The Bugle Dordogne - May 2019 by The Bugle

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The Dordogne château available for just €13

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A local couple are challenging French gaming laws by selling their €1.5 million >> Page 4 château via an online lottery

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November 2016 - Issue #85

Dordogne

Your local newspaper for life in France

May 2019 - Issue 71 - FREE!

EU signals the end of single-use plastics As public awareness increases and the global war on plastic pollution continues, the EU has announced plans to ban ten single-use plastic products by 2021.

Local Ikea pick-up point launched - pg 5

The beehives that survived the Notre-Dame fire - page 11

oceans and seas. Europe is setting new and ambitious standards, paving the way for the rest of the world,” the European Commission’s vice-president Frans Timmermans, who is responsible for sustainable development, said in a statement. The ban would also take effect in the UK in the event of an extended Brexit transition period. EU member states will now also have to introduce measures to reduce the use of plastic food containers and plastic lids for hot drinks. By 2025, all plastic bottles should be made of 25% recycled content, and by the end of the decade 90% of them should be recycled. Furthermore, the EU is

Monsanto guilty over weedkiller illness - pg 8

Bilingual - Europe marks VE Day - pg 13

The Bugle Business Directory - pg 17-21

>> continued on page 12

ast year, after outlawing single-use plastic bags from major retailers, the government announced plans to ban dozens of other single-use plastic items, with the stated aim of having “zero plastic thrown in the oceans by 2025”. This move has now been accelerated after the European Parliament approved a law banning a wide-range of single-use plastic items, such as straws, cotton buds and cutlery, by 2021. The law, which was carried by 560 votes to 35, stipulates that 10 singleuse plastic items will be banned in order to curb ocean pollution. “Today we have taken an important step to reduce littering and plastic pollution in our

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2 ♦ IN THIS EDITION

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

C H ÂT E AU L E S T E V É N I E

Très Jolie

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Welcome to

The Bugle

have always been the cook in my house. I love being in the kitchen - it's one of the things I do to wind down at the end of the day. It's not that my wife can't cook, in fact she is very good, but I enjoy it more, so over the years it has evolved into one of the jobs in the house that I just do. I grew up in quite a traditional meat-and-two-veg household that was sceptical of vegetarians and for a long time I maintained that there was no dish in the world that couldn't be improved by placing a pork chop on top! Fortunately, I have become somewhat more enlightened over the years and it suddenly occurred to me the other day that I had made three consecutive evening meals for the family that didn't have any meat in them. It wasn't a conscious choice and would have been anathema to me a decade or so ago. I've just added a few dishes to the meal rotation that aren't built around meat and happened to cook them in the same week. Vegetarianism and veganism have become much more mainstream options these days and the food certainly doesn't need to be bland. I realised while writing an article on local meat-free restaurants for our sister Limousin edition that, without realising it, I have become broadly flexitarian - a word I only learned this month.

I don't think I could ever give up meat altogether, I enjoy it too much, but these days I would rather eat a higher quality piece of meat, but half as often. I am conscious of animal welfare concerns and the environmental impact of mass-produced meat, but equally our bodies have evolved to be omnivorous and meat can be part of a healthy diet. Thinking about this reminded me of a conversation I heard a while back related to intensive farming and the environment. The two participants agreed that the meat industry had a negative environmental impact, but had very different opinions as to the solution. One took the “all meat is murder” approach, blaming anyone who so much as considered eating an egg for the death of the planet, but the other was far more pragmatic, saying something along the lines of: “The problem won't be solved by hundreds of thousands of people giving up meat, but hundreds of millions of people eating ten per cent less meat would be a good start.” Why should it have to be binary? You don't need to pick a camp and be either a militant vegan or an outspoken carnivore. It's broadly fine to take either stance, but I imagine that 95% of the population sit somewhere in between. Here is where I would usually

say something about Leaving and Remaining and how most people are somewhere in between the two extremes, but I have promised myself I wouldn't mention the B-word! You could see the binary attitude in action when Extinction Rebellion took to the streets of London to protest climate change. Now, I don't want to get into an argument about the science, but broadly speaking, the overwhelming majority of informed voices believe that climate change is a problem and that we as a species are at least partially responsible. Following the money behind prominent climate change deniers will usually lead to a powerful lobby group with vested interests, but that is one for another day. The protesters in London were a million miles away from the Swampy stereotype of the vegan hippy. There were people from across the spectrum, young and old, who simply believe that something, anything, should be done. One of my favourite pastimes now is listening to talk radio and it was amazing the number of people who, angry at having their lives disrupted, were trying to dismiss the protesters using the binary logic: If you are not one, then you must be the other. The argument broadly goes that unless you are doing everything possible, then you are a hypocrite and your voice means nothing. “Look at them all there on their mobile phones. If they really cared, they wouldn't buy them.” “And how do you reckon they all got there..? I bet they didn't walk.” My personal favourite was: “The biggest factor in climate change is apparently over-population, so if any of them have got kids then

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they're part of the problem and should get lost.” Me switching off my television at night instead of putting it on standby, despite being eminently sensible, won't save the planet, but it is still the right thing to do. The protesters that I heard speak did not appear to take the holierthan-thou attitude that turns off so many people, they were just urging politicians to engage in debate and face up to the problem. I remember when England won the Rugby World Cup and much of the success was put down to Clive Woodward's policy of aggregating incremental gains, which argues that while you can't improve any one aspect of your game by 100%, you can improve one hundred aspects by 1%. I think that I am going to try and start living my life along these lines and find a whole bunch of tiny things I can do a bit better, rather than beating myself up for not doing any one thing perfectly. Until next month! Steve Martindale, Editor

CONTACT us Tel: 06 04 17 80 93 General: editor@thebugle.eu Advertising (EN): sales24@thebugle.eu Publicité (FR): publicite@thebugle.eu Subscriptions: subscriptions24@thebugle.eu

INSIDE this edition 3-5 Local News 6-12 National News 13 Bilingual 14-16 French Life 17-21 Directory 22 Community 23-24 What’s On Copy deadline:

15th May for June’s print edition

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LOCAL NEWS ♦ 3

MAY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Vandalism leads to new generation of radars

n the wake of last year’s reduction of the national speed limit to 80 km/h, motorists began targeting the country’s army of speed cameras as a way to express their anger. Then, as the gilets jaunes protests took hold, the cameras were again a favourite target, which has led the government to admit that 75% nationwide have been damaged at a cost of around €660 million to the state. The Dordogne has been no exception in this regard and in the New Year a report by France Bleu Périgord suggested that as many as 80% of the Dordogne’s radars were at one point not fully functioning. Authorities have remained tight-lipped on figures in recent months, fearing that it could lead to an increase in speed on the roads and further vandalism. Whilst those who believe that the cameras - and the reduction of the speed limit - are cynical attempts to collect cash from the public, the result of the infrastructure attacks may end up costing people more than they bargained for. Already successfully tested in Marseille, the government is now planning to roll out thousands of next-generation “tower radars” across the country in the coming months. The cameras, perched on posts of 2.6 metres, are capable of not only measuring your speed but also tracking a variety of other misdemeanours, such as phoning while driving, sudden swerving, not wearing a seatbelt, or overtaking on the right, which is illegal in France.

Their 36 Megapixel cameras can simultaneously monitor up to eight lanes of traffic over a 200 metre stretch of road and can capture multiple infractions at the same time, for example speeding whilst on the phone. In the short term the cameras, officially called the “Mesta Fusion 2”, will only be used to monitor speeding, but the technology to enforce other infractions is there and can be switched on at any time. Furthermore, in a tactic that will be familiar to British drivers, for every active radar, there will be four nearby decoy towers that will share the hightech equipment and which can switch places without drivers realising. Learning lessons from the recent protests, the radars have also been designed to be much harder to vandalise. According to reports, four hundred will be installed nationally in the coming months, with 6,000 planned by the end of next year, according to Le Parisien. In the Dordogne, only two are due to be installed in the shortterm, one on the D170 near Saint-Pierrede-Chignac, the other on the RN21 south of Bergerac. “The use of these radars will evolve in time,” explained the Dordogne Prefecture. “We will eventually be able to control offences such as driving whilst on the phone and not wearing a seatbelt.” After reaching record lows, road deaths have been on the rise recently and after a small increase in January, there was a 17% leap in fatalities in February, according to of-

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ficial figures. Responding to one mayor who said he was “shocked” by the increase, President Emmanuel Macron drew a direct line between the speed camera damage and the rise in roads deaths: “I would thank you for denouncing this unacceptable behaviour, the results of which are immediately clear when we look at the latest figures.” In a statement, the French road safety agency said: “The effect of the significant damage to these fixed speed cameras is growing, and seems to be showing up as a ‘relaxation’ in

behaviour on all roads. There appears to be a ‘carnival atmosphere’: the rules have been suspended. These are not huge excesses of speed - the French are reasonable people. It is just that they are no longer paying attention.” Others have argued that the unseasonably sunny weather in February may have contributed to the rise in the number of accidents, and critics of the speed limit reduction point to the statistics as proof that it has not worked and should be reversed. ■

4 ♦ LOCAL NEWS

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

Château auction deemed illegal The local vineyard

ow would you like to buy a château in the heart of the Périgord Noir worth well over a million euros for just €13? More often than not, if it looks too good to be true then it probably is, but this was not a scam, rather a novel way of trying to sell a family home. All you had to do to become the owner of the 8-bedroom château just south of Sarlat-la-Canéda was to pay €13, answer two simple questions and then guess the value of three items: an antique book of calligraphy, a pair of polished Chelsea boots, and an 18-carat gold bracelet. Whoever answered the questions correctly and had the closest valuation would win the property. The scheme was the idea of Brigitte and Christophe Demassougne, who had initially put their property on sale with local estate agents without success. They hoped to raise €2 million by the end of the year, before handing over the keys to the lucky winner. The competition got off to a flying start, with 20,000 people from across the world taking part in the first ten days after the website was unveiled at the beginning of April. The couple have run the 450m² guest house complex at Cénac-et-Saint-Julien for the past 20 years, but with retirement approaching had decided to sell. The property, situated in seven hectares of grounds, includes five

chambres d’hôtes and two gîtes, as well as a pool, tennis court, stables and a lake. It has an estimated market value of €1.5 million. “I decided that the day I wanted to sell my house, I would do it in this way. I wanted to sell my house in a different way which would perhaps give someone who doesn’t have the kind of money to buy this type of property a chance,” Brigitte Demassougne told France Bleu radio. “Lots of people think I am mad but it has attracted a great deal of media attention. Legal fees are really expensive and people can’t afford to buy these properties.” Unfortunately for potential châtelains the world over, the enterprising couple fell foul of French online gaming regulator ARJEL, who quickly declared the “quiz” illegal and gave them eight days to prove the competition “is not a game of chance and expertise”. Under a 2014 law, games of chance based on a player’s expertise are banned. It says the sale of property is considered a lottery if an element of chance is involved and a participant has paid money to take part. Ms Demassougne said they would challenge the regulator in good faith, but was “pessimistic” about their chances of success and also vowed to pay everyone back in full if ARJEL ultimately decides against them. ■

