The Bugle Dordogne - Sep 2014 by The Bugle

France is still the world’s favourite With more than 84 million visitors in 2013, France has cemented its place as the world’s favourite >> Page 7 tourist destination

Dordogne September 2014 - Issue #15

Government resigns after just 147 days

NEWS - Player banned for referee attack

Prime Minister Manuel Valls has presented his cabinet's resignation to President François Hollande after the economy minister publicly criticised the government and called for an end to the austerity policies being "imposed by Germany".

NEWS - Soluble Champagne tablets

who Valls claimed had “crossed a yellow line” when he publicly said that the country was on the wrong economic course. Montebourg called on the government to end austerity policies and focus on growth. “France is a free country which shouldn’t be aligning itself with the obsessions of the German right,” he said, urging a “just and sane resistance.” The now former economy minister told a news conference following the dissolution of the cabinet that he thought it necessary to speak out to try to avert the European Union’s “descent into hell”. “I informed the prime minister that if he deemed my convictions counter to the direction of the gov-

>> continued on page 8

A local footballer has been banned for 10 years following a vicious assault on a referee that resulted in a displaced vertebra >> Page 3

A leading brand has developed a Champagne tablet that can be added to water... or have they? >> Page 8

FEATURE - The Taxis of the Marne

100 years ago, as the Germans advanced on Paris, a fleet of taxis set out from the capital to change the course of history. How important were Les Taxis de la Marne? >> Page 12

rance was thrown into political turmoil in late August after Prime Minister Manuel Valls presented his government’s resignation. The move followed bitter in-fighting within the cabinet and increasingly dire economic and poll figures. With President Hollande’s approval ratings the lowest of any leader in more than half a century and with the popularity of Valls also plummeting to just 36%, a scathing attack from within the cabinet proved to be the last straw for a government that lasted just 147 days. That attack came from maverick economy minister, Arnaud Montebourg,

INSIDE > > >

The Bugle Business Directory

La Patrouille de France, the country's equivalent to the Red Arrows, will be in the skies of the Dordogne this month >> Page 5

We all have bad habits. Develop a healthy one that actually saves you money!

3 pages of listings for local English-speaking businesses - your essential guide to finding just what you’re looking for >> Pages 17-19

Don’t let the banks cash in!

www.hifx.co.uk

Save time and money by sending your international money transfers Consistent bank beating exchange rates online or over the phone. Move money, pay people and settle bills within seconds. Make and track payments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Norton security used by 97 of the world’s top 100 banks. HiFX Europe Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2009, registration 462444, for the provision of payment services.

2 ♦ IN THIS EDITION

Welcome to

The Bugle

he final days of summer, the first beginnings of autumn, la rentrée... September means many things to many people, but as longterm readers of The Bugle will be well aware, there is a far darker side to early September for me... the annual extended stay of the in-laws! I am going to try not to slip back into cliché this year and bad-mouth my well-meaning father-in-law, but as my wife will attest, I’m not aways great at keeping promises... I was very pleased to have been able to follow the recent Women’s Rugby World Cup (which was held in France - see pg 10) on French terrestrial TV as well as on Sky Sports. As a former (very amateur) player, rugby is dear to my heart and it is great that the women’s game is finally getting half decent exposure. I will watch any and all sport, but unfortunately my first forays into women’s rugby were somewhat underwhelming: the quality was often lacking

compared to the professional men’s game (for obvious financial reasons) and matches were typically very one-sided. As an aside, possibly the most boring game of rugby I ever saw was England’s men putting well over 100 points past Holland in a Rugby World Cup qualifier. Happily, with increased funding opportunities and better training facilities, the women’s game has come on in leaps and bounds – some of the matches in August were truly gripping, with TV audiences topping 2 million in France!! The French ladies - Les Bleues - acquitted themselves very well, reaching the semis, and England lifted the trophy - 2 reasons to be happy!! It has since been announced that a core group of 20 English players are to receive centralised professional contracts, mirroring the women’s cricket team that also turned professional earlier this year. That can only be good for sport and will give me twice as much to watch of a weekend!! One big bonus of this time of year, when you live in the countryside, is free food. The

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014 hedges and trees are literally dripping with it at the moment and we have been developing a slight obsession with blackberries, particularly when mixed with a few apples and sitting under a light, golden crumble. Mmmmmm...!! Walks round the lanes to collect these delicious berries are equally fun and I noticed something I do that is quite a good metaphor for life: I always want to pick the blackberries that are hardest to get to, thinking them likely to be the best, juiciest ones. A kind of “the berry is always blacker on the other side” philosophy. I don’t know why, but a blackberry winking out from behind a dangerous clump of stinging nettles is irresistible! I will literally ignore perfectly good berries, aiming for the one that’s just out of reach, inevitably cursing and swearing as brambles tear my clothes and welts appear on my stinging hands. I know that they will all taste the same, but either way it is worth it. The only thing nicer than a blackberry and apple crumble is a free blackberry and apple crumble!! Well, so far I’ve avoided lambasting my beau père, but if I’m completely honest, that’s mostly because he hasn’t yet done anything noteworthy in the week he’s been here. How very selfish and irritating of him, denying me my soapbox from which to complain. Oh well, the weather’s terrible and I need cheering up, so I’ll

indulge in a bit of nostalgia instead... Shortly after we moved to France, the in-laws were over helping us do some work to the house. My father-in-law had been cleaning windows and he’d been doing a very fine job... as will become apparent. After mopping out one particularly dirty corner of the upstairs, he came in and asked if I’d finished with the now filthy water. “Yes”, I said and he very helpfully picked up the bucket for me, walked down the hall and launched the contents out of the open window. Can you guess what comes next...? Yes, he’d done such a good job that he hadn’t noticed someone else had in fact already closed it! Cue much hilarity, a lot more mopping and yet another story to add to the pantheon. Ah, that’s better!! Until next month! Steve Martindale, Editor

INSIDE this edition 3-5 Local News 6-9 National News 10 Sport 11 French Life 12 Feature 13 Bilingual 14-15 Practical 16 Language & Games 17-19 Directory 20-24 What's On

CONTACT us Tel: 05.55.41.17.76 General: editor@thebugle.eu Advertising (EN): sales24@thebugle.eu Publicité (FR): publicite@thebugle.eu Subscriptions: subscriptions24@thebugle.eu Editor: Steve Martindale Write to: The Bugle Les Quatre Chemins 23150 St-Yrieix-les-Bois France

LOCAL NEWS ♦ 3

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Football attacker 100% Made in Périgord given 10-year ban T

n June this year, a young referee was the victim of a violent attack by one of the players during a football match. The incident shocked sportsmen and women across the country and brought to the fore once again the debate over violence in sport. On the day in question, a 37-yearold forward, playing in the number 9 jersey for Périgueux Foot, threw himself at referee Jonathan Blondy. After knocking him to the ground with several kicks, he then proceeded to beat the 23-year-old until a number of other players finally pulled him off. The young referee was left battered and bruised, with knee and back injuries as well as a displaced vertebra. Under guidelines issued by the Fédération française de football (FFF), disciplinary actions are no longer made public, and even the victim of the assault did not until recently know what punishment, if any, had been handed out to his assailant. Sud Ouest newspaper, however, have revealed that the player in question has in fact been banned for 10 years, which at 37 years old is a decision that effectively ends his foot-

ball career, although the newspaper stressed that this information had not come from the football federation. Sud Ouest also tracked down Mr Blondy to inform him of the ban. “If that is confirmed, then it seems fitting,” said the young man from Bergerac. “I hope that this moves things forward and reminds people that this kind of behaviour is a scourge on our game. We go to football to have fun, not to fight.” Fortunately for Mr Blondy, he was able to pick up his whistle several weeks later and was given refereeing duties for the third division final. “The spectators who knew the story were very supportive during the match,” said the referee. “That helped me to get through this episode and move on.” Although the player in question has been dealt with by the football federation, legal proceedings are still ongoing. A trial date has been set for 8th October, where the former player will have to answer for his violent outburst as well as alleged threatening behaviour towards an assistant referee. For their part, Périgueux Foot were fined €350 and had 5 league points deducted from their final tally last year. ■

he government has long been urging us to buy French-made products - a principle President Hollande recently fell foul of when he bought himself a flashy new pair of Danish glasses - but those wishing to purchase patriotically can now take it one step further following the launch of a new website: www.made-inperigord.net The site, which goes live on 1st September, offers a variety of products from local producers and artisans based in the Dordogne. The two creators of Madein-Périgord are also the brains behind a previous website, Wazabiz.fr, that allows users to import products from abroad at cheap prices. “In both examples, we have the same basic idea,” said Cyril Kezzar, one of the site’s cocreators. “In the case of Wazabiz, it is to find the best prices; in the case of Made-in-Périgord, it is to find the best quality.” At launch, the site already had 5 local companies on board: a duck producer from Saint-Geniès; another producer of ducks and geese based in Prats-de-Carlux; a brewery from Marsac-sur-l’Isle; a

coffee company from Périgueux; and a jeweller working in Cubjac. “We all know the Périgord for its gastronomic delights, but the site is designed to also highlight the diversity this department has to offer. All the products you will find in this store are artisanal and fully prepared in the Dordogne.” The site is currently available in 5 languages: French, English and Spanish, but also Russian and Chinese, markets that the creators believe are potentially lucrative for local producers. “We are a department blessed with culture and savoir faire, and we need to share

this with the rest of the world,” enthused Mr Kezzar who hopes to get Made-in-Périgord listed on Russian and Chinese search engines. One farmer from the Périgord noir was taken with the idea of the small businesses of the Dordogne uniting. “We often get the feeling, as small producers, that we are confined to our local markets. This opens up new doors. I am a big fan of the principle behind Made-in-Périgord. It is incredibly interesting to have an internet site that allows us, together, to break free from anonymity.” ■

4 ♦ LOCAL NEWS

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

Pine martens removed from nuisance list

he Conseil d’Etat has reclassified which animals are considered as nuisance species in each department of France, removing a number from the list. In the Dordogne, the most notable changes are the removal of pine martens and stone martens. Those species that appear on the list are not protected in any way and may be hunted, trapped and killed. Since 2012, the government has defined, on a departmental level, which species fall into the nuisance category. The list is drawn up in conjunction with local authorities and species can be added “in the interests of public health and safety, to ensure the protection of flora and fauna, or to prevent significant damage to agriculture, forestry and river systems”. In effect, the Conseil no longer believes that pine martens and stone martens pose enough of a risk under these criteria to be considered a nuisance in the Dordogne, a decision that has been welcomed by several environmental groups. “The decision of the Conseil d’Etat applies with immediate effect: these species can no longer be trapped or destroyed in these departments, without an amendment to the ministerial decree,” wrote France Nature Environnement (FNE) and Humanité et Biodiversité in a joint statement. “The principle of a ‘nuisance’ does not make any biological sense for those species that play an important role in their ecosystem, in particular predators such as pine martens, stone martens and weasels,” said Christophe Aubel, a spokesperson for Humanité et Biodiversité. “These species are important to agriculture as they greatly help to regulate the number of rodents.”

