léger-Magnazeix.

Every 2nd Weds in the month, an English-speaking council surgery with councillors Manuela Stroescu and Patrick Johnson will take place at the Mairie between 11am and 12pm.

L’Association France Alzheimer Dordogne Charitable organisation offering English-speaking support and guidance to anyone dealing with the dayto-day difficulties affecting those with dementia, their families and their carers and assistance with how to access the best provisions of care.

English Helpline (available on Tuesday mornings between 10am and midday): 09 64 21 40 86.

For more information email alzheimer.dordogne@ orange.fr or visit www.francealzheimer-dordogne.org Cancer Support France, Charente Plus Free confidential support for English-speaking people touched by cancer in departments 16, 17 & 86.

CSF 24 hour helpline: 06 45 35 32 30, Email csfcharenteplus@gmail.com, Facebook: Cancer Support France - Charente Plus CSF Charity Shop open at 3 rue Nationale, 16150 Chabanais (entrance opposite the mairie, directly behind Petticoat Lane – we are on the 1st floor upstairs: Wed, Thu & Fri from 10 am – 4 pm. Sorry, no books or electrical goods.

Cancer Support Haute-Vienne We offer free and confidential support to English speakers affected by Cancer in the Haute-Vienne (87) and Creuse (23). Our helpline number is 06 04 43 39 87. If you would like more information or would like to become a member or help in any other way, please contact Sue Ware 05 55 00 31 15, helpline@vienne.org or visit www.cshautevienne.org

This lovely boy is Grizzly, an 8-year-old Border Collie cross Labrador, who has sadly been at the refuge for many years.

His chances of adoption are almost non-existent as no one even looks at him.

One reason for this is that his name is not exactly appealing and conjures up all sorts of images of a snarly, aggressive dog and secondly, when you walk past his pen, that is exactly what you see, as he barks furiously at you.

The shame is, that this is his form of defence and once you get past this barrier he creates, you will find a very gentle and kind dog with lovely brown eyes, who is just afraid and needs reassurance. Once he does get to know you, his little face lights up when he sees you and he is a pleasure to be around, very well behaved, walking beautifully on a lead.

Adopting Grizzly is a big ask for anyone and he is going to need someone very special who can show him nothing but patience and kindness whilst he adjusts to a home life. He gets on well with female dogs and a well-balanced female companion could do wonders by helping him to overcome his fears.

He would also be happy to be an only dog.

If you think you you can help Grizzly then please contact the SPA de Creuse (Guéret), 21 Le Clocher 23000 Saint-Sulpice-le-Guérétois, tel 05 55 81 99 31 (www.spacreuse.com) or if you would like to speak to an English-speaking volunteer about Grizzly or indeed any of our other lovely dogs at the refuge then please email Faye at faye.jones23600@gmail.com

Epsilon

This is an urgent appeal by the SPA Guéret to help Epsilon, a beautiful Anglo French Hound cross, who is really struggling at the refuge.

His female companion was recently adopted and he is very sad and lonely and missing her so much. Every day he becomes thinner, as he is not eating and is basically shutting down. It is so terrible to see this lovely dog like this.

We really need to find him a home urgently, so if you think you can help, please contact the SPA Guéret on 05 55 81 99 31 (answering machine) or spa.gueret@orange.fr or email Faye at faye.jones23600@gmail.com

Kittens looking for a home These seven beautiful little bundles are looking for their forever homes once they are old enough to leave their Mum. They were born on New Year’s Day and there are four white and three tabby, one of which is a light tabby.

Mum is a feral cat that we rescued along with her kitten from the middle of the road; the kitten of a few weeks old was tied up in a carrier bag and she wasn’t going to leave him.

We are pleased that we are able to give Mum a safe, loving environment to raise her kittens but we urgently need to find loving homes for the seven little ones.

As much as we would love to, we are unable to keep them because we already have ten rescue cats and many other rescue animals.

If you feel you could provide the ideal home and would be happy for us to carry out a home visit then please contact Leanne & Teresa: tel 05 55 80 42 47 or email leaberry24@yahoo.co.uk.