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vineyard in the Dordogne had two reasons to celebrate in April, marking both the tenth year producing organic wine in the region and also winning a gold trophy in a national wine competition. Château Feely, run by Sean and Caro Feely in the commune of Saussignac (24240) to the west of Bergerac, was honoured at the first national wine tourism competition, beating out top estates from all over France. Organised by Terre de Vins, the winners were unveiled in Paris on 29th March by a jury of eleven professionals, who assessed 350 entries to choose ten finalists and award a gold, silver and bronze trophy in each of the nine designated categories. Château Feely was the winner of the gold trophy for the category “education and valorisation of ecological practices”, and was also a finalist in a second category, “accommodation at the vineyard”. To celebrate the gold trophy, Château Feely are offering 10% off accommodation and multi-day or full-day tour bookings in 2019. To claim the discount, mention ‘Gold Trophy’ in your booking email. If the vineyard’s name sounds familiar, that is likely because Caro Feely has also written a number of successful novels since moving to France from Dublin in 2005 to pursue the couple’s dream of organic wine farming. These include: Grape Expectations, Saving our Skins, Glass Half Full and Wine, the essential Guide. For more information, visit www.chateaufeely.com ■

LOCAL NEWS ♦ 5

MAY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

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he feared tiger mosquito has gradually been colonising parts of southern France over the last decade and is now present in more than half of the departments in the country, including the Dordogne... and unfortunately, it is here to stay. “Once present in a commune or department, it is virtually impossible to get rid of them,” warned one health ministry official recently. Since last year, the Dordogne has been one of the departments declared as “red zones” for the invasive insects, according to the website vigilancemoustiques.com, meaning that the insects are “present and active”. The situation is one that is surely here to stay: the mosquito has spread steadily across France in recent years and the neighbouring departments of Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, Corrèze and Gironde have also been classified as red zones, with the Charente now classified as orange. The tiger mosquito is one of the world’s most invasive pests, and is easily recognised by its black and white striped legs, and small black and white striped body. It grows to between 2mm and 10mm. The primary concern is that tiger mosquitoes spread several tropical diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya and zika. Although dozens of cases of these diseases have been reported in France in recent years, almost all have been from people who

have returned from abroad carrying the disease; there are no infected “native” mosquitoes. The concern for health officials is that if a person carrying one of these tropical diseases is bitten by a local tiger mosquito, it can then be passed between humans from within the country. The tiger mosquito is believed to have first entered Europe in the late 1970s via a goods shipment from China to Albania. A subsequent introduction in Italy in the 1990s, believed to have been from larvae in a delivery of car tyres from the USA, led to a population explosion in Italy which gradually spread. It was first seen in France in 2004 and today is “present and active” in over 50 departments. ■

overs of Scandinavian design may be pleased to hear that Ikea has opened up a new collection point in the Dordogne. Whether you are a fan of Ikea, or you associate a trip to the retailer as a descent into a flat-pack hell, there is no doubting the success of the Swedish company in recent decades and most people will probably have at least one item with an incomprehensible name somewhere in their house. Currently, the closest Ikea outlet for Dordogne residents is Bordeaux, which can be well over a four-hour round trip for many. Although home delivery is an option, it can cost up to €99 euros, but since 19th April a new service now allows you to shop online and have your flat packs delivered to Trélissac, to the east of Périgueux, for just €29. The new pick-up point, located at the Antipode climbing centre, joins four other similar locations in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Angoulême (16), Mérignac (33), Rochefort (17) and La Teste-de-Buch (33). ■

6 ♦ NATIONAL NEWS

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

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British family, who were told they had just 30 days to leave the country after their application for a carte de séjour was rejected, have now been told that they can stay. The case came to prominence after Emma Lawrence posted an emotional video on Facebook which was viewed well over 100,000 times, detailing how the family of four had received a letter ordering them to pack their bags. Mrs Lawrence, an IT expert who earned a good living in the UK as a technical writer, explained that she and her husband moved to France two years ago and planned to buy land for a house and to build up their self-employment work. They have one small child in school and another in a crèche. However, due to the logistics of their move, months of house seeking, putting the children into school and registering businesses, etc., they had been living mostly on savings and had not yet built up regular incomes. When they followed the British Embassy's advice to apply for a carte de séjour, they were told they had insufficient resources and must leave in 30 days. It appeared that the family had fallen foul of a strict application of EU law surrounding self-sufficiency. European citizens have free movement to live and work in other EU countries for up to three months and to stay longer if they are working or self-sufficient. After five years of such residency and with no long absences, they gain a right of permanent residency and can only then be asked to leave if they pose a serious security threat. Many countries, including the UK and France, made applying for residency cards after three months optional; most people in France do not do so and the rules are rarely applied. EU directives list self-employment as one of the cases where someone can live in another EU country beyond three months, but there is significant leeway as to how officials define self-employment. Rules simply state that

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the work should be of a genuine and effective nature and not merely marginal or ancillary - in other words it should be “a proper job”. EU law also allows those who do not work to stay more than three months, so long as they “have sufficient resources for themselves and their family members not to become a burden on the social security system”, i.e. they must have savings or a pension. In reality, you should always be OK if you earn more than the threshold below which you qualify for RSA income support: €513 per month for a single person, rising to €1,080 per month for a couple with two children. After the family's plight became headline news, and following the intervention of the British Embassy, authorities said it appeared a mistake had been made. The immigration service at the prefecture had indeed instructed officials to refuse the cards on income grounds, but had apparently not intended to ask them to also issue an OQTF (Obligation de Quitter la France) order to leave the country - the two are not automatically linked. “After investigating, we have realised that there were irregularities in the refusal notice that was issued; it was a mixture between a card refusal and an OQTF. The head of the immigration service has therefore been invited to review his position,” a statement from the Direction générale des étrangers en France (DGEF) read. “In the coming days the couple will surely be issued with their cards, whether under the ‘inactive’ criteria, as they appear to have substantial savings so that should not pose a problem, or as self-employed workers, as a business activity can be considered ‘real and effective’ even if it doesn’t bring in a lot.” With no Brexit solution in sight and with confusion still surrounding the legal fate of hundreds of thousands of British expats in France, many are understandably unsure as what their best move should be. If in doubt, it is important that you understand the law and your own personal situation. One group set up to help advise expats

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NATIONAL NEWS ♦ 7

MAY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

is the citizens rights group Remain in France Together (RIFT) - www.remaininfrance.org - which has information about the carte de séjour application process and what to do if you are refused. “We don't and can't get involved in giving individual specific advice on whether someone is legally resident or not - that's immigration advice and is for a lawyer - and for a carte de séjour refusal with an OQTF we'd always advise someone to see an avocat who specialises in immigration,” explained Kalba Meadows from RIFT. “As we all now face up to a six-month extension to Brexit day, there is a little breathing space for anyone who finds themselves worried by this case to take a long hard look at your situation, then sit down and have a hard think about what you might do about it. But there is no other way of putting it than this: the tough news is that sometimes a lifestyle choice is incompatible with being legally resident in another country.” ■

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8 ♦ NATIONAL NEWS

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Monsanto guilty over French farmer's illness

French farmer has won a landmark case against US biotech giant Monsanto, which has been ruled legally responsible for his ill health. An appeals court ruled in favour of 55-year-old Paul François, who has fought a decade-long legal battle against the firm after becoming ill following exposure to Lasso, a now banned herbicide, in 2004. Bayer AG, the German pharmaceutical company that acquired Monsanto in 2018, confirmed the ruling and said it was considering its legal options, including further appeals. Previous rulings in 2012 and 2015 had also found Monsanto legally responsible for the poisoning of Mr François, but these judgements were overturned in 2017 by France's top court, which ordered the new hearing. The farmer claims he fell ill in 2004 after being exposed to Lasso, a weedkiller containing monochlorobenzene, that was legal in France until 2007 but had already been banned in 1985 in Canada and in 1992 in Belgium and Britain. Mr François argued that Monsanto was well aware of Lasso’s dangers long before it was finally withdrawn from the French market and sought damages of more than €1 million for chronic neurological damage that led to long hospital

stays. A spokeswoman for Bayer AG said the company was “committed to a fair understanding of each personal case” but suggested Mr François' case was an “exception”. “Plant protection products are among the products whose evaluation and authorisation are the most strictly regulated in the world. They are safe when used as directed,” she added. The court in Lyon did not rule on how much Monsanto might have to pay, which will be determined separately, but did order the company to immediately pay €50,000 towards Mr François’ legal fees. The ruling in France is the latest blow against Monsanto involving its weedkillers and pesticides. Last year, the company lost a landmark case in the US, after a jury ruled that the company was liable for a terminally ill man’s cancer, awarding him $289 million in damages. That case centred on its Roundup brand which contains the controversial chemical glyphosate, the world’s most widely used herbicide. Dewayne Johnson was the first person to take Monsanto to trial over allegations that the chemical sold under the brand Roundup causes cancer and his lawyers argued that the company had “fought science” for

years and targeted academics who spoke up about possible health risks of the herbicide product. During the lengthy trial, lawyers produced internal emails from Monsanto executives which they claimed demonstrated how the corporation repeatedly ignored experts’ warnings, sought favourable scientific analyses and helped to “ghostwrite” research that encouraged continued usage. “We were finally able to show the jury the secret, internal Monsanto docu-

ments proving that Monsanto has known for decades that ... Roundup could cause cancer,” Johnson’s lawyer, Brent Wisner, said in a statement following the trial. Monsanto faces thousands of similar legal battles in the US. In 2015, the World Health Organization’s international agency for research on cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans”, triggering a wave of legal and legislative challenges. When the European Commission voted to re-ap-

prove the use of glyphosate for a further five years in 2017, French President Emmanuel Macron rejected the decision and pledged to ban the product within three years. Macron subsequently backed down on that pledge after pressure from farmers, who claim that there is not yet a viable alternative, but it remains government policy to phase out the controversial weedkiller. Earlier this year, a court removed market approval for the Roundup Pro 360 brand over safety concerns. ■