According to Dominique Py from FNE: “The entire regulation on nuisance species, which is outdated, needs to be reviewed in order to take into account biological realities and to prioritise preventative methods, with a view to stopping the unjustified deaths of tens of thou-

sands of animals each year.” Foxes continue to be regarded as a nuisance, and the classification of a number of common species such as wood pigeons, rabbits and wild boar remains the sole competence of the prefect of the department. ■

LOCAL NEWS ♦ 5

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

“French Red Arrows” to Fund launched by local music festival perform in Dordogne

rance’s equivalent to the Red Arrows - la Patrouille de France - will be performing this month at Bergerac Airport as part of an air show being held on 7th September. In total, 45 aircraft, including a Spitfire, will be present at the meeting, which is being held as part of events to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Bergerac. A number of famous aircraft will take to the skies, including the multi-purpose Rafale fighter jet and the Tiger combat helicopter. There will also be mock dogfights and aerobatic displays as well as races between planes and both cars and motorbikes. As part of the celebrations, a monument will be unveiled paying tribute to two local pilots from the NormandieNiemen regiment who died during the Second World War. This regiment, which was formed largely from volunteers and was part of the Free French Forces, was notable as one of only two allied western European air combat units that fought alongside Russian forces on the Eastern Front during World War II. The day will begin at 9 am, when visitors can view the planes on the ground and put their flying skills to the test on a flight simulator. The aerial displays will open with 40 parachutists leaping from a Noratlas - the last plane of its type still flying in the world. Tickets cost 12 euros (free for Under 10s). For more information, visit the Aéroclub de Bergerac website: www. bergerac-aeroclub.com ■

he Festival du Périgord Noir is an annual festival of classical music, showcasing musical talent from the region and around the world. This year’s event is themed Rêves d’Orient (Dreams of the Orient) and features 150 artists of all different nationalities (see page 20 for details of upcoming concerts). In order to guarantee the continued success of this event and to encourage similar events around the region, a fonds de dotation (endowment fund) has recently been Jean-Luc Soulé established. The president of the fund, Jean-Luc Soulé, spoke to The Bugle to explain his vision for the fund and to explain how the money raised would be put to best use. “Broadly speaking, we have three main objectives. Firstly, to promote a general interest in music and help local young musicians. This would be in the form of scholarships, financial help with purchasing instruments or with travel, etc. We would like for young musicians to begin their career at the festival before going on to international success. Secondly, musical solidarity is important. We will be working with foundations for disadvantaged or disabled youngsters, particularly in the suburbs of the larger towns like Périgueux and Bergerac, and hold music courses. Lastly, there is the link with local Périgord heritage and culture. Where possible, concerts will be held at historical sites across the region, be they public spaces or privately owned.”

The Fonds de dotation du Périgord Noir has a stated aim of raising €100,000 in 2014, €300,000-€400,000 by 2016 and the ambitious goal of raising €1.2 million by 2019. Donations may be made by businesses or individuals, who in turn benefit from tax credits. Members thus contribute to the costs of eligible projects and commit to a regular financial contribution. Four categories of donor (ambassador, benefactor, major donor and donor) were established, based on a minimum amount of donation. The first level of donation is set at 200 euros. To find out more about the Festival du Périgord Noir or the Fonds de Dotation du Périgord Noir, please visit their website: www.festivalmusiqueperigordnoir.com ■

6 ♦ NATIONAL NEWS

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

Supermarkets to give away unsold food

rench supermarkets could soon be forced to give away their unsold food to charities after draft legislation was tabled by a cross party group of MPs. If accepted, the bill would make it compulsory for supermarkets with more than 1,000 m² of floor space to give their “unsold but still consumable food products” to at least one food charity. This would follow a similar move taken recently by Belgium, which became the first EU country to introduce such legislation. France has been looking at ways to reduce food waste in recent years and figures show that a typical French supermarket throws away some 200 tonnes of food every year. The general public are also surprisingly wasteful, with the average household throwing away between 20-30 kg of food each year, worth €400; an estimated one third of this food has never even been opened! “With logistical resources and a stockpile of products, supermarkets can more easily make donations than individuals,” explained Jean-Pierre Decool, a UMP MP, speaking to Le Monde. “A more systematic, even mandatory, approach should be added to this process by changing the legislation currently in force.” French supermarkets do currently donate some unused food to charities; an

estimated one third of the 32,000 tonnes donated to food banks already comes from the country's grandes surfaces. The industry is, not surprisingly, opposed to the proposed changes, however, as the logistics of handling this unsold food will add costs to their business. “Why add the obligation when supermarkets already give daily?” asked food trade group Fédération des entreprises du commerce et de la distribution. “It’s absurd to donate everything that goes unsold. Lots of products like fish, shellfish, fresh pastries are subject to very specific health codes.” Food charities were cautiously optimistic about the proposals. “Donations already work very well in France thanks to tax break incentives, but this text is a good thing as it will enable us to gather even more unsold produce,” said Gaëtan Lassale, head of the French federation of food banks. He did, however, raise the question of who would pay for the increased infrastructure required. Speaking to Le Journal du Dimanche, he said that the proposed law would put charities under financial strain as they would be forced to invest in “cold storage, refrigerated lorries or hangars” to store the food. The EU is already looking into changes to “best before” and “use by” dates on

certain products in a bid to cut down on food wastage. Many foods, such as dried pasta for example, carry best before dates when they are perfectly safe to eat long after this date has expired. In better news for France's supermarkets, they may soon be able to enter the lucrative market for non-prescription medicines. France's pharmacies have long enjoyed a monopoly on all medication, a situation that many believe has led to artificially high prices for a number of

“basic” medicines. The influential General Inspectorate of Finance has released a report recommending that the sale of non-prescription non-reimbursable drugs, such as painkillers, be opened up to competition. The report found that the cost of nonprescription drugs has risen by twice the cost of living in the last 15 years and said that allowing supermarkets to stock certain drugs would keep prices lower for consumers. ■

Angry judge demands ride from police

follow the life of the city, to create a Lourdes outside of Lourdes,” explained Mathias Terrier, the Sanctuary's director of communication. ■

A French judge has been charged with “assaulting persons in a position of public authority” after a drunken attack on policemen who refused to drive him home. After picking up his 3 young children from his estranged wife, the judge flagged down a car that he believed to be a taxi. When the officers inside the police car explained that they were not a taxi service, he declared: “I am a deputy presiding judge, take me home!” The judge then verbally abused the officers before striking one in the crotch and attempting to bite the other. He was arrested and taken to a police station, where he tried to bite another two officers. After he was charged with assault the next day, he admitted that he was so intoxicated that he thought the blue light on the police car meant that it was a taxi. His children, aged 7, 8 and 10, were returned to the custody of their mother. The judge, who was not named, faces a maximum sentence of €7,500 and six months in prison. ■

MP avoids jail over gypsy comment A French MP has avoided jail after claiming that Hitler “did not kill enough” gypsies. Gilles Bourdouleix made the comments whilst visiting an illegal Roma camp in Cholet, western France, where he is the deputy mayor. Mr Bourdouleix was recorded by a local journalist saying in a hushed tone: “Just goes to show that Hitler maybe didn’t kill enough of them”. As a result of his comments, the MP was expelled from his centrist UDI party. “Praising crimes against humanity” in France carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a €45,000 fine, but his lawyers argued that he simply mumbled the words to nobody in particular. The politician was eventually fined €3,000 but escaped a prison sentence. ■

Woman survives 36-

Next-gen genuflection hour ordeal It would appear that with the help of modern technology the power of prayer can also travel over the mobile phone network. At least that is what the makers of the application Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes believe. The app, which is available on Android and iPhone, allows the faithful to post a prayer or light a candle (for a small fee) at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, where many pilgrims believe that miracles can occur and the sick can be healed. The free app allows the estimated 6 million pilgrims who make the trip each year to plan their journeys, look up the times of mass and even follow the ceremonies in real time on their tablet or mobile device. “The idea is first of all to communicate with those who are not at Lourdes, but who wish to

A 24-year-old Frenchwoman has been rescued unharmed after 36 hours drifting on a paddle board in stormy seas off the coast of Normandy. After spending an evening with her family, Clémence Lapeyre decided to go for a night-time paddle, but strong currents, wind and rough seas prevented her from getting back to shore. “It was a fine night and she decided to paddle under the moonlight without telling us,” her uncle, Christophe Rémy-Nérys, told BFMTV. “It was not until later the next day that we realised she had disappeared.” After spending 2 nights clinging to her board, she was finally spotted by a Belgian fishing boat after drifting for 120 km. France’s national maritime rescue service, SNCM, said she faced four-metre high swells and winds of up to 40 knots and called her survival a “miracle”. ■

NATIONAL NEWS ♦ 7

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Mini Digger

Très Jolie

Landscaping, ditching, land clearance etc. Also general Garden Maintenance

Mail order available or ﬁnd me at a local market

Ladies fashion accessories

with Driver for Hire

Piégut market every Wednesday Paula Robinson

05 55 78 62 29 06 04 08 29 53

John Bonella

87440 Marval

05 55 78 62 29

siret no. 523 183 580 00019

tres.jolie1@orange.fr Facebook: search for “Tres Jolie Milhaguet”

john.bonella@gmail.com

France still world's favourite

espite the doom and gloom in France surrounding a stagnant economy, l'Héxagone has kept its title as the world's favourite destination, attracting 84.7 million visitors in 2013. The figures were up 2% on 2012 showing that France has lost none of its appeal to the rest of the world. “With a growth similar to that of the previous year France maintains its position as the leading tourist destination in the world, far ahead of the United States (69.8 million) and Spain (60.7 million),” read the study compiled by the UN World Tourism Organization. Tourists spent over 600 million nights in France last year, with the average person staying for 7.1 nights. Some of the surprising entries into the top 10 include Turkey,

which took sixth place with 37.8 million visitors and Russia, which made it into ninth place with 28.4 million tourists visiting last year. Once again, the tourist industry in France was driven by demand from the Far East. The number of Chinese visiting France increased by nearly 25% in 2013 and has now doubled since 2009. The number of Japanese visitors dropped slightly, however, a decline that has been blamed on a weaker Yen. France is not resting on its laurels as the world's favourite destination, however, with Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius recently unveiling plans to boost the number of tourists to 100 million in the near future. Key to this, according to the government, is the need to eradicate France's unwelcome reputation for rudeness: “The logic is simple,” said Fabius. “An unhappy tourist is

a tourist that never comes back.” Other measures being taken to boost tourism include a high-speed train link from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the city centre, a huge revamp of the Gare du Nord train station and plans to open more shops on Sundays. ■

Top 10 for Tourists France US Spain China Italy Turkey Germany UK Russia Thailand

- 84.7 million - 69.8 million - 60.7 million - 55.7 million - 47.7 million - 37.8 million - 31.5 million - 31.2 million - 28.4 million - 26.5 million

Canine carriage for Eurostar?

lion per year. Surveys suggest that as many as half of all households consider their pets as part of the family and the number of people travelling with pets is on the increase. The ferry company LD Lines reported a 29 per cent increase in pet travel on its Portsmouth-Le Havre route in 2013, while P&O ferries carried 19,478 cats and dogs on its Dover-Calais route alone. If Eurostar can be convinced to include a canine carriage, then passport carrying pooches will soon be able to go straight from London to Marseilles in just over 6 hours! Beginning in May 2015, Eurostar will be operating a highspeed service from London to Marseilles on the Mediterranean coast, with trains also stopping at Lyon and Avignon. This journey is only currently possible by changing trains via a quick trip on Paris' Metro system, which is not always convenient when you have luggage. The return journey back to London will take an hour longer due to immigration and customs checks that will take place in the northern city of Lille; Britain is not part of the European Union's visa-free Schengen zone. Tickets will go on sale from December. ■

campaign has been launched by dog owners asking Eurostar to allow their furry friends to travel with them through the Channel Tunnel. A petition organised by PetsPyjamas, a website for pet gifts, hopes to get 100,000 signatures from members of the animal-loving public by the end of September, in order for the issue to be discussed in the House of Commons. Supporters are asking for a dedicated carriage for man's best friend. Eurostar do not currently allow any animals to travel on their trains, although an exception is made for guide dogs. A spokesperson for the campaign's organisers said: “Trains allow pets either side of the Channel and by car through Eurotunnel, but for those without a vehicle, there is little option. A pet-friendly Eurostar carriage allowing pet owners to travel with their dog, without affecting the quality of travel for other passengers, would provide a much requested service.” There are an estimated 18 million pets in the UK, an industry that is worth around ₤2.7 bil-

siret 753 125 061 00014

New property index

new property price index is due to launch this month that will give more up-to-date and more accurate data about house sale prices in France. The new index, called “Les prix de l’immobilier” (LPI), was developed by a French economics professor in response to continued demand from French real estate professionals. Until recently, the only statistics publicly available came from French notaries, information that was always out of date by the time of release and criticised for being prone to inaccuracy due to sellers and buyers doing deals on the side in order to avoid taxes. “The French Notaires have had a monopoly on house price data for a long time and when reports are published they are always six months behind,” commented Nicholas Leach from Athena Advisors. “Historical data is always useful but the lack of real-time market information has always been a frustration for non-resident buyers, especially when this type of information is so readily available in countries like the UK. This new index will be extremely helpful when dealing with foreign investors, especially if it’s their first purchase in the country.” LPI data will be published weekly and will be based on current transactions, which will allow industry groups to provide up-to-date monthly reports on the state of the housing market. The index will differentiate between houses and apartments and can also be filtered by region, department and even town. Unlike data from the notaires, LPI figures will also include sale prices for new-build properties. The data for the new index will come from various financial institutions including Crédit Foncier, Sogeprom, Gecina and the SNPI (the national syndicate for real estate prices), and will cover over a quarter of a million transactions each year - a figure which represents around 35% of property sales in France. ■

Your favourite one stop shop where you will find something for all the family within our 32000ft² sales floor.

