The Bugle Limousin - Feb 2019

The ethical egg company saving chickens' lives The Haute-Vienne retirement home for ageing hens, who lay ethical, organic eggs in return for their keep >> Page 3

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November 2016 - Issue #85

Limousin

Your local newspaper for life in France

February 2019 - Issue 112 - FREE!

France and Germany sign symbolic treaty President

Emmanuel

Macron

symbolic treaty in the German border city of Aachen, re-enforcing ties between the

Pétanque world rocked by drugs scandal - pg 9

two countries that were first agreed in 1963. changed hands several times over the centuries and was the residence of Charlemagne, the “father of Europe”.

Under the unsettling cloud of Brexit and with populism and nationalism on the rise across the 28-member bloc, the leaders of the two largest Eurozone economies were seeking to renew their nations’ commitment to the European project and limit the gains Eurosceptic parties are expected to make in European parliamentary elections in May. “Populism and nationalism are strengthening in all of our countries,” Merkel told French, German and EU officials at the ceremony. “Seventy-four years - a

The greatest national anthem ever? pg 14

The Bugle Business Directory - pg 18-24

>> continued on page 7

© Pixabay

A

The Jews in the Creuse during WWII - pg 4

Who really did invent the humble French fry? - page 16

and

Chancellor Angela Merkel have signed a

s Britain's exit from the EU limps towards a resolution, two of Europe's powerhouses have renewed their vows of postwar friendship by signing a bilateral treaty, aiming to show that the traditional engine driving the European project is still going strong. During an event high on symbolism, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel signed a 16-page update to an original 1963 Elysée treaty in the German border city of Aachen.

The location of the signing held its own meaning: Aachen, known as Aix-laChapelle in France, has

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I

The Bugle

used to get annoyed by the seemingly endless number of calls I would receive each day from people pretending to be working on behalf of EDF, or telling me they could help fix my Microsoft security flaw. I guess that is the danger of publishing your phone number and email address 30,000 times each month... you should see the state of my inbox! These days, since I dropped my old landline number, the problem is now just the odd text message, which is far easier to stop and block.

A new kind of pestering has reared its head recently, however: “Hello, I am from [insert media organisation here] and I am preparing a story on Brexit… I just wondered if you could talk to me about your views and how you think it will affect people living in France?”

I used to patiently answer the questions, explain that I could only speak from personal experience and then discuss what I hope will and won't happen.

But I'll be honest, these days I just politely decline the call.

This is mostly because I literally have no idea what is going to happen next! There is no logic to any of it and I gave up making predictions long ago. Before you

start to panic, I am not about to start banging on about Hard Exits, People's Votes or Back Stops... in fact, I promise not to mention Brexit again until there is something concrete to say.

So, on to safer ground - the weather! The disappearance of spam calls was due to a change of landline following a relocation westwards early last year from the Creuse department to the Charente-Maritime. It is stunning here and I walk out of my front door to picturepostcard views of rolling vines in all directions, but it didn't take me long to notice the things I missed, but took for granted, from my former home.

First of all it was the woods, forests and hills - it is rather flat around here and any wooded areas among the vines tend to be little more than small copses. Then I was surprised to find that I missed the livestock, both the caramelcoloured cows of the Creuse and the numerous herds of sheep in the Haute-Vienne. I really notice the lack of animals when I travel round this part of France!

And above all, I miss my chickens, but that's one that will be easily fixed once the weather clears up a bit!!

The end of the world it isn't not good, not bad, just different

as I've always told myself - plus we still have many friends in the Limousin and return often. I also spend at least a few days each month delivering papers far and wide in my van, so I get to enjoy a hit of the different topography, flora and fauna on offer across the region.

This last month or so, however, I have realised that I do really miss one of the things I used to complain about most often... the cold weather!

There has a been quite a lot of snow in recent weeks across France, but none of it fell on department 17 and my kids were devastated to find out that it's very rare to get much snow here.

I'm told that there is occasionally enough for a snowball, but almost never enough for a snowman. Whilst it can make getting around a bit harder, you soon get used to driving in icy conditions and there is something special about walking through a pristine layer of fresh, crisp snow... crrrmmmppphhh is the best way I can describe it in black and white. For me it really symbolised winter and I loved the fact that each season was so distinct.

But in actual fact, the slightly lower temperatures in the Creuse had one other, thenunappreciated, benefit... frost!

For at least a few months of the year I would be able to let my dog out in the morning and feed the chickens in a pair of slippers.

The ground outside the house was usually frozen so hard that there was never any risk of dirty feet and soggy socks. Here, whilst it's annoyingly still cold enough for frost to form on the car

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windscreen on a cold morning, the ground never freezes (not yet at least!) The result is the dog bringing half the garden back in with him every morning. And any expedition much beyond the back door requires a sturdy pair of wellies that feel like they've been clad in concrete by the time you stagger back, squelching loudly and a few inches taller in your muddy platform boots...

It's true what they say: you really don't appreciate what you've got 'til it's gone!

Finally, having said I won't ever mention Brexit again, I'm going to instantly return to it.

For years, the best joke I'd seen on Facebook was “Feeding five thousand people with five loaves and two fish isn't a miracle... it's tapas!”, but that has recently been replaced by “Brexit: what an overweight Yorkshire lass does to a plastic garden chair!”

Until next month!

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INSIDE this edition 3-5 Local News 6-13 National News 14 Bilingual 15-17 French Life 18-24 Directory 25 Games 25-27 Community 28 What’s On

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Huge success for ethical eggs 2019 census season gets under way

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s consumers become increasingly aware of the provenance of their food and the ethics behind its production, one group of enterprising locals has found a way to provide healthy, local eggs, whilst also saving the hens that lay them 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 was founded two years ago offering a home to retired chickens.

The ageing hens, which typically come from partner organic egg suppliers across the country, in turn earn their rent through the eggs they lay, which are sold in the shops.

Based in Coussac-Bonneval, Haute-Vienne, Poulehouse welcomed its first feathered retirees in early 2018 after successfully raising €25,000 on crowdfunding site Kisskissbankbank. The money allowed them to fund the work necessary to accept their first chickens at the former cattle farm in central France.

Just 12 months later and, having recently sold their one millionth egg, the small team of entrepreneurs have proved that creating a successful business does not mean you have to compromise on your principles. The ethical eggs, which cost around €1 each, are available from bio shops across France, and are also stocked by major retailers such as Monoprix, Franprix, Biocoop, Naturalia and some Carrefour supermarkets.

“Our project is rather simple: laying hens are typically removed after 18 months and sent to the slaughterhouse. We provide them with a home. They will continue to lay eggs and we will sell their eggs,” explained Fabien Sauleman, one of the founders of the project. Although the number of eggs hens produce does begin to gradually decline after they reach 18 months of age, many would happily live on until an average age of six, sometimes reaching as old as 10. It is simply cheaper for the poultry farms to replace them with younger models, but the happy hens on this farm

I

will never have their beaks cut and will never see the inside of the slaughterhouse.

“We are planning to continue trials, working out what breeds, what techniques and which foods best help the hens lay as they grow older. We want to make it more expensive to kill the chickens than to keep them! There has always been an accepted economic model of killing the hens as their production tails off; consumers have also become used to low prices. We are delighted that people have come with us on this journey and, as we have explained to them how it works, they are happier to pay a little bit more for the well-being of the animal.”

Whilst it would appear that many are indeed happy to pay extra for eggs from happy chickens, the group are conscious others simply can not afford to back up that moral stance. After such a successful start, the business has big plans for the future and hopes that they will soon be able to increase production, lower prices and allow more people to support this unique venture. ■

f someone you don't recognise knocks on your door in the coming weeks speaking French, don't panic, it is quite likely that they are part of the national census. The annual event began on 17th January and will run until 23rd February and if you live in one of the communes being surveyed this year, you should have first received a letter through the post informing you who has been appointed as the agent in your area.

Whilst the survey is run by the government's statistics gathering agency, INSEE, the agents who perform it are recruited by the commune. Always be on your guard, however, and check that anyone coming to your door first shows you the appropriate forms of identification, which should be signed by your mayor.

You will be given a paper questionnaire which can be filled out there and then, collected at a later date or handed in to the mairie. You can also choose to answer the questions online at the website address below. Secondary documents containing explanatory notes are also available in several languages, including English.

Since 2004, France has operated a different method of carrying out its census compared with many other countries. Rather than sporadically survey the entire country at once, France aims to survey one quarter of the population every year, a method that allows it to update its statistics on an annual basis and in principle leads to more accurate data.

While cities with over 10,000 inhabitants are surveyed every year, smaller communes are surveyed periodically. This year in the Limousin there will be 154 communes surveyed: 64 in Corrèze, 48 in Creuse and 42 in Haute-Vienne. To find out if you are part of the 2019 survey, visit the website below.

Respondents are required by law to answer truthfully and in full; failure to do so can in theory lead to a fine. ■ www.le-recensement-et-moi.fr

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Major mobile network upgrades planned across the Limousin

F

or many people living in rural parts of France, one downside is often the lack of a fast, reliable internet connection and poor mobile phone coverage in so-called zone blanches. With more and more essential government services only available online, and mobile signals often required to validate online payments, the lack of a reliable signal has major implications. The government regularly releases statements promising that the whole country will have access to high-speed internet in the coming years, but large areas of rural France are being left behind.

Fibre is apparently on its way, but laying the necessary cables takes significant time and investment and mobile data signals often represent the quickest and easiest way to provide internet to remote areas. As such, the government has announced a major infrastructure project to improve the mobile network across the country, announcing 5,000 new 4G towers over the coming years at a rate of 600-800 per year.

Given that Creuse is particularly affected by zone blanches, it may be no surprise to learn that it will see more new transmitters than Haute-Vienne and in fact, there will be no new towers going up in the Corrèze in the first planned wave of upgrades.

The communes that can expect to have their mobile signal improved significantly in the near future are: Creuse: Ars, Azat-Châtenet, Chard, Cressat, Dontreix, Faux-Mazuras, Fransèches, La Cellette, Les Mars, Liousles-Monges, Néoux, Peyrabout, Royère-de-Vassivière, Saint-Dizier-la-Tour, Saint-Dizier-les-Domaines, SaintMartin-Château, Saint-Pardoux-Morterolles, Saint-SilvainMontaigut, Sannat, Savennes Haute-Vienne: Bujaleuf, Cieux, Les Salles-Lavauguyon, Saut-de-la-Brame

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La Creuse et La Rafle

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t is one of the most shameful episodes of modern French history and is referred to in French simply as La Rafle – the Round-up. During World War II, after the fall of France, the northern part of the country was occupied

by Nazi forces, while much of the southern half was ruled from Vichy by the collaborationist government of Maréchal Philippe Pétain.

Over the following years, Jews across the country were rounded up by the authorities, before being transported to Paris and then on towards the death camps of eastern Europe. In the north, this was done by the German army, but in the south it was French citizens of the Vichy government who rounded up the Jews, a fact that has led to much soul searching over the years.

In 2014, state rail operator SNCF agreed with US lawmakers to pay $60 million in reparations to those transported via its rail network to Nazi concentration camps.

The rail company moved 76,000 Jews to Nazi camps during the Holocaust; only around 3,000 survived.

While the nation shares in this shame, the Creuse department has always been able to hold its head a little higher than most over its efforts to help and hide the country's Jewish population. In the lead up to the Second World War, the Jewish population of the Creuse numbered around 600, but this swelled to over 3,000 as the continent descended into war and when the dust

settled, the department had managed to hide and protect more than 95% of these people, as well as helping many more to escape to the US. This story has now been retold in a new book La Mention rouge, written by local historian Christophe Moreigne.

In his book, Christophe Moreigne gives testimony from Jacques Bloch, the nephew of historian and Resistance fighter Marc Bloch, and who was himself a lycée student in Guéret when he joined the Resistance aged 17. In the book, Jacques Bloc speaks of the spontaneous generosity of the people of Genouillac, a small town in the north of the department.

“My parents arrived in the Creuse with no money at all and not knowing anyone.

The locals heard that these poor, persecuted people had just arrived and freely offered us butter and potatoes as if it were a completely normal thing to do.”

“There was a natural hospitality among the local Creusois peasants - a solidarity of the humble,” explained the book's author.

“On the eve of the war, the Creuse was already home to numerous Spanish refugees.

They welcomed the Jews in the same way and again with German prisoners after the Liberation.”

Despite being one of the country's poorest areas, the Creuse was the perfect place to hide, not just for the country's Jewish population. Being part of Vichy France, but relatively close to the demarcation line with the occupied

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north, made la Creuse a convenient destination for those fleeing Nazi-occupied areas.

The department is also remote and relatively depopulated, but with an abundance of natural resources. “During the war, this was not an area where you risked dying of starvation,” explained the historian. “The locals were particularly adept at producing an abundance of potatoes.” In fact, over the course of the war, as well as welcoming thousands of Jews, the overall population of the department more than doubled.

Between 1942 and 1944 there were at least four sig-

nificant rafles in the Creuse, firstly by the Vichy regime and subsequently by the occupying Germans. These resulted in just 172 deportations from among the Jewish population of more than 3,000. Sadly, as Christophe Moreigne explains, the protection offered to refugees in the Creuse was not replicated across the country: “The Aveyron was home to around 900 Jews during the Second World War. Nearly 600 men and women, as well as 60 children, were rounded up. Of these, 370 adults and 51 children were sent to the death camps: only 11 came back...” ■

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Limoges: top 10 fast-food city

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t is no secret that France loves its fast food and this is particularly true in the Haute-Vienne.

Whether you are a fan of the Big Mac, or prefer a flame-grilled Whopper, locals are “celebrating” the fact that Limoges has consolidated its position in the top ten locations for fast food in France.

Placing tenth last year, the capital of the former Limousin region has risen to sixth in the national league table of fast-food restaurants per capita, just behind Paris, but well ahead of other major cities like Lille, Lyon and Marseilles. In total, 32 cities across France were featured on the list.