Non-prescription drug market to be opened up

harmacies in France have long enjoyed an effective monopoly on non-prescription drugs, but despite much opposition, there are increasing calls for this market to opened up to competition. In April, the Competition Authority released a report which recommended extending the sale of non-prescription drugs such as common painkillers, hay fever remedies and cold and flu medication to parapharmacies and supermarkets. British expats moving to France are often shocked to find that you can not buy a packet of own-brand Ibuprofen from the supermarket, but must instead go to your local pharmacy where the prices can often seem eye-watering for those fresh off the plane. Opening up the non-prescription drug market would inevitably lead to more competition, higher availability and lower prices, but for many people, this is not necessarily a good thing. Pharmacists in France are very highly trained and many people, especially in rural areas, often head to their local pharmacy for medical advice before

making an appointment with their GP. There are a huge number of pharmacies in France - around 23,000 - and every mid-sized town, along with a large number of small villages, will have one. Opponents fear that allowing large retailers to enter the lucrative non-prescription medicine market will result in pharmacy closures and ultimately do more harm than good. Among these opponents is the country's Health Minister, Agnes Buzyn, who immediately voiced her concerns. “I am not in favour of it,” explained the minister, herself a doctor by profession. “When we talk about this, it implies weakening small pharmacies in rural areas, which are often the first resort for sick people. I think that would be a very bad idea and a very bad signal to give. We must support small local community industries. That drugs can be bought like any other food consumption product, I find that problematic. There are always side effects when you take medication, it always requires advice and pharmacists are there to give advice, to guide peo-

ple.” The president of the National Order of Pharmacists agrees: “The public have access to safe, quality medicines and medical knowledge. Let us be careful not to jeopardize an organisation that has always known how to adapt and meet the expectations of the population! Our organisation guarantees a connection and expertise that we need more than ever if we are to respond to

the difficulties of accessing healthcare services.” For their part, the Competition Authority are keen to point out that they are not suggesting painkillers should be bought like baguettes. The Authority stressed that any sales should take place in dedicated spaces within supermarkets, with the “mandatory and continuous presence of a responsible pharmacist” ■

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NATIONAL NEWS ♦ 11

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High heel marathon record

French woman has set a new world record for running the marathon in high heels. Christelle Doyhambehere crossed the finish line of the recent Paris marathon in 6 hours, 4 minutes, and 7 seconds, smashing the previous record, set by the American Irene Sewell at the 2017 Tennessee marathon, by almost an hour and a half. As is often the case with such stories, the news was met with a mixture of admiration and disbelief that anyone had thought to set a record in the first place! The 34-year-old mother of two from the city of Pau in south-west France came up with the idea after leaving a cinema and running through the rain to her car, in spite of the three-inch heels she was wearing. When her partner, with whom she had recently signed up to the Paris marathon, joked that she should run in them, a brief internet search uncovered the previous record and the challenge was laid down. Aware that the sight of someone in full running gear and high heels is somewhat unusual, Christelle trained in classic trainers during the day, but took to the streets at night in her three-inch running heels with a head lamp to “avoid finding pictures of herself on social media”! In the end, the race went off without a hitch and the runner surprised even herself with the impressive time. “I hoped

to beat the record, but not by that much!” she said. “It went well from the beginning, up to about the 23rd kilometre. I stopped at every refuelling point to avoid cramps. After that, I saw that I had some breathing room for the second part, so I took my time.” Christelle dedicated her world record attempt to raising funds for the charity Koala, which provides entertainment to children being cared for in the paediatrics department at the hospital in Pau, where she works as a nursing assistant. The record is pending official approval by Guinness. ■

Ambassador blasts Trump

ne of the country's top diplomats has launched a scathing attack on Donald Trump. French ambassador to the US Gérard Araud, who retired in April after a 37-year career that included some of the top jobs in French diplomacy, called Donald Trump a “whimsical, unpredictable, uninformed” leader and compared the Trump administration to the court of King Louis XIV, filled with courtiers desperately trying to interpret their leader's whims and wishes. “When they say ‘America first’, it’s America alone,” Araud said in an interview with the Guardian newspaper. “Basically, this president and this administration don’t have allies, don’t have friends. It’s really about bilateral relationships on the basis of the balance of power and the defence of narrow American interest.” The outgoing diplomat also had a warning for British politicians, cautioning the UK against expecting any special treatment from Washington in post-

Brexit trade talks and predicting that the Trump administration would force London to accept US imports on US terms, such as looser standards for genetically modified organisms (GMOs). “They are not thinking in terms of multilateral cooperation first. And secondly, they don’t have any affection towards the Europeans. They treat Europeans the way they treat the Chinese,” Araud said. “And when the British come for a free-trade agreement, there will be blood on the walls and it will be British blood. It will be GMOs breakfast, lunch and dinner.” After serving as the country’s envoy to the UN, Araud had been France’s ambassador to Washington since 2014, and was a well-known figure in the diplomatic scene. At a time when the US administration has been heavily influenced by conservative evangelical Christians hostile to gay marriage, Araud lived with his partner, the photographer Pascal Blondeau, and often threw lavish parties at their château-like

French residence. Araud was also noted for his blunt and acerbic language and at 2 am on the night Trump was elected, the ambassador tweeted: “It is the end of an era, the era of neoliberalism. We don’t yet know what will succeed it… After Brexit and this election, anything is possible. A world is collapsing before our eyes. Vertigo.” Although he deleted the tweet two minutes later, damage had already been done on both sides of the Atlantic. “I had a lot of trouble with my own capital. Unfortunately, to be right early is to be wrong,” he observed. “I had deleted it after two minutes but the sin had been committed. But looking at it in retrospect, of course I was right. My world, our world of certainties, really was collapsing and we were facing a real, substantial, dangerous crisis, which could basically really overwhelm my own country. I believe we are entering a new era. I just don’t know what this era will be.” ■

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Caterpillar threat to pétanque jacks The country's only manufacturer of pétanque jacks has warned that it is under threat from an invasive caterpillar that is attacking the trees the small balls are made from. The family company Monneret, based in Jeurre in the Jura department, produces around one million cochonnets each year, representing 35% of its annual business. The company sells the jacks on to larger companies, official boules competitions, and is also the supplier to the national pétanque association - la Fédération Française de Pétanque. The pest in question is the box tree caterpillar, which along with the box tree moth, munches on the leaves, damaging the tree and in some cases causing it to die by completely defoliating it. “There will be no more of these trees in France within five to seven years,” explained the company's boss, Jean-Yves Monneret. In order to beat the threat, the company has been busy felling more than twice the usual amount of wood in an attempt to build up a stock for future years and give them time to find a reliable importer of the timber. Box tree caterpillars and moths are native to East Asia, but were first spotted in Europe in 2007. ■

Notre-Dame bees survive Following the devastating fire that ripped through the roof of the iconic Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, the nation was in a sombre mood, but as it emerged that the structure would be saved and billions of euros were pledged to pay for the restoration work, a renewed sense of optimism took hold. This was further boosted by the news that the 180,000 bees which live in the roof also somehow escaped the fire. “Thank goodness the flames didn’t touch them,” said Nicolas Géant, the hives’ 51-yearold beekeeper. “It’s a miracle!” The three hives, that are home to an estimated 60,000 bees each, are located on a lower roof above the cathedral’s first floor, around thirty metres below the main roof. Despite the heat of the fire, the smoke generated may have saved the bees as the carbon dioxide produced makes them drowsy. “I was incredibly sad about Notre-Dame because it’s such a beautiful building, and as a Catholic it means a lot to me,” Géant said. “But to hear there is life when it comes to the bees, that’s just wonderful.” The bees produce around 25 kg of honey each year, most of which is sold to staff, and are among the millions that live in the 700 hives installed in the roofs of public buildings across the capital in an attempt to boost biodiversity. ■

Spending power to rise by €850 per year Despite the strike action, the gilets jaunes protests and the confusion surrounding Brexit, people in France will be an average €850 better off this year compared with 2018. A combination of wage increases, low inflation and civil unrest has seen a significant projected boost in spending power, according to a study by the French Economic Observatory (OFCE). The increase is the largest recorded since 2007. €440 of the rise in spending power is due to the emergency fiscal measures President Emmanuel Macron announced at the end of last year in a bid to stem the growing violence at the weekly yellow vest protests. The remainder of the increase has been put down to an average 2.6% pay increase across the country which has far outstripped inflation. Don’t spend it all at once! ■

12 ♦ NATIONAL NEWS

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

New law sees sharp rise EU plans to ban in supermarket prices single-use plastics >> continued from pg 1

f you have noticed a rise in the price you pay at the supermarket checkout in recent months, it will in large part be due to the loi Alimentation, which was introduced in February. Under the new food law, large retailers are banned from selling products with less than a 10% profit margin, so an item bought by the supermarket for €1 must be sold for at least €1.10. The loi Alimentation is a flagship government measure aimed at preventing price wars among competing supermarket chains and at ensuring better pay for French farmers and small-scale food producers, many of whom are struggling to stay in business. Recent analysis by research firm Nielson has found that the

changes have been felt most harshly in the booze aisle! According to the data, the price of alcohol has risen by an average of 3.2 per cent since the new law came into effect, with gin (8.8%) and rum (8.6%) the hardest hit. The price of beer has rocketed by 7.3% and even that most Gallic of apéritif tipples, Pastis, has not escaped the price hikes, with the 6.8% increase adding around a euro to the price of a standard bottle. The changes have not just affected drinks, however, and the price of a wheel of President Camembert has gone up by more than 8 per cent, as has the price of a jar of the country's favourite breakfast spread, Nutella. The Nielsen report came in the

same month that it was revealed supermarket chain Intermarché had been fined €375,000 for its January 2018 Nutella flash sale that saw 70% slashed off the price of 750g pots of the chocolate spread. Whilst the chain ultimately sold as many jars of Nutella in one day as they would expect to sell in three months, the promotion led to ugly scenes of fighting shoppers that were at the time dubbed as the “Nutella Riots”. French law restricts sales periods and bans retailers from selling products at a loss. Intermarché was found to have broken these rules and the fine represents the maximum that could be applied for the offence under existing laws. ■

also taking steps to tackle the scourge of wet wipes, which play a major role in the formation of sewer-clogging “fatbergs”. In the future, wet wipes, sanitary towels, tobacco filters and cups must be correctly labelled if they are made with plastics and packaging will be required to warn consumers of the environmental damage caused by disposing of these items incorrectly. Also covered by the ban will be oxo-degradable plastics, which are often mistakenly classified as biodegradable; oxo-degradable plastics do not biodegrade, they simply break down into smaller plastic pieces. The new laws will have mixed results for two French companies. On the one hand, the decline of plastics is providing challenges for French-based Soyez, Europe’s largest straw manufacturer. “The problem isn’t new and it is serious, so we obviously need to find alternatives. We’ve been working on this for several months,” said the company’s director Pierre Soyez, adding that it was “really complicated” to try to make the shift overnight. Conversely, one French business that has seen opportunity in the changing political and consumer attitudes to plastics is the Breton-based manufacturer

Algopack, which is one of the first in France to use algae technology. Described as an “almost infinite resource”, algae can be used to create a completely natural material that looks and behaves similarly to “normal” plastic, and can also be made for a similar price. While traditional plastic will take centuries to degrade in nature, algae-based equivalents will decompose in 12 weeks on land, and just four hours at sea. Every year, Europeans generate 25 million tonnes of plastic waste, but less than 30% is collected for recycling. More than 80% of marine litter is plastic and the World Economic Forum estimates that there are already more than 150 million tonnes in the world’s seas. Research shows that if action is not taken, there will be more plastic than fish by weight in the world’s oceans by 2050. ■ The following products will be banned in the EU by 2021: • Single-use plastic cutlery (forks, knives, spoons and chopsticks) • Single-use plastic plates • Plastic straws • Cotton bud sticks made of plastic • Plastic balloon sticks • Oxo-degradable plastics and food containers • Expanded polystyrene cups