Heinz Baked Beans, Homepride Flour, Mcvities Biscuits, Typhoo T-bags, Mushy Peas, Baking Powder, Icing Sugar, Cornﬂour, Curry Pastes & Sauces, Naan Breads & Mango Chutney, Poppadums, Robinsons Juices, Cadburys chocloate + 100’s of other well known grocery products.

The best selection of DIY timber at very favourable prices including decking, skirting board, ﬂooring, tongue & groove (int/ext treated), plywood & OSB... Thistle Multi Finish Plaster, Cement, Sand & Gravel. PVA and all your silicone based products. A fabulous range of tried and tested French paints + a regular stock of Leyland & Johnstones Emulsions, undercoats & masonry paints...

We also have Furniture, Beds & Mattresses, Clothing, Pets Accs, Hygiene & Household, Smoking Accs, Toys, Storage, Clothing, etc, etc

We are situated just oﬀ the RN147 on the D107 direction L’Isle Jourdain

87320 Bussière-Poitevine

Tel: 05 55 68 74 73

Open Tue - Sat: 09h00 - 12h00 & 14h30 - 18h30 (closed Mon) Sun: 09h30 - 12h00 & 14h30 - 18h00 GPS: Long: 0° 53’ 33’’ 40 E Lat: 46° 13’ 45’’ 10 N

“A traditional stove is an investment for life that you will fall in love with. Easy to install, it will work on a simple 16 amp socket. Elegant, versatile and with a gentle heat, the Everhot stove will become the heart of your kitchen.”

8 ♦ NATIONAL NEWS

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

Make your own fizz!! Builders steal gold bullion

n March this year, it was revealed that sales of Italian sparkling wine Prosecco in 2013 had outstripped those of Champagne by 307 million bottles to 304 million. The news was a blow to France's proud wine industry which is already conceding ground in international markets to New World wines. But the Twittersphere was alight recently with news of the next innovation that would propel France back to the top of the table... VeuveClicquot had developed soluble Champagne tablets! Dubbed “Shh...ampagne” and designed along similar lines to Alka-Selzer, you

simply drop a tablet of soluble Champagne into a glass of water to get a delicious flute of the luxury tipple at a fraction of the cost. It all sounded a bit too good (or bad, if you are a wine “purist”) to be true, and as is so often the case with such things, it was... the hoax was dreamt up by a Russian marketing company, but not before a number of websites had been duped by the story and eagerly published it to the world. “In 2014, after the invention of alcohol powder, Veuve Clicquot is trying it on - soluble Champagne tablets made of alcohol powder will turn water into magnificent Champagne,” wrote one

website. Firma, the agency that created the “campaign”, was revealed to have no affiliation with Veuve-Clicquot, a luxury brand owned by the LVMH group, and did not have permission to use the company's name or branding. LVMH moved quickly to distance itself from the hoax, releasing an official statement denying any involvement. The French organisation CIVB (Interprofessional Committee for Wine and Champange) has demanded the Russian ad agency remove the images and has launched an investigation to find out the origins of the pictures. ■

verybody dreams of one day finding buried treasure. But what would you do if you found that treasure buried in someone else's garden? The answer for three builders in the Eure department was to steal it and split the money among themselves! The men, aged between 20 and 40 were working at the property of an unnamed lady, using a mini excavator to level some land. The bucket of the digger struck something solid and before long the stunned workers had unearthed 16 gold bars weighing 1kg each, and 600 US $20 gold coins from 1924 and 1927. The stash, which was worth almost €1 million, is believed to have been hidden for safekeeping during the Second World War. The workers gave in to temptation, made a pact and were soon in contact with a local coin collector in an attempt to sell on their treasure. For a while, it looked as though the men had successfully pulled off the heist, but the authorities finally caught up with them when one of the builders deposited several large cheques into his bank account,

including one for €270,000. The unusual deposits raised an alert within the Finance Ministry's Tracfin service, which aims to fight money laundering. When investigators caught up with them, the men instantly confessed to their crime, but not before they had treated themselves to a few luxury items including several cars and motorbikes. Despite their criminal inclinations, however, the men showed remarkable financial good sense by investing the lion's share of their ill-gotten gains on life insurance policies and home improvements. The three will appear at a court in Evreux, north-west of Paris, at an unspecified date. The coin collector has been charged with seeking to conceal the theft, a charge which he denies. The owner of the house said she and her husband wished to remain anonymous to avoid prying neighbours and other wouldbe gold diggers and had not even told her own children about the incident. She is reported as having told the workers jokingly as they started the work: “If you find any treasure, be sure to tell me!” ■

World's most expensive apartment to go on sale An apartment in Monaco is due to go on the market shortly with an estimated price tag of €300 million. If the eye-watering guide price is reached, then the penthouse property on top of the 170-metre-high Odeon Tower will become the most expensive in the world. It will include the top four floors of the tower and will boast 3,500 square metres of living space. Apart from the standard bedrooms, lounge, dining room and kitchen on each floor, the apartment will feature a sauna, private cinema and a steam room. Not only that, but if you can get approved for the mortgage, you will be able to slide down into your own private infinity pool via a water chute from the 47th floor. The developers have apparently already found buyers for 26 out of the 36 luxury apartments in the Odeon Tower, the first skyscraper to be built in the principality since the 1980s, which is costing more than €600 million to construct. ■

French government steps down >> continued from pg 1 ernment he leads, then in that case I thought it necessary for me to be let go.” He was joined in his criticism by several other ministers, but it was not immediately clear whether other senior politicians who had called for a change in economic policy would also be fired. In the aftermath, however, Benoît Hamon confirmed that he would not play any role in the new cabinet - the education minister never oversaw a single rentrée. The decision to dissolve the cabinet appeared to have the backing of President Hollande, who immediately asked Mr Valls to form a new government. By accepting the government’s resignation, François Hollande is hoping to send a clear message: dissenters within the party will not be tolerated at this difficult economic time.

Unemployment remains high (11%) and shows no signs of falling and France has suffered two consecutive quarters of zero growth. The prospect of no growth for the financial year, combined with a fall in tax revenues, means that the government will almost certainly fail to meet its deficit target, despite the painful cuts and other austerity measures. With the popularity of Hollande and Valls perilously low - apparently even within their own party - it remains to be seen if they still have the political clout to pull France out of the current economic depression. National Front leader Marine Le Pen said the president should dissolve the National Assembly and call elections, while left-wing Green politician Eva Joly denounced the Socialist government’s economic policies, arguing they were “governing against their majority”. ■

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

NATIONAL NEWS ♦ 9

10 ♦ SPORT

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

French athlete loses his shirt... and gold

rench athlete Mahiedine Mekhissi-Benabbad has once again caused controversy, this time during the 3,000 metre steeplechase final at the recent European Championships. Coming into the home straight with a commanding lead, Mekhissi-Benabbad removed his shirt and gestured to the crowd. He then held his vest in his teeth as he cleared the final hurdle before crossing the finishing line. After “winning” his third consecutive European title, his celebrations were cut short when it was later announced that he had been stripped of his medal. He initially received a yellow card from a track official for “acting in an unsporting or improper manner” before he started his lap of honour, but was later disqualified after Spain, whose athletes finished fourth and fifth, made an official protest citing rules on “clothing, shoes and bibs”, organisers said. The rules in question state that athletes must display their bib numbers at all times. “When I took off my vest on the last metres, it was because of my joy, of course,” Mekhissi-Benabbad told the Championship’s official website before the disqualification was announced. “It was the pleasure of winning. I was so happy to defend my title. The main thing was to win. I did not know that I was going to get a yellow card for that. But this yellow card, this is nothing. It was just the emotion. Today I will enjoy my victory and we have to see how this evening will finish.” French Athletics Federation president Bernard Amsalem described MekhissiBenabbad's behaviour as “unacceptable”, but also criticised the way the matter was

handled. “The action was unacceptable, you don't take off your vest during a race, it isn't done,” he said. “At the same time, he took off his vest and it didn't hurt anyone. He's impulsive. But it should have stopped there. Unfortunately, the Spanish lodged a protest. I would never have lodged a protest, the Spanish acted badly.” It was not all bad news for France, however, as the second placed runner, Yoann Kowal, was also French and was promoted to the top step of the podium. He was overjoyed with what he believed to be a silver

medal and had yet another reason to celebrate, telling IAAF interviewers: “After the lap of honour I asked my girlfriend to marry me and she said yes!” Kowal did not speak with the media after the disqualification was announced. Mekhissi-Benabbad has a history of courting controversy. He has twice assaulted mascots, on one occasion slapping a promotional product from the hand of a 14-year-old girl, dressed in a large foam costume, before pushing her to the ground. On another, he was given a suspended

sentence by the French Federation, fined €1,500 and ordered to perform 50 hours of community service after getting into an ontrack fist fight with fellow Frenchman Mehdi Baala after a Diamond League 1,500 metre race in Monaco in 2011. “Mahiedine Mekhissi-Benabbad just finds a way to make people hate him,” said the BBC's Allison Curbishley, speaking on Radio 5 Live. “He's got history and he just winds people up. Taking off his vest, swinging it around his head and taking the last hurdle was just out of order.” ■

England lift Rugby World Cup in France

ugust saw France host the 7th Wo m e n ' s Rugby World Cup as the popularity and exposure of the women's game increases across Europe and the world. France's crucial 17-3 victory over Australia in the pool phase, along with convincing wins over Wales and South Africa, saw Les Bleues progress unbeaten into the semi-finals - without conceding a try - despite starting the tournament as relative outsiders. Unfortunately, the home team missed out on a place in the final, losing 18-16 to the competition's surprise package, Canada. Trailing 18-6 early in the second half, 2 late tries set up a thrilling finish in Paris, but the France were unable to

complete the comeback. Despite the disappointment of missing out on a first World Cup final, France did beat Ireland 25-18 in the play-off to claim third place in the 12team competition that occurs every four years. One of the biggest shocks of the tournament came when Ireland beat favourites New Zealand 17-14, effectively knocking out the team that have won the tournament on the last 4 occasions. That opened the door for England's women, who have finished runners up to New Zealand at the previous 3 World Cups. With a comfortable 40-7 victory over the Irish in the semi-final, the Red Roses lifted their second World Cup in

Paris following a 21-9 win against Canada. England's only previous World Cup win came back in 1994. The hosts, who entered the tournament as the reigning 6-Nations champions, are a big draw at home and the popularity of the women's game is on the increase. TV audiences on French terrestrial television peaked at over 2 million during the pool phase of the competition and the final took place in front of a 20,000 sell-out inside the Stade Jean-Bouin - the home of Stade Français. “All this media attention is new for us, people wanting to know about us - it's new,” fullback Elodie Poublan told FRANCE 24 during the tournament. ■

Got a story for The Bugle?

editor@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

Would you like to receive an electronic copy of The Bugle each month? We can deliver a copy to your inbox, hot off the press

Simply email - subscriptions24@thebugle.eu For more details visit www.thebugle.eu

FRENCH LIFE ♦ 11

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Would you like to receive your copy of The Bugle by post each month? We can deliver a copy to your door, hot off the press