According to the survey, compiled by the specialist health website my-pharma.info and now in its fourth year, the city of porcelain today boasts 23 fast-food outlets, feeding 132,660 hungry mouths: 5 McDonald's, 2 Quick, 1 Burger King, 2 KFC, 3 Paul, 3 Subway, 2 Domino's Pizza, 2 La Mie Câline, 1 La Croissanterie, 1 Pizza Hut and 1 Speed Burger.

If that is not enough calories for you, then maybe plan a trip to the new capital of the expanded Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, Bordeaux. The city held on to its crown as the number one destination for fast food, servicing its 252,040 inhabitants with 54 fastfood franchises. ■

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f you live in central Creuse and would like to improve your French in an informal teaching environment, why not try the following initiative built around visits to places of local interest (gardens, castles, businesses, etc.)?

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>> continued from pg 1 single human lifetime - after the end of the Second World War, what seems self-evident is being called into question once more.”

“Those who forget the value of Franco-German reconciliation are making themselves accomplices of the crimes of the past,” added President Macron.

“Those who spread lies are hurting the same people they are pretending to defend, by seeking to repeat history.

I would rather look our Europe in the face and strengthen it to protect our peoples. That is what we are doing.”

Much of what was agreed simply reenforces previous commitments and many of the pledges were light on detail. France and Germany did agree to establish common positions and issue joint statements on major EU issues - formalising their existing cooperation - but they also announced plans to act as a joint force at the United Nations. Germany has sought greater influence within the international body for many years and the new agreement now stipulates that it will be a priority of German-French diplomacy for Germany to be accepted as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. Currently, the so-called “Big Five” consists of France, the United Kingdom, USA, China and Russia.

Key areas of the treaty involve a deepening economic integration between the two countries and the creation of a Franco-German “economic zone” along the border. There is also the commitment to closer military ties, including possible joint deployments, for example in the event of a terror attack. It also includes a “mutual defence clause” in the event of one country being attacked, although Germany and France are already committed to this as members of NATO. On a cultural level, there is a commitment to focus on cultural exchanges and an increased learning of each other's languages, with the ultimate aim of creating a Franco-German university.

There are also plans for closer crossborder links and greater “bilingualism” on both sides of the frontier, as well as support for city partnerships, with some cross-border regions to be granted greater autonomy to cut through rules and red tape.

Elsewhere, the treaty promises a

“common military culture” that Merkel said could “contribute to the creation of a European army” and this idea of a European army was jumped upon by many Eurosceptics across the 28 member states. Brexiteers in the UK have pointed to the treaty as further proof of France and Germany's desire to impose their views on Europe as a whole.

Whilst Macron and Merkel both spoke movingly of the importance of close ties between two countries which share such a brutal history, other European leaders bristle at the idea of an all-dominating “Franco-German motor”. Speaking in Poland, Italy's farright interior minister, Matteo Salvini, said ahead of European parliament elections in May that he wants to challenge Merkel and Macron's staunchly pro-European message with a Eurosceptic “Italian-Polish axis”.

Alexander Gauland, parliamentary leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, said: “French President Macron cannot maintain order in his own country. The nationwide protests in France are never-ending. So it is inappropriate for this failing president to impose visions on us for the future of Germany. The EU is now deeply divided. A German-French special relationship will alienate us even further from the other Europeans.”

As has become worryingly predictable, the signing also generated its fair share of “fake news”, with many claiming that Macron was “handing over Alsace-Lorraine” to Germany, an area partially annexed by Germany in 1871 and returned to France after the First World War. Despite being immediately debunked by numerous respected media outlets, the rumours gained significant traction amongst online, right-wing commentators and led to Marine Le Pen accusing Macron of “an act that borders on treason”.

Another (untrue) conspiracy theory was that France aimed to share its permanent seat on the UN Security Council with Germany, part of broader accusations that the centrist president was determined to “dismantle the power of our country”, as Le Pen alleged.

The two leaders signed the deal on the anniversary of the original FrancoGerman co-operation treaty in 1963, which was agreed by Charles de Gaulle and the German chancellor of the time, Konrad Adenauer. ■

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France and Germany renew historic treaty

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www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2019

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NATIONAL NEWS ♦ 9

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P

étanque is one of the most popular participation sports in this country, and the image of a group of friends enjoying a game on the town square in the shade of a tree is an iconic one, likely to appear on many tourists' Instagram pages. Throw in a bottle of wine, a few glasses of Pastis or a beret and you have the quintessential image of the relaxed French way of life.

The sport takes itself seriously, however, and the Fédération française de pétanque (FFP) has been campaigning for Olympic recognition ahead of the 2024 Paris Games. Unfortunately, a substance abuse scandal involving more than just a little too much water in your Ricard or no filter in your Gitanes is threatening to rock the world of boules.

In recent months, a number of players on the cut-throat international scene have caused uproar by accusing their Belgian counterparts of snorting cocaine

to secure a competitive edge.

“I know enough Belgian players who use coke,” said Edward Vinke, a top Dutch player, speaking to the Vice sports website.

“They go to the toilet and do not throw a wrong ball when they come back. They really feel like the king.”

“I also experienced it once,” said Kees Koogje. “We were far ahead and had played flawlessly.

Then they went to the bathroom for 10 minutes and came back with huge eyes. Everything went well for them. The use of cannabis in pétanque tournaments also occurs in Belgium and France.

When I’m playing in Belgium on a large open area, I always smell a lot of smoke. Usually it is the players who participate in such a tournament for fun, not the top players.”

Reinold Borré, chairman of the Flanders Pétanque Federation in Belgium, did not agree and came out swinging: “Our players and players at the European Cham-

© KoS (WikiCommons)

Pétanque rocked by drug snorting scandal

pionships and World Championships were all checked, and all found negative. I think if you accuse people, you have to mention names. Otherwise you should be silent!”

The claims were also rejected by a leading Belgian bowler, Stefaan Kausse. “We know Vinke and Koogje,” the Flemish champion said. “Everyone who plays pétanque at a high level knows

each other. They are good players and good guys. Yes, there are those who drink a good beer during a tournament, and occasionally you smell a joint, but they make it appear as if every Belgian pétanque player is sniffing coke. That is not true.”

Whilst some may scoff at the idea that pétanque could feature at the Paris Olympics, comparing it to the UK applying for darts

at the London Games, the sport does have a strong argument for inclusion. The game is certainly huge in France, with more than 300,000 registered players, but it is also played by 200 million people across 262 federations in 165 countries around the world!

It also has precedent: pétanque did feature at the 1992 Barcelona games as a demonstration sport. ■

Lucky goat survives Gilet jaunes protester joins the nativity scene a narrow escape

W

ne lucky goat's New Year's resolution is probably to keep a better eye on the tide after it became stuck on a small rock at the tip of the island of Ouessant off the Brittany coast. Surrounded by a rising December tide, the animal was spotted by amateur photographer Cédric Cain, who alerted the local mayor.

The mayor contacted the goat's owner as well as the coastguard, who launched a small dinghy to rescue the stranded animal. By the time they arrived, the waves were already lapping round the goat's hooves and the animal would have been unlikely to survive without the quick thinking of the photographer and the intervention of the emergency services.

But how exactly did this little goat find itself trapped on a rocky outcrop? “It was almost certainly spooked by a dog, it wouldn't be the first time that had happened,” explained Cédric. “Usually it's the pompiers who help in these situations, I've never seen the coastguard called out!”

The island, the north-westernmost point of mainland France, is home to just a few hundred people, and is most famous for the Ouessant sheep, one of the smallest but hardiest breeds of domestic sheep. ■

© screenshot (www.santonsmagali.fr)

O

year's best sellers was a gilet jaune protester!

For just €15, the seven-centimetre figurine, sporting a bright yellow vest and holding up a blank banner (on which you can add your own protest statement), could join the others in your nativity scene, alongside the donkey.

“Every Christmas, we try to have something new to offer enthusiasts and collectors.

This santon was created at the very beginning of the movement, using our traditional methods. Of course, the gilets jaunes have nothing to do with the traditional nativity scene, but it can always be put elsewhere in the setting,”

© Cédric Cain

hilst most have been bemoaning the financial cost of the recent gilets jaunes protests, one enterprising company has found a way to profit from the civil unrest by unveiling a novelty festive figurine.

Santons (or “little saints” from the Provençal word “santoun”) are small, collectable handpainted figurines produced in the Provence region of southeastern France for home nativity scenes. A traditional Provençal crèche includes biblical figures such as the three wise kings who join the shepherds to visit Joseph, Mary

and the baby Jesus, as well as individual figures representing various characters from village life such as the washerwoman, the blind man and his son, and the chestnut seller.

In recent times, “novelty” santons have become increasingly popular, and one of this

explained a spokesman for Marseille-based Santons Magali, who said that orders for the figure flooded in from all corners of France, as well as overseas, and had taken the company by surprise. “We were caught a bit short and the first batch disappeared very quickly!” ■

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NATIONAL NEWS ♦ 11

FEBRUARY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

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From the foundations to the roof - Established 13 years in France

I

rish fast-food chain Supermac's have won a major trademark victory following an EU decision to revoke McDonald's rights to the name “Big Mac”. In a judgement from the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), it was found that McDonald’s had not proven genuine use of the contested trademark as a burger or a restaurant name and has now lost the rights to it in the European Union.

Supermac's are an established fast-food chain in the Republic of Ireland; they currently operate over 100 restaurants, including three in Northern Ireland. While the company has trademark protection for the Supermac’s name in Ireland, any extension of the trademark across Europe has previously been contested by McDonald’s. In the 1990s the American giant registered Big Mac in Europe both as a food, but also under a category for restaurant names, meaning that McDonald’s had the right to call a restaurant “Big Mac”. As a result, the company has been able to argue that if the Supermac’s name was successfully trademarked in Europe, it could cause confusion for customers.

The EUIPO's judgement was that the world’s largest fast-food chain had not proven genuine use of the trademark over the five years prior to the case being lodged in 2017. Removing McDonald’s exclusive rights to use the “Big Mac” name in the EU will now clear the way for Supermac's to register their trademark in the rest of Europe. Lawyers for McDonald's have said they will appeal the decision.

“Supermac’s are delighted with their victory in the trademark application and in revoking the Big Mac trademark which had been in existence since 1996,” founder Pat McDonagh said following the ruling. “This is a great victory for business in general and stops bigger companies from 'trademark bullying' by not allowing them to hoard trademarks without using them. We knew when we took on this battle that it was a David versus Goliath scenario but, just because McDonald’s has deep pockets and we are relatively small in context, doesn’t mean we weren’t going to fight our corner!

“The original objective of our application to cancel was to shine a light on the use of

Instagram

Supermac's win Big Mac trademark battle

trademark bullying by this multinational to stifle competition.

They trademarked the SnackBox, which is one of Supermac's most popular products, even though the product is not actually offered by them,” he added.

“This is the end of the McBully.

This decision by the European Trademark Office is also an in-

Expats may have to re-take driving test in no-deal scenario

T

here have been a number of scare stories doing the rounds over the impact of a “no-deal” Brexit, but one that emerged in January could have an immediate effect on many British expats living in France. According to advice published by the government's Department for Transport (DfT), British people living in the EU may have to take a new driving test following a no-deal Brexit, if they have not already exchanged their UK licence for a European one before 29th March.

The DfT said in a statement: “In the event that there is no EU exit deal, you may have to pass a driving test in the EU country you live in to be able to carry on driving there”. Ireland is the only EU country where British drivers will definitely still be able to travel without additional checks after Brexit, according to the government.

Currently, British driving licence holders can drive in all EU and European Economic Area countries using their normal licence, without the need for an international driving permit (IDP). From the end of January, these permits, which were previously available online for £5.50, will only be obtainable at UK post office coun-

ters. Adding further confusion, different European countries require different IDPs, depending on the year they initially signed up to the convention on road traffic. France and Spain, for example, require different ones.

The AA described the situation as “a real mess”, with the motoring organisation’s president Edmund King saying: “Thousands of expats, many of them elderly, will not relish the prospect of having to retake their driving test in a different country and different language if there is no deal. Drivers without the appropriate IDPs could also be turned back at the ports. It’s another thing which is a real mess and could potentially catch people out, particularly expats. It really does seem a backward step that drivers will no longer be able to apply for IDPs in the post.”

Before panic sets in, it should be noted that the DfT confirmed that the UK will continue to allow EU citizens to drive in Britain with their EU licence for up to three years after coming to live in the UK, and will still allow drivers to exchange their licence for a British one during this time. It remains possible, if not probable, that many EU countries will reciprocate this arrangement in the event of a no-deal Brexit. ■

dication of how important the European institutions are to help protect businesses that are trying to compete against faceless multinationals.”

In addition to paving the way for Supermac’s to use its brand on restaurants outside of Ireland, the ruling also had the unintended consequence of now allow-

ing Supermac’s - and any other fast-food chains - to use the “Big Mac” trademark on any food for sale, if it so wishes!

It is not yet known if Supermac's have plans to expand into the lucrative French fast-food market; France is one of the biggest markets for McDonald's outside of the US. ■

Government increases the grant for trading in your old vehicle From January of this year, the government has increased the grants available to motorists who trade in their old vehicles for newer, less polluting ones, including second-hand cars. Although the prime à la conversion has been around for a while, in 2019 it is now worth as much as €5,000 and is no longer exclusively for new vehicles. The increased grant comes as the government has postponed a tax rise on petrol and diesel which was also designed to encourage road users to opt for hybrid, or fully electric, cars.

Whilst the war on diesel is showing some signs of success - diesel's share of the car market fell from 47.3% to 40% last year - the country has yet to fall in love with electric vehicles.

“Expanding these grants to the purchase of second-hand vehicles will really help to speed up the modernisation of the country's car fleet, because many people simply can't afford to upgrade their vehicles to new ones,” explained car expert Didier Laurent.