26 ♦ COMMUNITY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2018

Mandys-curry-2-go www.mandyscurry2go.com

Curry of the month is Vindaloo Please note some areas are chilled pre-orders only

Aubusson, Chilled only! (place de la gare routière) - Thursday 1st (4 - 5.30pm) Marsac, (Chez Jacques) - Friday 2nd (6.30pm) Guéret, Gouzon and Boussac, Chilled orders only! ... Wednesday 7th (2.50pm, 3.30pm & 4.30pm) Peyrat-le-Château, & St-Léonard-de-Noblat Chilled orders only! ... Thursday 8th (12.30pm & 1.30pm) Limoges, Chilled only! Friday 9th (11am) Bourganeuf, Le Grand-Bourg, Dun-le-Palestel & La Souterraine, ... Chilled orders only! Thursday 15th (1.15pm, 2pm, 2.30pm & 3pm) Sardent, (Auberge du lac, Masmangeas) - Friday 16th (5.30pm)

Bugle Notice Board

Please contact me if you would like a chilled pre-order to anywhere that is not listed above!

All venues are weather permitting.

Please check website & Facebook for updates.

Tel: 07 70 39 12 23

Email: mandyscurry2go@gmail.com

Mon Chic Cottage

21 Place Charles de Gaulle, Le Dorat

www.monchiccottage.com

Tea Room serving home-made scones / cakes Official Stockist for Chalk PaintTM by Annie Sloan & Little Greene Taking bookings now for our New Year Annie Sloan Chalk PaintTM Workshops.

To learn the basis of using Chalk PaintTM & ask questions, join us on a workshop.

All materials included. To book contact Jay. Opening hours: Wed-Fri - 10h-16h

05 87 77 95 59

info@monchiccottage.com

Très Jolie Fashion Accessories Where to find me:

Every Wednesday - Piégut Market

Un Matin d'Avril Ladies Fashion 10% discount

for all new customers!

74bis Avenue Garibaldi, Limoges Loyalty Card Scheme Agnes looks forward to introducing you to her new urban and sportswear collections Tue-Sat: 10h00-12h00 & 14h30-18h45

RESTAURANT

Please see my facebook page... search 'Tres Jolie Milhaguet' to see what's new.

AUX CEPES

Mail order available, email for more details.

Now stocking the new Gift Shop next door to the 1-4 Euro Store in Piégut 24360

05 55 78 62 29 / 06 04 08 29 53 tres.jolie1@orange.fr

Business For Sale Established & Profitable Gift & Home Interior Shop in the heart of Le Dorat, 87210.

For sale enquiries contact Jay:

La Veytizou

On the main road (D979), Between Limoges & Eymoutiers ~~~~~~~~~

MENU DU JOUR: MON-FRI FISH & CHIPS AND A LA CARTE ~~~~~~~~~ WE ARE OPEN AS USUAL THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY: Lunchtimes: Mon to Fri until 14h Sat & Sun by reservation Evenings: Wed & Thu 18h-20h30 Fri & Sat 18h-21h ~~~~~~~~~

For more information, contact Sue: email: auxcepes87@gmail.com or Tel: 09 64 00 14 51

Tel 09 62 53 75 40

WANTED:

Ebéniste / Cabinet Maker We are looking for a skilled Ebéniste / Cabinet Maker to build a full library room in a Manor House - 87430.

Please call: 06 27 62 55 73

Bar Bistro

Petticoat Lane

Le Bon Appetit

Please Note:-the shop will be closed exceptionally on Tuesday 13th February

4 rue des Tanneries, 23210 Bénévent-l'Abbaye

sales@petticoatlaneshop.com http://www.petticoatlaneshop.com/

The bar/bistro will be re-opening shortly under new French management

5 Rue Nationale – 16150 Chabanais

Tel: 05 45 29 03 99

Many thanks to all our customers for your support!

26, Ecurat 23150

Le Restaurant Ecurat Atelier d'Art du Jardin

We are once again serving our Plat du Jour every Mon, Tue & Wed Call for more information: tel: 05 55 81 31 85 email: ecurat123@hotmail.com

Experienced keyboard player (65) seeks a blues rock band ... or would consider anything. Either musicians to form a band or a band already looking for keys. Rochechouart area.