France, UK and Europe - €16 per year

Email us for more details - subscriptions24@thebugle.eu or visit www.thebugle.eu

In the garden - jobs for September trees and bushes have their full set of leaves is the right time to cast a critical eye and see if they have the space they need. During the autumn, when the leaves shed, the frameworks lose all their volume, and it's easy to be led astray. Decide what needs pruning now, but wait a while before actually doing it. Coloured wool or string around branches that need to go can be a good reminder. Keep on top of the grass, which seems to have been growing with alarming speed recently, but leave a few corners with long grass for the wildlife. If you plan to naturalise bulbs, say, daffodils, then cut the area reasonably short from now on until you plant the bulbs. Weeding also needs doing, as the influx of weed seed is finding the warm/wet conditions ideal for germination. The nettles which were harvested for nettle tea are responding to these conditions by throwing up new growth, which will either make more tea, or get dried. Brambles are producing glossy berries for pies and jam, but make sure they don't sneakily root themselves into borders. It's incredible how fast they can grow! Ditto for raspberries and especially, loganberries. Every garden has its own complex of weeds, with some being more pernicious than others. In my garden, it's convolvulus!! And at this time of year, more than other times, it's a real nuisance as it climbs over bushes and young trees. When I have a moment, I go round with the secateurs freeing branches that are being pulled into irregular shapes, and dig up as much root at the base as possible. Any pernicious weeds should, clearly, not be

ow “pénible” it is, as I write t h i s in late August, to be thinking of the autumn, and then the winter just around the corner. Of course, the weather here is often glorious, with frequent Indian Summers, but what this means for the working gardener is much less time available outside during daylight hours. So the more you can do now, the better. Your flower garden has, hopefully, swathes of flowers still going strong: coreopsis, rudbeckias, echinaceas, asters, heleniums, dahlias, helianthus, crocosmia, salvias, etc. Keep deadheading to spread the flowering season out as long as possible, and check stakes are firm, if needed. Pick armfuls for the house! Wander round and ask yourself if any clumps will still have enough space next year. If they've already taken up the majority of the space available to them, decide if you need to move a neighbour or divide the clump this autumn. Make a note! At the same time, consider if the various colour combinations you have work well, or if you fancy a change. It's a good time to dig up the self sowers if they are not in the right place mine love to seed in my gravel paths - and then repot them. They'll make super presents, or swaps at seed exchanges. Remember to label right away, especially if you have different colours. This also goes for young trees - many reproduce themselves. My Prunus padus must have 3 or 4 babies around it, all of which will go to new homes in the autumn, to beautify other spaces and gardens. Guard against overcrowding. While your

by Michelle Pierce

put onto the compost heap. To avoid dumping them dans la nature or taking them to the tip, I keep a barrel of water in a corner, and bung them in that. After a while, they rot down, and the mush can safely be emptied out from time to time. The veg garden should still be going strong - keep picking, weeding, watering, etc. If you've sown for winter veg, you are likely to have plenty of seedlings to thin out or deal with. Start deciding what is to go where, if you have not sown directly into the ground but in modules. Aim to regroup veg into manageable plots so that if you need to protect with fleece later it's doable. Germination has been excellent recently so there are probably a reasonable number of new salad plants, etc. turning up by themselves, if you left a parent plant to go to seed. While the weather is reasonable, see if your pond needs clean-

ing. A surfeit of oxygenating plants clogs up the space and can have a negative effect when they rot down. Look to see that you have enough areas of clear water. If not, pull handfuls of weed out. This is much nicer to do now than on an icy November day! Leave any pondweed for 24 hours on the edge of the pond, to enable any insects or newts, etc. to find their way back to the water. After this time, put it on your compost heap. So lots to to, but it's so nice to take advantage of the season and collect the fruits of your labour. Good gardening! ■ Many thanks to all those who sent in plum stones following my recent appeal - I already have some saplings!! I will be running a similar appeal again soon - more details next month!!

Houses on Internet is a marketing service that allows private owners of French property to sell their house without using an estate agent. A method that has proven to be very successful. How does it work? 1. We make a website for your property in English, French and Dutch. The main website is available in Russian too. 2. We connect that website to our main site which gets over 130,000 visitors from 40+ countries per month. 3. We advertise your property on several international French-property websites. This way we reach 1.5 million people a month worldwide. What does it cost? We ask a contribution to the advertising cost up front and after the sale a fee of 2.5%, which is included in the selling price. Houses on Internet operates throughout France with a staff of 7 professionals and 89 local photographers who visit our clients to take photos and gather all information. For more information, call us at 05 55 65 12 19, or visit our website.

WWW.HOUSESONINTERNET.COM Plus Vite!

Moins Cher!

12 ♦ FEATURE

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

ne hundred years ago, Europe was at war with Germany and the future of France hung in the balance. Following their lightening quick offensive, the German armies were just 50 kilometres from the gates of Paris, the city seemed all but lost and the government had already fled to the city of Bordeaux. The fall of Paris would almost certainly have heralded victory for Germany on the Western front. The French commander-inchief, General Joseph Joffre, had other plans. Following a mammoth retreat, he would counter attack at the Marne. The fighting that took place between the 5th and 12th September 1914 - which became known as the First Battle of the Marne - halted the German advance, forced them into a retreat and ultimately created the conditions for the trench warfare that would come to define the Great War. One key feature of the counter offensive was the mobilisation of the “Taxis of the Marne”, an event that may be unfamiliar to many British schoolchildren, but one that in France is considered as a turning point in the war. On the night of September 6th, 1914, a fleet of taxis left Paris under the cover of darkness, carrying reinforcements to the front line and turning the tide of the battle against the Germans. The taxi drivers saved the city and demonstrated the unfaltering unity of the French people... or so the story goes. The Taxis of the Marne have gone down in legend, but many now argue that while they certainly had a huge impact in terms of morale, militarily they had very little impact on the battle. So what role did these taxis actually play one hundred years ago and did they indeed turn the course of history? *********

The story begins at the turn of the 20th century, with a German high command thought experiment on how a war with France could be won. The result was the Schlieffen Plan, which advocated a rapid invasion through southern Belgium, committing the French army to battle and quickly encircling and capturing Paris. They realised that if France were given enough time to form strong defensive lines, then their initiative would be lost. The Germans were painfully aware that fighting a war on two fronts would be catastrophic and the Schlieffen Plan envisaged winning the war in the West before such a situation developed. “The Germans gambled all on a brilliant operational concept,” wrote

historian Holger H. Herwick in his 2009 book, The Marne: 1914. “It was a single roll of the dice. There was no fallback, no Plan B.” Many are familiar with the staggering loss of life that resulted from static trench warfare, but the early days of the war, known as the War of Movement, were even more deadly. Cavalry met airplane, officers wielding swords charged machine guns and heavy artillery. “Masses of men advanced against devastatingly powerful modern armaments in the same fashion as warriors since ancient times,” wrote Max Hastings in his 2013 book Catastrophe 1914: Europe Goes To War. “The consequences were unsurprising, save to some generals.” On 22nd August 1914, 27,000 French soldiers were killed in just one day of fighting near the Belgian border in what became known as the Battle of the Frontiers. No other nation had ever lost so many men in a single day of fighting, and even the more “famous” battles that came later in the war, such as the Battle of the Somme, never saw a one-day death tally as high. Two weeks after the Battle of the Frontiers came the First Battle of the Marne. Many feared that Paris would shortly fall - the Schlieffen Plan appeared to be working. The French government had already left the capital, heading for the relative safety of Bordeaux in south-west France, along with an estimated 1 million refugees. Those that stayed were preparing for a deadly siege. As Hastings relates in his book, a British diplomat, before burning his papers and himself fleeing the city, fired off a dispatch to London warning that “the Germans seem sure to succeed in occupying Paris”. Seeing the French troops retreating in such disarray, the British Expeditionary Force, under the command of Field Marshall Sir John French, were exhausted and demoralised. Defeat looked certain and the British began to make contingency plans for a full retreat to the ports on the English Channel followed by an immediate evacuation. At this point, France called on one of its greatest military men. The retired 65-yearold General Joseph Gallieni was brought back into service to organise the defence of Paris. “Gallieni’s physical appearance alone commanded respect,” wrote Herwick. “Straight as an arrow and always immaculate in full-dress uniform, he had a rugged, chiseled face with piercing eyes, a white droopy moustache and a pince-nez clamped on the bridge of his nose.” Gallieni realised that Joffre would need all the men he

The Taxis of the Marne

could get to hold the city and began to commandeer anything that moved into shipping men to the front lines. Trucks, trains and bicycles were all pressed into service... as were the small army of taxis that had recently been introduced to Paris. Of the estimated 10,000 taxis operating in the capital at the start of the war, around 7,000 were out of service, with their drivers already fighting in the army. However, those that could respond did so, if not always willingly! “In every street in the capital police had stopped taxis during working hours, turned out the passengers, and directed the vehicles towards the Military College, where they were assembled,” wrote Henri Isselin in his 1966 book The Battle of the Marne. On the night of September 6th, the first group of taxis assembled outside the military compound on the Place des Invalides. The Renault AG1 Landaulets could carry 5 passengers, but were only marginally quicker than a bicycle, boasting a top speed of just 40 km/h. The first convoy of around 250 taxis left Paris, picked up their cargo of fresh fighting men, and headed through the night towards the distant rumble of artillery. Many more followed. Meanwhile, a dramatic turn of events was taking place less than 40 kilometres to the east. One of the German commanders, Alexander von Kluck, using his own initiative and breaking from orders, pushed forward to chase a retreating French army that he believed was all but defeated - a view shared at the time by most of his colleagues. The move exposed his army's flank and separated it from the nearest other German army. This troop movement was spotted by French aerial reconnaissance planes and the counter attack began in ear-

nest, with General Joffre directing his troops into Kluck's flank. The battle was balanced on a knife-edge and in a famous scene often recounted in histories of the Marne, Joffre visited the headquarters of his reluctant British allies and personally pleaded with them to join him, reminding them that the survival of France was at stake. The famously petulant British Field Marshall Sir John French agreed; the British Expeditionary Force joined the counter-offensive. The German high command was taken completely by surprise. “It dawned on them at long last that the Allies had not been defeated, that they had not been routed, that they were not in disarray,” wrote Lyn MacDonald in her 1987 book on the first year of the war, 1914. Far from defeated, Joffre and his British allies repulsed the German advance - aided in large part by the reinforcements rushed to the front - in what is now remembered as “The Miracle of the Marne.” The word “miracle” is fitting as even the Allies themselves seemed surprised at their success against the Germans. “Victory, victory,” wrote one British officer. “When we were so far from expecting it!” When the First Battle of the Marne was over, more than half a million men had been killed or wounded - a bloody prelude to what would take place over the next 4 years. The taxis almost instantly became a defining element of the Miracle. “Unique in its scale and speed,” wrote Arnaud Berthonnet, a historian at the Sorbonne University in Paris, “the Taxis of the Marne had a real effect upon the morale of both the troops and the civilian population, as well as upon the German command. More marginal and psychological than operational and militaristic in importance,

this epic came to symbolize French unity and solidarity.” Despite becoming a defining event in France's history, few now argue that the taxis provided anything more than a psychological and morale boost. The numbers involved were relatively low: no more than 10,000 men were transported by taxi - a tiny number in a battle that involved well over 2 million soldiers on both sides. Further, while it is true that mobile troop deployments did play a key role in the battle, it was those transported by train that ended up on the front lines; the troops transported by taxi were largely held in reserve. What's more, while the taxi drivers came to represent France's unity and never-saydie attitude, in reality many of the drivers were decidedly unwilling to make the trip to the front. In a move that would probably bring a smile to modern-day Parisian taxi drivers - a group fiercely protective of their industry - the heroes of 1914 read their meters when they returned to the capital and presented the army with a bill!! The image of the column of taxis heading bravely to the heart of the battle endures, however. “When we welcome schoolchildren to the museum, they don’t know anything about the First World War, but they know the Taxis of the Marne,” says Stephane Jonard, a cultural interpreter at France’s World War I museum located on the Marne battlefield where one of the actual taxis is still exhibited. However, staff are quick to explain the truth of the taxis' role. “What’s important,” he says, “is that, at the moment we tell them about the real impact of the taxis, we also explain to them what a symbol is.” A symbol that has lasted 100 years and is sure to be remembered for many years to come. ■

LEARNING FRENCH VIA INTERNET

Perhaps you would like to learn French in comfort at home or from your office? You are not in France and you wish to communicate with a native French person for one hour per week? LONG-DISTANCE LEARNING is the answer. You only need internet access and a free Skype account. It can be a one-to-one lesson or you can share the lesson with a person of the same level.