For more information, visit: www.primealaconversion.gouv.fr. ■

Gilets jaunes protests lead to surge in unemployment benefit claims The ongoing gilets jaunes protests and associated civil unrest have caused chaos around the country every Saturday, costing the government and retailers billions of euros in lost revenues and increased costs. According to a study published in December by Nielsen, the protests caused a loss of 1% of turnover for major retail operators, more than the June 2018 strikes at SNCF and Air France.

Carrefour alone reported a drop in revenue of €110 million at its hypermarkets and €39 million from its supermarkets. The government has also had to carry a heavy financial burden with the costs of repairing infrastructure and increased policing.

There is also now a new problem emerging for the State, caused by more than 43,000 workers claiming extra benefits after being placed on chômage technique, a semi-unemployed status that sees salaried staff temporarily sent home on reduced wages. Le Figaro has reported that the government has already set aside €28 million to cover this added pressure on the welfare bill.

Some have argued that the situation has provided a glimmer of good news for smaller local businesses, however. The nature of the protests have seen the French change their habits, with many switching to doing their weekly shop in local stores during the week rather than at out-of-town hypermarkets at the weekend. ■

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Amazon condemned for destroying new goods

R

etail giant Amazon is facing a backlash after it was revealed that the company destroyed as many as three million unsold-but-new items from its warehouses in France in the past year alone. The allegations were made by the investigative programme Capital on television channel M6, which embedded a journalist wearing a hidden camera at the Chalonsur-Saône warehouse in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. The programme showed that Amazon destroyed almost 300,000 unsold, new objects in just three months from that one warehouse alone.

The findings tally with a previous, similar investigation by Le Monde newspaper and if this same level of destruction is replicated across all five of Amazon’s warehouses in France, that would total well over 3 million objects per year. The programme's footage revealed a wide range of items being destroyed, ranging from nappies and unopened boxes of Lego, through

to coffee machines and flat-screen televisions. The report also showed drone footage of discarded items headed to incinerators or landfills, which environmental activists have denounced as an “ecological disaster”.

The root of the problem lies with the fees that Amazon charge third parties to stock their goods in its warehouses.

Retailers can place their products at an Amazon warehouse for €26/m³ per month, which is an attractive option as it allows items to be shipped as “Prime” directly by the online giant for next day delivery. However, after six months this fee rises to €500/m³ and an eyewatering €1,000/m³ after a year.

The result is that suppliers prefer to have their unsold goods destroyed rather than stocked at these high rates.

“I am shocked, outraged!” said Brune Poirson, secretary of state for ecological transition, after the programme aired. “In the coming months, we will be introducing a series of laws before parliament that will ban this kind of practice. Companies such as Amazon

Country's first smart supermarket

R

ecent plans to target the lucrative grocery market by large online retailers such as Amazon have left many traditional supermarkets looking for innovative ways to fight back and move with the times. One solution could be so-called “phygital” shops - physical retail spaces that are digitally run - and which are set to hit France this year.

The company at the forefront of this new concept is Auchan, which is planning to open its first “smart supermarket” next month in Villeneuve d'Ascq in the Hautsde-France region in northern France. The 18 m² store, branded as Auchan Minute, will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week but will not have any permanent staff.

Shoppers using these new digital stores first need to download an app. Then, as they collect physical products from the shelves, the purchases are scanned and also placed in their virtual shopping trolley. Their bank account is debited accordingly as they leave. Although there are no staff on hand, shoppers are able to contact remote customer service agents via screens placed throughout the store. Real humans will oc-

casionally be on hand to restock the shelves.

“For the time being, this is just an internal test and only Auchan employees will be able to shop here,” explained Olivier Louis, a public relations official for Auchan. If the test is successful, however, the concept could be rolled out across the country. And there is no reason to doubt that the test will not be a success; Auchan already operates 700 such smart stores across China, and a similar “phygital” shop was launched by Amazon in Seattle last year.

Predictably, workers' unions have complained that the idea will lead to job cuts in France and others have complained that this type of digital commerce excludes older, less technologically competent people and also punishes the less well off, who may not be able to afford the necessary smartphone.

Auchan have not yet commented on the impact the new stores would have on staffing levels.

The fact remains, however, that this model will likely prove an attractive one to many retailers, particularly in larger cities where the emphasis for consumers is less on price, but more on speed and convenience. ■

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will no longer be allowed to throw away perfectly good products. They need to get moving and find a solution.”

In its defence, Amazon released a statement saying “We are working with organisations, such as the charity Dons solidaires and food banks,

to make donations of these unsold objects to people who need them”, but the company added that it was not financially possible to do so on a large scale because, it claimed, French law imposes VAT on all objects that are given as donations. ■

No meat Monday campaign

M

ovember, dry January, Steptember... hijacking the name of a month has become a staple campaign idea for charities and pressure groups in recent years. And now it would appear that individual days of the week are also a fair target for organisations looking to promote their message: a group of 500 French celebrities have signed a petition vowing not to eat meat or fish on Mondays in a bid to save the planet and improve animal welfare.

“To produce a kilogram of meat, you have to grow 10 kilograms of cereals and the impact of this farming on the planet, in terms of greenhouse gases, is enormous,” explained the philosopher Dominique Bourg. The signatory, a close friend of former ecology minister Nicolas Hulot, believes that eating a plant-based diet rather than meat “would have a lower cost in terms of carbon emissions”.

As well as being supported by actors, politicians, scientists and animal rights' activists, the initiative is also being backed by an advertising campaign on the Paris Metro. The idea is not a new one, however, and Paul McCartney has been promoting the idea of “Meat Free Monday” for ten years.

Although it has generated a number of attention-grabbing headlines, not everyone has welcomed the campaign. “It's not the first time we've seen this kind of appeal,” said Christiane Lambert, president of the farming syndicate FNSEA. “In France, the production of meat is not linked to deforestation and in actual fact breeders often improve their local environment.”

Current ecology minister Ségolène Royal was equally unimpressed, describing the campaign as a “bobo idea” - in French, bobo is a contraction of bourgeois-bohème, and is typically used in a pejorative sense to describe wealthy, left-leaning liberals living in large city centres.

“I know a number of people among the signatories who take several flights every month and who have disastrous carbon footprints,” said the former presidential candidate. “There are plenty of French people who would love to eat meat every day, but can't afford to!” ■

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A

French search engine is hoping that recent changes to European data protection laws, combined with increased public distrust of large technology companies, will help it build on a growing reputation and even one day take on the might of Google.

Launched in 2013, Qwant bills itself as “The search engine that respects your privacy” and claims that it does not use cookies, does not keep a search history and will not filter results based on your user profile.

The French start-up today operates all across Europe - indeed it describes itself as “The only European search engine” - and is available in 13 languages. A child-friendly version has also been developed in co-operation with the French Ministry of Education.

In the wake of the Cambridge Analytica scandal and accusations of illegal data gathering by the likes of Facebook and Google, the data protection stance of Qwant has seen its market share surge in 2018, hitting the symbolic mark of 100 million unique users. The French government also

decreed in 2018 that all searches by government employees should be performed using Qwant. Today, the search engine is the 64th most visited website in France.

The company's fortunes have also benefited from the European Union's introduction of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in May 2018. The GDPR requires companies to actively seek permission to collect and store your information and imposes strict rules on what companies can do with that data within the EU. Whilst the big internet giants fight costly court battles and tweak their terms and conditions to get around the new GDPR rules, Qwant has benefitted from its ethical stance on private data, “unlike Google, who track what we are doing, where we are going and what we are saying,” underlined the company's co-founder Éric Léandri.

The fledgling technology company has a long way to go before it can hope to challenge Google's dominance. “Our 15 billion search requests in 2018 represent just 6 days' work for Google,” explained Éric Léandri, who has ambitious plans to increase the

Screenshot (www.qwant.com)

Qwant - the European search engine

company's turnover to €10 million in 2019 and €100 million by 2022. To achieve that the company is busy raising €100 million from investors, which is no mean feat in the current economic climate.

“The problem is convincing investors to come onboard as you

need to be profitable very quickly in Europe,” explained the cofounder. “Amazon has only been profitable in the last year and a half and Uber is losing money hand over fist. I could be profitable tomorrow if I let go 100 staff [Qwant currently employs 160 people], but then we would not be

France bans Roundup weedkiller

F

rance has banned the sale of the popular but controversial weedkiller Roundup, following a court ruling that regulators failed to take safety concerns into account when clearing the widely used herbicide. Roundup, owned by Germany company Bayer after its purchase of US agro-giant Monsanto last year, contains glyphosate which environmentalists and other critics have long believed causes cancer.

Emmanuel Macron has been a prominent voice calling for glyphosate to be banned in Europe. The European Union renewed its authorisation for five years in November 2017,

but President Macron has vowed to outlaw its use in France by 2021. The French food and environmental safety agency ANSES said in a statement that sales of Roundup Pro 360 were already banned following the court order.

“As the ruling takes immediate effect, market approval for Roundup Pro 360 has been cancelled,” ANSES said in a statement. “The sale, distribution and use of Roundup Pro 360 are forbidden as of today.”

Environmental activists hailed the ruling, noting a 2015 study by a World Health Organization agency which concluded that glyphosate was “probably carcinogenic”. In August 2018, a

California court ordered Bayer to pay $78 million to a groundskeeper with terminal cancer who claimed he had not been adequately informed of the alleged health risks of the weedkiller.

“It's a major ruling because it should eventually cover all versions of Roundup, as the court determined that all products with glyphosate are probably carcinogens,” said Corinne Lepage, a lawyer for the CRIIGEN genetics research institute.

Bayer is appealing the ruling, saying scientific studies have proven glyphosate's safety. Glyphosate is used in weedkillers made by several companies, and is currently the most used herbicide around the world. ■

Whatever happened to Votes for Life?

A

s the Brexit debate in the UK reaches fever pitch, it is quite likely that Britain will be going to the polling booths in the near future, be that for a general election or a referendum. Those of us who were unable to vote in the first referendum due to the 15-year-rule - and that number will have increased significantly in the intervening two-and-ahalf years - will be disappointed to learn that it is very unlikely that we will have our right to vote restored any time soon.

The so-called idea of Votes for Life was unveiled as a government policy in the 2015 Queen's Speech

and removing the 15-year-rule was again part of the Conservative Party's manifesto during the 2017 general election, but so far no changes have been made.

Backbenchers had tried to introduce the legislation using a Private Member's Bill, put forward

by Welsh Conservative MP Glynn Davies. Private Member's Bills are given limited debating time in parliament (13 sitting Fridays per parliamentary session – usually 12 months). The bill had its first reading in the House of Commons in July 2017 and its first full debate at the second reading in February 2018 after which the government

announced its intention to back the bill.

It was scheduled to be debated again on 25th January and could have become law shortly after, but with the chaos in parliament surrounding the ongoing debate over Theresa May's deal, the Friday in question ceased to be a sitting Friday and the bill is now listed on the government's website with the date “to be announced”.

The news means that it is almost certain that voting rights will not be restored to those who have lived outside the UK for more than 15 years in time for any upcoming referendum or election. ■

able to grow the business to the next level.”

For now, the company is enjoying rapid growth in a competitive market and hopes to one day become the search engine of choice across Europe.

Visit www.qwant.com to give it a go yourself. ■

Government minister hints at 80 kph limit reversal

The government has given its first concrete indication that it might be prepared to reverse last year's wildly unpopular reduction in the speed limit from 90 kph to 80 kph. Speaking at an event in the Aude department, interior minister Christophe Castaner made the surprise announcement.

“If the 80 kph measure has not helped in terms of road safety, we could go back to 90 kph,” the minister told an audience of civil servants. “The 80 kph limit has only one objective: to save lives, and I think this is something we can all agree with. Those who destroy speed cameras, at night, must take significant responsibility. People must urgently consider their priorities. Between one minute lost and one life saved, there is no contest. We have committed to re-evaluating the measure after two years, and we will be totally transparent about the results. If this measure achieves nothing, we may go back to 90 kph. But if deaths on the roads have dropped thanks to this measure, and we have saved lives, what should we do? Go back on it?”

Whilst both Christophe Castaner and President Macron have said in the past that the success of the speed reduction would be evaluated after two years, this is the most clear indication yet that the government would be prepared to roll back the changes. ■

14 ♦ BILINGUAL

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2019

The greatest national anthem in the world?

F

ew songs are as rousing or instantly recognisable as the French national anthem, La Marseillaise.

This revolutionary call to arms has been the country's anthem since 1879, but today its violent lyrics make many people feel uncomfortable, and some go so far as to label it racist.

La Marseillaise began life as a war song. In 1792, Austrian and Prussian troops invaded France in an attempt to quell the French Revolution and in response the mayor of Strasbourg commissioned a song that would rally the troops “to defend their homeland that is under threat”. That night, Claude-Joseph Rouget de Lisle, a captain in the French army, composed the song in just a few hours, giving it the name Chant de guerre pour l'Armee du Rhin - War Song for the Army of the Rhine.

The song quickly became a favourite amongst the troops and it was particularly popular with volunteers from the southern city of Marseille hence its nickname La Marseillaise who sang it as they marched north to storm Paris; the war song had become a revolutionary song. It was adopted as the national anthem in 1795, but lost this status a few years later under the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte. It was again made the national anthem in 1879 and has been so ever since.

Unfortunately the years following the revolution were not kind to those behind the Marseillaise. The song's composer, Rouget, was a royalist and was imprisoned, while the man who commissioned it, Dietrich, was sent to the guillotine during the subsequent Reign of Terror.

Although it was always well loved, the Marseillaise had a surge in popularity during the First World War, when the lyrics once again became a rallying cry of the people. During the Second World War it was proudly sung by the Resistance after it was banned by the Vichy government.

The song - or rather its gruesome lyrics - is not without controversy.

