The Deux-Sèvres Monthly - June 2024

• LOCAL EVENTS

• LOCAL EVENTS

• MUSIC

• MUSIC

• GARDENING

• GARDENING

• PUZZLES

• PUZZLES

• RECIPES and more

• RECIPES and more

UK-based advisers generally do not have the deep

provide

Additionally, UK banks, advisers and other nancial providers may no longer be able to legally service EU residents now that Brexit has dissolved automatic ‘passporting’ rights for UK nancial services in the EU. Your adviser needs to live here to be up to date and react fast to changes. Blevins Franks has long-established o ces in France and has unique insight into the needs of British expatriates. We remain fully regulated to provide advice in France.

www.blevinsfranks.com

WelcoME back to the sunny June issue of DeuxSèvres Monthly!

It seems that the sun has decided to honour us for an extended period of time lately Of course, this also means that our lawns are reaching for the sky If you think back to the first few issues of last year, you may remember the contrast between my pitiful attempts at writing a gardening column and Clare Hill's exceptional contributions Clare's passion for gardening is reflected in every article she writes If you have any feedback or suggestions for Clare or future issues, we'd love to hear your thoughts and we’ll pass them on to Clare

All of our writers are special and each of them brings their own personal perspective to the magazine We look forward to their articles each month and hope to thank each of them again over the summer

This month, our "What's on” section is full of various events in our beautiful department and beyond, from the Bressuire Highland Games in the north to Château Javarzay en Fête in the south. In June, we can also look forward to the Fête de la Musique, where towns and villages across the department come alive with music We have added some events to our list, but many had not yet been advertised at the time of going to press. If you have an event planned for July or August, email us at info@thedeuxsevresmonthly fr and we will try to include it

Our sincere thanks go to our loyal advertisers Your continued support is the foundation that allows us to not only produce the magazine, but also print and distribute it Since the magazine's relaunch last year, we have gradually increased circulation and distribution - something that was only possible with your support We are committed to maintaining a magazine that interests our readers and reaches as many potential customers as possible

And we thank you, our readers, for the encouragement we have received over the past year Next month we will be celebrating the first anniversary of our relaunched magazine and we look forward to sharing this journey with you

We look forward to seeing you again in July

Kathleen & Chris

tel: 07 86 99 16 17

email: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly fr

© K Butler-donnelly 2024 all rights reserved Material may not be reproduced without permission. While care is taken to ensure that

and features are accurate, we accept no liability for

or omissions. the opinions expressed by individual authors do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the publisher While we make every effort to ensure that businesses advertising with us are reputable and appropriately

event, it is highly recommended that you verify the event details with other sources. the deux-sèvres Monthly est édité par Kathleen Butler-donnelly, 27 rue de la Madoire, Bressuire 79300 tel: 07 86 99 16 17. directeur de la publication et rédacteur en chef: K Butler-donnelly siret: 90043034900028 Crédits photos :adobe stock, istock, Pixabay sauf mention contraire. impression: graficas Piquer sl, 29 al Mediterraneo, Pol ind san rafael, 04230, huércal de almeria, espagne issn: 2115-4848 dépôt légal: à purition

CHURCH NOTICES

The Filling Station - PoitouCharentes. Local Christians of all denominations who meet for spiritual renewal and evangelism Carolyn on 05 45 84 19 03 or www thefillingstationfrance com

All Saints, Vendée - Puy de Serre. We hold two services each month (plus Sunday school), on the 2nd and 4th Sundays at the church of St Marthe, Puy de Serre, at 11h www allsaintsvendee fr

The English Speaking Church of the Valley of the Loire (ESCOVAL) meets at the R C Church in Arçay every 3rd Sunday of the month at 11am (just off the D759, Thouars to Loudun)

Eglise Vie Nouvelle English service (translated into French) every week in the Salle Annexe behind Civray Mairie at 10 30am

Contact 06 25 04 36 51 www vienouvelle-civray com

The Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd, PoitouCharentes Normally holds Sunday services in English Please see our website for current information: www churchinfrance com

Evangelical Church (ChefBoutonne) Meetings each Sunday at 3:00pm The Evangelical Church, 10 Rue de l’Huilerie, 79110 Chef-Boutonne All are welcome Parking on site Please see our website for more www mission-poitou-charentes com

Local Markets in the Deux Sèvres

Monday am Cerizay 79140 place des Halles

Tuesday a m

Bressuire 79300 place Dupin

Coulonges-sur-l'Autize 79160 Centre Ville

La Creche 79260 rue du Marché

Lezay 79120 place du Marché

Niort 79000 place des Halles

Thouars 79100 place Lavault

Vasles 79340 la place du 25 Août

Wednesday a m Celles-sur-Belle79370 Centre Ville

Niort 79000 place des Halles

Parthenay 79200 rue Jean-Jaurès

Thursday a m Argenton-les-Vallées 79150 place Philippe de Commynes

La Motte St Héray 79800 place Clémenceau

Niort 79000 place des Halles

Sauzé-Vaussais 79190 Centre Ville

Friday a m Coulon 79510 place de l'Eglise

Melle 79500 place Bujault

Niort 79000 place des Halles

Nueil les Aubiers 79250 place Pierre Garnier

Thouars 79100 place Lavault

Saturday a m Airvault 79600 place Saint-Pierre

Bressuire 79300 place Dupin

Cerizay 79140 place des Halles

Champdeniers 79220 Centre Ville

Chef-Boutonne 79110 Centre Ville

Cherveux 79410 Centre Ville

Coulonges-sur-l'Autize 79160 place des Halles

Le Tallud 79200 place de l'Église

Lezay 79120 place du Marché

Mauleon 79700 place du château

Mauze sur le Mignon 79210 place de l'Eglise

Moncoutant 79320 Centre Ville

Niort 79000 place des Halles

Parthenay 79200 rue Jean-Jaurès

Saint Maixent-l'Ecole 79400 place du Marché

THE ENGLISH SPEAKING CHURCH OF THE VALLEY OF THE LOIRE “ESCOVAL”

We meet on the third Sunday of each month at the church in Arçay at 11h00. The services are multidenominational and vary between Matins and Holy Communion - both usually include hymns.

Afterwards there is usually a bring-and-share lunch. Arçay is situated between Loudun and Thouars just off the D759.

www.escoval.jimdofree.com

Contact Geoff Cornwall : gdfrance6052@gmail.com

Jim Burrows : 05 49 22 41 78

Carole Taylor : mumsikins@hotmail.com

Sunday a m

Chatillon sur Thouet 79200 place du Parnasse

Coulon 79510 place de l'Eglise

La Creche 79260 rue du Marché

Niort 79000 place des Halles

Saint-Loup-Lamairé place du Marché

Thénezay 79390 place de L'Hôtel de Ville

Local Markets in neighbouring departments

Monday a m

Doue-la-Fontaine 49700 place du Champ de Foire

Tuesday a m Civray 86400 place Leclerc

Montrueil-Bellay 49260 place du Marché

Mortagne-sur-Sèvres 85290 place Hullin

Surgéres 17700 rue Audry de Puyravault

Wednesday a m Fontenay-le-Comte 85200 place du Commerce

Lusignan 86600 place Isabelle d’Angoulême

Ruffec 16700 Centre Ville

Vihiers 49310 place Charles-de-Gaulle

Thursday a m Aulnay 17470 Centre Ville

Surgéres 17700 rue Audry de Puyravault

Friday a m Civray 86400 place Leclerc

Saturday a m

Doue-la-Fontaine 49700 place René Nicolas

Cholet 49300 place du 8 Mai 1945

Fontenay-le-Comte 85200 place du Commerce

La Châtaigneraie 85120 place de la République

Pouzauges 85700 place de l’Hôtel de Ville

Ruffec 16700 Centre Ville

Surgéres 17700 rue Audry de Puyravault

Sunday a m Aulnay 17470 Centre Ville

Latillé 86190 place Robert Gerbier

Valence-en-Poitou 86700 place du Marché

MR T’S FISH & CHIPS

Regular venues at:

• Aulnay de Saintonge 17470

• Beauvais Sur Matha 17490

• St Jean D’Angély 17400

• Sauzé-Vaussais Hope 79 79190

• La Chaumière, La Chapelle 16140 • Charroux 86250

• Saintes 17100 • Savigné 86400

Remember to pick up your copy of The Deux-Sèvres Monthly!

Tel: 06 02 22 44 74

email: mrt.fishandchips@gmail.com www.frying4u2nite.com

A New Era for Ter ves Christmas Market

The Terves Christmas market, an integral part of the Christmas spirit in the Deux-Sèvres, is undergoing a major change this December

Traditionally run by Julia and her team from the Association AIDEZ, the market has entertained visitors with its festive atmosphere and variety of stalls However, Julia has announced that she will have to step back from organising the popular event

keep it the same for 2024 due to time constraints, but 2025 will show a difference,” they announced, emphasising their intention to maintain the market’s festive atmosphere while exploring new ventures in the future

9 June 10am - 4pm Sanzay 79150 opposite the château

• Meet the Alpacas • Sort their wool

• Producers’ Market

• Food Truck

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS RELIGIOUS AND FEAST DAYS

Fête nationale "Bastille Day"

Sunday 14 July 2024

Assomption Assumption Day

Thursday 15 August 2024

Toussaint All Saints Day

Friday 1 November 2024

Armistice de 1918 Armistice Day

Monday 11 November 2024

Noël Christmas Day

Wedn 25 December 2024

W

Jour de l'An New Year's Day

Wednesday 1 January 2025

Pâques Easter Sunday

Sunday 20 April 2025

Lundi de Pâques Easter Monday

Monday 21 April 2025

Fête du Travail Labour Day

Thursday 1 May 2025

Victoire de 1945 VE Day

Thursday 8 May 2025

Ascension Ascension Day

Friday 29 May 2025

In her heartfelt message, Julia thanked the community for their support over the years “We are very sorry that we will not be able to continue organising the Terves English Christmas Market,” she said

Stepping into the gap left by Julia is Association Violet, already known for its lively fundraising events such as BINGO evenings and the summer fayre at the Château du Cherveaux

With their proactive approach, they are determined to continue the legacy of the Christmas market “We plan to

Association Violet is not only involved in organising events, but more importantly in supporting families dealing with lifelong disabilities Through their various events, they aim to alleviate the financial burden of these families and harness the power of community support and involvement

With this change, the Terves Christmas Market will continue its tradition of bringing festive joy and community spirit to the Deux-Sèvres under the new and enthusiastic leadership of the Association Violet

This year’s market will take place on 1 December, look out for updates on the Association Violet Facebook page.