Please contact Nick: 05 55 30 49 06

Roussis Maid

Mike and Christine will be back on the markets mid-March.

A selection of our cards and aprons are available from 1 to 4 € shop in Piegut.

If you require something different please email me and we'll arrange a special delivery. ellinghamroam764@yahoo.com

email: young.nicolas@orange.fr

06 86 89 81 02

Would you like to receive an electronic copy of The Bugle each month?

We can deliver a copy to your inbox, hot off the press

Simply email - subscriptions@thebugle.eu For more details visit www.thebugle.eu

WHAT’S ON ♦ 27

FEBRUARY 2018 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Sun 7th Jan to Sun 25th Mar Les Bistrots d’Hiver 2018 The Bistrots d'Hiver are back to liven up winter Sundays in and around the Plateau de Millevaches. Organised by the association Pays'Sage this season sees a diverse programme of music with something for everyone!!

Concerts take place in auberges and cafes across the region and take the form of an apéro-tchatche (debate on something topical or related to the territory) before lunch and an afternoon concert.

For full details visit http://www.payssage.net/ Fri 9th Feb BOUSSAC Concert Concert, organised by the association Les Musicales de la Creuzette, by Clara Hugo (soprano) and Jan Hugo (piano).

Programme: Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, Bellini... Église Ste-Anne at 8 pm. Tickets: €11; Free for Under 12s.

To reserve please contact the Boussac Tourist Office tel 06 25 25 37 02.

Sat 17th Feb DUN-LE-PALESTEL Les Puces Dunoises

NEW! Professional, monthly brocante. Place du Champ de Foire from 7h-14h.

Organised by DUNAMIC, the brocante takes place every 3rd Saturday of the month.

For more info visit dunamic.org Fri 23rd to Sun 25th Feb LIMOGES Limoges Wine Fair This expo-fair will feature over 170 winemakers and artisan producers in the food industry from all over France who will offer a selection of products of excellent quality.

Parc des Expositions, La Bastide, Boulevard Robert Schuman - 87100 Limoges.

Fri: 14h-20h, Sat: 10h-20h, Sun: 10h-19h. Entry: €6 (free for Under 18s).

Sat 3rd to Sun 4th Mar BOUSSAC Salon du Loisir Créatif Third edition of the Arts and Crafts Show known as the Salon du Loisir Créatif in Boussac at the salle polyvalente from 10 am to 6 pm on both days.

There will be 38 stands from all over France with a great choice of supplies for all sorts of DIY projects: quilting, cartonnage, scrapbooking, knitting, fabrics, embroidery, beads, pixel hobby, weaving ...

There will be a snack bar and tea room.

Entrance is €2 (free Under 18s) For more info tel 06 09 39 10 46 and 06 84 20 42 29 (for English speakers) Facebook: creationsdefeesboussac

WEEKLY MARKETS

MONTHLY FOIRES

MONDAY Evaux-les-Bains

TUESDAY

Auzances Bénévant-l’Abbaye Bussière-Poitevine Champagnac-la-Rivière Genouillac Gouzon Laurière Limoges (Le Vigenal) Peyrat-le-Château Rochechouart Royère-de-Vassivière Saint-Sulpice-les-Feuilles

WEDNESDAY

Ahun Bourganeuf Chambon-sur-Voueize Cognac-la-Forêt Clugnat Isle Le Dorat Limoges (pont St Martial) Luchapt (5-7pm) Nantiat Séreilhac

THURSDAY

Boussac Coussac-Bonneval Dun-le-Palestel Guéret Limoges Bastide et Corgnac Magnac-Laval

Oradour-sur-Vayres (except 3rd Thu) Peyrat-le-Château Saint-Sulpice-les-Champs Saint-Victurnien La Souterraine