Black box recorders for all EU cars from 2021

ig Brother intrusion by the nanny state, or sensible safety measures to further protect the public? Whatever your opinion, in-car driver assistance technology, including black-box crash recorders, could become mandatory in Europe within three years. The European Parliament’s committee on internal market and consumer protection (IMCO) has voted to make a number of technologies compulsory - automated emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, intelligent speed assistance and emergency lane keeping - but it is the inclusion of aviation-style black box recorders that has grabbed the headlines. If the legislation is passed into law, all new cars sold in European Union member states would need to be fitted with the technology by 2022 at the very latest. Although politicians are still deciding on exactly

what data would be collected by the black boxes, it is hoped that the telemetry data stored would allow accident investigators to access information on speed, steering input and other details for the period immediately prior to a crash. The speed limiting technology, a version of which is already installed as standard by a number of car manufacturers, would use a combination of GPS data and traffic sign recognition tech to limit how fast a car could drive on public roads. Though the legislation would make it impossible to fully switch off the speed limiter, drivers would still be able to break the speed limit if they so choose, as the system can be overridden through “normal operation of the accelerator pedal”. “This legislation represents a major step forward for road safety in Europe, and could save 25,000

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lives within 15 years of coming into force,” European Transport Safety Council executive director Antonio Avenoso said. “But it will only apply to new vehicles. So it’s incredibly important that a final deal is reached as soon as possible, so cars with these new safety features fitted as standard start driving off production lines sooner rather than later.” Some supporters of the move fear that it could lose overall support when the make-up of the European Parliament changes following this year's elections and that the legislation could be blocked. “Final negotiations between the parliament, member states and the European Commission should now begin as soon as possible,” Antonio Avenoso continued. “We urge policymakers to do their utmost to achieve a final agreement before the European Parliamentary elections in May.” ■

Brexit Portaloos on French roads With all things Brexit, fact is often stranger than fiction, and this was the case when, in the build-up to the already-extended 12th April Brexit Day, France 3 ran a news report on the dozens of Portaloos being installed in northern France to cope with the traffic tailbacks! The portable toilets were set up along the A16 motorway between Calais and Dunkirk as a result of the lengthy traffic jams caused by customs worker protests and in anticipation of further queues of motorists struggling to get through the Channel ports after Brexit. “The different state services have been getting organised to manage the risk of traffic jams as well as possible,” highway officials told local radio. “The size of the jams will depend on how well haulage companies can anticipate the need for customs formalities. As always happens when people are obliged to change their habits, there will no doubt be a certain period needed for road users to adapt their behaviour when making cross-Channel journeys.” France is not alone in its planning for being caught short in long tailbacks. A new contract for toilets has been issued in the UK as part of Operation Stack, the procedure used by Kent Police to park lorries when services into the Port of Dover are disrupted. Perhaps fearing the inevitable toilet-based headlines, nondisclosure agreements have been signed with the logistics companies contracted to supply the portable toilets to try to keep the arrangements secret. ■

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Victory in Europe Day - 8th May

ater this year, Britain will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings that marked the beginning of the end of the war in Europe. Most people in the UK do not need to be reminded that the Normandy landings took place on 6th June 1944, a date that has become one of the most important in recent history, along with the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, when we remember those that fell in WWI. Whilst D-Day was a huge turning point in WWII, fighting in Europe did not actually end until 8th May 1945, known as VE Day - Victory in Europe Day. This date is a public holiday of huge significance in France and travelling around the country you will often find yourself driving down “avenue du 8 mai 1945”. Conversely, VE Day has grown to have far less significance in Britain today. A survey carried out to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII showed that not only did very few people know the date, more than half of young people in Britain did not even know what VE Day was. This was not always the case. When the war finally ended a national holiday was declared and more than one million people took to the streets across the UK to celebrate. Huge crowds gathered in Trafalgar Square and outside Buckingham Palace, where King George VI and Prime Minister Winston Churchill appeared on the balcony of the palace to greet the cheering public. Princess Elizabeth (the future Queen Elizabeth II) even wandered in disguise among the crowds to take part in the celebrations. When Germany was finally defeated, it was not Adolf Hitler that signed the surrender. With Berlin surrounded, Adolf Hitler committed suicide in his bunker on 30 April 1945. His successor was Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz who quickly negotiated an end to the war with the Allies during his brief spell as Germany’s president. Although the unconditional surrender was accepted by Allied Commander General Eisenhower on 7th May, the symbolic document was not signed in Berlin until the following day and it is this date that officially marks the end of the war in Europe for many countries. The World War was not over, however: Germany did not surrender to Russia until the following day and Japan would continue to fight until August when the nuclear bombs dropped on Nagasaki and Hiroshima brought an end to hostilities. British troops also continued to fight in south east Asia until later that year. ■

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.

ette année, la Grande Bretagne va célébrer le 75ème anniversaire du débarquement du jour J qui marqua le commencement de la fin de la guerre en Europe. Il n’est pas nécessaire de rappeler à la plupart des habitants du Royaume Uni que le débarquement en Normandie a eu lieu le 6 juin 1944, une date qui est devenue l’une des plus importantes de l’histoire contemporaine, au même titre que la onzième heure du onzième jour du onzième mois, lorsque nous célébrons la mémoire de ceux qui tombèrent durant la première guerre mondiale. Bien que le jour J ait été un énorme tournant dans la seconde guerre mondiale, les combats en Europe ne cessèrent réellement que le 8 mai 1945, connu sous le nom de « VE Day », jour de la victoire en Europe. Cette date correspond à un jour férié d’une portée énorme en France, et si vous voyagez à travers le pays, vous vous retrouverez souvent à rouler sur une « avenue du 8 mai 1945 ». En revanche, le jour de la victoire en Europe revêt beaucoup moins d’importance en Grande-Bretagne de nos jours. Une étude menée à l’occasion du 70ème anniversaire de la fin de la seconde guerre mondiale a montré que non seulement très peu de gens connaissent la date, mais encore que plus de la moitié des jeunes Britanniques ne savent même pas ce qu’est le jour de la victoire. Ce ne fut pas toujours le cas. Lorsque la guerre fut enfin terminée, un jour férié fut instauré et plus d’un million de personnes à travers tout le Royaume Uni descendirent dans les rues pour célébrer l’événement. D’immenses foules se rassemblèrent à Trafalgar Square et devant le Palais de Buckingham, du balcon duquel le roi George VI et le premier ministre Winston Churchill apparurent pour saluer le public qui les acclamait. La princesse Elisabeth (la future reine Elisabeth II) se promena même incognito parmi la foule pour prendre part aux festivités. Lorsque l’Allemagne fut finalement battue, ce ne fut pas Adolf Hitler qui signa la reddition. Berlin assiégé, il se suicida dans son bunker le 30 avril 1945. C’est son successeur, le grand amiral Karl Dönitz, qui négocia rapidement la fin de la guerre avec les Alliés durant son bref intérim à la présidence allemande. Bien que la capitulation inconditionnelle ait été acceptée par le général Eisenhower commandant en chef des forces alliées le 7 mai, le document symbolique ne fut signé à Berlin que le lendemain et c’est cette date qui marque officiellement la fin de la guerre en Europe pour de nombreux pays. La guerre mondiale n’était pas terminée pour autant : l’Allemagne ne se rendit à la Russie que le lendemain et le Japon continua à combattre jusqu’au mois d’août, quand les bombes atomiques lancées sur Nagasaki et Hiroshima mirent fin aux hostilités. Les troupes britanniques continuèrent encore à se battre en Asie du Sud-Est plus avant dans l’année. ■

14 ♦ FRENCH LIFE

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

The best time of year for radishes

by Julia Watson

adishes gleam on supermarket displays all year round. But despite their annual availability, for me they are only to be eaten in the spring and summer. They somehow seem out of season at any other time and hold no appeal. Their pearl-shine skins fading from white to rosy herald the end of the chill time of year and the beginning of the heat, to match the heat they bring to the mouth. They have many more culinary uses than dipped in salt and crunched raw, though that is probably one of the most satisfying ways to attack them, particularly when there’s a crusty baguette and a cube of cold butter to eat along with them - an unlikely pairing but one which delivers joy. For a good number of British children, radishes are an early introduction to gardening. Seeds sprinkled on damp flannels or paper towels (no-one knows what blotting paper is any more…) will sprout in under a week and turn in the garden into edible vegetables in only a month. These days, those hair-thin greens are sprinkled over all manner of dishes as radically (radishly?) minimal and contemporary decoration. A member of the Brassicaceae family that includes cauliflower, cabbage and broccoli with horseradish bringing the heat connection, they’re an ancient vegetable, found in Europe well before the Romans - although there are limited records to establish their origin and passage of their domestication. Only in the first century AD do Greek and Roman records mention varieties of the radish. Scientists have settled on South-East Asia as the most likely source of the original Raphanus sativus, since it’s the only region in the world in which to find the radish in its pure wild form. However, different varieties of the root vegetable have been found in India, central Asia, and central China which was the area to develop the large white and mild variation of the radish,

most familiar to Europeans as the daikon. Other records indicate it as one of the first European crops to have been introduced to the Americas with the earliest adventurers. A versatile crop, they can be grown as companion plants to deter aphids and other pests and diseases. They also make a good cover crop to protect the soil during the winter, the green leaves being dug in to create a compost in early spring. Some varieties of radish, such as the daikon popular in Japan, are grown to produce oil. While we tend to eat only the root, without its leaves, and to eat it whole and raw, the radish is a vegetable with more possibilities than you might think. It responds to the same treatment you would give to a turnip, having much the same flavour - only a little bit milder - when baked in a little liquid and butter or oil, or roasted. Radishes pickled are a good addition to the charcuterie platter. Don’t discard their leaves - they can be treated like spinach and stewed in the water that clings to their leaves once you’ve washed and drained them well with a little oil and some finely chopped garlic and red pepper flakes, or dressed as for a salad. A refreshing salad of the radish root uses a mandolin to create paper-thin slices of radish that are turned with a very large quantity of the leaves of flat-leaf parsley. Adding a crushed anchovy fillet or more to taste to the vinaigrette dressing makes for a richer flavour. It’s a salad that responds to invention. Very thin slices of spring onion can be threaded through, along with fine slices of fennel or celery for extra crunch. Whatever takes your fancy… The recipe below, with or without the cheese, can be embellished in any way and is a vibrant salute to spring. ■ Julia Watson has been a long-time Food Writer for newspapers and magazines in the US and the UK.