EURO 2024'S OPENING WHISTLE

The 2024 UEFA European Football Championship (Euro 2024) kicks off in June Where is it being held, who is taking part, and how can I watch it?

Two years after the 2022 FIFA World Cup , our European football competition kicks off this summer Germany will host the championship, and 24 European countries have qualified for this year ’ s competition including Scotland, England, and of course France

Unfortunately, neither the Republic of Ireland nor Northern Ireland have qualified for this year ’ s competition, and who can forget Wales’ valiant effort against Poland earlier this year, which saw Wales fail to qualify having lost on penalties

Hosts Germany will face Scotland in the opening match in Munich on the 14 June, with the final taking place in Berlin on the 14 July In addition to Munich and Berlin, the other eight venues are Dortmund, Stuttgart, Gelsenkirchen, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Düsseldorf, Cologne and Leipzig

Italy are the defending champions, having beaten England 3-2 on penalties at Wembley Stadium in 2021 Interestingly, both England and France are the favourites to win this years competition, while traditional favourites such as Germany, Spain and Italy are all seen as outsiders to lift the Henri Delaunay Trophy

It’s all to play for, and if it is an England vs France final on Bastille Day, then there is going to be a great atmosphere in the bars in France

Regular venues including:

• Argentonnay 79150

• Funny Farm Cat Rescue 79200

• Genneton 79150

• Louin 79600

• Noirlieu 79300

Remember to pick up your copy of The Deux-Sèvres Monthly! Find us on Facebook: Oh my Lord Franck’s fish and chips or email: lordmaurin@yahoo.com

La Petite Ferme d’Alpagas

Bienvenue à la Ferme Deux-Sèvres

RENDEZ-VOUS AUX JARDINS 2024

31 May - 2 June

throughout France

Discover the beauty and diversity of gardens across France during Rendezvous aux Jardins This event features guided tours, workshops, and exhibitions, highlighting the importance of the environment and garden heritage rendezvousauxjardins culture gouv fr

PORTES OUVERTES

Saturdays & Sundays until 16 June

ardin

After a restful period and beneficial rains, the Jardins de Puychereau are ready to welcome spring and visitors to their 4th public opening Admission is free, donations for "pour Louis et toi" are requested facebook com/communeardin

DENTELLES NOMADES

Until 15 June

Sepvret

Explore the enchanting in situ exhibition by 'Les 2 Tisseuses de liens' along the Sources de la Sèvres Niortaise paths Marvel at giant laceworks adorning trees and lavoirs A surprising addition to your walks, visible for two months instagram.com/2tisseusesdeliens

SAVARY DE MAULÉON EXHIBITION

Until 5 January 2025

Mauleon

Discover 'Savary de Mauléon, a life of adventure' at this temporary exhibition featuring items from prestigious museums and the research of art historian Marie-Pierre Baudry-Parthenay Explore the life of this medieval lord Admission is free agglo2b fr/culture/musees/musee-demauleon

MÉLUSIN'ART

4 - 19 June

Vouvant (85120)

Discover a wide array of artistic expressions at the 18th edition of the Mélusin'Art Fair in Vouvant, where painting and sculpture are celebrated against the backdrop of the historic Nef Théodelin vouvantvillagedepeintres com

MOTHS AT THE PIERRE LEVÉE

7 June

Bougon

Join us for an enchanting evening in the open air and explore the vibrant and diverse world of moths in the heart of the Pierre Levée site, guided by a dedicated DSNE volunteer Meet at the church car park at 21h30 cpie79 fr

GEOLOGY OF THE OLD MARBLE QUARRY

7 June

ardin

Join Didier Poncet, renowned geologist and heritage conservationist, for an insightful outing at the historical marble quarry in Ardin, operational until the 1960s Discover its international significance and unique limestone that rivals marble Meeting at 14h30 Free event

lhommeetlapierre com

ARK 79 FASHION SHOW

8 June

Salle des fêtes, Clussais la Pommeraie

Enjoy an elegant evening at the ARK 79 Fashion Show Bid on catwalk pieces in our auction Savour a delicious dinner (pre-order necessary, vegetarian options available) and dance the night away Bar serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks Advance booking and payment necessary 20€ per person ark79.com

FESTIVAL BD NIORT'EN BULLES

7 - 8 June

Moulin du roc, Niort

Celebrate the art of BD at the 2 Bulles festival, led by Laetitia Coryn Enjoy a vibrant program of signings, youth activities, author meetings, exhibitions, and concerts A premier event for comic lovers in the Deux-Sèvres niortenbulles fr

FESTIVAL L'ARTJOYETTE

7 - 9 June

Luché thouarsais

Experience the extraordinary at the Festival L'Artjoyette This live arts festival showcases an eclectic mix of theatre, music, circus, and street art Enjoy a laughter-filled, convivial atmosphere with performances from diverse artists Food and drinks available artjoyette blogspot com

EXHIBITION "LA NATURE DES CHOSES"

7 June - 7 July

La Mothe Saint Heray

Explore modern art as four artists delve into themes using painting, video, installation, and collage Hosted by Galerie haute de l'Orangerie and open Friday to Sunday, this exhibition presents a distinct artistic view on nature and materiality, offering a thought-provoking perspective la-mothe-saint-heray.fr

THE DRAGONFLIES OF L'AUTIZE

8 June ardin

Explore the riverbanks of l’Autize for a captivating expedition to observe,

discover, and learn how to identify various dragonflies and damselflies This guided walk, starting at 14h in Ardin, promises a wealth of knowledge on these fascinating creatures dsne org

YOGA WORKSHOP

8 June

Château d'Oiron

A unique session that combines yoga with the tranquil beauty of the château's garden and park This session promotes well-being, reduces stress and connects you deeply with nature Finish by relaxing amidst the château's works of art For ages 16 and over Bring a blanket chateau-oiron.fr

CLASSICAL CONCERT IN A SPRING GARDEN - TRIO MELISSE

8 June

Crezieres, near Chef-Boutonne

Join Les Amis De Crézières for a classical concert featuring Trio Melisse, set in a beautiful spring garden The bar opens at 18h, and picnicking starts at 19h with tables provided Bring your own chairs Entry is free, with donations welcomed to support the musicians Reservations at 06 02 35 90 53

Facebook: Les Amis De Crézières

VIDE MAISON GÉANT.

8 June

Pamproux

Les Pamprofolies association is hosting its second Giant Vide Maison event in Pamproux This year, the event spans a single day, featuring a unique seminocturnal setup, with spaces available at just €1 per meter Search for treasures from home to home and hamlet to hamlet until the evening Maps and information about participating locations can be found at the Mairie pamproux fr

FESTIVAL BIEN-ÊTRE

8 - 9 June

Echiré

Join us for a rejuvenating experience in the picturesque outdoor setting of Echiré Meet wellness experts, enjoy festive activities, enlightening talks, and an acoustic concert on June 8 at 20h Food trucks and drinks available Free entry and parking for vehicles and campers santalliees.fr

LA FÊTE DU PAIN

9 June

Saint Verge

Explore the artisan market, open from 09h to 18h, where you can buy local crafts and goods Enjoy a country dance

show by the talented dancers of the Eldorado Association Get moving with a fun Zumba demo from Smile Fitness 79, sample local fouées for lunch and buy freshly baked breads from a traditional oven

saint-verge fr

PORTES OUVERTES

9 June

argentonnay

Kick off summer with our annual open day on 9 June! Enjoy local beer, fish and chips, crafts, and meet our charming alpacas A perfect day out for the whole family Mark your calendar and bring a friend!

lapetitefermedalpagas com FESTIVAL DE TERRE-NEUVE

11 - 22 June

Fontenay-le-Comte (85200)

The festival returns, offering unique openair theatre experiences at Château de Terre-Neuve, Commequiers, and Mouchamps Enjoy a diverse range of performances, from Renaissance gems to modern classics, including the premiere of "Le Secret des secrets" and timeless works like "Roméo et Juliette" evenements.vendee.fr

EXPOSITION " LA NATURE ENLUMINÉE"

from 13 June

Niort

Delve into the vibrant world of naturalist illustration, showcasing engraved plates from historical manuscripts Experience the recreation of a late 18th-century naturalist's study juxtaposed with the living room of a 21st-century naturalist musees niortagglo fr

FORMEZ-VOUS AUX PAPILLONS DE JOUR 15 June

Exireuil

Would you like to explore or enhance your understanding of butterfly species identification? Our training session offers the essential tools and fundamentals needed for recognition, starting with a concise indoor presentation before moving to hands-on practice in the field at Puits d'enfer dsne org