TRANSLATION SERVICES ALSO AVAILABLE

Please contact Sophie Arsac for further information – 05 55 89 15 74 - scarolinea@yahoo.fr

Marmite: Love it or Hate it

reat Britain and France may only be separated by as little as 33 kilometres, but when it comes to the foods we eat, our two countries can be light years apart! You will find that you have a very difficult time persuading a Brit that the leg of a frog is an appetising treat. Similarly, for us north of the Channel, snails belong in the garden and most certainly not on a plate, covered in garlic butter! The differences go in both directions. A plate of chips smothered in thick gravy is many people's idea of heaven, but will have a Frenchman scratching his head in confusion. And as for jellied eels... Perhaps the one food that best highlights the different tastebuds of such close neighbours is Marmite. Marmite is a rich, dark brown spread made from yeast extract, a by-product of beer brewing, which is most commonly eaten on toast or crackers or spread in

a sandwich. Occasionally it can be mixed with hot water to make a drink. But be careful, Marmite has a very dense flavour and you do not need much. There are very few equivalents to Marmite in mainland Europe, although people from Switzerland may be familiar with Cenovis. Marmite has a very particular taste, one which even divides the British population; a famous advertising campaign for the spread uses the line “Love it or Hate it”. Being “a bit like Marmite” is used in everyday language to describe something or someone that polarises opinion. Those that love Marmite, however, REALLY love it. It will often be top of the list of things that family and friends are asked to bring out to France as a gift “from home”. Many people cannot live without it. One study revealed that as many as 25% of Britons take Marmite with them when traveling! Although most associated

with Britain, the name Marmite will be familiar to the French. In France, a marmite is a large, covered earthenware or metal cooking pot and Marmite was originally supplied in this type of earthenware pot, hence the name. Since the 1920s, however, Marmite has been sold in the familiar glass jar with the iconic yellow lid, but the label still bears the image of a marmite to this day. Not only is Marmite delicious (unless you hate it), it is also very good for you. The yeast extract used to make it is rich in folic acid and a number of B-vitamins. During World War I, British troops were even issued with Marmite as part of their rations! If reading this has made you curious, you will often find small jars of Marmite in the foreign food aisle of larger French supermarkets. Alternatively, just ask any British expat... they will almost certainly have some in their cupboard! ■

The Bugle thanks French teacher, Sophie Arsac, for the translation of this month's bilingual article on a topical aspect of FrancoBritish culture.

Bilingual Crossword Clues in English - answers in French

Across:

euls 33 petits kilomètres séparent la Grande-Bretagne et la France mais quand on en vient à parler de la nourriture, nos deux pays se retrouvent parfois à des années-lumière l’un de l’autre ! Vous aurez beaucoup de mal à convaincre un Britannique qu’une cuisse de grenouille est une friandise appétissante. Dans le même esprit, au nord de la Manche, on pense que la place d’un escargot est dans le jardin et certainement pas dans une assiette, beurré à l’ail ! Inversement, la même assiette de frites baignant dans une sauce « gravy » bien épaisse transportera le Britannique moyen au paradis

et plongera le Français dans un océan de perplexité. Sans parler des anguilles en gelée… S’il y a un aliment qui montre le mieux combien les papilles gustatives de si proches voisins sont différentes, c’est bien la Marmite. Extraite de la levure et sous-produit de la fabrication de la bière, c’est une pâte à tartiner riche et de couleur brun foncé. Elle est souvent étalée sur du pain grillé, un biscuit cracker ou bien dans un sandwich. Parfois on l’ajoute à de l’eau chaude pour en faire une boisson. Mais attention de ne pas en mettre beaucoup car la pâte a un goût très fort. Il existe très peu de produits

équivalents en Europe continentale, sauf chez les Suisses qui consomment le Cenovis. La Marmite a un goût très particulier, à tel point qu’elle divise la population britannique en deux camps. Une campagne publicitaire connue utilise le slogan « Marmite, tu l’aimes ou tu la détestes ». Désormais, « être un peu comme Marmite » est une expression familière qui décrit quelque chose ou quelqu’un qui polarise l’opinion publique. Par contre, ceux qui aiment la Marmite l’aiment VRAIMENT. C’est souvent le produit qui est en tête de liste lorsque la famille ou les amis doivent rapporter un cadeau du pays en France. Beaucoup

SIRET 502 409 212 00011 – APE 8559B

BILINGUAL ♦ 13

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

1. vaccines (7) 5. horn (3) 7. nephew (3) 8. fire (3) 9. active (5) 10. ink (5) 12. bruises (5) 13. April (5) 17. here (3) 18. dog (5) 19. street (3) 20. sandal (7)

Down:

1. wind (4) 2. cellar (4) 3. iguana (6) 4. seven (4) 5. chest (box) (6) 6. colds (illness) (6) 10. entire (6) 11. chair (6) 12. balcony (6) 14. rats (4) 15. visa (4) 16. eleven (4)

Bilingual crossword solution can be found on page 23 de gens ne peuvent pas s’en passer et une étude a montré que 25 % des Britanniques prennent un pot de Marmite avec eux quand ils voyagent ! Bien qu’il soit généralement associé à la Grande-Bretagne, le mot féminin “marmite” est familier aux Français. Il désigne un grand récipient métallique ou en faïence recouvert d’un couvercle et utilisé pour cuire les aliments. Il a donné son nom au produit britannique qui, à l’origine, était contenu dans un pot en faïence. Depuis les années 1920, la Marmite est vendue dans un petit pot en verre devenu familier avec son couvercle jaune emblématique mais il y a toujours une petite marmite

représentée sur l’étiquette. La Marmite n’est pas seulement délicieuse (à moins que vous ne la détestiez…), elle est aussi bonne pour votre santé. L’extrait de levure est riche en acide folique et en vitamines B. Durant la première guerre mondiale, on la trouvait même dans les rations des troupes britanniques ! Si la lecture de cet article a attisé votre curiosité, vous pourrez probablement trouver de petits pots de Marmite dans le rayon “Produits du monde” des grands supermarchés français. Vous pouvez aussi en demander à n’importe quel expatrié britannique, il en aura probablement un pot dans son placard ! ■

14 ♦ PRACTICAL

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

New €10 note in circulation UK to remove

o not be alarmed if you find an unfamiliar €10 banknote in your wallet in the near future, it is perfectly legal tender! September 23rd will see the new “Europa series” note enter circulation across the 23 countries that use the Euro, joining the €5 note that was first introduced in 2013. The new Europa series notes, which are being introduced in ascending order of denomination, are so-called as they feature an image of Europa - a figure from Greek mythology and the origin of the name of the continent which appears in the hologram and the watermark. The new notes are the same size and very similar in appearance to the existing ones, which will remain legal tender across the 17-member eurozone. The Europa series of banknotes includes new and enhanced security features which the ECB hopes will offer better protection against counterfeiting. Their durability has also been improved by virtue of a new coating which has been applied. Although the notes are more secure, counterfeiting has not proved to be a huge problem for the eurozone. In the first half of 2012 a total of 251,000 counterfeit euro banknotes were withdrawn from circulation. That is just 0.0017% of the 14.6 billion genuine banknotes in circulation during the same period. Although the number of counterfeit notes is low, there was a slight increase in 2013 and the ECB will be keen to introduce the newer, more

expat personal tax allowance?

secure €20 and €50 notes in the near future; of the 353,000 counterfeit banknotes withdrawn from service in 2013, three quarters were either €20 or €50 denominations. European Central Bank president Mario Draghi said the Europa series of notes would be “more intelligent and more secure than the first series”. Mr Draghi also said that the euro “has over the years become the most visible symbol of European in-

tegration”, adding that the new notes “continue to reflect the unity and diversity of our continent”. The notes include some text in Cyrillic, following the arrival of Bulgaria in the European and Monetary Union in 2007. The image of Europa - who according to Greek mythology was seduced and abducted by Zeus disguised as a bull - is taken from a famous vase on display at the Louvre Museum in Paris. ■

n recent years, the UK government has looked to save money by ending winter fuel payments to British nationals living abroad and also withdrawn the S1 temporary healthcare forms. In its latest cost-cutting move affecting expats, the government is now examining whether or not to remove the UK personal tax allowance from non-residents. The UK personal tax allowance - the amount of income that can be earned before tax is applied - is currently £10,000, a figure set to rise to £10,500 in April next year. Under current rules, this allowance is available to the UK earnings of British nationals living overseas, but could be removed following an ongoing Open Consultation entitled “Restricting nonresidents’ entitlement to the UK personal allowance”. On the government's website, the consultation document states that the UK is “committed to ensuring that everybody benefitting from the UK’s economic and social environment pays a fair amount of tax in the UK. This consultation explores whether the UK should take steps to restrict non-residents’ entitlement to the Personal Allowance; the options for doing so and the impacts it would have.” As part of the consultation, the government will be examining whether to retain the allowance for certain kinds of UK income, for example government pensions. HMRC estimates that there are at least 400,000 people claiming personal tax allowances in the UK who are non-resident for tax purposes. Based on the data available, it claims that if non-residents were not entitled to the UK personal allowance, then most of them would face increased UK tax liabilities. For more information, or to give your view on the consultation, visit the UK government website http:// www.gov.uk/ and search for “consultations”. ■

How to create your dream job in France If you wish to settle in France, often one of the main issues in a successful relocation is to find work. Last month, Prune Calonne, an Englishspeaking French lawyer in Toulouse, informed readers on the different company types existing under French law. This month, tips on how to create your business under the auto-entrepreneur scheme and how to function when addressing the French administration are given. NOTE: This article does not deal with the “auto entrepreneur” status modifications coming in force on the 1st of January 2015. These will be dealt with next year in another Bugle issue. 1. Work permit and registration to live in France for EU citizens First of all, it might sound obvious, but you do not need to get a work permit to set up your business in France if you are an EU citizen. Note also that you no longer need to register if you decide to live in France permanently. 2. Formalities to set up a business No specific formalities are required from you to set up a business. The same rules apply to all individuals living and working in France. However, you cannot live in France and work for yourself without being registered as an independent worker, trader, craftsman, etc. First of all you must decide in advance on the type of business you would like to set up. 3. “Auto-entrepreneur”: different characteristics of this status In order to set up a company in France you may either choose to play it safe and create an entity to separate your company’s assets from

sion, health and URSSAF are paid either monthly or every three months and represent a fixed percentage of turnover. VAT: The business is not subject to VAT so it means simpler accounting and that you will charge less to customers.

your personal belongings (limited liability), in IR: In June, you have to declare your business which case you will have to create a company income as income revenue (IR - impôts sur le (see last month’s issue), or alternatively you revenu). may wish to create a new business but also avoid heavy formalities; in this case you could Business tax: As far as taxes are concerned, as choose to work as an “auto-entrepreneur”. an auto-entrepreneur you do not pay business tax (CFE - cotisation foncière des entreprises) for 3 years (this will change in 2015). CFE is Advantages of the auto-entrepreneur staa type of professional council tax based on the tus: It is the simplest way to set up your busibusiness premises rented or owned in which ness. It is interesting if little investment is the business is run. needed and not much risk is taken. Limits: Turnover cannot exceed: *€82,200 a year for buying and selling activities (commerce) *€32,900 a year for craft/trade (services) The new law coming into force at the beginning of 2015 seems to have left these thresholds unmodified. Formalities and name of the business: The business will be registered under your own name. Registration can be done online. PRACTICAL TIP: I would strongly suggest, to be on the safe side, that for the initial formalities in setting up a business and when getting in touch with the French administration (URSSAF, RSI or CPAM, pension…), written correspondence should be sent via recorded delivery (LRAR - lettre recommandée avec avis de réception). Social charges: Contributions towards pen-

Major disadvantage: As a sole trader, the owner of the business has unlimited liability for the debts of the business. PRACTICAL INFO: Note that as an “auto-entrepreneur” in France, if you have many personal debts, you cannot benefit from the help of the Commission de surendettement as they only help and handle debts that were created in one’s personal life. The exclusive competent court to handle business bankruptcy and professional debts is the commercial tribunal (Tribunal de Commerce). If you have a lot of personal debts and are not able to refund your creditors, the Commission de surendettement might be able to help but not as long as you are still a registered “auto-entrepreneur”. You have to have ceased any trade activity and be officially struck off by the right registrar (notify the right CFE in accordance to your type of activity by LRAR - French recorded

delivery letter). It is already complicated for French natives to deal with the administration required to set up a business in France. It is paramount that if you are not totally fluent, you seek legal advice from a lawyer with company law experience. Do not assume that you will manage on your own because you heard that so and so has managed. They might have made mistakes and do not even know it yet. Do not assume that everybody speaks English! A business lawyer is likely to have close bonds with a local, reliable accountant and therefore you will get practical advice on the law and the formalities that need to be done and how to do it right, but also on the best solution to fit your needs (business needs and how to protect your family in case the business is not going so well). Starting a business the right way might be a bit more expensive and take longer that you thought but seeking the right piece of advice at the right time will mean that you are more likely to be successful and avoid some really tricky situations.■ For more information, please do not hesitate to contact: Prune CALONNE, Avocat au Barreau de Toulouse, 117 route d’Albi, 31200 Toulouse Phone: 05 34 30 51 33 Mobile: 06 74 16 11 12 Email: scpcalonneadouedugast@hotmail.fr My firm can arrange appointments in CAHORS at our correspondent’s offices. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more details.