Radish, goats cheese & parsley salad Ingredients (serves 4): 1 bunch French breakfast radishes, approx 500g 2 tablespoon medium shallots, peeled and finely minced 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar 3 tablespoons hazelnut or walnut oil A good handful flat-leaf parsley leaves 55g Cabécou or other goat cheese, crumbled Wash and dry the radishes. Trim the greens to within 2 cm of the radish, then thinly slice the radishes. Transfer to a medium bowl along with the shallots and salt, toss to combine, and let stand for 5 minutes. In a bowl, whisk the vinegar and drizzle in the oil, whisking until emulsified. Add the parsley and half the dressing to the radishes and toss gently to combine. Transfer to a platter, top with the goat cheese, and serve the remaining dressing on the side.

The wines of Bergerac

he winemakers of Bergerac have some wonderful plans for this summer, so snip this article out of the paper, stick it on the fridge door and prepare to sip, taste, buy and realise just how much fun can be had while learning more about the wines that provide the best quality for the price in France. On May 31 and June 1 is the Vinata, a two-day festival of wine and music in Bergerac itself. Because the Maison des Vins, the headquarters of Bergerac wine, is under renovation, the event will be centred at the place Barbacane on the southern side of the old bridge and will kick off at 11 am with tastings and a gourmet market, musical parades and a concert in the evenings. On 7-8 June is the La Claque Festival at Château Monplaisir, overlapping the annual ‘folie’ of the village of Monbazillac itself, with tastings of the classic sweet dessert wines along with a food market, music and wines by the glass. There will be lots of dry whites and plain red Bergerac wine, too. On June 9, I’ll be in Monbazillac, where the annual fete

by Martin Walker

looks like being really special this year, without even counting the usual concert, ball and fireworks in the Château Monbazillac courtyard. During the day, they will be offering Monba Plage, a space to explore inventive cocktails based on Monbazillac wines. Next door you will find TradiZillac, where there will be the more traditional cheese and foie gras to go with the wine. And most intriguing of all will be Monb’Asie’Ac, or Chinese, Vietnamese and Japanese food designed to accompany the wine. Things really get going in July, with Saussignac en fête on 5-6th, and on the 6-7th is ‘Summer in the Montravel’ at the Château de Montaigne, which is also an opportunity to visit the austere study of the great essayist on the Périgord, a man whose writings Shakespeare read. Don’t miss the brass band ‘In Vino Veritas’ on the Sunday evening. It’s not widely known but Montaigne spent some time as a prisoner in the Bastille, when the Catholic League arrested him during the Wars of Religion on suspicion of being an agent for his Protestant friend

Henri of Navarre. He went on to become King Henri IV, and famously said ‘Paris is worth a mass’ as he ended the religious wars and introduced religious tolerance with the Edict of Nantes. Montaigne was finally released from the Bastille after the intervention of Queen Catherine de Medici, and returned to his solace amid his books and his wines in the Montravel. He’s a personal icon of mine for his wisdom about many things, but in particular about wine. He told us that we have to drink ordinary wines because otherwise we’ll never appreciate the great ones. And he also observed, “You don’t drink wine, you kiss it and it gives you back a caress.” On August 3, the Vins de Bergerac as a whole are en fête at the port of Bergerac (from 18h), a chance to taste your way through the extraordinary range of wines. Bear in mind that for a relatively small area, the Bergerac is unique in the range of 13 appellations of different types of wines on offer. There is the lordly Pécharmant, the velvety Montravel, the dessert wines of Monbazillac and

Saussignac, the lovely summer apéritif wines of the Rosette, and the various reds and whites of the Bergerac and the Côtes de Bergerac. There are wonderful evenings planned on July 18, 31, and August 1, 14, 15 and 28 and 29 at Château Lestevenie, one of my favourites, where Humphrey and Sue Temperley organise pop-up restaurant dinners overlooking one of the best views in the region. I went last year and the food is terrific. Dinner is 30 euros per head, and you buy wine at the usual bargain prices. Reservations are strongly advised (www. chateau-lestevenie.com). Two of the best-known summer events are: the Cassecroute in the vineyard at David Fourtout’s Les Verdots, every Tuesday and Friday at 11 am for 6 euros; and at Château Belingard on July 11 and 25, and August 8 and 22, the famous evening apéros, just 9 euros for a healthy plateful. Reservations required via their websites. On August 11, head for the Château de Duras in the valley of the Dropt where the wines of Duras are en fête, 150 different wines being offered, along with food stalls and a really spectacular light show inside the château courtyard. And on August 17, it’s Rosette Night at the port of Bergerac, a chance to sample the handful

of vineyards who have lately revived this traditional and slightly sweet white wine. On September 6 is the highlight wine event of the year, at one of my favourite vineyards - the grand annual jazz concert at Château de Tiregand in Pécharmant, with one of the best choices of food you will find at such events. The wine is the pride of Bergerac and speaks for itself, the jazz is great and the château grounds a lovely place to spend the evening. One final recommendation, although it’s not in the vineyards. Every Monday evening from July 15 to August 19, the Jardins d’Eyrignac, just east of Sarlat, are holding their white picnics. Dress in white, enjoy the most magical gardens, the cocktail bar, the music and dancing and the fireworks. It is an evening to remember. ■ Martin Walker, author of the best-selling ‘Bruno, chief of police’ novels, is a Grand Consul de la Vinée de Bergerac. Formerly a journalist, he spent 25 years as foreign correspondent for The Guardian and then became editor-inchief of United Press International. He and his wife Julia have had a home in the Périgord since 1999 and one of his great hobbies is visiting the vineyards of Bergerac.

FRENCH LIFE ♦ 15

MAY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

The Grumpy Granny Guide

Behind the Scenes - Horses and Courses

he Dordogne is not traditional horse country. Horses are cold-weather animals and not only unsuitable for farming in a southern climate but also expensive to buy and maintain. Instead, here in the Périgord, oxen were used for fieldwork and transportation and the last were still around in the late sixties. Nor was there ever a tradition of hunting with hounds or recreational riding and today even the occasional trotting race is disappearing as interest wanes and local race tracks close. And yet everywhere horses dot the landscape and there seem to be plenty of opportunities to ride, go on “endurance” trails (a 1-3 day outing on horseback) and I’m told that the number of both horses and riders is on the increase which is rather intriguing in view of their previous absence. There are several explanations for this. Firstly, the Périgord is now being heavily marketed as a place to bring the family and few children can resist a pony ride at least once during their stay. Secondly, the trend is for more physically active leisure pursuits, promoted by tour companies and summer camps. Thirdly, there is a growing number of overseas residents who bring with them a stronger equine tradition, e.g. the British, Northern Europeans, Americans. There are also more incomers from other parts of France who take advantage of the rurality of the department to buy a property with enough pasture and buildings to feed and stable a horse, or have enough money to pay for stabling (approx. 150€ monthly) which today makes up a sizeable proportion of most equine centres’ income. Stables come in all shapes and sizes and most only just about break even. Running a stable is both timeconsuming and expensive and so all rely heavily both on the passing tourist trade (stables tend to cluster round main towns and tourist areas) and an enthusiastic group of volunteers who help with the grooming and mucking out. Being a horse lover is not enough to qualify you to run a stable and the relevant legislation is, in theory, draconian; the toughest, owners say, in Europe. To run a stable you need to be registered with the Féderation française d’équitation and obtain a diploma after a 2-year course in riding skills, animal husbandry, health and safety measures and pedagogy. But legislation is one thing and enforcement another and one stable told me they were inspected every year while another said they hadn’t seen an inspector in a decade. All agreed, however, that inspection was more about health and safety issues than the welfare of the horses. But the farmer who rents out his ponies in the summer seems to fall under the radar. Herbert, who runs the eco Ferme de Fonluc in Tayac says it’s a balancing act to meet the needs of both horse and rider and still make a living. He is evangelical in his mission to remain eco-friendly, taking his time with clients before the ride, encouraging communication between rider and mount and above all accompanying his rides with a full commentary on interesting points of history and the flora and fauna of the area. “I refuse to cut corners and the welfare of my horses comes first. Even at busy times, I’m never in a hurry. I will never be rich myself but I will provide a rich experience.” Herbert has been around for many years, breeds his own horses, has enough rich pasture and is able to keep his overheads to a minimum and he deserves his excellent reputation. Yet he still sympathises with those facing today’s challenges, not least of which was the recent massive tax increase from 7 to 20% which saw almost one in ten businesses go under. Even if Managing Editor: Steve Martindale Editor-in-Chief: Steve Martindale Registered Address: Les Quatre Chemins 23150 St-Yrieix-les-Bois SIRET: 514 989 748 00017 Printed by: Charente Libre 16340, L’Isle d’Espagnac Monthly circulation: 14,000 copies All copyright, unless stated otherwise, is reserved to The Bugle. Reproduction in whole or part of any text without permission is prohibited. Dépôt légal à parution.

a stable thrives, expansion is invariably thwarted by lack of pasture. Neighbouring landowners are rarely inclined to sell or lease their land and placing horses in scattered fields is an option only in extremis. Few stables have the resources to advertise in the media and yet none felt they could rely solely on local riders or the services of their tourist office. Social media and word of mouth is their best publicity, although this can be negative as well as positive. Françoise, who owns a large stable, echoed what I had heard from several other owners, that despite the rise in the number of riders, “there is a worrying trend on the part of animal rights organisations to denigrate all activities involving horses since they object to the use of animals in any context. Their views get widely reported in the media and sometimes I’m put on the defensive faced with some harsh judgements from the public who place us in the same category as circus owners and dolphin parks”. Even if you own and stable your own horse(s) the capital outlay and running costs can be high. To buy a good mount can cost around 1000€ and tack will come to another 200-500€. Then there is the regular expense of feeding, shoeing, insurance and veterinary fees while competitive riders, in addition to high fees to enter equestrian events, need to upgrade their mounts as their skills improve, so it is an activity which requires deep pockets as well as deep commitment. But most of us don’t want to own a horse but just go out for a ride and we will usually go along to the stable which is the nearest or cheapest. But although cost and distance are important, to get the best experience it is worthwhile selecting a stable with as much care as you would a castle or cave. So how should visitors or the occasional rider make their choice? When choosing a stable, first impressions count. A clean, tidy stable yard is a good indication of the state of the horses too. A relaxed friendly welcome indicates relaxed animals. There should be an assessment of which horse is most suitable for the rider and not a case of first come, first served. Look around and see if the horses and ponies look alert and well fed. They should be ‘bien rond’ (well-rounded) and preferably grazing in a field rather than corralled in a muddy or dried-up field eating bales of hay. Look to see if there is adequate shelter; horses can withstand cold and wet but suffer greatly from flies and heat and for this reason no stable should be offering rides in the summer between 12 and 4 pm. Find out too, exactly where the ride takes you. Circling a paddock on a pony is fine for first-timers and small children but most of us want a ride which gives us a different perspective on the environment. Some rides are deep in the woods with nothing much to see beyond the trees, so where possible choose a ride which takes you along exploratory paths providing you with hilltop views or something of interest on the way and a minimum of time spent on roads where passing traffic is always a hazard. And finally, there should be no more than 8-10 riders out at any one time. Prices start at 8- 9€ for an hour’s pony ride round a ring and upwards of 38€ for a 2- hour ride through the countryside. Regular riders and members of pony clubs or other groups get good discounts but fees do vary widely and are not necessarily an indication of quality. As regular Bugle readers will know, I am always more interested in the actual visitor experience of a tourist site than in its historic or visual value and in this regard the not-for- profit Brantôme Police Horses sanctuary at St. Pancrace deserves a mention. If you or your visitors are interested in a day out with horses rather than on them then this is the place for you.