LA CABANE SORT LE SON FESTIVAL 2024

15 June

Vouhé

L'Association A Cappella presents the second La Cabane Sort Le Son festival A spectacular night awaits with diverse music genres from the traditional New Orleans inspired Back Beat Brass Band, the poetic French tunes of Captain Sparks & Royal Company, OKALI's Afro Trip Hop rhythms, to the raw energy of First Draft An unforgettable evening of music and celebration facebook com/Lacabanesortleson

APEREO-ARKEO - THE ATHLETIC LIFE OF A ROMAN SOLDIER

15 June

rom

During this cultural and social evening, you will learn more about the lesserknown aspects of the life of a Roman soldier Learn more about the training, armour, self-care and nutrition characteristics of a top athlete Enjoy an educational evening with tastings of Roman-inspired dishes An enlightening mix of history and cuisine at the Rauranum Museum melloisenpoitou.fr

MELLE FESTIVAL

15 June

Melle

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of classical music with Cello 8's dynamic performance and Spartera's evocative Corsican chants at this historic festival within the ancient walls of Saint Savinien Church A celebration of classical music's past and future paysmellois org

MARCHÉ DES PRODUCTEURS

15 June

Secondigny

Experience a unique farmers' market dining event from 18h at Lac des Effres Create your menu with offerings from local producers and enjoy an on-site dinner Musical entertainment will enhance the evening's enjoyment secondigny fr

L’ÉTÉ COMMENCE À BESSAC

15 - 16 June

Bessac, Niort

Experience a one-of-a-kind two-day art celebration, outdoor decor, and plant sales event in the historic, verdant riverside location of Bessac The gathering showcases the passion and creativity of approximately forty exhibitors in a scenic setting Enjoy free admission, along with food and refreshments vivre-a-niort.com

HIGHLAND GAMES

15 - 16 June

Château de Bressuire

Immerse yourself in a weekend of Scottish heritage at the Highland Games, where traditional Scottish strength competitions take centre stage Be part of the global spectacle at the World Highland Games Championships, featuring competitors from 8 nations and an international women's competition Food and refreshments available highlandgames-france eu

FAMILY SUNDAY AT THE ABBEY

16 June

Maillezais (854 20)

Experience an engaging and memorable family outing at the historic Abbey of Maillezais Join in on the adventure

"Goscelme à la Poursuite de la Bete du Marais," aiding the valiant knight Goscelme in his exciting quest

Remember to download the Baludik app for an enhanced experience Entry is included with your admission ticket nossites vendee fr/abbaye-de-maillezais

VISITE ANIMÉE DE LA CLASSE 1900

16 June

Courlay

Travel back in time at La Tour Nivelle's 1900 classroom for a fun and nostalgic experience Explore the Ernest P rochon museum and a teacher's lodging on a self-guided tour Admission: Adults €6 50; Children 6-18 years €4 50; Under 6s free tournivelle.fr

JOURNÉES EUROPÉENNES DE L'ARCHÉOLOGIE - THE MONPALAIS NECROPOLIS 16 June

Monpalais

Join us to explore the Monpalais necropolis, the largest necropolis in Thouarsais, featuring seven dolmens, including one with its original tumulus Led by Didier Poncet, discover architectural marvels and cultural intersections from the past Part of European Archaeology Days lhommeetlapierre com

BROCANTE - VIDE GRENIER

16 June

Chef-Boutonne

Discover treasures old and new at the annual Brocante - Vide Grenier set against the picturesque backdrop of Château de Javarzay Featuring sales and exhibitions of both classic and contemporary cars, with on-site dining options available A memorable day out for all chef-boutonne fr

CONCORDIA CONCERT

20 June

Champagne Mouton

Join us for an evening with L'Ensemble Choral et Musical de Ruffec at Eglise Saint-Michel Under Martial Lauer's direction and Henri-Marie Gendreau on piano, experience masterpieces by Buxtehude, J M Haydn, Mozart, and Fauré Starts at 20h30, free entry facebook.com/concordiaderuffec

FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE

21 June

thouars

Celebrate the joy of music and enjoy an evening of performances by music and dance students from the Conservatoire and other talented artists at various venues such as Place Saint-Médard, Rue Porte de Paris and more Stroll through the lively streets, discover different styles of music and support local talent in this night of culture and art thouars fr

FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE

21 June

La Mothe Saint-Héray

Join us for a music celebration with Héray'zik and Les Maillons Mothais

Starting at 19h with Les Pot'agés Jazz Band's vibrant New Orleans jazz, followed by l'Héray Majeur's brass pop at 20h, and Krook's 80s and 90s rock tribute at 21:30

Food trucks, bars, and free entry la-mothe-saint-heray fr

FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE

21 June

Coulonges-sur-l'autize

Celebrate the joy of music at the Parc du Château! Experience an unforgettable evening from 18h featuring two stages, six diverse music groups including JOK'S, Chianteuses et Scie, and chorales from Centre Musical Val de Gâtine Food and drinks available on site facebook com/comitedesfetescoulonges

FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE

21 June

Parthenay

The streets of Parthenay transform into vibrant concert venues for a special evening filled with melodies and rhythms

This free event invites everyone to experience the joy of live music in an open-air setting parthenay fr

FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE

21 June

Bessines

Join us for an evening of live music and fun! Savour a variety of delicious offerings from food trucks and enjoy refreshing drinks available throughout the event Admission is completely free, and there's convenient parking nearby facebook.com/ComiteDesFetesDeBessine

NATURE AND HERITAGE VISIT

22 June

Cersay

Join us for a unique heritage and nature walk at the Château de la Garenne, guided by two experts and the château’s owners Discover the rich history and thriving biodiversity of the estate Limited to 25 attendees; reservation required Suitable for all ages facebook com/chateau lagarenne

APÉRO-CONCERT

22 June

Salles

Begin at 17h with a brewery tour of the Brasserie du Val de Sèvre, where you'll enjoy local products and organic beers

Then, at 19h30, get ready for live music

It's a great combination of food, drink and entertainment brasserie-du-val-de-sevre fr

FÊTE ALIÉNOR

22 June

Monts-sur- Guesnes (864 20)

Commemorate Aliénor d’Aquitaine's 900th birthday at the Château de Montssur-Guesnes with medieval activities,

including workshops, live music, and a marketplace The evening will feature a medieval banquet, celebrating in true 12th-century fashion Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes for a full immersive experience chateau-monts-sur-guesnes com

FÊTE DE LA SAINT JEAN

23 June

Sevremont (85700)

Celebrate the Fête de la Saint Jean at the Château de la Flocellière for an evening filled with a guinguette atmosphere, featuring local bands such as T!Varius, and food trucks The celebration will be topped off with a grand fire celebration at 23h

chateaudelaflocelliere com

CONCORDIA AFTERNOON

23 June

ruffec

L'Ensemble Choral et Musical de Ruffec presents an afternoon of classical music at Eglise Saint-André Directed by Martial Lauer with Henri-Marie Gendreau at the piano, enjoy works by Buxtehude, Johann Michael Haydn, Mozart, and Fauré Starts at 16h, free entry facebook.com/concordiaderuffec

JAVARZAY EN FÊTE

26 June

Chef Boutonne

Experience an unforgettable evening of music, dancing and fireworks at Javarzay en Fête! The Marché des Producteurs and Artisans starts at 18h30 Bring your picnic plates and enjoy local delicacies Take part in a dance workshop with salsa and cha cha at 19h30, followed by a lively concert by Cariba y Amigos at 21h End the night with a breathtaking fireworks display at 23h A free event full of rhythm, flavour and community spirit chef-boutonne fr

REACTION POEM & PINTS GROUP

26 June

Fenioux

An afternoon of poetry and drinks with Reaction Theatre members and friends The Reaction Poem & Pints group meets every 3rd Wednesday at 15h at Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux We share our favourite poems – this month's theme is Wisdom Everyone's welcome - contact John Round at 05 49 95 03 65 if interested New members always welcome reactiontheatre.eu

NIORT JAZZ FESTIVAL

26 - 28 June

Niort

Join the rhythm at Niort Jazz Festival with Michel Jonasz, Manu Katche, and Jean Yves D'Angelo's blues tribute Saxophonist Sophie Alour unveils 'Le temps virtuose,' with Anne Paceo and others Hugo Lippi blends genres from classical to blues in a free village concert niortjazz-festival com

FESTIVAL AU VILLAGE

28 June - 7 July

Brioux-sur-Boutonne

Delve into the world of performing arts, from theatre and song to circus, music and street performances Enjoy captivating shows, participate in workshops, or experience taster sessions festivalauvillage.fr

BINGO NIGHT

29 June

L'absie

Join us for a lively BINGO evening at Le Nouveau Bar de la Poste with great prizes up for grabs! €3 per card, purchased on the night Food available from 17h30, with BINGO starting at 19h Reserve your spot now All proceeds support local families

facebook com/AssociationViolet

GRAND PRIX AUTOMOBILE HISTORIQUE

29 - 30 June

Bressuire

Step back in time and experience the Grand Prix of the 1950s with a vibrant display of over 100 vintage cars (1930 to 1970) racing through the town Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere with straw bales and the roar of engines Free entrance facebook com/GrandPrixHistoriqueDeBr essuire

REACTION BOOK CLUB

3 July

Fenioux

The Reaction Book Club meets on the 1st Wednesday of the month at 15h in the Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux, In June the book is The Power” by Naomi Alderman and in July it will be “Me before you” by Jojo Moyes Everybody welcome reactiontheatre.eu