Since last year primary school children have been required to learn the Marseillaise by heart as part of the syllabus, but many worry that talk of “ferocious soldiers” coming to “cut the throats of your sons” is not a great picture to paint in young minds.

More controversial is the last line that urges citizens to “let an impure blood water our furrows”. The use of the word “impure” has led to accusations of racism and the song has also been negatively linked to historic French imperialism.

In 2015, then justice minister Christiane Taubira - a prominent black politician who was born in French Guyana - caused a stir when she refused to sing the Marseillaise at a ceremony commemorating the abolition of slavery. The national anthem was also booed by many French fans of north African descent when Algeria played their first ever game against France in Paris in 2001.

Whatever you feel about the politics of the lyrics, there is no denying that it is a damn good song! “It is the great example of courage and solidarity when facing danger,” historian Simon Schama told the BBC. “That's why it's so invigorating. That's why it really is the greatest national anthem in the world... ever!” ■

Arise, children of the Fatherland The day of glory has arrived!

Against us stands tyranny, The bloody banner is raised.

Do you hear, in the countryside, The roar of those ferocious soldiers?

They're coming into our midsts To cut the throats of your sons, your women!

To arms, citizens!

Form your battalions, Let's march, let's march!

Let an impure blood Water our furrows.

Allons, enfants de la patrie, Le jour de gloire est arrivé.

Contre nous, de la tyrannie L’étendard sanglant est levé.

Entendez-vous, dans les campagnes, Mugir ces féroces soldats?

Ils viennent jusque dans vos bras Égorger vos fils, vos compagnes.

Aux armes, citoyens!

Formez vos bataillons, Marchons, marchons!

Qu’un sang impur Abreuve nos sillons.

Many thanks to local French teacher, Sophie Arsac, for the translation of this month's bilingual article. Why not get in touch with Sophie to see how she can help improve your French! See her advert below.

P

eu de chants sont aussi exaltants ou immédiatement identifiables que la Marseillaise, l’hymne national français. Cet appel aux armes révolutionnaire est l’hymne du pays depuis 1879 mais de nos jours, ses paroles violentes rendent mal à l’aise de nombreuses personnes et certains vont même jusqu’à les qualifier de racistes.

A l’origine, la Marseillaise avait pour vocation d’être un chant guerrier. En 1792, les troupes autrichiennes et prussiennes envahirent la France pour tenter d’étouffer la Révolution française. En réaction, le maire de Strasbourg commanda un chant qui rallierait les troupes « afin de défendre leur patrie menacée ». Cette même nuit, Claude-Joseph Rouget de Lisle, un capitaine de l’armée française, composa le chant en quelques heures à peine et l’intitula « Chant de guerre pour l’Armée du Rhin ».

Les troupes adoptèrent rapidement ce chant, et il devint particulièrement populaire chez les volontaires de la ville méridionale de Marseille, d’où son surnom « la Marseillaise », qui l’entonnèrent alors qu’ils marchaient vers le nord pour prendre Paris d’assaut. Le chant guerrier était devenu un chant révolutionnaire. Il fut décrété hymne national en 1795 mais perdit son statut quelques années plus tard sous le règne de Napoléon Bonaparte. Il retrouva son statut d’hymne national en 1879 pour le conserver jusqu’à nos jours.

Malheureusement les années qui suivirent la Révolution ne furent pas tendres pour les pères de la Marseillaise. Rouget, le compositeur du chant, était royaliste et fut emprisonné tandis que Dietrich, qui fut à l’origine de sa commande, fut envoyé à la guillotine durant le règne de la Terreur qui suivit.

La Marseillaise fut toujours appréciée, mais elle connut un surcroît de popularité durant la Première Guerre mondiale quand une fois encore, les paroles devinrent un cri de ralliement pour le peuple. Lors de la Deuxième Guerre mondiale, le gouvernement de Vichy bannit le chant qui fut alors chanté fièrement par la Résistance.

Le chant, ou plutôt ses paroles effrayantes, est l’objet de controverses.

Depuis l’année dernière, l’apprentissage de l’hymne fait partie du programme scolaire et les enfants de l’école primaire doivent l’apprendre par cœur. Cependant beaucoup de gens sont inquiets. Selon eux, l’image de « ces féroces soldats » qui viennent « couper la gorge de vos fils » n’est pas appropriée à de jeunes esprits. La dernière phrase du refrain suscite encore plus la polémique car elle exhorte les citoyens à « abreuver les sillons d’un sang impur ».

Le mot « impur » est accusé d’avoir une connotation raciste et le chant dans son ensemble est assimilé de manière négative au passé impérialiste de la France.

En 2015, la ministre de la Justice d’alors, Christine Taubira, une célèbre politicienne de couleur née en Guyane française, fit sensation lorsqu’elle refusa de chanter la Marseillaise lors d’une cérémonie commémorative sur l’abolition de l’esclavage. L’hymne national fut également hué par de nombreux supporters d’origine nord-africaine lorsque l’Algérie joua pour la première fois de son histoire contre la France à Paris en 2001.

Quoi que l’on puisse penser de la portée politique des paroles, on ne peut pas nier que c’est un sacré bon chant ! « C’est un bel exemple de courage et de solidarité lorsqu’on doit faire face au danger », a dit l’historien Simon Schama sur la BBC. « C’est pourquoi il est si vivifiant. C’est pourquoi c’est indubitablement le meilleur hymne national au monde…. Et pour longtemps ! ». ■

FRENCH LIFE ♦ 15

FEBRUARY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

La Chandeleur - time for crêpes

alentines aren’t the only excuse for a feast in February - in France, at least.

On February 2nd falls La Chandeleur.

Americans would know it as Groundhog Day, though I’m not aware they have any associated food. The French, though, make crêpes.

La Chandeleur comes from 'chandelle', the French for candle. Also called la fête des crêpes, or (because of the candles) la fête de la lumière, it has as many origins and superstitions as the number of crêpes you could eat at one sitting. The specific date is picked as it’s supposed to be the day that Jesus was presented at the temple in Jerusalem. Or, if you prefer, the day the Virgin Mary was allowed back into the church having given birth to Jesus, associating it with purification and fecundity.

The Christian origin of the festival is thought to go back to Pope Gelasius I. Sometime in the 5th century, he inaugurated a candlelit procession through the streets of Rome. Like most religious festivals, the pope probably settled on February 2nd because it had long been established as a pagan celebration of the beginning of the end of winter (the Groundhog Day connection) and the forthcoming fertility of the earth.

Participants placed their candles in the churches they passed. Galettes, the salty buckwheat version of the sweet crêpes, were handed out to pilgrims who trekked to Rome for the festival.

Crêpes are a simple and delicious means of using up whatever’s left of stocks of wheat before the new harvest appears. Since the candlelit procession took place in the evening, that was the time established, to this day, for the eating of the crêpes.

The rituals and superstitions surrounding the festival are many. People enslaved by a bad spell hoped to be cured by a soothsayer clutching a blessed Chandeleur candle and drawing certain symbols on the ground.

In some parts of France, to succeed in bringing the candle home still lit will guarantee the holder won’t die during the year. By contrast, another predicts that if the candle’s wax runs only down one side of the candle, a loved one will not survive the year.

When actually cooking crêpes for La Chandeleur, you need to respect other strict superstitions. One

of the simplest is making sure you use your right hand to grip the frying pan and hold a piece of gold in your left. This encourages wealth and good luck throughout the coming year. Prosperity will also come your way if you put the first crêpe in a drawer, or on top of a wardrobe. (Will you welcome the mice?) Alternatively, place a gold coin on a hot crêpe, and once it’s cooled down, wrap the coin in paper and place it in the cupboard for a year’s worth of mouse-free prosperity.

Crêpes and cupboards seem to go together with La Chandeleur. Anyone who successfully flips six in a row will be married in the year, but a young wife who wants to remain married must toss a crêpe on top of a wardrobe.

On the eve of La Chandeleur, young women in the Vosges who flung a handful of ashes on burning embers as they recited, “Chandeleur, Chandeleur, show me while I sleep the one I will spend my life with,” expected to do just that.

Weather superstitions echo the weather superstitions of Groundhog Day, when winter’s end or its continuation is predicted by a groundhog emerging from its hole and casting a shadow or not on the ground. If it’s sunny, some say winter and the possibility of misfortune will continue: “Soleil de la Chandeleur, annonce hiver et malheur”, while for others a clear day means winter is over: “Quand la Chandeleur est claire, l'hiver est par derrière”.

If it rains or is cloudy on La Chandeleur, some say, “Quand il pleut pour la Chandeleur, il pleut pendant quarante jours”, while others chant, “Chandeleur couverte, quarante jours de perte”. Snow falling on 2nd February foretells a split in the family, or possibly a death.

Confusing enough contradictions that the one certainty is that La Chandeleur offers a good excuse to focus on the distraction of eating crêpes. If you have picked up this copy of The Bugle after 2nd February, not to worry. Given that crêpes are not eaten in France on Shrove Tuesday, you can repeat this recipe then! ■

Julia Watson has been a long-time Food Writer for newspapers and magazines in the US and the UK.

Recipe Ingredients:

250g flour 50cl milk 3 eggs 2 tbs butter, melted ½ tsp salt 3 tbs sugar 1tbs rum or other liqueur, orange zest, lemon zest or 1 tsp vanilla extract Butter or oil for cooking Pour the flour into a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the middle. Pour in half the liquid and gently incorporate. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and pour into the flour mixture. Add melted butter, sugar and salt.

Slowly mix in the remaining liquid. The batter should have the consistency of double cream. Add flavourings if using. Cover the bowl and rest at room temperature for at least one hour.

© Martha Stewart

V

by Julia Watson

Grease a frying pan with a little butter or oil and once very hot, pour in enough batter to just cover the bottom, turning the pan to cover evenly. As soon as the edges of the crêpe crisp up, slide a spatula underneath and flip to cook the other side. Always discard the first crêpe. Cook the remainder the same way. Serve with a quarter of lemon, sugar, Nutella, jam, or maple syrup.

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16 ♦ FRENCH LIFE

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2019

So who really did invent the French fry?

Bugle Editor, Steve Martindale, looks at the origins of the humble chip. As a proud Belgian resident for 6 years, but now raising a family in France, his loyalties are torn on the topic of who exactly did invent the French Fry...

© Pixabay

S

prinkled with salt, dunked in ketchup, soaked in vinegar, covered with gravy or dipped in mayonnaise, everyone has their own specific way of enjoying the humble, crisp strips of fried tuber known the world over as French fries!

The origin of the fried potato, or chip to the British, is a matter of dispute among experts; both France and Belgium - where they are the national dish - have laid claim to the invention of fries, but until now there has been no definitive answer.

According to French legend, the frite was invented by street merchants on the Pont Neuf in Paris, just after the French Revolution in the late 18th century. “Fries, they are the orphan of street cooking, of low birth. That is why it's hard to establish where they really come from,” says French historian, Madeleine Ferrière.

This Parisian genesis story is popular in France and has been often quoted, but is bitterly disputed by the proud Belgians, who claim that fried potatoes were invented on their side of the border. Belgian folklore states that the chip was invented by accident in the 17th century by the people of Namur, in what later became southern Belgium. The story goes that people there needing a cheap meal would fish in the river Meuse, frying what they caught. One day when the river was frozen, local fishermen chopped potatoes up into slices resembling small fish and fried those instead.

As part of a festival of food in the Belgian capital called Brusselicious, culinary experts and historians from both countries have previously examined the competing claims.

Pierre Leclerc, a professor at the University of Liège, admitted that there was little proof of Belgium’s paternity. “Belgians adore chips but serious scientific research on the subject has only just begun,” he said.

Then there are the Spanish. They once controlled the area that is now Belgium and

claim that the recipe for French fries first appeared in Galicia, where it was served as an accompaniment to fish dishes. From there they say it travelled aboard Spanish galleons to Belgium.

Looks like the jury is still out on this one...

What's in a name?

The exact origin may remain unclear, but where does the “French” part come from?

One theory is that the term “French fry” is a shortening of “French fried potato” meaning a potato fried in the French style.

In 1802, Thomas Jefferson had “potatoes served in the French manner” on the menu at a White House dinner. Adventurous farmer, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and former ambassador to France, Jefferson had indeed brought the fried potato back to America with him from Paris. In fact, the recipe can still be seen today in a manuscript written in Jefferson’s own hand (although it almost certainly came from his French chef, Honoré Julien). When he served these

fried potatoes to his guests using this transAtlantic recipe... voilà, the French fry was born.

Some Belgians dispute this and believe that the term “French” was introduced when American soldiers arrived in Belgium during World War I, and consequently tasted Belgian fries. They supposedly called them “French” as it was the official language of the Belgian Army at that time.

Today, Belgian culinary experts insist that chips have achieved their pinnacle, in terms of both quality and cultural importance, in Belgium. The French use them as something to eat with meat. The British insist on fish.

“We, the Belgians, have made the chip something noble in itself,” says Albert Verdeyen, co-author of a book on chips.

“Above all, we have mastered better than anyone else the art of double-cooking them until they are golden and crunchy.”

Frites in the south, or frieten in the north, are an institution in Belgium - do not try to tell a proud Belgian that they were invented anywhere else! The Belgians are also the

largest consumers of chips in Europe. They are eaten at any time of the day, usually from a cone with a large dollop of sauce on top and can be a meal in themselves. You have not eaten chips until you have had twice fried chips from a friterie or frietkot on a square in a Belgian town.

“To go to a frietkot, that is the very essence of being a Belgian,” says Philippe Ratzel who owns the Clementine stall, one of the most popular in Brussels. “Here, you can meet anyone - the old lady who is taking her dog out for a walk, students or even the government minister who lives nearby.”

Whatever their origins and however they got their name, let's stop fighting and just agree that at their best they are hard to beat.