Directeur: Steve Martindale Rédacteur-en-chef: Steve Martindale Siège: Les Quatre Chemins 23150 St-Yrieix-les-Bois SIRET: 514 989 748 00017 Imprimé par: Charente Libre 16340, L’Isle d’Espagnac Tirage mensuel: 14,000 copies Tous droits réservés. Toute reproduction, totale ou partielle, des articles et illustrations du présent numéro est strictement interdite. Dépôt légal à parution.

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

EASY

Hard to know which tourist sites to visit? Grumpy Granny Guide

The Grumpy Granny Guide® will help you choose if you:

Need practial information Are with young children or a pushchair Are elderly Hate standing in the sun Tire easily and need to sit down Can’t manage any steps or stairs Are with your dog The Grumpy Granny website provides all the information you need to make the right choice for a comfortable experience in the Dordogne Visit us on:

www.GRUMPYGRANNY-GUIDES.com The owner, Roland Phillips, tells me that 90% of their visitors aren’t in fact very interested in horses but love the experience of seeing large, docile animals who love people, up close and learning about their background. Roland’s mother founded the wellknown Devon Horse and Pony Sanctuary so it was only natural that Roland and his wife Alison should set up a similar sanctuary here in the Dordogne. 12 police horses and 12 others, together with sheep, goats and donkeys are kept safe here from the knacker’s yard. The sanctuary is regularly open to visitors but also has ongoing programmes for special needs children and adults. The visit costs 14€, less for children, and offers a “British day out”, much to the delight of visitors whether from the area or outside, regularly topping TripAdvisor charts of the places most worth visiting in the Dordogne. Their success is based on a warm welcome right on arrival in the car park and real value for money, the day including a talk, film show and an endless supply of tea and cakes along with meeting the horses. An excellent visit, scoring top marks for the ‘feel-good factor’. They are open every Wednesday throughout the year, but go their website to see details of other opening days and many special events beginning after Easter - www.brantomepolicehorses.com Most definitely worth a visit even if you have always been wary of big horses or haven’t ever really given them much thought. ■ This is part of a series of features devoted to the tourist experience in the Dordogne provided by the website grumpygranny-guides.com which highlights those sites which are comfortable and pleasant to visit and which offer a warm welcome.

MEDIUM

HARD

16 ♦ FRENCH LIFE

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

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It’s tax return time – are you correctly declaring your worldwide income? - Blevins Franks

t’s that time of year again, when we need to complete and submit our French income tax returns. The introduction of the new payas-you-earn (PAYE) system changes the payment of tax this year, but you need to declare all your income as usual. As always, take care to include all your worldwide income as required by French law. This is more important than ever with automatic exchange of information now taking place under the Common Reporting Standard. Tax return deadlines Departments 01-19: 21 May Departments 20-49: 28 May Departments 50-976: 4 June Paper returns (for those without internet access) need to be received by 16 May. Income tax rates Income tax is payable on earnings, pensions and rental income, and you are taxed as a household. The 2019 income tax rates (payable on 2018 income) are as follows:

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%

There is an additional 3% for a single person where income is between

€250,000 and €500,000 per part (nothing is due from a family) and 4% for income exceeding €500,000 per part for an individual, reduced to 3% for a family (up to a limit). Various deductions are available, so make sure you are using all the ones you are entitled to. New PAYE system Under the previous system, French taxpayers would this year be paying their 2018 tax (in three or ten instalments). However, the implementation of PAYE from January means that they are paying tax on 2019 income. To prevent taxpayers from paying two years’ worth of tax in one year, 2018 income will be neutralised by the CIMR tax credit – “Crédit d’impôt de modernisation du recouvrement”. Exceptional income and excessive increases in current income, however, will not be neutralised by the CIMR and will be taxed. PAYE only applies to certain income, such as employment, retirement (pensions, lifetime annuities) and rental income; non-French income taxable in France and business profits. Tax on investment income Investment income – interest, dividends, capital gains and gains from life insurance policies/non-French assurance-vie – is excluded from PAYE, so tax is payable this year for 2018 income. Investment income earned from January 2018 onwards is taxed at a special fixed rate of 30% (prélèvement forfaitaire unique/PFU) instead of the normal income tax rates. Lower earners can

however opt to apply the scale income tax rates, plus social charges. Income to be declared Although the CIMR credit means you may escape tax on some 2018 income, you are still obliged to submit your tax return and a full tax assessment will be carried out as normal. Many British expatriates with UK source income get confused over where they should pay tax. Note that you need to declare all your UK source income in France, even if you pay tax in the UK. Thanks to the Common Reporting Standard, French tax authorities now receive information on taxpayers’ overseas assets and income. We are seeing evidence of French tax offices calling British expatriates in for interviews to ask why they have not declared foreign income. UK government service income – This remains taxable in the UK. Although not taxed directly in France, you must still include it as part of your taxable income and a credit equal to French income tax and social charges is given. UK rental income – Again, this is taxed in the UK, not France, but must be included on your French declaration. Capital gains on UK assets – French residents need to declare and pay tax on gains made on the sale of UK property and moveable assets (shares, etc.) Real estate gains are liable to tax in both countries with a credit in France for UK tax paid. Moveable assets are generally taxed in the country where the seller is resident. ISAs and Premium Bonds – ISAs are fully taxable in France in the hands of French residents. Premium Bond win-

nings also need to be declared and taxed in France. Interest and dividends – Interest or dividends from the UK must be declared within 15 days of month end and 30% tax paid. This is then offset against the tax due on your tax return. Make sure you get all this right, as you will be penalised for failing to declare income. Where the omission was in “good faith” (not deliberate), late payment interest at a rate of 0.38% per month is charged on the underpaid tax. For “bad faith” (deliberate) omissions, besides the interest, a penalty of 40% of the tax is added. This increases to 80% if the taxpayer is found to have acted fraudulently. There can be additional very high fines and prison sentences in some circumstances. This article is a brief summary covering the basic elements of income tax in France. It is important to seek personalised advice. For questions about completing your tax return, speak to a tax accountant. For advice on effective tax planning in France, to lower liabilities on savings, investments and pensions, speak to a cross-border tax and wealth management specialist. ■ All advice received from Blevins Franks is personalised and provided in writing. This article, however, should not be construed as providing any personalised taxation or investment advice. Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www.blevinsfranks.com Tel: 05 53 63 49 19 Email: bergerac@blevinsfranks.com

We have the pleasure of inviting you to a series of Open Days at Lieu-dit ‘Les Blanquies’, 24150 MAUZAC-ET-GRAND-CASTANT

on 30th/31st May and 1st/2nd June from 10h-18h We invite you to discover this superb property which dominates the Dordogne valley from its 8.5 hectare location and which offers a magnificent 4-bedroom stone house and 2 separate gîtes. There is also a double garage, workshop, hangar and stables. Just 2 km from a popular tourist village and 30 minutes from Périgueux, Sarlat and Bergerac.

855 750 € HAI IN THE HEART OF THE DORDOGNE ON 8.5 HECTARES OF LAND IS THIS FABULOUSLY RENOVATED ENSEMBLE COMPRISING A LARGE FOUR BEDROOM MAIN HOUSE WITH 40M² SITTING ROOM AND TWO, 2 BEDROOM GITES. A DOUBLE GARAGE, WORKSHOPS AND STABLE MAKES THIS AN IDEAL PROPERTY FOR LOVERS OF NATURE. 2 KM FROM A TOURIST VILLAGE.

Agence Eleonor - Lalinde 19 rue des Déportés, 24150 LALINDE Tel: 05 53 73 30 62 - Email: lalinde@agence-eleonor.com

DIRECTORY ♦ 17

MAY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Business Directory

Your indispensable guide to finding local businesses & artisans Animals & Pets

SHAMPOOCHIENS Dog Grooming Parlour

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Blacksmiths

P r e-p u rc h a s e a s s i s ta n c e Feel welcome to ask for a non-binding meeting 05 53 56 52 27 a@mon.archi 06 42 86 59 12 (www)mon.archi Based in Périgord vert 24340 A l l o f F ra n c e c over ed

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JOHN SOWERSBY

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NEU DplG ARCHITECTURE

Ironwood Motif Artist Blacksmith Ferronnerie d’Art

www.ironwoodmotif.com Pergolas, staircases, railings, handrails, balustrades, balconies, gates, sculptures, outdoor structures & more. Simple or elaborate, intricate or uncomplicated, small or large, we can fabricate, forge and hand make ironwork customised to your needs.

Tel: 05 65 30 53 99

Facebook & Instagram: Ironwood Motif SIRET: 481 198 638 00019

Architecte d’intérieur bilingual Interior design: new and renovation projects (residential and commercial space) • Plans, budgeting, work follow-up • 3D visualisation • Consulting before buying/selling a property

Tel: 06 27 36 48 23

Email: dar_tacheva@yahoo.com https://designbar2.wixsite.com/designbar

ADVERTORIAL

At Masterplans.eu we can help guide you through your planning application in France. From initial feasibility to completed dossiers. We will compile all the relevant drawings and complete the necessary paperwork to ensure your application proceeds smoothly. We are equally at home working with clients here in France or those living abroad.

Tel: 05 55 80 72 83 Mob: 06 33 07 29 72

CHARTERED STRUCTURAL ENGINEER

Pre-purchase & Structural Surveys. Verbal & written reports. Structural calculations & drawings. Redevelopment ideas & solutions. Tim Haw B.Eng C.Eng M.I.Struct.E

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

Email: info@masterplans.eu www.masterplans.eu

Web: www.versineer.com Email: enquiries@versineer.com

Architectural DRAWING SERVICE

Building Services Carpenters/Joiners

Renovating your French property?