EL TANGO Y TU

5 July

Vançais

A Night of Tango Perfection: Join us for an evening of traditional tango with the acclaimed trio "El Tango y Tu" Featuring dancers Milagros Herrera and Gustavo Gomez, alongside musicians Hubert Plessis (bandoneón), Sylvie Gomez (piano), and Etienne Sicard (violin) Enjoy live performances of tangos, waltzes, and milongas Doors open at 18h30 More details on page 25 culture2chenes fr

FÊTE DE L’ENTRECÔTE

7 July

Noirlieu

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the annual steak festival, now bigger and better than ever! Featuring live music and a spectacular fireworks display, this year's event promises an unforgettable experience Enjoy a dinner of entrecôte and chips, cooked over a wood fire, along with a selection of sandwiches and pastries Doors open at 17h30, for an evening of festivity and fun facebook.com/fetedelentrecote

2 June 1904, Johnny Weissmuller is born in Freidorf near Timişoara Romania He dominated 1920s swimming with five Olympic golds and 67 records He had a celebrated film career notably playing Tarzan in 12 films from 1932-1948, famously starting with " Tarzan the Ape Man "

3 June 1906, Josephine Baker is born in St Louis, Missouri She became a symbol of Black American culture in Paris during the 1920s Rising from poverty Baker achieved fame as a dancer and singer notably performing semi-nude at the Folies-Bergère She became a French citizen in 1937 helped the Résistance during WWII, and earned the Croix de Guerre and Legion of Honour

6 June 1944, Operation Overlord commences as Allied forces storm Normandy s beaches, marking a crucial turn in World War II This largest amphibious invasion paves the way for the liberation of France and Western Europe from Nazi control setting the Allies on a path to victory

7 June 1893, Mohandas K Gandhi in South Africa for law practice defies racial segregation by refusing to leave a first-class train compartment, leading to his ejection at Pietermaritzburg This act of civil disobedience marks the beginning of his lifelong struggle against injustice

8 June 1949, George Orwell's "Nineteen Eighty-Four is published in London The novel introduces Big Brother and doublespeak offering a grim dystopian future that critiques totalitarianism Its themes resonate globally, influencing political discourse and the understanding of surveillance freedom and truth

13 June 1892, Basil Rathbone is born in Johannesburg He became synonymous with Sherlock Holmes featuring in 14 films and over 200 radio broadcasts His distinctive portrayal shaped the iconic detective s image for future generations, cementing his place in entertainment history

15 June 1300, Dante Alighieri becomes one of the six priors of Florence His role in the government eventually led to his exile during which he wrote the Divine Comedy This masterpiece which explores the realms of hell purgatory and paradise has profoundly influenced Western literature and Christian thought

16 June 1963, Valentina Tereshkova, born to a peasant family in Maslennikovo, Russia, becomes the first woman to travel into space on board Vostok 6 With 48 orbits in 71 hours she sets a record and opens the door for women in space exploration Despite her groundbreaking flight, she never returned to space

17 June 1631, Mumtaz Mahal dies in Burhanpur India The death of the young wife of Shah Jahan, Mughal emperor, prompts him to immortalise her memory through the construction of the Taj Mahal, an architectural marvel and eternal symbol of love where she is now entombed

19 June 1865, the abolition of slavery is proclaimed in Galveston, Texas, marking a significant moment in American history This day known as Juneteenth symbolises the end of slavery in the united States and has become an annual celebration of freedom and African-American culture, eventually recognised as a bank holiday

20 June 1789, the Tennis Court Oath ignites a pivotal shift in the French Revolution as the Third Estate vows not to disband without a constitution This act of unity against the monarchy compels Louis XVI to integrate all estates into the National Assembly, a significant move towards constitutional reform

22 June 1940, Britain recognises General Charles de Gaulle as leader of the Free French Forces after France falls to Nazi Germany De Gaulle s appeal from London calls on the French to resist the occupation, symbolising resistance to the Axis powers and strengthening support for the Allies in the Second World War

24 June 1997, the uS Air Force publishes a report on the Roswell incident in which it rejects the claims about the crash of an extra terrestrial spaceship in 1947 Instead, they attribute the debris to a secret surveillance balloon Despite attempts to close the case speculation and conspiracy theories continue to flourish and Roswell remains at the centre of uFO folklore

25 June 1852, Antoni Gaudí is born in Reus, Spain Gaudí's work predominately in Barcelona includes the Sagrada Família Park Güell and Casa Batlló His innovative use of colour texture and organic shapes marks him as a pioneer of modern architecture

28 June 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria is assassinated in Sarajevo by Gavrilo Princip, a member of the nationalist group Young Bosnia The assassination, fuelled by nationalist fervour and political tensions leads directly to Austria-Hungary s declaration of war on Serbia and triggers the First World War

Auguste Couder: Le Serment du Jeu de Paume

Out of the darkness and into the light

Written by David Murphy - Clinical

and

Coach

See his advert on page 15

For me, the last few weeks have been incredibly stressful – lots of time pressures, lots of problems outside of my control and lots of unexpected expenses

It’s been tough but the problems won’t last forever

As a child of Wolverhampton, I know that the motto of our humble and rarely visited city is ‘Out of Darkness, Cometh Light’ – In fact the local football team and VAR whipping-boys - Wolvestraditionally wear the colours of oldgold and black, representing the sun rising to banish the night

Getting lost in despair when times are hard is easy to do – but we are human beings whose nature is to overcome and to rise again Sometimes that seems hard to believe, but it’s true And if the best you can do is just wait it out, then that’s enough But it’s always easier when you remember that time heals, pain diminishes and everything that seems overwhelming will one day become more bearable

We live in a time where we are surrounded by ‘magic-bullet’ life hacks that promise to make our lives perfect in an instant, but life isn’t meant to be that way

It’s meant to be full of challenges –littered with ups and downs We have lessons to learn, callouses to grow, and

experiences to go through that will shape us in ways we never thought possible

And that’s the truth that we should all remind ourselves when we’re going through tough times – this will end and when it does, you’ll enjoy life more because of it

So what kind of strategies are out there to help us through these times?

Well, firstly breath control – under pressure our breathing becomes more shallow and rapid which can increase or prolong the physical sensations of stress So using the ‘box breathing’ method works very well to counteract this

And it’s really simple:

1 Take 4 seconds to breathe in, slowly filling your lungs

2 Hold that breath for another 4 seconds

3 Slowly breath out for 4 more seconds

4 Hold there for another 4 seconds before breathing in again (back to number one)

Secondly, just take a minute for yourself when it’s all too much Step out and get some air or if others are there, excuse yourself for a loo break

Then, step back mentally from the situation and ask some questions

• What would the person you look up to most do in this situation?

• What advice would you give to someone else who was in your position?

• Would this situation look better if viewed with less emotion? (emotions can often distort reality and unless we step back, it can be hard to see)

And finally, simply ask yourself if the current problem will still have an impact on you in 5 years’ time If the answer is ‘no’ (which it almost always is) then try to gain some perspective If the answer is ‘yes’ then reach out to friends, family or professionals

For the most part, these situations are relatively short-term and seem much worse in the present than they are in retrospect, so giving yourself a bit of perspective

And after the fortnight I’ve had, I know that to be true

Because already, the events of the last few weeks are turning from moments of almost unbearable pressure into colourful anecdotes for the amusement of others over dinner or drinks

We all experience this, so remember it in the times of darkness because then, the light cometh with more haste!

Everyday yoga for everyone

Rebecca Novick

Stop destroying your back while gardening

You know the drill It’s a sunny day Miracle of miracles And you can’t wait to get your gardening togs on and go out and attack those weeds that with all the rain we’ve been getting are almost as tall as you are But hold on just a minute Remember last time you spent 6 hours in the garden and woke up with your back seized up? No, of course not, because this is a brand-new day and look, those weeeeeds!

We can often forget that gardening is a workout! So here are 10 tips to keep in mind to stop your back getting ugly from beautifying your garden

1 Wait at least 1 hour after you get up before you begin gardening This is because the back is more vulnerable to injury first thing in the morning due to build up of fluid in the discs during the night which compresses out during the day

2 Because gardening mostly involves bending forward, do a few counter postures before you begin that involve arching the back like cat/cow, cobra or sphinx, or simply standing arms arm and leaning back a little

3 When you get out into the garden, whether you are standing or on all fours, don’t hunch your back when you lean forward Bend from your hips, keeping your back straight If you follow the rule of not dropping your heard down this will help maintain good back alignment Rounding the back while leaning forward puts enormous stress on the spine, so if you only follow one of these tips, follow this one

4 Get into the habit of every 20-30 minutes, in a standing position, putting your hands on your lower back and arching backwards a little You can set a timer to remind you

5 Try not to twist your back to the side as you work, move the whole body instead if you need to turn

around Twisting puts a lot of pressure on the spine

6 Gardening often involves some heavy lifting Always remember to hinge down from the hips and plant the legs firmly, lifting the weight close to the body and using the strength in your arms and legs

7 If you’re raking, shovelling or watering with a hose, use a nice wide stance with feet firmly planted, torso straight, and use your legs to shift position, rather than leaning

8 Anything strenuous like shovelling that revolves repetitive strain remember to engage your glutes (squeeze your butt) and your core muscles This will help to support the spine as you work

9 Build up garden work gradually Don’t go from 0 to 6 hours Begin with one hour, then two, and build up the time so your body gets a chance to adapt You will be in much less danger of hurting yourself

10 Don’t forget to take the time to smell the roses! A 5-10 minute break every hour will help to ensure that your roses are not neglected because you’re laid up with back pain

These are just some basic tips to keep in mind Feel free to get creative in how you support your back using these tips as a guide It’s hard to change old habits, but if you continue to remind yourself to adopt protective postures as you work, soon it will become second nature Your garden will thrive and your back will survive!