John Calvi, in a 1982 poem called French Fries, perhaps said it best, in his final stanza, when he wrote: Some think the army, the bombs and the guns Will one day save all of our lives, I don’t believe it – heat up your pans Make peace, and lots of French fries.

Was the first Valentine's Day card sent by a French king?

A

small town in the heart of Indre will again welcome lovers from across the country on 14th February and the nearest weekend.

Why the attraction? The town of Saint-Valentin is the only place in France to bear the name of the patron saint of lovers. Residents deck their homes in blooms, the Jardin des amoureaux (lovers' garden) opens its gates and free concerts take place to serenade courting couples. A post office, specially constructed for the week, sells commemorative stamps and postcards for the most ‘authentic’ Valentine's card you'll ever send.

If all that romance brings matters to a head, it's even possible to take things one step further and tie the knot in the flower garden, with everything laid on, from hotels, hair and make-up to wedding cars, photographers and champagne. All you need to do is say “I do”....

Each year, on 14th February,

men and women across the globe spend billions of euros on loved ones, all in the name of Saint Valentine. But who was Saint Valentine and why is he associated with love?

Rather than being a ‘Hallmark’ holiday, Valentine’s day, much like Halloween, has its root in paganism. In ancient Rome, February was the official beginning of spring, a time of fertility, new life and regeneration. Lupercalia was the main festival at this time, celebrated between 13th and 15th February and commemorated the legend that Rome’s founders, Romulus and Remus, were raised by a she-wolf (lupa). During the festival, priests would sacrifice a goat for fertility and a dog for purification. The boys of the town would then cut strips of hide from the goat, dip them in sacrificial blood and gently slap the young women of the town and the fields of crops. Despite sounding gory, the women of ancient Rome welcomed this ritual as they believed it made

them more fertile for the coming year.

Later in the day, the names of all the young women would be placed into an urn from which the young men would pick one and this pair would then be coupled for the next year. This often led to marriages, but was considered un-Christian by the church and there were repeated attempts to outlaw the festival.

“At the time the festival was clearly a very popular event, even in an environment where the Christians were trying to close it down,” according to professor Lenski of the University of Colorado. “So there's reason to think that the Christians might instead have said, OK, we'll just call this a Christian festival.”

The church pledged the festival to Saint Valentine, whose saint’s day fell on February 14th – right in the middle of the Lupercalia – but little is known about Saint Valentine. There are three saints named Valentine or Valentinus, but the most probable candidate is the Saint

Valentine who fell foul of the wrath of Emperor Claudius II and was put to death. No more is known about him, but subsequent legends suggest that Claudius had decreed that all young men should remain single, as unmarried men made for better soldiers. Valentine, feeling this was unjust, conducted clandestine marriages for young lovers, until he was discovered and sentenced to death.

The legend was further extended to suggest that he sent the first Valentine’s Day card from his jail cell, allegedly to his jailer’s daughter who had visited him during his confinement, which he signed “from your Valentine”. Saint Valentine grew in popularity and by the Middle Ages he was one of the most popular saints in France and England.

The first recorded Valentine’s card was sent by Charles, Duke of Orléans, in 1415 to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Bat-

tle of Agincourt. This greeting card is now housed in the British Library in London.

Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a Valentine note to his belle, Catherine of Valois.

In Great Britain, Valentine’s Day began to be popularly celebrated in the 17th century and by the mid-18th century it was common for people of all social classes to exchange items of affection or small notes of love. The commercialisation of Valentine’s Day really began in earnest with the massproduction of Valentine's Day greeting cards. The first cards rolled off the lines in the 1840s in the US thanks to Esther A. Howland, who has since become known as ‘the Mother of the Valentine’.

In recent times, more than 1 billion cards are sent every year worldwide, making it the second biggest day for the greetings card industry, behind Christmas when more than double that amount are sent. ■

PRACTICAL ♦ 17

FEBRUARY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

France tax changes for 2019 - Blevins Franks

A

new year in France usually sees the introduction of some new tax rules or rates. This year is no exception, although the changes are rather muted compared to last year’s big reforms to the taxation of investment income and wealth tax.

The biggest changes in 2019 are the introduction of a pay-as-you-earn system for income tax, and a reduction to social charges imposed on investment income for many retired expatriates.

This is a good time to review your tax planning, to make sure you know where you stand with your taxes and establish how you can limit your exposure to unnecessary taxes.

Income tax There are no changes to French income tax rates for 2019 (payable on 2018 income). The income tax bands for each rate have increased very slightly to index them for inflation, so the current bands rates are: Income

Tax Rate

Up to €9,964

Nil

€9,964 to €27,519

14%

€27,519 to €73,779

30%

€73,779 to €156,244

41%

Over €156,244

45%

The ‘exceptional tax’ remains in place for 2018 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 earnings, pensions and rental income at the above rates, and you are taxed as a household rather than an individual (which can be beneficial for some families).

Investment income is taxed at a fixed rate (the prélèvement forfaitaire unique or PFU) of 30% which includes both income tax and social charges. This has not changed since last year. If you do not earn much investment income you can opt to use the progressive rates of income tax instead, for all your income, plus social charges.

For non-residents, the minimum tax rate on French source income has increased from 20% to 30%.

PAYE France has begun implementing a payas-you-earn system from 1st January 2019.

It applies to employment income, retirement income (pensions, lifetime annuities), rental income (including French property rental income of UK residents), taxable state benefits, maintenance payments, non-French income taxable in France, business profits and consultancy fees/independent income.

Income tax will now be deducted at source for French employment income and pensions each month. For other affected income, such as self-employment earnings, rental income and UK pensions, tax will be collected through monthly or quarterly direct debit from your bank account.

The amount payable is calculated on your last income tax return (so for 2019 it will be your 2017 return), with any balance due by the end of the year.

Investment income – interest, dividends, capital gains and gains from life insurance policies/non-French assurance-vie – is excluded from PAYE. It also does not apply to non-French income that receives a tax credit in France under a double tax treaty.

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Social charges Social charges remain at 9.7% for employment/self-employment income, 9.1% for pension income and 17.2% for investment income including rental income.

However, for individuals in receipt of pension income of less than €2,000 per month (€3,000 for a couple) the charges will be reduced back to the 2017 rate, i.e.

7.4%.

Individuals covered under the health system of another EU/EEA country are no longer subject to the contribution sociale généralisée (CSG) or contribution au remboursement de la dette sociale (CRDS) social charges on their investment income and capital gains. Instead, the new prélèvement de solidarité will apply at a flat rate of 7.5%.

This is good news for those holding Form S1 and non-residents, since their social charge burden on investment income reduces from 17.2% to 7.5%.

You can submit refund claims for any charges paid at the higher rate during 2018, speak to your tax accountant.

Wealth tax / real estate tax (IFI) There are no changes from 2018, so ‘wealth tax’ is only levied on real estate assets. The threshold for this impôt sur la fortune immobilière (IFI) tax remains €1,300,000 and the scale rates of tax are the same as last year. The 75% limitation also stays in place.

Following demonstrations in France, a committee has been set up to review

whether the ‘old style’ wealth tax (which applied to most worldwide assets) should be reintroduced next year.

Other measures for 2019 The changes to the calculation of taxe d’habitation, introduced in the previous budget, mean that 65% of French households will be exempt from this tax in 2019.

There are reductions for certain components of the social security contributions for employees and employers. The main rate of corporation tax reduces to 31% (from 33 1/3%).

Tax planning It is important to understand how French taxation affects you personally, and establish tax planning solutions based on your objectives and family circumstances. Regular reviews are essential to make sure your arrangements are up to date. For expatriates, an adviser with cross-border experience can help you make the most of opportunities offered by the French tax system. ■ 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.

Tel: 05 53 63 49 19 Email: bergerac@blevinsfranks.com Web: www.blevinsfranks.com

18 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2019

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Champlong Chatterie

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Mini Digger

DAVID CARDWELL

Landscaping, Ditching, Land Clearance etc.

Hedge Removal and Stone Wall Construction

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)

John Bonella

05 55 53 03 56

siret no. 523 183 580 00019

www.psandifer.fr

Your advert here

87440 Marval

(contrôle technique)

General Carpentry & Cabinet Making also undertaken

Siret 798 692 778 00011

with Driver for Hire

Registered Car Mechanic

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

Siret: 790 016 984 00011

Snooker/Pool/Billiard Table Specialist

SIRET: 493 770 358 00015

lavieilleabbaye@orange.fr

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

(Modern and Antique)

Tel: 05 53 52 36 05

Dossiers prepared Permis de Construire Déclarations Préalables

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.

Furniture Repair, Restoration & Upholstery

All types Best Rates Available Immediately References available Call Mark:

New build?

RING BILL!

SIRET: 494 617 798 00017

ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES: Plans, elevations, RT calculations, photo-realisations & all paperwork for planning applications (<150m2)

Renovating your French property?

Auto Services CHARENTE

waggingtails87@hotmail.com

Pre-purchase & Structural Surveys.

Verbal & written reports.

Structural calculations & drawings.

Redevelopment ideas & solutions.

siret: 803 910 942 00025

MOTOR PARTS

Call Jane: 05 55 00 34 79 or Emily: 06 71 15 15 65

Building Services Architects/Surveyors CHARTERED STRUCTURAL ENGINEER

Antiques/ Brocantes

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

Building Services Carpenters/Joiners

Registered Car Mechanic

JUNCT 22 off A20, Arnac la Poste

Alison & Ray

Health & Beauty >> pg 22 Insurance & Finance >> pg 22 Language Services >> pg 23 Pest Control >> pg 23 Pools & Spas >> pg 23 Property Maintenance >> pg 23 Property Sales >> pg 23 Retail & Commerce >> pg 23 Transport/Removals/Storage >> pg 23-24 General >> pg 24 Businesses for Sale >> pg 24

john.bonella@gmail.com

PROFESSIONAL

BUILDER

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

DIRECTORY ♦ 19

FEBRUARY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

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 email: jones23entreprise@orange.fr siret: 810 322 123 00011

Neuvialle Menuiserie

Mike Christie 05 55 64 35 11 / 07 61 76 97 41 see main ad below

sales@thebugle.eu 06 04 17 80 93

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

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

E-mail: installation23@gmail.com

Mob. 06 40 56 96 12 Tel. 05 55 67 57 64 Siret: 753 054 030 00014

Lumiere Service et Energie Steven Rofe 28 Years' experience

Classical Carpentry see main ad below

See full list of works carried out on the website

A. Wright

see main ad - pg 12

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

www.roferenovation.com Siret No. 501.792.386.00010

Steve. JOHNS. SARL

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

05.55.64.11.73 06.70.47.52.96

LVL

Pink Electrique

Ruth & Geoff Kowalczyk Project management. All electrical work, home automation & security. Please see our website for more information. French qualified and insured.

30+ years worldwide experience.

Departments covered: 23, 36, 87.

Tel: 05 55 63 10 68 Mob: 06 64 59 48 64

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)

Tel: 09 72 35 74 73

Email: pink-electrique@laposte.net www.pink-electrique.fr

Email: barwick.shaun@gmail.com

SIRET: 788 709 871 00016

siret: 794 282 368 00016

SALAMANDRE

Carlos

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

Electrician/Plumber 05 55 62 63 82 see main ad below

SAS Masters

www.masters-energies.com 05 55 78 66 35 see main ad - pg 7

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

HANDYMAN/DIY Can I help you with those jobs you don't want to do?

• Painting/Decorating • Labouring • Pressure Washing • General DIY No job too small, just give me a call!!

All areas covered - Based nr Aubusson (23)

05 55 83 02 77 / 06 30 90 58 90

87800 Jourgnac

• 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

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

SHAUN BARWICK QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN

Max Huggett

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

BARWICK sales@thebugle.eu ÉLECTRICITÉ 06 04 17 80 93

Building Services Electricians

No Siret: 494 916 760 00015

Fosse Septique 23

siret: 824 706 444 00018

• UK NICEIC approved Electrician • Rewiring • External & garden lighting • All aspects of electrical works • Fully insured - (10 year Decennale) • Satellite Installation • Departments covered 87, 23 & 19 05.55.69.75.67 / 06.89.47.69.71 email: rofesteven@yahoo.co.uk

Carpenter & Joiner 06 35 12 10 66

Building Services Fosses Septiques

Building Services General

jonathanpiddock@orange.fr Siret: 523 955 151 00015

WASTE REMOVAL SERVICES

05 55 37 45 35

wasteremovalmultiservices@gmail.com www.facebook.com/willwhiting87/ siret 532 981 198 00015

STEVE'S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Masonry & More

Roofing, Building, Renovations, Plastering & stud walls, ... and more! e: lowe.steven@orange.fr

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

t: 05 55 50 52 02 m: 07 66 52 33 47

martin_sprague_1@ hotmail.com

05 55 61 93 07 SIRET: 531 768 182 00010

siret: 842 233 108 00013

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

Dave Cardwell - Builder

05 55 98 24 12

See our Display Ad pg 18

sales@thebugle.eu 06 04 17 80 93

Paul Jones Renovation

Experienced and fully registered artisan, offering a high quality finish and service • 10yr Décennale Assurance • Plasterboarding walls and ceilings • Tape and Jointing • Kitchen Installation • Tiling • Carpentry • Patios/Decking

Tel: 05 55 69 28 12 Mob: 06 73 18 63 47 Email: pauljones@orange.fr www.pauljonesrenovation.com siret no: 495 067 829 00020

Stephen Cullinane & Son From the foundations to the roof Established 9 years in France 05 55 81 00 53 - see pg 11

Harlequin Developments 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

harlequindevelopments@live.com www.harlequindevelopments.com SIRET: 494.501.067.00016

Le Pic épeiche

Constructions & Renovations Traditional Carpentry & Roofing.

Experienced, fully registered artisan.

Plasterboarding. Full house/barn renovation.

From start to finish.