PRACTICAL ♦ 15

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Common scams and how to avoid them If you use email and/or the internet, then you will almost certainly come across one if not all of the following scams. Here we take a look at the most common and offer tips on how to avoid becoming a victim.

here have always been con artists, grifters and crooks, but the internet has given them a multitude of new ways to target a much wider market. Most people will know at least one person who has been scammed by phone, email or over the internet. “How can people be so stupid?” is a phrase you often hear coming from more cynical, internet savvy people. Well, when you consider that 'phishing' scams alone in the UK earned the cyber criminals £600 million last year, plenty of people are caught unawares - it is much easier to fall foul of the scammers than you would think! It is not simply a case of being 'naïve' or 'stupid'... circumstance, timing and your emotional state of mind all come into it. If a scam artist sends an email to 1 million people saying that there has been 'unauthorised access' on their credit card, you can bet that a good number of them will have mislaid their card that very day and will panic. Sadly, at The Bugle we have heard quite a few stories over the years from readers who have fallen foul to these

attacks, so we have complied a list of a few of the more common scams that you are likely to come across in France, as well as tips on how to avoid them. This list is not exhaustive, and the scammers are constantly updating them, but it should give you an idea of the kind of thing to look out for. Overdue Utilities/Unauthorised Access 'Phishing' Scam This is one of the most common online scams. You receive an authentic-looking email from a trusted institution informing you there has been an 'unauthorised transaction' on your account, or that they couldn't 'verify your information'. In the case of a utility company, the email may appear to come from EDF or Orange saying that your invoice is overdue. The email will ask you to click on a link and ultimately enter your personal banking information somewhere. You have in fact been taken to a bogus website, where your information has been intercepted by criminals, who will then use it to try to withdraw funds from your account.

Microsoft Help Desk Scam

This scam involves people, often from Asian call centres, ringing up and saying that they are representatives from Microsoft Technical Support. They then tell you that they can see your computer on the internet and that it is running slowly, either because of viruses or because it needs an additional piece of software - at a cost, of course. Once the scammers have gained your trust, they will ask you to log onto your computer and then guide you through a series of steps that will ultimately give them access to your computer. They can then damage your computer with malicious software, including installing viruses and spyware. Occasionally, they will direct you to a website where you are asked to fill in your credit card details to pay for the 'fix'. Microsoft do not, never have and never will make unsolicited phone calls. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from Microsoft Tech Support, or Microsoft, simply hang up. That, or tell them you only have Macs in your house and see how quickly they hang up! Item for Sale Scam/ Overpayment Scam In its simplest form, this scam is

often a form of money laundering. The email will sound like a genuine reply to your ad. The tip-off is that the scammer will never actually refer to the item for sale by name. It will always be referred to as the ‘item’ or some similar term. When their cheque arrives in the mail, the amount on the cheque will be much more than the price you were asking for. If you email the person telling them of their error the scammer will respond and probably suggest that you just deposit the cheque in your account and send them back the overpaid amount. They may even offer you additional money for your honest response. After depositing the cheque and sending the overpayment back to the scammer, you will find out that the cheque was stolen or counterfeited - you may be liable to the bank for the full amount of the cheque if it cleared! Nigerian Email Scam This scam is reportedly Nigeria's third largest industry, bringing up to $1 million a day to fraudsters. You receive an emotional email from someone in Nigeria asking for help to get either themselves, or their money, out of the country. In return they will pay you a large percentage of the often huge amount of money. However, they first ask for your

bank details to pay for legal fees and transaction costs. In the end you lose a lot of money and get nothing in return. The scheme itself violates section 419 of the Nigerian criminal code, hence it is often known as the “419 fraud.” Foreign Lottery Scam Logically, if you haven't entered a lottery, you can't win it, so any letters or emails that tell you otherwise should be treated with the greatest suspicion. The 'winner' will be told to phone the prize line, which unsurprisingly is a premiumrate number, or asked to send off a cheque for a small amount to cover administration fees. The amounts on offer are often huge and the fee relatively small, but don't be fooled. If you send off any money, you will be placed on a 'suckers list' and the amount of spam you receive will explode! The imagination and sheer audacity of the scammers never ceases to amaze, but there are 2 golden rules to follow that will help you to avoid most of them. Firstly, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Secondly, and most importantly, TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS! ■

La Rentrée – Time to Stop Putting off those Tricky Decisions

s summer visitors start to drift away and we get “our” regions back to ourselves, thoughts turn to all those jobs that we have put off during the holidays. For those with children, late August is all about getting the list of books, pens and equipment needed for the new school year and getting to the local shops before they sell out. Gardeners will also start to think about the autumn jobs that need to be done before winter sets in. Why not also make this year’s “rentrée” the time when you finally put your finances in order? Just run through the following list and see whether you have ever said any of these things. If so, it might be worth having a rethink, as taking no action could be an expensive mistake for you and/or your family. I am still resident in the UK, so don’t need to make any financial arrangements in France

It is a common misconception that residence is a matter of choice. Whilst, of course, we can choose where to live, fiscal residence is also a matter of fact. Many people split their time between the UK and France and could quite legitimately claim that they are still UK resident. However, there are also a large number of people who spend almost all of their time in France but are still “UK resident” for tax purposes.

Each country has its own set of rules regarding residence, but if more than one country can claim you are resident there, and if there is a tax treaty in place between the countries, it is this which will determine where you are fiscally resident. Put simply, if you split your time between homes in the UK and France, where you spend more time is likely to be considered your place of residence. Even if you are still resident in the UK and only use your property in France for holidays, this property will be subject to the French inheritance rules in the event of your death and it is therefore sensible to ensure that you understand who will inherit what when you die.

ing taken up French residence since August 2008, you do not need to declare any “non French” assets for the five years after you become resident. Of course, it is sensible to do your sums before making any decisions about moving to another country permanently, but to live in France on an almost permanent basis and not declare yourself resident because you are worried about the tax bills could not only be a mistake but could land you in hot water with the authorities and could mean you are paying more tax than is necessary.

I will pay far more tax in France than Britain

It does sometimes seem that everything in France was invented to keep the bureaucrats happy, but with proper advice and guidance, the French system need not be that daunting. In any case, ignoring a potential problem because it seems too complicated to sort out generally just makes that problem worse. Getting seemingly complicated technicalities explained in plain English could prove to be invaluable in the long run.

France has long had a reputation for high taxation, which spends its taxes properly on its infrastructure. Whilst it is true that the cost of running a business here could be significantly higher than in other European countries, for individuals, French income tax compares favourably with its neighbours. One area which concerns British people is the “Impôt de Solidarité sur la Fortune” (ISF), or wealth tax. This is an annual tax on your capital assets, which is alien to British taxpayers. The tax is applied once assets exceed €1,300,000 and your “principal residence” benefits from a 30% discount when calculating the value of assets. However, for anyone hav-

The French system is too complicated and I just want an easy life

I have written a will in the UK and my family knows my wishes Living permanently in France means that your worldwide assets are subject to French inheritance rules and taxes in the event of your death. The only exception for

people with assets in the UK and France is any property (real estate) in the UK, which will still be subject to the rules and taxes that side of The Channel. If you do still have property in the UK, your UK will is still valid as far as that property is concerned. However, the rest of your assets will fall under the strict French rules, as originally decreed by Napoleon under the “Code Civil”. Qualified professional advice will help you to ensure that you understand the French rules and make use of them to suit your circumstances because dying without making prior arrangements could leave your heirs with some very nasty surprises. My money is all in Sterling and I don’t want to change it to Euros We would always advise people to have at least some income and/or capital in Euros, as that is the currency you use to buy your baguette and other essentials. However, whilst the recent weakening of the Euro has made the situation slightly better, it is understandable if people do not necessarily want to exchange Sterling for Euros currently. That does not mean that proper financial planning for life in France is not possible. Tax-efficient options still exist for those not wishing to invest in Euros, so long-term decisions can be made now and currency decisions can be postponed if you wish.

What’s the point in bothering? I will eventually go back to the UK Whilst the longer term plan may well be to return eventually to the UK, doing no planning now could mean that you pay more in taxes on your income than you need to and you could land your heirs with big headaches if you die whilst still resident in France. It is perfectly possible to structure your affairs so that they are tax-efficient for life in France now, without having to undo all that planning if you move back to the UK in the future. ■ Seeking proper advice from

a qualified professional is the only way to be sure that you are getting things right. Siddalls offers a free initial consultation, which is the opportunity for us to properly understand your circumstances and requirements and present our services to you. Peter Wakelin is Regional Manager of Siddalls France, Independent Financial Advisers, specialised in tax, inheritance, pension and investment planning for the British community in the Dordogne since 1996. Telephone 05 56 34 75 51, bordeaux.office@siddalls.net. www.siddalls.fr

16 ♦ LANGUAGE & GAMES

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

Would you like to receive your copy of The Bugle by post each month? We can deliver a copy to your door, hot off the press

France, UK and Europe - €16 per year

Email us for more details - subscriptions24@thebugle.eu or visit www.thebugle.eu

Crossword Clues and answers in English - solution page 22

Across:

1. Goddess of love (5) 3. Revoke (7) 7. Floor show (7) 9. Oversight (5) 10. Last letter of the Greek alphabet (5) 11. Rising warm air current (7) 13. Symbol of disgrace or infamy (6) 14. Sour (6) 18. Inscrutable (7) 20. Type of snake (5) 21. Photo book (5) 23. Luxurious (7) 24. Commotion (7) 25. Restorative (5)

Down:

1. Asinine (7) 2. Satire (7) 3. Turn on an axis (6) 4. Unguent (5) 5. Mischievous fairy (3) 6. Live (5) 8. Transience (7) 12. Gruesome (7) 15. Explanation (7) 16. Forceful and extreme (7) 17. Educational institution (6) 18. Intone (5) 19. Musical speed (5) 22. Saloon (3)

SEARCHWORDOKU © - by Anthony Parson Complete the alphabetical Sudoku grid to the left using only the letters already shown, then use the result wordsearch grid to find: A type of tree

How does it work...? Complete the Sudoku grid in the usual manner, using only the 9 letters already shown. Once complete, you will be left with a 9x9 wordsearch grid, in which to find the final piece of the puzzle. See the completed example to the right, the clue for which is "An English county". Be careful not to jump to conclusions, as with the letters available, the answer could be SURREY, SUSSEX, ESSEX, or as it turns out in this case... SOMERSET.