To learn about group and private classes for yoga and breath coaching please email me at: lavieenyoga@gmail com

Respect yourself, explore yourself

Book Club

You don’t want to be alone!

Sitting by yourself in a spare bedroom, study, or even at the dining room table, and scribbling or tapping away can be a lonely business People wonder why you don’t go outdoors on a sunny day or wander into the village for a leisurely drink at the local bar or browse around the market You don’t want to see, let alone talk, to other people You are absorbed in your writing world

Of course, you need to get the word count or the hours in on your latest work – that’s understood But why do you need to interact with other people? Ninety-six percent of people are not interested in writing or in your latest work, you mutter to yourself, so what’s the problem? When you reply honestly to the enquiry about how your writing is going, you’ve watched their eyes glaze over

But of that four per cent who are interested, many are writers and you need to find them Why?

• Your mental health – you are a human being who needs contact with like-minded souls

• Learning from others’ experiences – competitions, agents, the ever-increasing number of routes to publication, conferences, writing and book events

• Getting critiques from other writers – not Auntie Maud who taught English or your mate at work, but working writers and editors

• Learning new writing techniques and approaches to work – not just how to sling words together but about characterisation, the senses, novel or poetry structure, research, presentation and, increasingly, technology

• Networking to make those vital contacts to assemble a team of editors, cover designers, formatters and/or publishers

• Not boring your nearest and dearest

So where are these fellow writers? Starting locally, find a writing group Look in the English language press and online such as Facebook, Twitter/X, Threads, etc Ask anybody who has a faint connection with writing Ask at your local book club and library Have a chat to the organiser and try out

such a group The main requirements are a supportive open atmosphere, honesty and a lack of ego-tripping!

Next are writing associations, usually specific to a genre of writing, such as the Romantic Novelists’ Association, Historical Novelists’ Society or the Crime Writers’ Association They have events, newsletters, Facebook pages, websites, blogs – you name it! If you are thinking of self-publishing nothing beats the camaraderie of the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) Even remotely, you can benefit enormously

Online critique groups can be a little daunting at first, but as you grow a writer’s thick skin, you’re likely to find it helpful and inspiring as well as immensely valuable But you’ll need to plunge in!

Going to conferences can be a real boost to your writing

There are hundreds of literary festivals each year in the UK, including more practical ones for writers such as the Jericho Writers’ Festival of Writing in York and the International Dublin Writers’ Conference where you can meet fellow writers, agents and publishers

Moreover, you may hook up with another writer you can develop into a writing buddy, or more formally, critique partner With Zoom, Skype and email, it’s no problem to discuss and work on writing together at distance The writing buddy must be someone you trust, so it may take a little while to get to know them

When you get to know other writers, you can take part in a joint writing retreat I’m just back from one Apart from time for conversations and exchanges on every subject connected with writing and publishing, excursions to inspiring places and sharing writing problems, I’ve added a few thousand words to my next project and feel energised to add the next thousand

Happy writing!

alison has compiled a selection of articles from this column into ‘ the 500 Word Writing Buddy ’ , available in print and ebook on amazon and other retailers

EXSiLiuM, her historical novel set in aD 395, is now out

Alison Morton

Left to right: Alison Morton, Carol Cooper, Jean Gill, Jane Davis, Karen Inglis, Clare Flynn, Lorna Fergusson

Book Club

This month’s book reviews

The Bordeaux Book Club

by Gillian Harvey

review by Jacqueline Brown

The Bordeaux Book Club is another engaging read from local author Gillian Har vey As well as the relatable characters we meet at Grace’s inaugural book club, the cameos played by the heroes and heroines of the classics they chose to read totally ticked my bookworm boxes

The book club are a mix of ages and personalities, most of whom would never have crossed paths with each other without the initiative of Grace Things may have begun a little awkwardly at first, but they soon appreciated the new friendships they found This book cleverly weaves many aspects of life in France and the adjustments needed when you arrive in a new countr y into a plot where friendship is at its heart It is emotional with the ups and downs of life changes for them all, but most especially Alfie It is also a book about books, well-known characters, and the power of the great classics and what they can teach us today

I can t work out whether I was amused or horrified that I saw a little bit of me in bossy Grace the association queen, Monica, a stay-at-home mum whose husband works away, and Leah, doing her best to juggle a veggie garden, chickens, and family life, despite the hard work and many setbacks thrown her way I’m putting this down to Gillian’s expert eye on the British arrivals she has met over many years of living in France and nothing to do with the life I ve car ved out for myself here these last twenty years being weird enough to be a book plot

If you too have devoured Gillian’s previous books, or are a lover of classic authors like Bronte, Dickens or Flaubert, I am sure you will get a lot of enjoyment and entertainment by joining The Bordeaux Book Club

The Summer of Lies

by Louise Douglas review by Jacqueline Brown

Having been captivated by The Lost Notebook by Louise Douglas, I was delighted to find myself back in Brittany with Mila Carter and Ani

This book has a tricky multi-stor yline plot which gave lots of fuel to feed my inquisitive mind Starting in the uK , we discover a bit more about Mila and the life she left when she moved to France to look after her orphaned niece Ani Much as she has fallen under the spell of Brittany her confusion around her split life between France and the uK as well as the shadow of what happened the day her stepsister Sophie and brother-in-law Charlie set out to sea in a storm three years ago, weighs her down Mila’s sensitive way with Ani touched my heart as did her emotional, silent conversations in her mind with Sophie, who often seems to be the only person Mila opens up to

Alongside this Mila and Carter are involved in the agency ’ s search for a vulnerable nineteen-year-old, who is believed to be in the Brittany area Time is critical in this search that is hampered by the wildfires that are ravaging inland from the coast The more they discover, the more questions are raised, and although I had an inkling about the circumstances around her disappearance I was still surprised when the truth was revealed

From the beginning I was hooked, from the middle I was gripped, and even if I only had a few snatched minutes, waiting for the kettle to boil, my nose was back in this book I’d have been sad to get to the end if it wasn’t for the fact it included a huge hint that there would be a third book – yippee!

As well as the mysteries to solve and the emotional situations the characters find themselves dealing with, the author ’ s love for Brittany is evident and an integral part to this book I can recommend The Summer of Lies if you are looking to get drawn into a good myster y and if you haven t read The Lost Notebook grab yourself both books and have a real Breton adventure!

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La Vie en France Summer promises

A stroll in the orchard with our old dog Mini, (this really is about as far as her wobbly sixteen-year-old legs can take her these days), reminded me of how much I love this time of year The orchids and wildflower patches that Adrian carefully mows around, formed soft swaying patches in the field of daisies and cut grass The fruit trees, while a long way off being ready to pick were proudly showing their tiny green fruits that offered me so much promise for harvests later in the year The birdsong was proof that there is life, and that nature is very much in charge of the land we are but temporary custodians of It was a moment of calm that did us both good

Nature has certainly shown she is boss in terms of the weather this year To escape yet another cold, dreary and damp day, I jumped at the chance for a girl’s day out in Niort I’m not generally much of a shopper, often finding any excuse under the sun to avoid a trip to Niort, where I find the fatigue of traipsing from shop to shop takes longer to get over than a 100km day on the bike However, it didn’t take me long to appreciate how good the chat, laughter and time with friends made me feel It was a refreshing change to visit shops I’d never popped into before and ambling around at a different pace from normal meant new discoveries aplenty, including

Jacqueline Brown

the second-hand rail in Kiabi This ticked lots of boxes for me as I prefer to reuse and recycle where possible Add in another pair of eyes to steer me away from a purchasing disaster, or to offer me something from the rails I might normally have ignored, and it was just the pick me up I needed

As summer approaches my thoughts turn to long evenings of laughter with friends, enjoying what France does best Associations that have spent the winter deep in planning mode, will soon be flooding us with flyers about social events aimed at bringing the community together There will be music concerts, randonnées, markets, vide-greniers, barbecues and shared meals, just to name a few, but whatever the event there are usually many similarities There will be a modest price to take part that will cover the costs of the meal being offered and you will normally be asked to provide your “couverts” (plates, cutlery, glasses etc) to reduce the clearing up for the team of volunteers As someone who has helped to organise many an event over the last twenty years, I know that where the associations make their money, is on the bar sales Please do think about supporting them by buying from their bar, rather than bringing your own drinks, and no association will turn down a donation towards paying the musician’s fee If the money in the kitty runs out, so does the morale of the volunteers and these great community events we all love so much, will fade out

Sophie Hargreaves

Les Portes O uvertes

We have been to many open days here in France and I think that they are a great way to really get a taste for a place Each open day is unique: some are geared towards highlighting their expertise and showing what they do particularly well, while others aim to showcase their produce in an appealing way And then there are those that create a warm, welcoming atmosphere and offer something out of the ordinar y

I will be completely honest and say the best are probably open days that focus on food and drink They offer fantastic tasting opportunities and provide not only an enjoyable outing, but also the chance to support local producers and buy directly from them This direct interaction encourages appreciation for small local businesses and their commitment to quality and craftsmanship

One of the most memorable portes ouvertes I’ve been to was at a local goat farm After a tour of the fields, watching the goats being fed and learning a lot about their work on the farm, they demonstrated how they milked them, I saw them turning on the radio which led to goats immediately walking into the milking room and getting into place It was amazing to see and it felt like something from Wallace and Gromit!