Contact Gareth:

07 61 28 87 34

Email: lepicepeiche@outlook.fr SIRET : 829.920.248.00012

upvc-solutions uPVC windows, doors, porches & conservatories

Available in white, beige & oak woodgrain.

We now offer a supply only service on our made to measure windows.

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 06 04 17 80 93 Classical Carpentry

ELECTRICIAN/PLUMBER

lorrainemquintana@gmail.com

05 55 62 63 82

siret: 829 638 741 00019

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

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

Siret: 802 265 728

FROM SMALL REPAIRS TO COMPLETE INSTALLATIONS BOILER SERVICING OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE FULLY INSURED - BASED DEPT 23

Visit our website

www.classicalcarpentry.fr

NEUVIALLE MENUISERIE JOINERY

20 ♦ DIRECTORY Building Services General

GODSON

Travaux Publics www.fossepro.com 06 33 78 24 23 - pg 3

A. Wright

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

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

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

Barlow Bâtiment

All Facade Work Undertaken Pointing Sandblasting Rendering Interior painting & decorating Tel: 04 73 52 14 43 Email barlowbatiment@icloud.com siret: 843 900 838 00015

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2019

Building Services Groundworks High Ground Development andy@hgdev.co.uk www.hgdev.co.uk see main ad - pg 4

Mini-Digger with driver

05.55.53.03.56

john.bonella@gmail.com See Main Ad pg 18

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

Building Services Painters/Decorators

RSW Entreprises

Simon Carter

Fosse Septiques/Micro stations

Painter & Decorator

See our Display Ad - pg 13

Qualified craftsman with over 25 years UK

M&M EXCAVATION SERVICES

experience, now based in Haute-Vienne.

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

See main ad - pg 4

FREE QUOTES

05 55 63 58 85 / 06 42 23 38 57

Building Services Lifts & Scaffolding

Tel: 05 87 19 91 50 Mob: 07 81 26 88 65 Web: www.sjcmontluc.fr Email: sjcmontluc@yahoo.fr siret: 792.130.932.00017

ANGLO sales@thebugle.eu SCAFFOLDING 06 04 17 80 93 HIRE 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

Building Services Plasterers CHRIS

THE PLASTERER

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTATION

Tel: 09 66 03 52 89

christopher.willis@orange.fr

Call for a quote

All internal and external works covered Plastering (English and French plaster) Rendering Concreting Floor Screeding Stud Partitioning Lime Mortar Pointing

Tel: 05 55 62 12 39 Mobile: 06 06 41 10 30 Siret: 527 906 614 00013

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

05 55 63 53 06 06 23 29 48 19 Le Bourg, 23360 Nouzerolles

MUMFORD TOITURE 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

05 55 44 71 44 / 06 78 60 96 16 mumford.toiture@gmail.com Siret No. 493 159 412 00011

Building Services Sandblasting Sand and Blast 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

M&M SANDBLASTING SERVICES

06 04 17 80 93

05 55 63 58 85 / 06 42 23 38 57

Building Services Plumbing & Heating

Chimney Sweeps

Carlos

Electrician/Plumber 05 55 62 63 82 see main ad - pg 19

LA RAMONEUSE

THE LADY SWEEP Brush & Vacuum All types of chimney Fully Insured

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

SIRET: 504 612 441 00015

See main ad - pg 4

Established since 1986

Building Services Roofing

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

Cherry Picker Services

14.5 metres on a van lasout@live.com

French registered plasterer with over 30 years’ experience

SIRET: 503 169 237 00016

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

05.55.80.00.57

Able Plastering

Email: philip.andrews@orange.fr siret: 509 180 410 00011

Call Ruth Clear

02 54 31 48 50 06 25 61 84 95 (SMS only) siret 504 218 454 00016

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 Siren: 502 409 949

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 06 04 17 80 93 50,000 sq ft of covered showrooms, large external areas with constantly changing stock

- P5 18mm tongue & 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 - Rigid board insulation.

- PLYWOOD All in 8ft x 4ft sheets. External grade, suitable for construction uses with high quality finishes on both sides.

Held in 5.5mm, 9mm, 12mm, 18mm, 25mm. All Malaysian WBP BB/CC. - Marine ply also in 12mm & 18mm - Skirting board & Architrave in stock.

- ROLL OUT INSULATION in stock (100 & 150mm).

- If you use hydraulic oil search on Google: reclamationyard Facebook.

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

Purple Solutions Garden Maintenance Do you have a garden? Home, cottage or holiday home?

Call us on 06 72 87 87 14 or contact us via Facebook or email.

Leave your details and an idea of the job description.

Covering 40 km from Cussac (87150)

purplesolutionsgardenmaintenance email: sryanhill@rocketmail.com siret: 825 351 836 00010

DIRECTORY ♦ 21

FEBRUARY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

ADVERTORIAL

2019 Brings Challenges, but also Opportunities Rosemary Sheppard, International Financial Adviser

R

enewed turbulence in financial markets means that the proportion of funds generating positive returns has fallen to their lowest level since the global financial crisis in 2008, research by FE Trustnet shows.

Only 20.5 per cent of the 3,779 funds have made a positive return this year. This is in stark contrast to recent years: in 2017, 95.3 per cent of the Investment Association was in the black while in 2016 some 96.7 per cent made money.

So, as we approach 2019 it

looks like it will be a testing time for investors, from trade wars to political uncertainty.

The European Union (EU) faces a number of challenges in 2019, including the ongoing Brexit saga, further tensions with the Italian government, mass social unrest in France (with the potential for contagion), the continued rise of populism, anti-immigration, anti-establishment and separatism movements. A weakening European economy (real GDP decelerated in 2018) could exacerbate the issue, as seen in France over the last few weeks.

In the US, President Trump will do everything he can to keep the US economy strong because the success of his presidency relies on it, although his hands might be somewhat tied following the US midterm

elections. While the current economic cycle has become one of the longest in history, we see no immediate warning signs that it is likely to end soon.

As such, unless unforeseen significant risks materialise to derail the US economy, we may have another strong year for equity markets despite concerns over valuations.

The policy of ‘America first’ with respect to trade negotiations may help push the value of American assets higher, but there is a risk here - America still relies on the rest of the world as much as the rest of the world relies on America – attempting to reset the terms of global trade too hard in America’s favour might derail the economies of other countries.

So next year is set to be one of challenges, but also one of opportunity, as the UK

Computers, Satellites & Web Design Experienced, Registered & Fully Insured No mess, no fuss Email: cinderssweep@gmail.com

T: 05 53 62 48 44 siret: 484 768 700 00011

Cleaning Services

WEBSITE No6 DESIGN before

- 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

Nicky... à la maison A cleaning business tailored to your needs Weekly/fornightly or gîte changeover

from €12 ph Call Nicola: 06 04 14 29 25 E: nickyminton1@gmail.com Based in central Creuse (23) Siret 841 476 526 00014

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

- 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

theoretically plots an uncharted journey outside the economic boundaries of the EU. Investors should continue to adhere to time-tested investment principles, such as maintaining long-term focus and employing a disciplined diversified asset allocation.

For investors looking to enter the market, the drop in the markets offers an excellent buying opportunity and realistically the only option to achieve growth greater than inflation, as interest rates across the EU and the UK look to remain well below inflation for the foreseeable future.

In these testing times getting advice from a financial advice company that has weathered more than one or two financial downturns is essential for your financial wellbeing and peace of mind. Blacktower Financial

sales@thebugle.eu 06 04 17 80 93

Counselling & Support Services

Try Something Different

Evelina Vuillemin English speaking psychotherapist in Limousin Face to face and online sessions www.evelinavuillemin-psy.fr

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

Call Patrice:

06.79.07.91.56

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

siret: 453 067 910 00019

closed Wednesdays

Les Genêts, Azerables

• Meet in person or via skype • Borders 87/19/23 (87130) • Individuals & Couples lesleykidd@hotmail.co.uk simpson.mj@hotmail.co.uk

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

Email: garygoodwin@wanadoo.fr

05 87 40 02 83

Lesley Kidd MSc & Martin Simpson MSc

GOODWIN Food & SATELLITE Drink Tel: 05 55 62 05 61 Mob: 06 52 38 67 65

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

Le Creusois

SIREN: 818 604 654

Dept 23 & surrounding areas

Chez Jacques

COUNSELLING

& PSYCHOTHERAPY

Les Remparts

Bar/Restaurant

High quality British & French food at reasonable prices.

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

05.55.63.90.79

www.lecreusoisbistro.com SIREN: 483 988 853

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:

tel: 05 55 81 31 85

email: ecurat123@hotmail.com 2km from Chénérailles and the Chateau Villemonteix.

"Les Combrailles" Bar, restaurant, hotel

St-Maurice-près-Pionsat (63330) Open: Tue to Sun, 10am - 2pm Tue/Wed, 5pm - 9pm. Fri/Sat, 5pm - 10pm Evening and weekend reservation recommended for restaurant Hotel rooms - call for info

Tel: 09 86 28 41 88

Follow us on Facebook for events: "Hotel les Combrailles"

Mandys-curry-2-go Mobile Curry Take Away For menus and venues:

www.mandyscurry2go.com

Allo Allo

Follow us on facebook e : mandyscurry2go@gmail.com

Rés: 06 73 37 45 01

Parties 20+ & events catered for

1 rue Saint-Roch, Le Grand Bourg see main ad - pg 6

British Market Stall

Bénévent-l'Abbaye

facebook.com/britishmarketstall

see main ad - pg 6

+33 (0)6 79 23 57 09 +33 (0)7 69 14 49 73 see main ad - pg 3

Tel: 0811 381 511

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.

The above information was correct 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.

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

06 41 46 14 58

Siret: 80493524500014

Management has been established for over 32 years and has worked with its clients through the good and the bad times, offering sound financial advice.

Blacktower will be by your side both now and in the future.

The Blacktower team are here to help you weather the potential storms ahead. To arrange a professional and impartial consultation please contact me by email Rosemary.sheppard@ blacktowerfm.com or call me on 06 38 86 99 70. Website: www. blacktowerfm.com

m : 07 70 39 12 23 siret: 498 199 306 00016

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE...

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 06 04 17 80 93 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

22 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2019

ADVERTORIAL

“SolarVenti”- the solar solution to damp and humidity How it works The principle behind Solarventi is simple: a small, builtin, 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 exceed-

Garden Services

ed all expectations.

In Southern Europe, Solarventi 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

Sherrie et Steve Jardiniers

06 72 87 87 14 see main ad - pg 20

GARDEN SERVICES Paul Brown

All gardening work: Grass Cutting Strimming Hedge Trimming General Maintenance Dept 23 & Surrounding Areas

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

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

sales@thebugle.eu 06 04 17 80 93

Osteopathy & Acupuncture

Atelier d'Art du Jardin

All general

Linda & Paul Bodimeade

Artisan art for your garden

Gardening No job too small. Reasonable prices.

Contact Steve or Sherrie

M: 06 58 72 03 43 E: sherrieetstevejardiniers@gmail.com Siret No: 811 161 835 00001

Back, Neck, Joint Pain, Arthritic conditions?

Anxiety, Headaches, Sports Injuries?

Insomnia, Stress, Sinus, Hayfever?

Based in Châteauneuf-la-Forêt (87130)

2km from Chénérailles and the Chateau Villemonteix

Gifts & Crafts

Hand painted silk accessories, candles, jewellery & more.

Available to buy online

Gaitway Help Professional and efficient service, confidentiality guaranteed

www.nsandifer.com Siret: 811 512 094 00020

Très Jolie

Ladies fashion accessories 05 55 53 03 56 / 06 04 08 29 53 see main ad pg 23 Ivan Petley

3D Puzzle Maker

06.43.83.62.33

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

Providing assistance with: • Small business registration • CAF • Healthcare cover • Emails and letter writing • Translation, interpretation and negotiation for all your needs

nickygait@hotmail.com

Call Teddy:

06 15 78 18 04- pg 12

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

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

Insurance & Finance Blacktower

05 55 62 50 38

Financial Managment Group

siret: 792 285 025 00013

06 38 86 99 70 - pg 15

Jonathan Critchley jcritch.7@gmail.com

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

Health & Beauty

siren: 515 187 151

Sophie Arsac

lindabodimeade@eircom.net paulbodimeade@eircom.net

Grand-Bourg & surrounding area

email: ecurat123@hotmail.com

Handholding Services

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

Mobile hairdresser

tel: 05 55 81 31 85

Handmade Gifts

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

Units start from €490 TTC.

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

26, Ecurat 23150

Undertaken

Purple Solutions Garden Maintenance

the property is empty. Solarventi requires no maintenance - 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. ■

siret: 791 847 429 00010

together.

siret: 793 539 826 00016

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

Chez Boutique

Formerly La Petite Place

05.55.60.08.46

See our Display Ad - pg 3

Rosemary Sheppard

Blevins Franks International tax and wealth management advisers

www.blevinsfranks.com See our main ad - pg 17

The Spectrum IFA Group

Tony Farrell

International Financial Adviser

05 55 89 57 94 - see pg 4

sales@thebugle.eu 06 04 17 80 93

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 06 04 17 80 93 Would you like to receive your copy of The Bugle by post each month?

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

France €25 pa; UK and Europe €40 pa

Email us for more details - subscriptions@thebugle.eu or visit www.thebugle.eu

DIRECTORY ♦ 23

FEBRUARY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Language Services

Sophie Arsac

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

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

Make a Fresh Start this September!

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. All levels.

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

06 04 17 80 93 Pest Control

Central France Pest Control Dératisation, Déinsectisation, Désinfection

02 48 60 83 72 / 06 74 33 02 38 www.applicateur3d.com Email: info@applicateur3d.com Curative and preventative rats, mice, moles, flies, woodworm, bed bugs, fleas, wasps, hornets

La Petite Barre, 18210 Bessais Le Fromental SIRET No. 498 544 741 00024

Pools & Spas 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:

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

www. fibreglass-lining.com

'Gite and Tidy'

Property management All properties looked after, main residences, holiday homes & gîtes.