Solution on page 23

SUDOKU - EASY

SUDOKU - MEDIUM

The solutions to this month’s sudokus can be found on page 23

SUDOKU - HARD

DIRECTORY ♦ 17

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Business Directory

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

DOG GROOMING FOR ALL TYPES OF DOGS

Your advert here 05 55 41 17 76

Architectural Services

Auto Services

Architectural DRAWING SERVICE

Clipping, cutting, hand stripping, bathing, ear care & nail trimming.

Renovating your French property?

INGRID GELAUDIE

New build?

Rue des Ecoles, 24170 SIORAC

06 31 98 92 07 Cats and Dogs Boarding Kennels

Purpose built kennels - dept 16. 45 years animal care experience. Fully insured and vet approved. Individual kennels plus family pens. Walking off lead twice daily. Michael and Wendy Aldrich

05 45 66 14 62 Siret: 494 030 919 00018

Building Services

MOTOR PARTS CHARENTE

Suppliers of Car & Van Spares & LHD headlights Direct to France at big savings! also Mower Batteries and drive belts!

www.motorpartscharente.com Delivery via Parcelforce Worldwide to your door in France

JOHN SOWERSBY +44 (0)1377 255470 / +44 (0)7830 170761

motorptscharente@aol.com

Dossiers prepared Permis de Construire Déclarations Préalables

Tel: 05 53 52 36 05 lavieilleabbaye@orange.fr www.latuspeter-architecturaldrawings-24.com SIRET: 493 770 358 00015

sales24@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

Plans, Permissions & Photo-Realisations Comprehensive CAD drafting & design service for your planning application. Dossiers compiled and submitted, including all local & departmental liaison.

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

web: www.masterplans.eu email: info@masterplans.eu

sales24@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

Building Services

siret: 790 016 984 00011

CHARTERED STRUCTURAL ENGINEER

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

05 53 56 72 59 / 06 05 56 42 81 +44 (0)7448 466 662 Web: www.versineer.com Email: enquiries@versineer.com Siret: 498 843 051 00018

ElsaConception

(Architecture/ Design/ Decoration) Need interior design advice? Planning a project? Giving a space a makeover? Need to submit a building permit or a declaration? I can support you in all your makeover, renovation or construction projects. Sarlat and surrounding areas (up to 100km)

Tel: 06.87.09.38.94

Web: http://www.elsaconception.com

Electricians Leigh Dodd

Electrical Services Full house rewiring, renovations EDF/Consuel arrangements Fully qualified & Decennale insured Established in France since 2007 Based near St-Yrieix-la-Perche

O5.55.48.95.86 www.saraleigh.com contact@saraleigh.com Siret: 507 643 336 00013

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE...

ADVERTORIAL

Property Market Activity on the Increase

ouses on Internet, the successful, fastgrowing internet marketing company that helps people sell their French property without using an agent, is seeing that the trend which started at the end of 2013, namely a serious increase in the number of sales, is continuing this year. When we compare the figures for 2014 with the same period last year, enquiries from prospective buyers have more than doubled and sales have risen by over 60%, says Richard Kroon, founder and director. About 85% of buyers through their website are foreigners. As the UK property market is improving rapidly, a lot of prospective buyers are now British, but other countries like Holland, Belgium, Germany,

Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and of course Australia keep showing an increase in buying French property, both for holiday homes or to live here permanently. The key to their success is without doubt the extensive global network which enables them to reach prospective buyers wherever they are. Another strong and unique quality of Houses on Internet is the way they present each property. The number of photos, depending on the type of house, is usually between 50 and 70, everything is described in three languages, translated by professionals, and the information given is not just about the house, but also about shopping facilities, schools, airports, etcetera. The most important thing is to reach the buyers. Richard:

“An excellent Google ranking is crucial and so we keep optimizing our website and advertise all over the internet, literally worldwide. As we advertise each property on other large, international sites as well, the total exposure is enormous.” Throughout France, Houses on Internet has over 90 photographers who visit their clients when they decide to sell their property through them. And of course, any summer photos these clients already have themselves can be copied too, in order to make the best possible presentation. Signing-up to sell your house through Houses on Internet is easy. Visit their website which is available in four languages; it contains all the information you need and everything is ex-

plained step by step. When you have decided to sell your property through them, one of their staff will then call you personally to start the process. ■

Houses on Internet www.housesoninternet.com 05 55 65 12 19

18 ♦ DIRECTORY

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

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

Building Services General David’s Services

What can I offer you?

22 Years’ experience working in France A complete service of Repairs and Maintenance (interior and exterior) A house opening and closing service Good solid technical advice on future projects Trustworthy, reliable and conscientious Based in the North of Dordogne

generation Solarventi have exceeded 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

sales24@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

Building Services Painters/ Decorators

water connections and it can be safely left running, even when 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. ■

Your advert here 05 55 41 17 76 Computers & Satellites

Simon Carter

Skilled Workman Building Renovations & Small Jobs • Velux Windows • Roof Repairs • Tiling • Plumbing • Plaster boarding • Garden Projects & Maintenance For more info please call Barrie

05.55.02.66.58 / 06.76.09.68.37 Or visit my website

www.bw-renovations.co.uk SIRET: 501 338 230 00011

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

Harlequin Developments are a Distributor and Installer for Solarventi, solar dehumidifying and water heating products, as well as a range of other renewable energies

experience, now based 24/87 border Specialist services: Interior & exterior painting, wallpapering, plastering & boarding, floor restoration, tiling. 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

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

05.55.68.67.56 06.06.60.46.97

sales24@thebugle.eu

SIRET: 494.501.067.00016

05 55 41 17 76

harlequindevelopments@live.com www.harlequindevelopments.com

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

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

Montluc Painting & Decorating Contact David: 06 12 63 05 86 Qualified craftsman with over 25 years UK No Siret: 402 444 871 00022

SOLARVENTI - Available in the Dordogne and Lot from Harlequin Developments Tel: 05 55 68 67 56 Mobile: 06 06 60 46 97

05 55 41 17 76 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.

Food & Drink

Email: Stephen@Wisedale.com

UK & French Satellite TV

Dishes & Freesat boxes always in stock Terrestrial digital aerial installations From a single outlet to multi-point systems

TOOWAY BROADBAND Approved Supplier

Wi-Fi, Data Networks, CCTV For sales, service or advice call Mike G on:

06 30 28 81 43

We only use our own qualified staff No call out charge Free quotations All areas covered Quality work from qualified Staff 5 Place de la Republique Sauviat-sur-Vige 87400 siret no 798 364 600 00014

sales@thebugle.eu

All venues are in the evening between 6pm & 8.30 pm Monday: Le Champsac (every other week) Tuesday: Tremolat Wednesday: Star Inn, Périgueux Thursday: Eymet Friday: Lauzun

(except the last Friday of the month when it is Daglan)

See our website for full details:

www.thedordognechippy.com 05 53 74 01 91 or 06 19 99 25 62 siret: 444 925 630 00014

La Poutre

Bar & Restaurant

24400 Beaupouyet (N89 between Montpon & Mussidan)

French/International cuisine. Themed nights each Friday: 1st Friday - Curry night 2nd Friday - Quiz night 3rd Friday - Fish n Chips night “best around”!! 4th Friday - Live Music night Open Tue - Fri: 11am - 9pm (except Wed eve) Saturday 6pm - 10pm Sunday 12pm - 3pm, traditional English roasts served For further details call Steve: or email: steve.francis24@gmail.com or facebook: Beaupouyet La Poutre

Siret: 800 525 040 00013

Formerly Electrosat

Traditional Fish & Chips in a town near you

05 53 80 29 54

Tel: 05 53 30 23 96 Mob: 07 78 52 20 46

Sat-Elec

The Dordogne Chippy

siret 537 415 903 00013

Karen’s Kitchen Catering for you in the Dordogne

Specialising in home-made pastries: Sausage rolls, Pasties - Cornish, Cheese & Onion, Steak & Stilton, Vegetarian & Chicken. Eccles cakes. Scones made to order. All prepared and baked daily on the premises you cannot get fresher! Bacon, cheese, bread, tea bags & tinned produce all in stock. Find me at your local market: • Tue - Le Bugue • Thu - Eymet • Fri - Le Buisson • Sat - Villereal • Sun - Issigeac

www.karenskitchen24.com email: karenskitchen24@gmail.com

05 53 74 01 91 or 06 01 31 07 47

sales24@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

Your advert here 05 55 41 17 76

05.55.41.17.76

DIRECTORY ♦ 19

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

Gifts & Crafts

Handholding Pest Control Services

Transport, Removals & Storage

Your advert here 05 55 41 17 76

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

Please mention The Bugle when responding to adverts

WWW.CARDBUBBLE.COM BUY YOUR BRITISH GREETINGS CARDS ONLINE!

Franglais- Central France Pest Control Services

... exists to provide quality services to businesses and individuals in the Dordogne and beyond. We deliver invaluable linguistic assistance, practical IT and audiovisual assistance, web solutions and photographic services. To find out more call us on

Dératisation, Déinsectisation, Désinfection

02 48 60 83 72 / 06 74 33 02 38 www.applicateur3d.com Email: info@applicateur3d.com Curative and preventative

General

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

+33 (0)6 77 38 58 56

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

05 55 33 21 59

www.franglais-services.com

La Petite Barre, 18210 Bessais Le Fromental

www.frenchvanman.eu

or visit

SIRET No. 498 544 741 00024

siret: 791 378 433 00019

87150 Oradour-sur-Vayres Siret 530 213 644 00012

Parking For Property Maintenance Limoges Airport

Health & Beauty

Efficient parking for all types of vehicles Book now!!

QUALITY CARDS AT UK PRICES! E: ANGI@CARDBUBBLE.COM FREE DELIVERY ON ALL ORDERS OVER €10 WORLDWIDE

● HAIRSTYLIST ● COSMETICIAN ● MAKE-UP ● MASTER ARTISAN

ENGLISH SPOKEN • Air-conditioned • Shiatsu massage chair

Tue - Fri: 9h - 19h, Sat 9h - 17h

Tel: 05 24 13 65 58

sarldesouchevicente@sfr.fr 47, rue du Gén. de Gaulle, 24660 Coulounieix Chamiers

sales24@thebugle.eu

05 55 41 17 76

Dyal Consulting

Your partners for peace of mind While you’re away, we can look after your house, check for weather damage, perform small maintenance jobs, take care of the garden, get your home ready for winter. On your return, we can prepare your house, stock up on groceries, etc... everything to make your arrival stress free. We are here to keep your house alive throughout your absence and to make your life easier! Call your concierge today:

07 77 95 31 36

CARPET / UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Specialists in all carpet and upholstery cleaning

PROCHEM trained and Qualified

10 years UK experience - Covering depts 24/47/33

06 32 32 64 54 / 05 53 58 00 98 email lucidservices24@gmail.com siret: 512 614 306 00011

www.parkinglimoges.com

Eco Entrepot

sales24@thebugle.eu

32,000ft2 of great products incl. British Groceries, DIY, Housewares, Furniture, Clothing, Toiletries plus loads more!!

05 55 41 17 76

05 55 68 74 73 Open every day except Monday

Your advert here

SOS Help

01 46 21 46 46

05 55 41 17 76

www.soshelpline.org

06 13 38 59 68 05 55 14 49 45

siret: 751 978 917 00019

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

Man & Van Transport

aka The Shed

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

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 €13.50/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 20,000 pairs of eyes each month!!