This year for the second time we are holding an open day at our farm on Sunday 9 June For us, this is a wonderful opportunity for us to open our doors to the community and invite ever yone to explore our farm and showcase products

This event is a vastly different to our normal offer, which is usually geared towards providing visitors with a more intimate experience with our alpacas and making a personal connection and experience between our guests and the animals Despite the expected larger crowds, we want to cater for this and ensure that ever yone has a memorable time We want the farm open day to not just be about obser ving but also about participating

The main topic of the day is sorting the wool an essential first step on the journey from raw alpaca fibre to cosy woolly hat This process begins with skirting, a meticulous method of sorting the wool and this is where we need your help By coming and spending time with us and the animals, tasting the local artisanal beer having a fish and chip lunch you will also play a crucial role in preparing our 2024 wool collection

We promise to teach you a little more about the animals and the fascinating process of wool production

Open days are a great way for community involvement and we look for ward to seeing many familiar and new faces We are proud to be able to support local artisans by hosting a producer's market alongside our event, offering not only our wool products but also our unique fertilisers including our signature 'Châteauneuf du poop '

We hope our open day will be a celebration of local craftsmanship community and the connection between humans and animals We would like to invite ever yone to join us on this special day to collaborate, celebrate, learn, explore and engage with the community It is an opportunity to experience the passion and hard work that goes into ever y product, experience and interaction on our farm We look for ward to sharing this experience with you and making this year s open day an unforgettable journey into the world of alpacas and beyond

For more information, visit: www lapetitefermedalpagas com or email: hello@lapetitefermedalpagas com

What do you want to change about your life right now?

David Murphy - Clinical Hypnotherapist and Life Coach, and I can help.

Call or text me on 06 75 30 18 22 or email: DavidMurphyHypno@gmail.com siret 89241290900020

The Circle of Life LIFE IN 79

Anna, my wife, has left me I am alone alone in a draughty French farmhouse in the middle of nowhere, in the frozen north of the Deux-Sèvres (which most people who live outside Deux-Sèvres haven t heard of Du Sevs they say where s that? An hour s drive west of Poitiers' I reply ' Where's Poitiers?' they retort ' We're an hour's drive east of La Rochelle' say I 'La Rochelle?' they counter ' We're about halfway down France!' )

Not wanting to over dramatise my solitude I have the cat for company (although conversations are a bit one sided) and I pass the long evenings with extra pop and crisps enjoying The Repair Shop, which I'm not usually allowed to watch (being Scottish Anna struggles with the sentimentality of the programme, whereas I weep with ever y reveal)

She is in the uK helping her mother (who is having an uber-bunion removed) as well as attending the baby shower of our soon-to-be-born grandchild I don t remember having a baby shower when our two were born, maybe they are a recent invention Having viewed the photos, it just seems like another excuse for a gang of women to get together, drink to excess and behave badly

Both of our kids births were ver y traumatic for me I remember; I was quite tired, hadn't had time to make a sandwich and the deliver y room was ver y warm like a greenhouse I asked if we could open a window, to which I received a withering look Anna was making heavy weather of it too effing and jeffing

On being told by the midwife that the torpedo shaped thing I could see emerging was the baby's head, I became alarmed luckily his cranium popped back to a more acceptable shape post deliver y unlike me with my sandwiches my son has been ahead of the game: the nurser y has been painted furnished and filled with all manner of things cuddly clothes purchased, cardigans knitted they know the sex of the baby and have already chosen a name Where's the spontaneity? In our day people would bend over to empty the washing machine and out popped a child ' Where did that come from?'

Th h b t ifi

Stephen Shaw

WhatsApp-ed to us some ver y cl others not so, similar to those pos that were about in the 90s if you stared at them long enough an image would appear

And we all move up the pecking order My dad becomes a great gra remember my great grandmother a rather fearsome woman to a small child: petite white hair but with piercing eyes which could see into your soul Ever y Christmas after a sherr y or two she would do an impersonation of a Kookaburra (she was Australian)

My mum, for some reason, didn't want our kids calling her ' granny ' , she insisted on them calling her Ann, which was weird I shall revel in the role of grandfather I already shuffle around the house and can t hear anything people say I will get the child over excited and feed them sugar y drinks One of my grandfathers used to pretend he was giving us an operation we would wriggle and scream with delight as he tickled us, it's probably illegal to do that now but we loved it (he was an Irishman and I am forever in his debt for enabling me years later to claim an Irish passport allowing me to live and work in France)

My other grandfather was a Yorkshireman and lived to 104 We used to call him Mr Wool as he worked, not surprisingly, in the wool trade The older he became the worse his eyesight got, until he was virtually blind Oh but he was still driving In our early courting days he once took Anna and me out for a drive which was a hair raising experience he mistook the Bingley branch of the Midland bank for a bus! Like Mr Magoo he never had an accident but witnessed hundreds

It wasn't until I became a father that I fully appreciated ever ything our parents did for us as well as explaining some of their irrational behaviour (I have a twin brother and a sister who is a year older so we must have been a handful I can remember my mother being on the edge for quite a lot of my childhood) Maybe on becoming a grandfather another 'realisation' will dawn on me

So as I sit in my solitude contemplating the great next or als ort

Bridging Cultures through Conversation

In Thouars, a unique gathering takes place every Wednesday that brings together English and French speaking locals seeking to broaden their cultural horizons and language skills The Conversation Workshop, hosted at the Centre Socio-Culturel, is an informal group dedicated to fostering friendly contacts, forming new friendships, and enhancing mutual understanding of different cultures through the practice of conversational French and English Virginie Bonet, who currently leads the group, and Eugene McCabe, a long-term member originally from Ireland, shared their experiences and the history of this vibrant community Originally started by Linda Refold who had moved to the area from Spain and later led Jean Claude Bedoiseau, the workshop has been a staple in Thouars for individuals looking to maintain and improve their language abilities in a relaxed setting

The workshop is structured around weekly meetings from mid-September to mid-June, where participants engage in discussions on a variety of topics A popular activity involves members bringing an unidentified object to the meeting, prompting a lively question-and-answer session in both languages before its revelation, encouraging language practice in a fun and interactive manner

Typically attracting 10–15 attendees, with a mix of one-third English speakers and two-thirds French, the group has faced its challenges, such as the impact of Brexit reducing its numbers However, it remains a welcoming space for all, constantly seeking new members to enrich the exchange

Beyond weekly meetings, the group organises annual outings to celebrate the end of the season, involving cultural excursions like a visit to the Combier Distillery in Saumur or a bilingual tour of the Château de Glénay followed by a picnic This year, they are looking forward to attending the Highland Games in Bressuire, introducing participants to Scottish traditions and cuisine

Membership of the workshop comes at a modest fee of 12€, granting access to all the activities at the Centre SocioCulturel It's an open invitation to anyone in the Thouars area interested in cultural exchange, language practice, and making new friends

Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 30pm to 9pm at the Centre Socio-Culturel, 21 avenue Victor Hugo, 79100 Thouars For further details, prospective members can contact Virginie Bonet v venotbonnet@gmail com or Eugene McCabe eugene mc cabe@hotmail com

Private tour of the Château de Glénay before the picnic

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By Steve Marshall

Taking Better Photographs... Down to the Seas

I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky – opens one of the poems that has found a niche deep inside my memor y – Sea Fever by John Masefield This is a feeling I know many people have And most of the readers of DSM are lucky to only be an hour from the sea from La Rochelle and Île de Ré and their usually gentle beaches

There are two opportunities for great seascape photography, gentle and stormy and this article is about gentle days Stormy may present itself at some point in the future but those days present their own special problems

Gentle days and the sea mean all photographs are about water Either it is there and the prime subject of the

image or its impact and movement is part of what makes the picture interesting

The key ingredients to getting good shots start with timing All these pictures were taken on one beach on Île de Ré At high tide there is little room to walk and if there is a bit of

wind more likely none at all You can get various free apps for smartphones that will tell you when high and low tide will happen

I recommend walking the beach without your camera and not even taking any pictures on your phone This lets you enjoy the space and if you

are lucky the relative solitude Once you have a feel for the space start looking for things that might interest you the details that might make good pictures If you can get a sense of the flow of the waters before and after high tide this will help you select the best time to return to take pictures

The other prime factor is the light For the pictures including water I wanted the light coming predominantly from behind me In these it is over my right shoulder This helped the metallic sheen on the water If the light was from the front or side this would have been lost

Shortly after high tide will give you two chances for interesting photos The moment a wave just passes its highest point up the beach but before it recedes creates a soft edge to the water A fast shutter speed holds the soft edge and also captures the energy and movement of the waves further back

The sand and stone images do not directly capture movement, but they do show where the water has been and how it flowed the movement of the past This brings life to what might be considered a still life of inanimate objects

And being there is the most important thing I know this beach and I have walked it many times, but I did not plan this as a photoshoot, I just knew tide had peaked a couple of hours previously which I hoped would set up some possibilities and there would be sufficient beach to walk my dog

When I have more to focus on than photography I usually set my camera to aperture priority This ensures the camera does most of the work in balancing shutter speed and ISO For the water shots I wanted a high aperture number meaning a small hole and a substantial depth of field This ensured both the front edge and the bulk of the waves were in focus Beware pushing your aperture to the maximum in either direction Most kit lenses and normal telephotos, in fact almost all lenses, will have a sweet spot somewhere in the middle of the available apertures The ver y top and ver y bottom of the range can create aberrations that distort parts of the image

If you would like to get comments on your own photographs and add contribute your thoughts on those of other photographers please get in touch at stevemarshall128@gmail com

i am interested in exploring portrait photography for some future articles here in DSM i am looking for people who might be prepared to be my subjects No money would pass in either direction Copyright would be held jointly and any publication of individual images would require the agreement of both the subject and the photographer Every subject would get a complete set of photographs for their personal use it you are interested please contact me at stevemarshall128@gmail com

VIEW FROM THE VENDÊE

Karen Taylor

Housey Housey – the game ever yone can play!