Changeovers, cleaning, tidy ups, maintenance, gardening, swimming pools, etc.

Single or regular visits.

Fully insured.

Oradour-sur-Vayres (87150).

References available.

www.giteandtidy.com 09 82 12 69 73 (Home) 06 06 40 81 07 (Portable)

Creuse Gardien

Landscaping, Gardening Gîte Maintenance Property Clearance Environmental Construction 50km radius from Boussac Richard Charlie Collier

creusegardien@gmail.com

06 43 92 28 37 siret: 838 728 145 00015

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

www.leggettfrance.com

05 53 56 62 54 see main ad - pg 5

Beaux Villages Immobilier

06 04 17 80 93

Freephone: 08 05 69 23 23

Caring for your home in France when you can’t be there

Garden & Pool Maintenance General Maintenance & Small Renovation work including plasterboarding, tiling, painting, etc.

Changeovers/House Cleaning Ad-hoc Assistance References available Contact Mark or Trudy...

Property Maintenance

Leggett Immobilier

sales@thebugle.eu

Creuse Property Care

+44 (0)1903 893 451 +44 (0)7825 916 573

Property Sales

T: 05 55 67 90 47 / P: 06 40 75 74 47 E: marktrudy0506@gmail.com W: www.creusepropertycare.com

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

sales@thebugle.eu 06 04 17 80 93

Your advert here 06 04 17 80 93

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

Naturalis Pools

www.naturalispools.com

www.beauxvillages.com

06 31 17 25 60

see main ad - pg 7

see main ad - pg 2

Transaxia

Your advert here

Agencies across Central France www.transaxia-bourganeuf.fr see main ad - pg 8

sales@thebugle.eu 06 04 17 80 93

06 04 17 80 93

Retail & Commerce

Transport, Removals & Storage

Stove Sellers www.stovesellers.com

Buggs Car Hire

Siret: 479 965 758 00028

Inside Out Property Services Offering a wide range of building/joinery/fencing services

Chez Amanda Depot Vente des Vêtements

Bergerac & Limoges Airports

05.55.63.78.72

www.buggscarhire.com

Moulin de Tintin

SAFE GARDE

See our Display Ad - pg 9

Furniture, interiors & gifts

see main ad - front page

Secure self storage units in Guéret

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

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

R.S.M.DISTRIBUTION www.fudgejj.com

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

Now delivering Mattresses

www.safe-garde.com

Every 1st / 2nd Mon & Tue of each month From Angoulême to Ribérac area and Limoges to Sarlande area Go to our website for more information

email: ray.mole@wanadoo.fr

Tel: 05 49 87 67 34

Advertise here from just €36 HT / month

06 04 17 80 93 sales@thebugle.eu

Siret 531 167 443 00013

05 55 63 58 85

safegardegueret@gmail.com siret: 821 846 318 00011

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE...

Très Jolie

Ladies Italian clothes and fashion accessoires Beautiful scarves, purses, handbags, jewellery & gifts

(See Notice Board for where to find me)

Paula Bonella

05 55 53 03 56 06 04 08 29 53

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

24 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2019

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 06 04 17 80 93 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.

Man & Van Transport

Transport, Removals & Storage

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

www.smartmovesremovals.co.uk

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

Watson European International Removals

www.watsoneuropean.co.uk see main ad - pg 5

Transition Removals

Franklins Removals

www.transitionremovals.com

www.franklinsremovals.co.uk

(+33) 05 55 34 19 46 see main ad below

Your advert here 06 04 17 80 93 sales@thebugle.eu 06 04 17 80 93

VAN ROUGE

0044 121 353 7263

Cash paid sales@thebugle.eu for scrap

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

All Limousin covered Anything considered Any quantity

www.themanwithavan.info vanrouge@mail.com

Tel: 05 55 37 45 35 Mob: 06 74 21 47 71

(+33) 07.61.21.85.15

www.facebook.com/willwhiting87/

Your advert here

sales@thebugle.eu 06 04 17 80 93

siret 532 981 198 00015

Carrefour du Bois Limousin

06 04 17 80 93

www.chauffagebois-limousin.com

General

Businesses for Sale

05 55 63 72 45 - see below

see main ad - pg 3

Central France Storage

BABY/INFANT EQUIPMENT FOR HIRE

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

Vehicle storage options We also do internal moves!

14.5m cherry picker available

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

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

06 04 17 80 93 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

A VENDRE: Pas-de-porte, boutique tous commerces.

Immeuble de style dans avenue principale de Limoges. Parking facile. 60 m².

2 grandes salles 20 m2 & 25 m2.

Une arrière salle, mini coin kitchenette, wc.

Très bon état.

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

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

06 04 17 80 93

Family run business based in France which prides itself on a personal professional service 7.5 tonne truck to and from the UK and Europe, with a highly experienced staff. We provide a door-to-door service with packing and dry, secure storage.

We are a professional furniture removal company and NOT a man and a van.

Granulés du Limousin

TRANSITION REMOVALS

Phone: (+33) 05 55 34 19 46 - Mobile: (+33) 06 80 75 87 14 Email: p.evans@orange.fr - www.transitionremovals.com siret: 482 524 907 00011

LANGUAGE & GAMES ♦ 25

FEBRUARY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

SUDOKU - EASY

SUDOKU - MEDIUM

SUDOKU - HARD

The solutions to this month’s sudokus can be found on page 26

Advertise with The Bugle from €12.50 HT / MONTH SALES@THEBUGLE.EU

06 04 17 80 93 "Les Combrailles" Bar, restaurant, hotel

Saint Maurice près Pionsat (63330)

Chinese New Year Saturday 9th February 7pm

Nems, samossas, chop suey, sweet and sour, choice of desserts, cocktail, Chinese beer.

Bugle Notice Board

20€ menu - Reserve before Feb 5th

Call for more information: tel: 09 86 28 41 88

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

Très Jolie Fashion Accessories

Très Jolie is thrilled to inform you that in addition to the other outlets my Beautiful Collection of Ladies Italian Clothing & Accessories are now available from my new Boutique in Rochechouart.

Located at 4 rue Romain Rolland, 87600 Rochechouart next door to the Equilibre Naturellement.

Opening hours are 10h to 17h Monday to Friday, Saturday 10h to 12h. Closed Wednesday.

Don't forget to pop into the Gift Shop next door to the 1-4 Euro Store in Piégut for a large range of my everyday accessories

05 55 53 03 56 / 06 04 08 29 53 tres.jolie1@orange.fr

Curry & Side Dish of the month: Chicken, Lamb, Prawn or Veg Biryani (pre-order only) & Saag Aloo Ste-Sévère-sur-Indre, Boussac, Gouzon and Guéret, Chilled pre-orders only! ... Wednesday 6th (3.15pm, 4pm, 4.30pm & 5.15pm) Aubusson, Chilled only! (place de la gare routière) - Thursday 7th (4pm-5pm) Marsac, (Chez Jacques) - Friday 8th (6.30pm) Peyrat-le-Château & St-Léonard-de-Noblat Chilled pre-orders only! ... Thursday 14th (12.30pm & 1.30pm) Le Dorat, Bellac & Limoges, Chilled pre-orders only! ... Friday 15th (1pm, 1.30pm & 3pm) Bourganeuf, St-Dizier-Leyrenne, Le Grand-Bourg, Dun-le-Palestel & La Souterraine... Chilled pre-orders only!

Thursday 21st (1.15pm, 1.30pm, 2pm, 2.30pm & 3.30pm) Sardent, (Auberge du lac, Masmangeas) - Saturday 23rd (6pm)

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

26, Ecurat 23150

Le Restaurant Ecurat Atelier d'Art du Jardin

We are open, serving our Plat du Jour every Mon to Fri Call for more information: tel: 05 55 81 31 85 email: ecurat123@hotmail.com

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

WANTED

We are looking for a cleaner/housekeeper for an upscale manor house in 87430 Verneuil.

Work references needed.

We are also looking for a professional landscaper/gardener.

Please call 06 78 86 14 41

26 ♦ COMMUNITY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2019

CLUBS, CHARITIES & ASSOCIATIONS Charities The Hope Association Charity Shop 87 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 Saint-Sulpice-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.

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

We welcome all who want to share in our fellowship and children are very welcome. For more details please visit www.serviceinenglish.com Eglise Protestante Unie de France English Language services We look forward to giving a warm welcome to everyone from whatever Christian tradition (or none) on the 3rd SUNDAY of the MONTH at 3 pm. (Two exceptions - August and December - second Sunday) Where?

At the “Temple” in Thiat (in the north of the Haute-Vienne) – the chapel is on the main road close to the Mairie.

After worship there is tea/coffee and cake – and a chance to chat. (Services in French every Sunday morning). If you want to know more contact Rev Stephen Sawyer on 05 49 84 33 86 or Zoë Horlock on 05 55 68 59 95.

Fitness & Fun Bridge Club St. Junien Regular tournaments. Bridge lessons for beginners and intermediate levels (English-speaking teacher). Friendly welcome guaranteed.

For further information don't hesitate to contact Mireille Drouet, President 06 30 20 45 13 / 05 44 24 10 92 / mireillemartin@orange.fr or John Slade 05 45 71 50 44 / johnslade@ aliceadsl.fr Yoga Aubusson Classes at the Maison Sport et Danse, Dojo: Mon 15:45 Hatha 50+; Tue 17:30 Yin, 18:30 Hatha; Fri 14:30 Yoga for breast cancer or also very gentle yoga. 5 euro per class plus 10 euro adhesion. More info: Abbey 06 83 24 62 72 www.amovingspa.wixsite. com/equilibreyoga Cussac Bowls Club - Short mat indoor bowls If you’re a beginner or seasoned player come and join in with a friendly club.

Weekly meetings starting Wednesdays 19:45 and Thursdays 9:45.

Please call Peter on 05 55 78 66 45 for more info, email cussacbowlsclub@ gmail.com or come along to one of our meetings at Cussac gymnasium.

Indoor Bowling at Oradour-surVayres 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 Oradour-surVayres. Come and try it - it's free. For further info tel 05 55 78 45 24 or email oradourbowlingclub@outlook.com Zumba Dept 18 & 36. Contact: Coralie tel 07 78 66 52 01 Web: fun-life-attitude. webnode.fr Facebook: Coco Zumba Email: coralie.pouille@hotmail.fr 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 8 pm 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.

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.

Chabanais Bowls Club As we roll into 2019, one thing you can rely on is the fact that short mat bowling at Chabanais Bowls Club is alive and well and all set to provide exercise and entertainment throughout the coming year.

Our new mats are now in use, allowing the Club to carry out training and coaching sessions along with the normal members' games.

Chabanais Bowls Club meets on Tuesday mornings, 10h-13h, and Thursday afternoons, 14h-17h, at the salle des fêtes in the centre of Chabanais.

For further information ring Brian on 05 45 29 05 73 or Jane 05 45 30 63 10.

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

La Chance de Danser (Adults) St-Léger-Magnazeix – Salle des fêtes: Tue 9.15-10 Beginners Tap; 10-11 Stretch & Tone; Thu eve 5-6 Advanced Tap; 6-7 Dancersize. La Souterraine - 29 bd Mestadier, Gymnasium: Mon eve 6.30-7.30 Dancersize; Wed morning 10.30-11.30 Ballet. Email lachancesdedanser23@gmail.com - tel 09 66 96 44 85.

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 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.

Contact: inspirations.droux@gmail. com Dordogne Short Mat Bowls Association Learn to play Indoor Short Mat Bowls in the heart of the Dordogne at Eyzerac, just off the N21, south of Thiviers.

We are a small friendly inclusive club who meet every Thursday afternoon throughout the year at the Complex Sportif in Eyzerac 24300. We are looking forward to welcoming new members, both novices or experienced players. We have all the equipment you need to play, so why not join us any Thursday at 2 pm until 5 pm.

To arrange a taster session or simply for more details contact Paul Boswell (Secretary) at boswellmoore@hotmail. com or call 05 53 56 99 75.

Walking Football, Dun-le-Palestel If you think your footballing days are over, then think again! Our association, Entente Cordiale, is trying out a new venture – Walking Football, a slower version of the beautiful game! And it's for all adults over the age of 50.

We meet every Monday from 16h-17h in the Gymnasium, just opposite The Apollo. Walking football is designed to give you the chance to play the game you love, but at a much slower pace.

It's a great way to keep fit, learn skills, have fun, and socialise at the same time, so why not come along? If you used to play football, but now find the pace a bit too much, or if you’ve never had the chance to be involved before, Walking Football is the perfect introduction to playing football for you – no running allowed! At the moment, all sessions are indoors, so please wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Also now – Badminton! Playing Badminton helps to improve your fitness, and is great fun too! Come and join in with us every Tuesday afternoon from 16h-17h in the Gymnasium.

Everyone welcome.

For more information email eccreuse@ yahoo.com Laurière Carpet Bowls Club Registered & insured. For some gentle exercise with a friendly social club, learn to play Indoor Bowls at Lauriere, 87370, in the Haute-Vienne.

No experience required. Come and take a look. It is great fun and easy to play. Join us any Monday at 2 pm until 5.30 pm at La Maison des Jeunes (Community Centre), on the route de St Goussaud (D28) just off the D914 at Lauriere. Parking available. Session includes short refreshment break with home-made cakes (€2.50 per person).

For info, please call 05 55 71 23 83.

Currently, we have British, French, and Dutch members. We look forward to seeing you.

American Line Dancing (French Style) The Phénix Country Club welcomes new members - men & women, beginners & experienced dancers - to the salle des fêtes at LACS, near LA CHÂTRE, dept 36.

Learn French & learn to dance in a friendly environment every Tues & Fri evening from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. 1st 2 sessions are free. Annual subscription is 80 euros per person.