Darren Piper

Siret: 790 016 984 00011

New build? Dossiers prepared Permis de Construire Déclarations Préalables

Tel: 05 53 52 36 05

Siret: 498 843 051 00018

Carpentry &

Building Services Qualified craftsman with over 20 years experience running his own business in the UK - Specializing in:

sales24@thebugle.eu

 Decking (all shapes and designs)  Renovations, alterations & conversions  Kitchens  Bathrooms Roofs Based in Sigoulès and covering Eymet, Bergerac, Duras & surroundings FREE QUOTES

06 04 17 80 93

06 89 18 35 89

lavieilleabbaye@orange.fr www.latuspeter-architecturaldrawings-24.com SIRET: 493 770 358 00015

e: darren.piper@hotmail.com Siret: 847 651 072 00013

18 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

ADVERTORIAL

New Forest Wood Burning Centre

e have been selling the finest wood burning stoves for over forty years, and the groundbreaking Clearview Stoves since they first came to market thirty year ago. Over that time, we have sold hundreds of stoves to discriminating customers in France and all over Europe, and in fact, our stoves have ended up in some of the furthest corners of the world! Clearview Stoves have a hard-earned reputation as the most versatile, cleanburning and user-friendly stoves on the

Building Services Electricians GMS Electrical 40 years’ experience

French registered - French insured 10 year décennale insurance French consuel certificates obtained Any job, small or large Full re-wires, extra sockets, industrial/commericial installations... Pool heat pumps, external lighting, emergency lighting, electric gates... Contact Gary Sear:

05 53 08 94 90 06 84 27 79 67

market. They come in a variety of sizes to fit your heating requirements, and can all be fitted with boilers if required. We also carry excellent stoves from Chesney’s, Chilli Penguin, Contura and Barbas, which in our opinion represent the best offerings on the market, including the latest models achieving Ecodesign 2022 standards. If you would like one of our excellent stoves for your home in France, you have three options:

• Buy and collect direct from our showroom in Lymington in the New Forest, conveniently close to many major ferry ports • Buy from us by phone and arrange collection by Jon Davis, who makes regular collections from the UK and delivers to the door: jon@safehandshaulage.com 05.53.79.26.48 • For a full collection & fitting service, contact Wayne Fairbrass, HETAS and NACS-qualified: wayne.fairbrass@ orange.fr 06.10.79.48.01

Like everyone without a reliable crystal ball, we have no idea what the eventual repercussions of any eventual Brexit will be for cross-Channel trade, but for the moment, it’s business as usual, a situation that is likely to persist at least until the end of a transition period, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or orders.

Your advert here 06 04 17 80 93 Building Services General

KP RENOVATIONS DORDOGNE

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

SIRET: 494.501.067.00016

Chantilly Properties

Your advert here

Based in the Sarlat/Belvès areas and covering the Southern Dordogne.

Siret: 792 389 561 00012

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: 05 53 30 28 84 or 06 37 32 19 94

Tel: 09 72 35 74 73

Email: barwick.shaun@gmail.com

CHARKER DAVID

Specialist in the renovation and restoration of period and contemporary buildings

05.55.68.67.56 06.06.60.46.97

SIRET: 799 067 939 00014

SHAUN BARWICK QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN

Fully Registered SIRET: 522 951 318 00024 / 512 253 931 00012

small, undertaken.

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

harlequindevelopments@live.com www.harlequindevelopments.com

Tel: 05 53 58 07 99 Email: neilallcorn@orange.fr

BARWICK ÉLECTRICITÉ

New Forest Wood Burning Centre, 280 Ricardo Way Lymingron SO41 8JU

Email: akbrunnstrom@yahoo.co.uk

Specialising in kitchens and bathrooms.

siren: 808 093 322

0044 (0)1590 683585

est. 2007

Tiling, plumbing, decorating, flooring and plasterboarding.

Based near Les Eyzies de Tayac (24620)

www.woodburners.com

Harlequin ANGLO Building SCAFFOLDING Developments Services Painters/Decorators All aspects of renovation HIRE and refurbishment, big or

Property maintenance General repairs Kitchen Fitting Service Bathroom Fitting Dry lining/ Plasterboarding specialist

garysear5@hotmail.com

nickb@woodburners.com

Simon Carter

Painter & Decorator Qualified craftsman with over 25 years UK experience, now based Haute-Vienne/north Dordogne border.

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

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

06 04 17 80 93

Building Services Plumbing & Heating

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

Dan Dan the odd Job Man!

PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER

Based near Bergerac General Maintenance Shelving Woodwork and Carpentry Dry Walling Small odd Jobs

Tel: 06 78 67 02 91

- Installation, from kitchen taps to full central heating systems - Breakdown / Replacement boilers - Emergency plumbing repairs - Full analysed testing

siret: 794 282 368 00016

All small works undertaken

sales24@thebugle.eu

Stonework, Traditional renderings in Lime, Doors and Windows, Dry line walls, Zinc work, Electrical wiring and interior finishes Based near Brantôme

sales24@thebugle.eu

M : 06 72 47 88 00 T: 05 53 20 64 02

06 04 17 80 93

Tel: 05 53 09 42 18

06 04 17 80 93

Registered Artisan - Siret No: 480 857 853 00018

E-mail : dn.charker@sfr.fr No Siret: 402 444 871 00030

siret: 831 746 193 00018

E : wellers@orange.fr

Buying or selling small items...? Check out our online Classifieds... updated daily!

www.thebugle.eu/classifieds.php

To place a Classified, simply email details of your item for sale to notices@thebugle.eu

DIRECTORY ♦ 19

MAY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

ADVERTORIAL

Independent Financial Advice: Investing in volatile times

t the end of 2018 and the beginning of 2019, we saw renewed volatility in the world’s stock markets. This volatility (markets going up and down) seems to have abated slightly in the last month, but investors shouldn’t become complacent as this could return at any time. Naturally some investors get twitchy, which can make the situation worse and even less predictable. So here are six principles to follow to ease the ride: 1. Have a plan and stick to it – keep your focus on your long-term aims. Don’t

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

Computers, Satellites & Web Design Stephen Wisedale

WiFi Anglais Solve your Internet, wireless and computer problems

Extended wired and wireless networks for homes, gîtes and small businesses. VPN solutions. Windows and Mac OSX.

www.wifianglais.com Email: hello@wifianglais.com Tel: 05 53 30 23 96 Mob: 07 78 52 20 46 Siret: 800 525 040 00013

Your advert here 06 04 17 80 93

let the current market conditions dictate what you do. 2. Don’t keep all your eggs in one basket – this may be a cliché but it is so true. Diversification is key, spreading your risk across asset types, sectors, etc. 3. It’s time in the market that counts, not timing the markets - the sooner you start investing and the longer you invest, the more likely you are to have the potential for healthy returns, regardless of short-term downturns. 4. No Risk, No Reward - leaving your money in cash isn’t an option if you want at least the potential to outperform inflation. 5. Take advantage of advice – the role of a financial adviser is to go through the various investment options with you and to tailor your investment to meet your needs and attitude to risk, and to manage your investments and expectations. 6. Don’t get greedy and fall for a scam - if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Satellite TV Solutions Sky / Freesat / French TV Installation and Re-alignment Internet Installation & Repairs inc. Satellite Broadband Fast, Friendly Service 60km radius of Ribérac Call Dave on:

06 04 17 72 05

dave@satellitetv.solutions www.satellitetv.solutions siret: 794 461 293 00019

For more information on advertising in the Bugle Business Directory, give us a call or send us an email: sales24@thebugle.eu

06 04 17 80 93

No6 DESIGN WEBSITE

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 well-being and peace of mind. Blacktower Financial 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. ■ For an independent, professional and impartial consultation please contact me by phone or email: rosemary.sheppard@blacktowerfm.com, 06 38 86 99 70 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. Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated in the

Food & Drink The Dordogne Chippy

Traditional Fish & Chips in a town near you All venues are in the evening between 6pm & 8.30 pm Wednesday: Mauzac, Le Barrage Thursday: Eymet 1st & 3rd Friday: Lauzun 2nd Friday: Ste-Alvère Last Friday: Campagnac-lès-Quercy See our website for full details:

www.thedordognechippy.com 05 53 74 01 91 or 06 19 99 25 62

during

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

- Update your own site if you like! - Enjoy a fully maintained site - Enjoy full website support contact@no6.co

06 38 75 32 97

www.no6.co Siret: 80493524500014

Handholding Services

Struggling with the Complex French Administration?!

We are here to help! Call us or email us We will help you find a solution

06.70.23.53.33

helpishere24@yahoo.com

Language Services FRENCH LESSONS

Specialising in Indian and English food, serving Depts 24,16,46 and surrounding. Easily managed from your home. Sale due to retirement. €25k neg as going concern including commercial equipment, training, etc. Huge Potential. Email for details. rhome2012@hotmail.co.uk

with a native French speaker Why commute? Long distance learning is the answer! C’est simple, call Sophie...

Gifts & Crafts Ivan Petley

3D Puzzle Maker Handmade, fully interlocking, multi-layered 3D puzzles from just €9. Keyrings €2 plus other unique gift ideas. Customisation and personalisation possible. Postal delivery options across France.

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

Massage: Holistic + Hot Stone + Aromatherapy + Sports Clinical Hypnotherapy: + EMDR + NLP Fears, Phobias, Anxiety, Weight Control, Panic Attacks, Habit, Trauma PTSD, Smoking Cessation, Sport / Business Performance, Relaxation. Relax, Recharge, Release Mentally, Physically, Spiritually, Emotionally

Pete or Irene: 07 69 42 17 99 petehypno@gmail.com dordognetherapies.com Based near Verteillac 24320 SIRET 830 715 785 00010

FOR SALE:

Established catering business

Health & Beauty

HELP IS HERE!!

siret: 444 925 630 00014

before

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

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.

Via Skype

05 55 89 15 74 scarolinea@yahoo.fr

Learn French in France Complete immersion in a local family with lessons, conversation workshops, visits and local activities in Périgord, all at your own pace. (total independence possible)

www.auclairduperigord.com +33 (0)6 41 37 02 50 d.nina@live.co.uk

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

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

sales24@thebugle.eu

06 04 17 80 93

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

20 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

www.oldschoolfrance.com Independent International School providing an English language education to UK standard, GCSE and A Level • English education in a French environment, ideal for older children • St-Colomb-de-Lauzun (47410) • Seamless transition from UK education • Excellent exam results • Successful placements at UK universities • All students also learn French

Property Maintenance

Retail & Commerce

La Conciergerie

bookstop

Taking care of your home all year round providing you with a wintering service, managing your summer rentals or organising a happy holiday for you.

24600 Villetoureix laconciergerie24@orange.fr Tel: 06 42 67 94 50 siret: 840 556 228 00010

Pools & Spas Limousin Spas

The region's leading distributor of Spas, Swim spas, Saunas & Hot tubs

New for 2019

We are pleased to announce our new range of over 80 Spas, Swim spas, Hot tubs & Saunas from top European and U.S. manufacturers. *Platinum Spas* *Superior Spas* *Tuff Spas* *Zen Spas* *BeSpa* *Durasport* *Superior Saunas* *Baltic Hot tubs* *Baltic Saunas*

Prices from €2,000 Web: www.limousin-spas.com Email: sales@limousin-spas.com Tel: 05 55 63 26 20 Siret: 752 157 610 00011

sales24@thebugle.eu

06 04 17 80 93

Transport, Removals & Storage

Quality second-hand books in English & French 19 r Victor Hugo, 24310 Brantôme

09 51 45 57 49

Autism &

Special Needs Support

USED KITCHENS FRANCE Looking for a designer kitchen with granite worktops and premium appliances at a fraction of RRP?