Check out the 10 most stressful events in your life, and many would say that moving house is way up there near the top Fortunately for us, like many other Brits, the first house that we bought in France was a holiday home, so no need to coordinate the selling & buying process The sale went through without a hitch, and we were soon the proud owners of a 2-bed house with garden & sunny terrace Except that, when we went to read the metres on moving day, there was a gaping hole where the terrace used to be! To be

fair, the owner seemed surprised for a brief few moments, but was then quick to explain that, as his tenants had laid the terrace, they were quite within their rights to take it away with them when they left! Hmmm

Our second house purchase in France also had its little surprises, but this time it was what was left in the house rather than what was taken away The two nephews of the deceased owner were tasked with the job of clearing the house before moving day, but apparently that didn’t include their uncle’s clothes, his bed and (rather disconcertedly) his rifle stored under the mattress!

And so onto our third house purchase (yes, I know, gluttons for punishment!) The Ex-pat’s dream home – large house, huge garden, enormous barn and, the icing on the cake, a heated swimming pool! It all seemed too good to be true OK, so a little renovation work was required (well, quite a lot, as it turned out!), but a pool? - how good was that?? And it was, until the notaire discovered that the owner had never actually applied for planning permission when it was installed 7 years previously!

Don’t panic, the notaire assured us, just have a word with your local Mairie who can request retrospective planning permission Which they did – hurrah for local Mairies!

Which brings us to our recent (and hopefully final) house move last September Well, by now we knew all the tricks of the trade, so checked & rechecked EVERYTHING! Which is why, just before signing day, we visited the house yet again All seemed to be in order, until we walked into the cuisine équipée Except that it wasn’t équipée any more as the supposedly built-in oven had disappeared! Apparently Madame had sold it ‘by mistake’ in her vide maison Oh please!!!

Suffice it to say that we’re now happily ensconced in our little plein pied near the coast But the message is loud & clear - Expect the Unexpected!!

PS David is now in the throes of creating a board game based on the ups & downs of moving house – a sort of cross between Monopoly and Snakes & Ladders He hasn’t yet come up with a name for said game, so all suggestions gratefully received

Anne’s handpicked property selection

Anne began her real estate career in 2016 She has lived in France for 16 years and speaks Norwegian, English and French Here, she gives us her top pick of properties in the area:

€585,000

Thouars, Deux-Sèvres

REF: BVI74612

Exclusive to Beaux Villages! This stunning stone barn conversion offers 630m² of space with two interconnected living areas and additional guest accommodation in an old stable building The 15 000m² garden features lawns, fruit trees and terraced areas Inside the main building includes a 100m² reception hall a 70m² dining hall with fireplace and open kitchen/bar and private living spaces with mezzanine galleries Located near Thouars and Saumur, this property is ideal for multi-generational living or as a B&B or wedding venue

Fees: paid by the vendor Energy class: D Climate class: B

€259,000

Clessé, Deux-Sèvres

REF: BVI68673

Exclusive to Beaux Villages! This bright farmhouse offers 330m² of living space and is surrounded by 1 85 hectares of land with outbuildings and scenic views The ground floor features a large fitted kitchen utility room, shower room with WC, and multiple living rooms with stone fireplaces upstairs, there are 2 bathrooms with WCs and 4 spacious bedrooms The south-west facing garden provides panoramic views, complemented by a well and various outbuildings including a stone barn, garage, carport, and workshop

The property is located between two bustling villages in the picturesque countryside

Fees: paid by the vendor

Energy class: D Climate class: D

€448,000

Thouars, Deux-Sèvres

REF: BVI73236

Impressive manor on the river Thouet, 30 minutes from Saumur It overlooks a large courtyard with outbuildings and features a raised front garden with potential for a pool (subject to necessary permissions) The 450m² of living space spans two floors, blending modernised and original areas with period details Ideal for a hospitality venture, subject to permissions, the property includes historic outbuildings and river access With origins dating to the 12th century, this property enjoys peaceful surroundings near Thouars and is conveniently located within 1h45 of the coastal town of La Rochelle

Fees: paid by the vendor

Energy class: E Climate class: E

BRESSUIRE

since its inception in 2003 The upcoming Highland Games, taking place from 15-16 June 2024, promise a range of activities that embody the spirit and vibrancy of ancient Scottish customs

The Bressuire Highland Games were originally organised by Scotland and Ireland in Celebration” Due to its growing popularity, the twinning committees of Bressuire-Fraserburgh (Scotland) and Bressuire-Leixlip (Ireland) decided to set up a joint organisation

The AJEF (Association sportive des Jeux D Écosse en France) was founded

in Februar y 2005 All members are volunteers with the aim of promoting the Highland Games in France both in sporting and cultural terms In 2009 the AJEF founded its own throwing team “ The Bockers”, and female members have also been part of it since the end of 2018

The Highland Games are a tradition that dates back to the 11th centur y and were originally competitions in which Scottish clans tested their strength, endurance and skill This historical essence is faithfully preser ved in Bressuire, offering spectators and participants alike an insight into Scotland’s rich culture The event features traditional sporting competitions such as log throwing and hammer throwing, where participants put their physical skills to the test Adding a unique twist to the proceedings the Bressuire Games are set to introduce Bressuire Haggis Hurling a humorous nod to Scottish cuisine with competitors hurling the haggis as far as possible This new addition complements the established events and ensures that there is always a new element to look for ward to

The season of harmonya dual

Every year on 21 June, France comes to life with the "Fête de la Musique"," a festival that expresses the essence of music in its myriad forms In the early 1980s, this event was conceived by Jack Lang, the French Minister of Culture, and Maurice Fleuret, the Director of Music and Dance, as a monumental celebration where every musician can share their talent with the world The festival, which coincides with the summer solstice, cleverly plays on the phrase "Faites de la Musique" ("make music"), reflecting its name and inviting everyone to participate

The games will also feature a world championship with mixed national teams from eight countries including Germany France and the uSA emphasising the international appeal and camaraderie that the event promotes The sounds of the pipe bands, the rhythm of the Celtic music and the grace of the dance performances will make for an unforgettable experience

The Highland Games in Bressuire are an absolute must, offering a unique blend of sport, music and culture For more information visit highlandgames-france eu

celebration of music and tradition

This outdoor music festival blurs the boundaries between genres It invites artists from classical to rock, from jazz to electronic to take their music to the streets and transform public spaces into lively stages for amateur and professional artists The festival it is free of charge and aims to unite people in the celebration of music

This musical festival is followed on 24 June by the "Fête de la Saint-Jean" in honour of John the Baptist, with traditional bonfires symbolising love and protection These festivals, which

date back to ancient customs, celebrate rituals such as keeping ashes to protect against storms or couples jumping over the fire to strengthen their relationship

In Poitou, the unique tradition of pulling a waggon filled with straw, lit by a candle in the church, through the fields to promote fertility emphasises the close link between these festivals and the cycles of nature

Although both festivals have different emphases, they share a common history: the celebration of community, tradition and the beginning of summer

Château de Bressuire

bringing the outside in Herbal Wreaths

Herbs have all sorts of benefits, from flavouring our foods, healing, preventing pests and lots more these days our general knowledge of herbs tends to be limited to what we can buy, or what we can grow

Many plants in the garden were once used far more widely but are now considered ornamental or even as weeds, we are gradually losing our connection with a wonderful resource!

You will need

A long length of plant vine wild clematis, grapevine for example

• Garden twine cut to 25cm lengths

• Enough herbs to create about 15-20 small bundles

• Secateurs

How to create the wreath

• Twist the vine around itself to create a sturdy circle about 20cm diameter tucking both ends in

Tie your herbs into small bundles You can have single herb wreaths, alternating bundles, random whatever you prefer Wrap the twine really firmly around each bundle, removing leaves from below the twine Leave several cms of twine either side of your knot

• Practise laying your herbs around the base until you are happy with their layout Then using the ends of twine, firmly fasten each bundle to the base Over lap each bundle so that the stems of the first are covered by the leaves of the next Repeat all the way around, tucking the stems of the last bunch under the leaves of the first

• Turn the wreath over and snip out and excess twine or stems

• You can use fresh or dried herbs, however fresh will wilt quickly, but can look attractive as a table arrangement placed around a bowl of olives, a candle etc

• Woody herbs such as rosemary, sage, lavender, savory, thyme will last longer

• You can let your wreath dry out slowly after you’ve made it, somewhere dark, dry and airy, or pre-dry your herbs in bundles before assembly, just remember dried herbs are more brittle and fragile to work with

Some years ago i studied for a diploma in herbalism and learnt an awful lot investigating old books as a result i m always on the lookout for new addicts to my herb beds

But for the purpose of this month’s project, there’s no need to invest in anything exotic just use what you have to hand

If

don't have

unveiling the Secret to Lightning-Fast Inter net in R ural France

Living in rural France has its charms, but sometimes, staying connected can be a challenge That's where Starlink comes in, offering a ray of hope for those in remote areas Let's explore why it's such a game-changer:

Firstly, say goodbye to sluggish internet speeds With Starlink, you can enjoy high-speed internet even in the most secluded corners of the countryside

No more waiting ages for pages to load or videos to buffer – it's smooth sailing all the way