For more information in English contact Annette on 06 85 39 83 41 or email our French Présidente at phenixcountryclub@gmail.com Art Classes in Bujaleuf in French and English Caroline welcomes you at her workshop in Bujaleuf for drawing and watercolour painting. 2 courses weekly: Tue and Wed afternoons, 10 euros per person for a two-and-ahalf-hour session. The classes are in both French and English, a good way to share languages and cultures in a friendly atmosphere. New students welcome.

For further information please contact Caroline on 06 72 08 26 15 or at carolineplatter87@gmail.com.

plant; May 16th - Gardening for the bees; Jun 20th - Car rally and lunch; Jul 18th - Fragrant plants for all year; Aug 15th - Very Berry shrubs; Sep 1st - Annual Show; Oct 17th - AGM followed by Plant Name Origins; Nov 21st - Natural dyeing using plants; Dec 12th - Christmas Party.

Les petits jardiniers du Limousin Meet Thursday afternoons, dates below. 2.30 pm in the Mairie at StAmand-lePetit. Everyone welcome.

Contact: pjlimousin@gmail.com.

2019 Programme: Jan 17th - Bird and song identification; Feb - No meeting; Mar 21st - Drought: sedums, sempervivums and succulents; Apr 18th - Soil testing - knowing what to

Learning Together – Apprenons Ensemble We offer an easy-going and relaxing range of social functions to bring members of the French and English communities together, and a range of language courses for different levels of experience in English and French in Rochechouart (87) and Brigueil (16), as well as a Life & Culture in France course in Rochechouart. All lessons are in small groups with qualified teachers for just 7€ per hour; membership costs only 15€ per year. Visit www. learningtogether.moonfruit.com or email apprenonsensemble@orange. fr for more information. For help and advice on choosing the right course telephone 05 55 58 02 88 or email frenchlessons.learningtogether@ gmail.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 wellbeing of expatriate citizens. We organise a range of events, workshops and seminars throughout the year, plus social activities including coach trips, activity days, charity events and regular lunches - all activities to help members make new expatriate and French friends. If you already live in the Poitou-Charentes or Limousin regions of France or are thinking of moving here, CLE is your key to unlocking the secrets to a happy and comfortable lifestyle.

Web: www.cle-france.com Email: contact@cle-france.com Aubusson’s Network Each week, for 5 years now, we meet between 11.30 am and 1 pm every Saturday at the café "Aux Baladins" opposite Aubusson’s Gare Routière car park.

We are a friendly group of French and English who enjoy conversation in both languages. We like to exchange views, make new friends, help and advise one another and help integrate newcomers.

You can contact us by phone: Viviane 06 32 96 54 2 - Jo 09 72 41 40 47 Catherine 06 86 17 80 88 - Jan 00 44 74 68 20 66 12 - John 05 55 67 37 60 Association Rencontres FrancoBritanniques The association of 120 members, based in Bourganeuf, aims to help British people become integrated in their communes and local life.

We organise a range of cultural and social activities for our members. A list of our activities is on our website www. francobrit.com Our fortnightly conversation groups give the opportunity for British members to improve their spoken French, and our

French colleagues their English.

We would very much like to welcome new people, both French and English, into the association.

The annual subscription for membership is €12 per person or €22 for a couple.

Contact: Christine Gee 05 55 64 22 25 Email: cgeeinfrance@gmail.com 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. rc@gmail.com Familles Rurales in Peyrat-leChâteau 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 Peyrat-leChâteau and surrounding communes.

We will try to provide information and help you find your way in social and administrative matters, as well as with practical matters where language is a problem. Find Heleen TichlerBotermans at the AFR office in Peyratle-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-lechateau E-mail: familles-rurales.infopeyrat@ orange.fr Telephone: 06 41 20 06 83 Office address: 19 avenue de la Tour, 87470 Peyrat-le-Château Familles Rurales 2 in St-Yrieix-laPerche Weekly courses in French for foreigners (mainly English and Dutch) living in the area. Four levels taught: Level 1 Beginners - Mon 10h30 - 12h; Level 2 - Thu 10h30 - 12h; Intermediate Tue 10h30 - 12h; Advanced – Wed 14h30 - 16h30. All courses are held at our premises 1, rue de la Piscine, St-Yrieix-la-Perche 87500. For more info tel 05 55 09 30 86, email afr2. styrieix@wanadoo.fr or visit www. famillesrurales.org/styrieix 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 ten 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.

EASY

MEDIUM

HARD

Gardening

Integration

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

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

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COMMUNITY ♦ 27

FEBRUARY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu Bessines-Accueil Bessines-Accueil is a group based in Bessines-sur-Gartempe (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.

Café Franglais Organised by the Amitiés Internationales du Pays de Boussac (AIPB). Every Wednesday evening at 18h30 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. From 9th January until 24th April without stopping for Easter. Break for the summer, then recommence 4th September until 11th December. For more info please email angela.dave@icloud.com.

Open Door Association – English Language Library & Cultural Exchange Group The association organises a variety of cultural activities throughout the year.

These have included events such as a Burns' Supper, Afternoon Tea and Art Exhibition as well as visits to vineyards, sites of historic and artistic interest and sites of natural beauty. Our programme is constantly being updated.

We also run an English-language library based in the Old Mairie at Morterolles, commune of St. Pardoux-Morterolles where we have a selection of around 5,000 books, DVDs, jigsaws, etc. The library is open Mondays and Saturdays from 2-4 pm.

Feel free to drop in and browse, borrow, chat, enjoy a free tea/coffee or join in the jigsaw that's always in progress!

We welcome new members of all nationalities. For further information, visit our website at www.opendoor23.com or contact the President, Peter Edmondson, on 06 47 54 20 09 or peter.edmondson@ orange.fr Tea Time Cultural exchange workshop designed to bring together those who want to practise their French or their English in a friendly and fun environment. Held at the old school in Sussac (87) every Tuesday morning, 10 am till 11.30 am, except school holidays, the session includes group discussion/ chat, structured role play and games for grammar practice, specific weekly topics, a small library of English/ French books, CDs and DVDs and an exchange of recipes, thoughts and ideas, followed by tea/coffee and cake. Cost: €144 for the year, plus €25 annual membership fee to the Foyer Rural.

Contact: Jasmine (en français or in English) on 06 41 36 05 03.

Bilingual Montessori Workshops At the Foyer Rural in Saint-Léonard-deNoblat for children aged 3 to 8 years old, run by Catherine Hutchinson and Sue Greenbank. The children are immersed in an atmosphere where both French and English are spoken. The workshops take place on Wednesdays from 13h30 to 15h30 and on Saturdays from 10h to 12h. The workshops take place without the parents.

For further information please contact Catherine on 07 70 46 57 70 or Sue on 06 52 26 54 79.

Libraries & Books Sale of Second-hand Books, La Croisillesur-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 9 am 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 English language library with almost 4,000 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 Anglo-French 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, Singing Group, etc.

CANCER SUPPORT FRANCE Charente Plus Free confidential support for Englishspeaking people touched by cancer

CSF 24 HOUR HELPLINE - 0800 24 02 00 email: csfcharenteplus@gmail.com

Facebook : Cancer Support France - Charente-Plus 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, email info@ lasouterraineenglishlibrary.fr or visit www. lasouterraineenglishlibrary.fr The English Library – La Bibliothèque Anglophone, Dun-le-Palestel The English Library, which has now been established for over 12 years, is part of the Anglo-French Association Entente Cordiale and is situated in the route des Ratteries, adjacent to 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 browsing through our extensive collection of around 10,000 books, talking books and DVDs. Thanks to donations and an active purchasing policy we are able to offer something for everyone. For our new acquisitions we concentrate on recent publications, as well as member requests for older books.

Open Thu 10h-13h & Sat 10h-12h30.

Entente Cordiale hosts a wide range of other groups and activities too, including English lessons, French lessons, Traditional Dance Group, Art Group, Theatre group, Les Troubadours, Traditional Embroidery Group, Walking Football and Badminton.

For more information email eccreuse@ yahoo.com Music 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.

Le Chambard du jeudi Organised by the association Nessgig this takes place every 2nd Thursday of the month, from 19h to 23h at “La Maison des Associations", place du 8 mai 1945, Château-Chervix (87). All music lovers who would like to share and exchange information and stories around songs and singing, 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.

JJ's Music Club Hosted by L'Authentique Restaurant, 25 rue Principale 23360 Lourdoueix-SaintPierre. Singers and musicians of all styles and levels will be warmly welcomed on the last Friday of the month. Free entry.

Please reserve food in advance (05 55 80 21 67) - 17 euros for 3 courses.

For more information email Jacky at jjsclubdemusique@gmail.com Live music sessions, Rochechouart Our acoustic music sessions take place every second Friday of each month at the Salle Jacques Brel in Rochechouart where singers and musicians can come along to sing or play their own compositions or covers. All styles are welcome... celtic, classical, comedy, country, folk, jazz, music hall, pop, swing, etc. Why not join us?

Alternatively, just come along and listen along with the ever-growing enthusiastic audience. Doors open at 7.30 pm. Join our Facebook Group - Folk-Galerie - for more

information or contact folk.galerie@gmail. com if you would like to take part.

Support

Nora Hello, my name is Nora. I am a Berger cross and I have been at the refuge now for 3 months.

At just one year old I am smart, energetic and overflowing with love. I have already started my training and I'm doing well, I am house trained, not destructive and used to being left alone. I like children and get on well with most dogs and would love a well enclosed garden to run in.

I have adapted well to life in the refuge, but I really now need to find a family of my own. Is there anyone please who will just give me a chance?

If you think you you can help Nora then please contact the SPA de Creuse (Guéret), 21 Le Clocher, 23000 Saint-Sulpice-le-Guérétois www.spa-creuse.com tel 05 55 81 99 31 (answering machine) or email spa.gueret@orange.fr

Rusty - American bull dog free to a loving home 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 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 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 website at www.aafrance.net Cancer Support France, Charente Plus Free confidential support for Englishspeaking 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 – we are on the 1st floor upstairs) Tue & Wed from 10 am – 4 pm.

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@cshautevienne.org or visit www.cshautevienne.org

Cancer Support Haute-Vienne Cancer Support Haute-Vienne's AGM will be held on Wednesday 6 March at 2.30 pm in the Mairie, Videix.

All welcome.

Sue Ware, President

Association France Alzheimer in Dordogne We offer English-speaking support as a part of the national French charity supporting families affected by dementia. Our network of English speaking volunteers works across Dordogne. A support group meets near Bergerac on the first Tuesday of each month. Website: www.francealzheimer. org/dordogne Email address: alzheimer. dordogne@orange.fr Telephone: 05 53 27 30 34

Rusty is looking for a forever loving home, and is free to a good home. My mother-in-law has moved back to the UK and because of work commitments she is not able to take her dog with her.

Unfortunately I am not able to look after him myself as he is not getting along with my other dogs and cat.

Rusty is 2 years old, in good health and is mainly white with a bit of red. He is very good with children but not good with other animals, however he could be trained by someone with time, patience and experience. He's an American "standard" Johnson bulldog and he has National Kennel Club papers for his pedigree breed. (This breed is not classed as dangerous in France, people confuse it with the American pitbull).

He has a passport, is vaccinated and chipped and weighs around 40 kg. He is not castrated and requires walking every day as he is energetic. He has a Health book from puppy and would make a great companion for the right person.

Please look up American bulldog standard type on the internet to get information on the breed first as this may not be the right dog for you.

Please no time wasters as it is sad to see him go and only genuine people please enquire.

Call Leanne: 06 23 56 11 89

Peyrat Film Club The CINEMA in Peyrat-le-Château, run by the volunteers of the Association Bande Originale, regularly shows VOST films (original version with French subtitles), especially for all the non-French speakers in our region.

In February we will be showing: Johnny English Strikes Again - with Rowan Atkinson and Emma Thompson The Happy Prince - biopic about Oscar Wilde, with Rupert Everett, Colin Firth, Colin Morgan Mortal Engines - post-apocalyptic science fiction Ticket price €5, but just €3.50 for members of the Association.

See our website for dates & times, etc: http://bandeoriginale.jimdo.com In February and March the cinema in Peyrat will also show live retransmissions on a BIG screen of the matches of France in the 6 Nations rugby tournament. Free entry, doors open 15 minutes before kick-off time. Check our website for dates and times.

CHARITY SHOP

Do please come in and visit us.

We are located at: 3 rue Nationale, 16150 Chabanais (entrance opposite the mairie, directly behind Petticoat Lane – we are on the first floor upstairs)

OPENING HOURS: Tuesday & Wednesday 10 am – 4 pm Sorry – no books or electrical goods

28 ♦ WHAT’S ON

The Bugle Film Club Thursday 14th February

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ FEBRUARY 2019

Association Rencontres Franco-Britanniques VIDE GRENIER CLOTHING SALE SEWING FLEA MARKET On Saturday 9th March the Association Rencontres Franco-Britanniques is holding its annual VIDE GRENIER, CLOTHING SALE and SEWING FLEA MARKET at the Hall Rouchon-Mazérat in Bourganeuf.

It is free to the public, starts at 10.00am and finishes at 5.00pm.

What? Creed II Where? Cinéma Sénéchal, 1 rue du Sénéchal, 23000 Guéret When? 19h00, Thursday 14th 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!!)

The association will be running a bar and café and there will also be a range of hot food on sale for lunch.

So, now is the chance to empty the attic and hopefully make a few euros from all those unwanted items we all have. Last year the event was very popular – we had 40 different sellers and we fully expect this year’s event to be bigger.

The stalls will be free to paid up members of the association. Otherwise we charge €2 for each 2-metre table. Participants will be able to display their goods on tables and the floor space below. There will be a small number of forms to complete to keep us within the law and we will provide those on the day.

If you would like to book a place then please contact us on 05 55 64 22 25 - both English and French are spoken.

More details about our association may be found on our website:

www.francobrit.com