Psychologist (MBPsS) looking for part-time work helping young adults/children in their own home, giving quality psychological support & respite to their carers. Native English speaker. Please contact Catriona:

catcool61@aol.com

Pre-loved kitchens from brands like Poggenpohl and Bulthaup at usedkitchensfrance.fr 09 53 50 86 49

Périgord Noir, will travel up to 45 mins from 24170. siret: 841 001 456 00018

SOS Help

Local and European Removals France to France, Spain, Portugal, Italy etc We Offer: Removals, Storage, House Clearance, also Car, Caravan, Plant Transport. French Registered Business. Local Friendly Service.

+33 (0)6 73 96 38 39

www.dordognestoragesolutions.com

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

Your advert here

01 46 21 46 46

06 04 17 80 93

sales24@thebugle.eu

www.soshelpline.org

06 04 17 80 93

anxious? stressed? feeling down? call us up! 3 - 11pm daily Confidential & Non-profit

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

Support

Enjoy a relaxing read in the tea room or riverside garden bookstop24@gmail.com facebook.com/bookstop24

Smart Moves

smartmovers@hotmail.co.uk

+44 (0)1253 725 414

www.smartmovesremovals.co.uk

Man & Van Transport

Genuine/Reliable/Honest Local + Europe + UK runs Now also available for House/Barn clearances! 14m3 capacity 4.2m load length English & French Spoken

09 82 12 69 73 87150 Oradour-sur-Vayres

www.frenchvanman.eu Siret 530 213 644 00012

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

ADVERTS FROM €12.50 HT / MONTH

SALES24@THEBUGLE.EU

06 04 17 80 93

DIRECTORY ♦ 21

MAY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

ADVERTORIAL

“SolarVenti”- the solar solution to damp and humidity

simple solar energy system that runs on its own, even when you are not there! – And provides a free heat supplement in winter. The Solarventi air panel was invented more than 20 years ago by Hans Jørgen Christensen, from Aidt Miljø, with the backing of the Danish government. He wanted to use the sun’s energy for airing and ventilation of the thousands of holiday homes on the West coast of Jutland, - houses that were left empty and unheated for long periods - houses with damp problems, mould and bad odours - houses that left their owners with discomfort, lots of work and expense. He wanted a system that would be safe, simple, without the need for radiators, water and/or mains electricity. Slowly but surely, the first Solarventi model came

together.

How it works The principle behind Solarventi is simple: a small, 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-

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

ADVERTORIAL

La Conciergerie

Taking the hassle out of your holiday home

ut simply, our goal is to help you to get the most out of your holiday home. We provide a variety of bespoke services, personalised to your needs and adapted to the season. Working from your home, our yearround caretaking service will ensure that your house is running smoothly in your absence, according to your wishes. Whether you own a large property or a small lock-upand-leave, we can take care of every aspect of home maintenance, from preparing the property for your arrival, handling rentals and changeovers through to managing the grounds

and arranging any necessary maintenance. With a network of reliable contacts and 24/7 assistance, we are on hand to take the hassle out of running a holiday home. For those who prefer to visit their holiday home during the warmer months, we also offer a wintering service, ensuring that your property is in perfect condition at the arrival of each summer. If you have a larger project in mind, we can act as intermediaries with local artisans, pool installers, etc

and we can also help with related paperwork and red tape. Whatever your needs, give us a call to see how we can make owning a second home even more rewarding. ■

La Conciergerie 24600 Villetoureix T: 06 42 67 94 50 - E: laconciergerie24@orange.fr

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. ■ Units start from €490 TTC.

SOLARVENTI - Available in the Dordogne From Harlequin Developments Mobile: 06 06 60 46 97

ADVERTORIAL

Advertising with The Bugle

ith 9 years’ experience delivering print advertising to an expat market, The Bugle represents one of the most cost-effective ways to let English speakers know about your business. An advert with The Bugle starts from just €12.50 HT per month – that’s less than 42 cents a day to put your business in front of 30,000 people each month. In the Dordogne we have more than 150 distribution points across the region and surrounding areas where readers can pick up a copy for free. We also distribute 3,000 copies through Bergerac Airport, which means that we are in the perfect position to target not only residents and secondhome owners, but also tourists and those new to the region. The Bugle is the only English language newspaper dedicated to the Dordogne - in fact, today, The Bugle is the only free English language newspaper in France and we are growing all the time. If you would like to discuss any of our advertising options further, why not give us a call today to find out more about the ways that we can help you grow your business.

T: 06 04 17 80 93 E: sales24@thebugle.eu W: www.thebugle.eu

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 sales24@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%)

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.

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

30 words max

22 ♦ COMMUNITY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

Eglise Evangélique Libre 5 rue Durou, BERGERAC

Get in touch today to find out how we can put your business in front of

The friends at the Bergerac Evangelical Church invite you to visit the church

30,000

readers each month SALES24@THEBUGLE.EU

06 04 17 80 93 SUDOKU - EASY

When? May 25th from 9.30 am to 6 pm Drop in any time during the day, enjoy a coffee, cake, soft drinks (at no charge) in an informal atmosphere. Speak to expats who are part of the church who live in the Dordogne. Curious about church in France? Want to understand more about the Bible? Ask about important life issues. Find out how knowing God in a personal way has changed people’s lives. Test your knowledge with interactive Bible quizzes, enjoy music, dance, karaoke. Our bilingual French pastor and his team will be on hand all day to have a chat. Children’s activities, games.

SUDOKU - MEDIUM

All welcome!

SUDOKU - HARD

The solutions to this month’s sudokus can be found on page 15

NEDWA - North Eastern Dordogne Women’s Association Come along and meet us on Tuesday 21st May from 10:30 am to 12 noon at our next Coffee Morning at Auberge du Pont, route de Lanouaille, 24390 Cherveix-Cubas. Always be sure of a warm welcome, good company and genuine friendship.

www.nedwa.com

NEDWA is a dynamic, multi-national group of around 100 women of all ages... Whether you are retired and feel like meeting some friendly faces, work from home and want to network, or just need to get out and attend some good monthly events, NEDWA fills the gap. Activities include a book club, sewing circle, coffee mornings, walks, lunches, speakers on topics which relate to you and much more.

Acorn Cat Rescue is based in the Dordogne and we rescue and re-home cats and kittens. Please get in touch if you want to adopt a cat like beautiful Abbie. All Acorn cats and kittens are microchipped, vaccinated and sterilised where age appropriate.

www.associationacorn.com Facebook: Acorn Cat Rescue Tel: 05 53 81 30 44

Worship services in English held throughout the Dordogne: Bertric Burée, Chancelade, Eymet Temple, Limeuil, Négrondes, Sainte Nathalène (near Sarlat). All are welcome!! Please visit our website for more information: www.churchinaquitaine.org Find us on Facebook: English Church Aquitaine

WHAT’S ON ♦ 23

MAY 2019 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Music in the Dordogne sponsored by ARCADES Join us for concerts in the air conditioned new hall in Le Buisson, mostly of classical music, with top class French, English, Russian and other international performers. Concert tickets cost €15 including wine in the interval. All events are organised by volunteers and serve as a meeting ground for the French and international communities of the Dordogne, including ACIP and La Tulipe.

Venue - Le Buisson de Cadouin, salle des fêtes, avenue Aquitaine

For more info, tel 06 31 61 81 68 or 05 53 23 86 22 or visit http://www.arcadesinfo.com/

Sunday 19th May at 5 pm Cellist Nicolas Hartmann plays Bach Suites

Programme: Bach Cello Suites nos. 3 and 5 along with three short pieces in memory of Paul Sacher Nicolas Hartmann: studied cello with André Navarra and Philippe Müller at the CNSM in Paris where he won a first prize in cello and chamber music in 1981; following further studies at the Geneva Conservatory he was awarded a virtuosity prize. In 1986, he won the Maria Canals International Competition in Barcelona. He has been the principal cello of the Musikkollegium Winterthur, the Orchestra of the Pays de Savoie, the Geneva Chamber Orchestra and since 1992 with the National Orchestra of Lyon. He regularly participates in the Bombay festival and gives masterclasses in Yokohama. Attracted by the repertory on period instruments, he collaborates as solo cello at concerts of the Philharmonic Chamber with Emmanuel Krivine. Aside from his performing and teaching he supervises the cello desk at the French Youth Orchestra.

The 43rd edition of the Marché céramique brings together renowned potters from all over France and Europe from 30th May to 2nd June. 24360 Bussière-Badil. 10h-19h. Free entry.

The 11th edition of the Salon Métiers & Arts will take place on 31st May to 2nd June in the heart of Monbazillac 50 artists and craftsmen and women, from the Pays de Bergerac, elsewhere in Nouvelle-Aquitaine and further afield will be presenting their work and offering demonstrations and workshops. The Salon will be open on Friday 31st 10h-19h, Saturday 1st 10h-19h & Sunday 2nd 10h-18h. For more information visit metiersdart-grandbergeracois.fr

The Ministry of Culture presents the 17th Rendez-vous aux jardins cultural event on the theme of “Animals in the Garden” on 7th, 8th and 9th June. From the smallest to the grandest gardens, thousands of people get involved in this event, which now takes place on a European scale, with nearly 3,000 gardens open to the public in 2019. Rendez-vous aux jardins is a great opportunity to explore some of the gardens not usually open to the public. For further information and for details of participating gardens, visit rendezvousauxjardins.fr

24 ♦ WHAT’S ON

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ MAY 2019

The 16th edition of the Festival Jazz Pourpre en Périgord takes place from 3rd to 19th May with a packed programme of jazz concerts (many of them free), cinema and an exhibition of paintings by Christian Guirette. To view the full programme visit www.jazzpourpre.com

Les Floralies - Saint-Jean-de-Côle Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th May “L’air, l’eau, le feu, la terre”

ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE

OUR SPRING/SUMMER PROGRAMME 2019 On 10th and 11th May 2019 MICHAEL LUNTS returns to perform his one man show “Flanders and Swan Revisited” And on 4th June 2019 EMILY ALLBRINK sings “AMERICAN SONGBOOK” Accompanied by Simon Kenworthy THESE SHOWS WILL BE PERFORMED AT THE THÉATRE DE LAUZUN AT THE REAR OF THE CAFÉ DES SPORTS, LAUZUN. BOTH PROMISE TO BE VERY ENTERTAINING - PLACES WILL BE LIMITED. FOR BOOKING DETAILS CONTACT: THEATREDELAUZUN@GMAIL.COM

Annual flower festival which attracts over 10,000 visitors from all over the world. Over 100 exhibitors share their passion for flowers with a breathtaking array of plants and flowers, works of art, crafts, local products, new floral varieties, rare plants, garden decorations... This year’s theme is the four elements: “L’air, l’eau, le feu, la terre” . Entry €4. Refreshments available. You’ll see why Saint-Jean-de-Côle has a reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in France. A delight for both its sights and smells, Les Floralies is not to be missed!