FRIDAY

Aigurande Aixe-sur-Vienne Ambazac Bessines-sur-Gartempe Bosmie l’Aiguille (16h - 19h30) Bujaleuf Châlus (except 2nd Fri) Châteauponsac Châtelus-Malvaleix Couzeix (16h30 - 19h30) Le Dorat Felletin Limoges (place des Bancs et Beaubreuil) Nexon Pierre-Buffière Rochechouart St-Etienne-de-Fursac Saint-Sulpice-Laurière Verneuil-sur-Vienne(15h18h30)

SATURDAY

Aixe-sur-Vienne Aubusson Bellac Bonnat Bussière-Poitevine

Châteauponsac Condat-sur-Vienne Eymoutiers Feytiat Flavignac Guéret La Châtre La Jonchère-St-Maurice La Souterraine Limoges (place des Bancs et place Marceau) Le Palais-sur-Vienne Mainsat (4th Sat only) Nantiat Peyrat-le-Château Rochechouart Saint-Junien St-Léonard-de-Noblat Saint-Mathieu Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche

SUNDAY

Bessines-sur-Gartempe Blond Crocq (1st and 3rd Sun) Jarnages Panazol Peyrat-le-Château Saint-Paul St-Sulpice-le-Guéretois (3rd Sun) Saint-Vaury (2nd Sun) Veyrac (2nd Sun)

BY DATE

Aixe-sur-Vienne: 1st Fri Ambazac: 1st Wed Auzances: 2nd Tue Bourganeuf: 1st & 3rd Wed Boussac: 1st & 3rd Thu Bujaleuf: Last Mon Châlus: 2nd Thu Châteauneuf-la-Forêt: 2nd Sun Cognac-la-Forêt: 1st Tue Confolens (English Market): 4th Sat Cussac: 4th Sun Domps: 2nd Tue Dun-le-Palestel: 1st Thu Evaux-les-Bains: 1st Mon Eymoutiers: 1st & 3rd Thu Feytiat: 1st Sat La Souterraine 2nd & 4th Sat Magnac-Bourg: 2nd Sat Meuzac: 4th Mon Mézières-sur-Issoire: 2nd & 4th Mon Nexon: 3rd Fri Oradour-sur-Vayres: 3rd Thu Peyrat-le-Château: 3rd Mon Peyrilhac: 3rd Sun Pierre-Buffière: 1st Fri Royère-de-Vassivière: 2nd Tue Saint-Germain-les-Belles: last Sat Saint-Jouvent: 1st Sun Saint-Junien: 3rd Sat Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat: 1st Mon Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche: 2nd & 4th Fri

Sauviat-sur-Vige: 2nd Mon Veyrac: 2nd Sun

BY DAY 1: (prev day if public holiday): Bellac 3: Bellegarde-en-Marche 3: Châteauponsac 5: Bussière-Poitevine 5: Chénérailles 6: Bussière-Boffy 8: Compreignac 9: Saint-Sulpice-Laurière 11 (Sat if 11 is a Sun): Bessines-sur-Gartempe 13 (Sat if 13 is a Sun): Le Dorat 15: Oradour-sur-Glane 17: Mortemart 18: La Croisille-sur-Briance; La Jonchère-SaintMaurice 20: Chénérailles 21: Ambazac; Saint-Sulpice-les-Feuilles 22 (Mon if 22 is a Sun): Magnac-Laval 23: Razès; St Laurent sur Gorre 24: Nantiat 25: Blond - St Paul 26: Nouic; Rochechouart 28: Cieux 29: Laurière All Markets & Foires are in the morning unless stated otherwise. If your local market is not listed, please let us know - editor@thebugle.eu

28 ♦ WHAT’S ON

The Bugle Film Club Thursday 8th February

What? TBC (We are hoping to screen Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) Subscribe to our distribution list (see below) for details of February's film Where? Cinéma Sénéchal, 1 rue du Sénéchal, 23000 Guéret When? 19h00, Thursday 8th February How much? JUST €4

(mention The Bugle when purchasing your ticket) For details of the Cinéma Sénéchal, visit www.cinema-senechal.com Details of each month's screening will be included in The Bugle, but to receive emails about upcoming Film Club nights, please send an email to editor@thebugle.eu quoting “Film Club” in the subject line, and we will add you to our contact list.

(We promise not to send you any spam!!)

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2018