For more information on any of our advertising options, please feel free to give us a call on 05 55 41 17 76 or send an email to sales24@thebugle.eu

6-Month Contract €108

Small b&w Directory Ad

(€18/month)

Large b&w Directory Ad

(€24/month)

Small Colour Directory Ad

(€27/month)

Large Colour Directory Ad

(€36/month)

€144 €162 €216

12-Month Contract €162

(€13.50/month)

€216

(€18/month)

€243

(€20.25/month)

€324

(€27/month)

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 - no logos, images or artwork are allowed. 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

20 ♦ WHAT’S ON

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

WHAT’S

THE festival of classical music, the Périgord Noir Festival showcases musical talent from France and around the world. Every year the Festival provides a huge range of great music performed at the highest level, drawing new audiences and committed Festival spectators into the world of the great classics, rare repertory and exciting innovations. The 2014 programme, under the theme Rêves d’Orient (Dreams of the Orient), is packed with exciting music. The Festival runs from 5th of August and this month hosts the following recitals: Thursday 4th September - Harpsichord recital by Yasuko Bouvard (programme: Bach – The Goldberg Variations) at the Chapelle Saint-Benoit, Sarlat at 18h. Tickets €10. Friday 5th September – Organ recital by Michel Bouvard (programme: Bach) at the Eglise de Saint-Cyprien at 20h30. Tickets €10. Saturday 6th September – Harpsichord recital at the Chapelle Saint-Benoit, Sarlat at 18h and Organ recital at the Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos, Sarlat at 21h. Free entry. Saturday 20th September – Organ recital by Paul Goussot as part of the European Heritage Days at the Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos, Sarlat at 23h. Free entry. For more information visit www.festivalmusiqueperigordnoir.com

Bergerac Air Show - see page 5 for more details

CHATEAUX OPEN DAYS

6 & 7 september

17 wine producers open their properties for free tastings and tours

Sunday 7 september Countryside Lunch at Château Franc Lafleur «Saint Magne de Castillon»

Wine tastings * Workshops Exhibitions * Wine and product sales Jazz Band For more details contact 05 57 40 00 88 www.castillon-cotesdebordeaux.com

The biggest medieval show in Aquitaine

Come and meet the winemakers of

Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux and taste their wines on their stand in the village of Aliénor before the show. 1 - 2 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 14 - 15 - 16 August 2014

The «Maison du Vin» located in the centre of Castillon La Bataille, offers a selection of approximately 60 wines from Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux at châteaux prices. Free tastings every day. Open Monday to Friday 9h - 12h30, 14h - 18h30 Saturday from June to September 10h - 13h, 14h30 - 18h30 6 Allée de la République 33350 Castillon contact@castillon-cotesdebordeaux.com

05 57 40 00 88

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu

WHAT’S ON ♦ 21

“Music Box” - 11th, 12th, 13th September 2014 MADS production of “From Pirates to Phantom” in 2013 was the high point of a great year, with packed houses containing many new faces, all of them happy and smiling. It was the proverbial “good time had by all”. How do we follow that? With the same team that so royally entertained you all last year, back with a rip-roaring evening of songs for all tastes and ages to enjoy. Tickets sold out early last year so don’t be disappointed book your tickets early! BOX OFFICE 05 53 24 56 11 mads.bookings@gmail.com

Chantemonde was formed in September 2006 by Michèle Lhopiteau, a then recently retired professer of music who had previously founded and directed professional and amateur choirs in Houston-Texas, Chad, Equador and Bordeaux. Author of several books on classical music, she is an acknowledged expert on the music and life of Mozart. The choir, based at Villamblard, started with 23 members and quickly grew to over 60, greatly outstripping Michèle’s expectations. The programme changes annually and includes classical works, notably by Mozart, Pergolesi, Vivaldi, Jenkins (a renowned modern Welsh composer), plus many songs from around the world in their original languages. Hence our name “Chantemonde”. The classics are always accompanied by young professional musicians from Bordeaux. This year’s programme is dedicated to Italian music. Chantemonde will be performing the following concerts in September: Saturday 13th September - Le Bugue (in the church) at 21h Sunday 14th September - Vanxains (near Ribérac in the church) at 16h Saturday 27th September - Bergerac (in the Protestant ‘Temple’) at 21h Sunday 28th September - Chancelade Abbey (near Périgueux) at 16h Tickets: €10 (advance bookings); €12 (on the door); €5 for students, handicapped & job seekers; Free for Under 15s. For more information tel 05 53 82 90 07 or visit http://www.chantemonde.org/

FestiVillars - Concert of Renaissance music Château de Puyguilhem, Villars 13th September Concert commemorating the 400th anniversary of the death of Pierre de Bourdeilles, penname Brantôme, Abbé de Brantôme. In partnership with Les Amis de Brantôme. Concert of music from the reign of Louis XIII, by Eustache DU CAURROY, Etienne MOULINIE, Antoine BOESSET, John DOWLAND, Tobias HULME and John PLAYFORD given by Les Festes d’Euterpe (www.lesfestesdeuterpe.com) The Artistes: Jean-Miguel Aristizabal (harpsichord), Mathilde Vialle (viola da gamba), Céline Destruhaut (recorder), plus Caroline Dangin-Bardot (soprano). Tickets: €15, free for children under 16. Reservations: tel 09 64 09 95 91 For more information go to: www.festivillarsenperigordvert.com

Do you want to advertise your event in The Bugle? To find out more:

sales24@thebugle.eu 05 55 41 17 76

22 ♦ WHAT’S ON

The Journées européennes du patrimoine (European Heritage Days) take place this month on 20th and 21st September. This is a popular event throughout France, which sees many state buildings and museums open their doors to visitors. There is not enough space in these pages to list everything going on so pop down to your local tourist office or visit: http://www.journeesdupatrimoine.culture.fr/ to find out what is happening in your area.

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ SEPTEMBER 2014

A bug’s life

The town hall in Lalinde has welcomed a new nature photography exhibition that will please nature lovers and impress young and all. The town usually displays local artists but Olivier de Laveleye, who was originally born in Belgium, has deep connections with the region. As the photographer explains, he started coming to Trémolat during the holidays with his parents but now spends up to six months here every year. He can often be found lying down in the undergrowth of woods, in clearings or in the water, pressing his shutter release button. Olivier de Laveleye has chosen to arrange his work in triptychs, so as to tell the story of the insects he spends his time with. All the insects shown are from the Dordogne region but as he says “people often don’t take the time to notice what is right in front of them”. The 60-year-old studied biology before working as a professional diver. It is by chance that de Laveleye started working in the film industry over 30 years ago.

EXHIBITION The Language of the Fan

15th - 21st September

Hôtel de Cours de Thomazeau, Promenade de la Mouthe, 47330 CASTILLONNÈS

He has worked on over 420 feature films as a special effects technician and has worked on a few series such as Parade’s End and The White Queen. As he grew older, he developed a passion for macrophotography and soon specialised in insects although he also loves underwater photography, a way for him to combine his studies, passion and old job. The photographer has recently published a book about the turtles on the island of Boa Vista in Cape Verde. The town hall exhibition is only a part of the artist’s collection as some of his work can be seen in the restaurant Les Petits Plats, in Couze-et-Saint-Front. However, the complete collection will be shown at the Lalinde town hall for the next European Heritage Days on 20th and 21st September. A short film de Laveleye directed and produced will also be projected. Further information can be found on the photographer’s website: www.olivierdelaveleye.com by Surya Jonckheere

It is the centenary of the beginning of WW1, reminding us of the horrors of that terrible conflict. It is also the centenary of Emmeline Pankhurst’s halt to her Suffragette campaign for the duration of the war. 1914 saw the start of tremendous change in the lives of women: 100 years on, we can send our daughters out into the world on the same footing as men. Surely in 1914, no one could have anticipated that women would be doing traditionally male jobs or indeed be managing their own lives and affairs. To celebrate this alternative centenary an exhibition of fans is being staged in Castillonnès on the week before the Journées du Patrimoine, from Monday 15th - Sunday 21st September. Why? There are still women within our own Western European society for whom the last 100 years have made absolutely no difference. Fans have been used for political propaganda, sending messages, in espionage. This exhibition, as well as celebrating this century of women, aims to raise public awareness of the plight of the SILENT WOMAN, the woman who is not heard, the woman who only too often lives without dignity, self-respect or hope, within a virtual prison of fear and despair. The exhibition is open from 10h-12h and 14h-18h. Entry is free. For further information visit www.decoursdethomazeau.com

One of the first cricket clubs to exist in the French provinces, Eymet Cricket Club (Club Eymetois de Cricket) was founded in 1983 by a group of expats who were seriously missing their favourite sport. For the first season they played on coconut matting laid on the town’s football pitch, but the following year the Mayor kindly offered use of our present ground at Eymet - complete with stand and all necessary facilities. The club plays an average of twenty matches per season - southwest league games, national competitions, and against several overseas touring sides. Our home ground in Eymet is at Stade Bretou, hard by the gendarmerie. Drinks and teas available. New members, playing or social, are very welcome! Upcoming fixtures: Sunday 7/9 Friendly at home Sunday 21/9 Friendly at home against Great Durnford Sunday 28/9 League Final TBC For more information about the club and upcoming fixutres call Tim Smith on 05 53 24 15 22 or David Horlock on 05 53 24 11 40 or visit http://eymetcricket.com/

Managing Editor: Steve Martindale Editor-in-Chief: Steve Martindale Registered Address: Les Quatre Chemins 23150 St-Yrieix-les-Bois France SIRET: 514 989 748 00017 Printed by: Charente Libre 16340, L’Isle d’Espagnac France Monthly circulation: 12,000 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.

Directeur: Steve Martindale Rédacteur-en-chef: Steve Martindale Siège Les Quatre Chemins 23150 St-Yrieix-les-Bois France SIRET: 514 989 748 00017 Imprimé par: Charente Libre 16340, L’Isle d’Espagnac France

Tirage mensuel:

12,000 copies

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.

WHAT’S ON ♦ 23

SEPTEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu that our help does not affect any means-tested payments. Briefly we can consider assisting those who: We understand that life can be difficult for expats living away from the UK and that sometimes assistance is needed. We will listen and try to help when that help is needed. As I am sure you realise, there seems to be this popular misconception that expats living outside of the UK live in large houses with hectares of ground and that nobody ever has problems. As we all know this is far from the truth and even the best laid plans can fall apart due to sudden changes in health, bereavement, family breakdown or a host of other unforeseen problems. Registered charity Elizabeth Finn Care is able to offer direct financial assistance to British and Irish nationals or residents who live overseas. We ensure

1. Are British or Irish residents or nationals. 2. Are living on a low income or means-tested benefits. 3. Have formerly been employed in one of a wide range of qualifying occupations. Have, or have had, a partner employed in a qualifying occupation. We are able to consider assisting financially in numerous ways. For more information contact: Mary Hughes - Case worker France, Elizabeth Finn Care tel: 04 68 23 43 79 or visit: www.elizabethfinncare.org.uk and: www.turn2us.org.uk

Phoenix Appeal for BESS - 4-monthold kitten needs a home Bess is a friendly little girl, who was born in April to tabby-point Siamese mum, Sissy, in the grounds of a hotel. Safely in Phoenix care, she is seeking a home. She’s a happy kitten who gets on well with other cats and humans. She adores fuss so if cuddles are your thing, she’s your girl! She has an inquisitive, impish side too and will no doubt bring a smile to your face! Bess is chipped (250268500709860) and vaccinated. Please contact Lynda at lapuille@gmail.com or call 05 53 81 30 44 for more information. www.phoenixasso.com www.facebook.com/PhoenixAssociationFrance

Monday

Market Days

Beynac Le Fleix Les Eyzies Ste-Alvère

Tuesday

Beaumont du Périgord Bergerac Brantôme Cénac-et-Saint-Julien Lanouaille Le Bugue Mareuil Neuvic Ribérac Salignac Eyvigues Thenon Trémolat Villefranche-de-Lonchat

Wednesday Bergerac Hautefort Jumilhac-le-Grand La Tour Blanche Montpon-Ménestérol Montignac Périgueux

EASY

Piégut Pluviers Razac Sarlat Siorac-en-Périgord Vélines Domme Excideuil Eymet La Coquille Lalinde Monpazier St Astier St-Julien-de-Lampon Terrasson

Belvès Bergerac Lalinde La Roche Chalais Le Bugue Montignac Mussidan Neuvic Nontron Périgueux Razac Sarlat St Aulaye Thiviers Verteillac Villefranche du Périgord

Friday

Sunday

Thursday

Bergerac Brantôme Cubjac Le Buisson Ribérac Sarlat Sigoulès Vergt

Saturday

Agonac Beaumont du Périgord

MEDIUM

Bergerac Couze St Front Daglan Issigeac Pontours Pressignac-Vicq Rouffignac Sarlat Sorges St Cyprien St Génies St Pardoux la Rivière

HARD

24 ♦ WHAT’S ON