Reliability is another big plus Traditional internet options can be spotty in rural areas, but Starlink's satellite-based technology ensures a stable connection, come rain or shine

Ever had that frustrating lag during online gaming or video calls? Not with Starlink Its low latency means you can

game, chat, and stream without missing a beat, even in the middle of nowhere

And let's talk about accessibility Setting up Starlink is a breeze, even for those not so tech-savvy With a user-friendly interface and simple installation process, you'll be connected in no time What's more, Starlink is future-proof As technology evolves, so does Starlink, promising even faster speeds, lower latency, and broader coverage So, you can rest assured that your internet connection will only get better with time

But perhaps the most significant benefit is the independence it offers No longer are you limited to a handful of Internet Service Providers (ISPs) –with Starlink, you have a choice And in rural areas where options are scarce, that's a game-changer

Plus, Starlink isn't just about convenience – it's about staying connected when it matters most In emergencies or natural disasters, where traditional infrastructure may falter, Starlink's satellite network provides a lifeline for communication and coordination efforts

So, there you have it – Starlink isn't just internet, it's a gateway to a world of possibilities, no matter where you are Say hello to fast, reliable connectivity in even the remotest corners of rural France

If you would like to discuss installing a Starlink service (whether you are in a rural location or not), please give me, Jason Khan, a call on 06 82 49 61 60 or email me at contact@mlcomputers fr

Jason Khan

Wine Disneyland

I find myself living in the capital of Bordeaux wine country: Libourne Admittedly, a swift transition from the vineyards of Chinon An opportunity arose in which I couldn’t refuse in a bespoke negociant and caviste selling fine wine in the heart of Saint Emilion and I find myself overlooking the riverbank of the Dordogne, feeling quite optimistic at the move I’ve spent most my life curating a modest cellar of mainly Loire wines, as it has always been one of my favourite viticultural regions and will remain so

However, one can never refuse the chance to explore and delve into the intricacies of another wine region, especially one of prestigious towns of the right bank in Saint Emilion, or as I call it, Wine Disneyland You’re probably wondering as such a frivolous terminology to describe one of the world’s if not THE most prestigious wine producing towns Well, mainly because the village town itself is freakishly clean, full of ecstatic tourists, merchandise shops as far as the eye can see and prices can often make the eyes water

My experience, though brief, has been quite eye opening and fun! I’m not a specialist of Bordeaux wines, nor profess to be one and I am glad of the opportunity to develop my wine knowledge library I know my left bank which is the Medoc region (Saint Estephe, Pauillac, Saint Julien Margaux, Pessac-Leognan, Graves, Sauternes & Barsac) from my right bank (St Emilion, Pomerol), these are the two wine making regions of Bordeaux, separated

by the Gironde estuary, the two rivers the Dordogne and the Garonne

However, it’s not just the rivers that separate these 2 regions

The fundamental differences in the two banks are grape variety and how the wines are blended used and the terroir While the left bank predominantly grows and uses a higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon, usually blended with Merlot, Cabernet Franc (which is the main Loire red grape variety) and Petit Verdot and Malbec, the left bank has a higher percentage of Merlot blended with the aforementioned cépages When it comes to the terroir,

the left bank soils are usually on flat ground composed of gravel on the surface and mainly limestone underneath whereas the right bank terroir is based on red clay, mixed amongst gravel and limestone Please bear in mind that my explanation is broad stroked and can vary depending on the wine or Chateaux

When it comes to Bordeaux, you’ll mainly see ‘Chateau X’ on the bottle as opposed to ‘Domaine’ This isn’t for pretentious purposes, to make the wines sound grandiose, it’s literally because wineries have quaint Chateaux overlooking the vineyard or estate (for the more distinguished vignobles rather imposing Chateaux)

Starting a new chapter always pushes one to reflect over their time and past experiences, in the most positive of ways This new beginning has encouraged me to reflect over my time making wine at the Chateaux de Petit Thouars with solely fond memories

Many things I will miss, including the incredible wildlife I saw on a daily basis, being closer to nature, living the more

Libourne

grassroots side of the wine industry and notwithstanding the amazing team who supported my efforts on a daily basis It is one of life’s truisms that in order to move forward in your career, you have to let go of certain elements in your life and dive into uncertainty I’ve left behind a wonderful job, my friends and family and have moved to an unknown location, where I knew no-onewhich for the best of us can be terrifying I can however report that so far; I have tasted some incredible wines working alongside a vibrant team, met the most prestigious baker in Libourne, Sylvain, who makes the infamous croissant beurré (which is a very buttery croissant and one of the best things I’ve eaten), made new wine enthusiast friends and scoffed quite a few of the canelé which is a local delicacy of the region I’ve also started using the word gavé which is local slang for très! I will however out of pride refuse to say chocolatine instead of pain au chocolat, because well, that’s just nonsense

Henceforth, I shall be the Loire Girl reporting from Bordeaux, a curious spy of sorts discovering the delights of the Bordelais wines It should be gavé fascinating

To be continued www.instagram.com/theloiregirl

by Peter Lowth

War mer Weather Fishing

As summer arrives, and hopefully warmer weather with it, the changing water temperature can result in excellent fishing at shallower depths

It can also be, however, the time of year when the fish have more important matters on their mind! It is commonly the season when fish are spawning and they are distracted from feeding As different species of fish spawn at different times throughout the late spring and early summer, you need to choose carefully what species you fish for and when

During warmer weather, fish are invariably active at different depths and it is important to adopt a more flexible fishing approach in these months By this I mean, having a setup where you can fish at the bottom on the lakebed or shallower, up in the water, nearer the surface My typical approach would be to start by fishing on the bottom, either with a lead or a swim feeder and ensure you feed regularly over the top of where you are fishing As your session progresses, the competing fish will move up in the water to intercept your free feed and this is where your secondary setup with a shallower float comes into play

I would recommend having three rods using a shallower waggler float at three different depths: 2 foot, 1 foot and 6 inches As the fish will be feeding at this range of depths, it is important to regularly feed small amounts of bait via catapult and to keep changing the depth that you fish by switching your attention between your three rods My preferred bait for this method is fishmeal pellets, which are available from most fishing shops in a range of sizes but typically 6mm or 8mm Maggots or corn can be equally successful, however, never mix your type of bait in the same swim, choose one type and stick to it Also be aware, that fish will come to the sound of the pellet/corn/maggot hitting the surface of the water, so regular feeding is key

Another successful method of fishing, mainly for carp, during warmer weather is to fish on the surface with floating bread crust

This bait can be fished in conjunction with a controller float or a long-lined on the surface that is cast and left for the carp to come Then lightly feed some bread around where you are fishing to attract them Always look for signs of fish feeding on the surface, observable

boils and swirls in the water are the giveaways and be prepared to move with the fish This type of fishing tends not to be sedentary or static, you will need to use watercraft to detect the fish and be ready to move to their location during your session

With this type of fishing it is important to cast beyond the feeding fish and to then reel your bait into the area where you have observed the fish feeding Above all be patient and feed lightly, so they come back for more When you have caught your target fish, always land using a landing net and, for large fish unhook on a unhooking mat, and in warmer weather returning your fish to the water as soon as possible is paramount If necessary, you may need to hold the fish gently in the water (don’t forget to wet your hands) until they recover their strength and are able to swim away strongly, ready to catch another day!

Till next month, tight lines!

Peter Lowth is an experienced angler with over 40 years of fishing knowledge in match, predator, coarse and fly fishing Growing up near Bath, fishing local rivers and ponds, he then transitioned to competitive fly fishing and in recent years competed on the UK match fishing circuit He opened Les Forges Fishing venue, located near Pescalis, in early 2023 –www lesforgesfishing com

3 shallow waggler rod setup

Fishing the pellet waggler in competition

The trials and triumphs of Mrs Maisel

Moving to another country is stressful enough, but it s even more stressful when you move with animals Will they settle in, what are the new rules, what happens if they escape? For most people these are just empty worries, but for annie and Martin it was the beginning of a nightmare

They had just moved to the Sauzé Vaussais area to open their new business, the British Sofa Outlet, when their beautiful Savannah cat Mrs Maisel escaped through a fly screen after an argument with her brother, losing her tracker in the process Faced with being in a new area they turned to social media for help

Annie says: “I think she’s probably the most famous cat in France since she went missing last August, because we launched a huge Facebook campaign that went viral with more than 120 000 followers Thank you so much to each and ever y one of the wonderful people who searched for our girl or shared our posts to help our girl go viral We can’t put into words how grateful we are to each and ever y one of you We were over whelmed and deeply touched by the kindness shown to Maisel and us during this horrible time

After a gruelling six-week search, during which Mrs Maisel’s beloved brother Pongo was killed by a motorist, she was finally found and brought to safety Annie recalls: “Despite all our endeavours, she actually found her own way home Martin saw her first but wasn t sure it was her as she d lost so much weight I went to take a look and just ran out of the drive, down the road screaming her name She came cautiously out of the field, then as soon as she realised it was me, came running up the road and leapt in to my arms It was the most amazing feeling as we thought we’d never see our girl again

This was the end of one chapter and the beginning of another Mrs Maisel slowly but steadily recovered from her outdoor ordeal, put on weight and returned to her normal, lively self But in April, disaster struck again when she was hit by a car Annie says: “She tried to drag herself 20 metres home but could only walk halfway and was screaming in pain

The vet was worried about her spine and hip; she could no longer use one leg and had no feeling in her tail She was in a critical condition and in shock but after a few dangerous days Mrs Maisel was taken to a specialist neurosurgeon in Poitiers

Recovering after her operation

Annie explains: “Before the operation she was paralysed and incontinent, but Dr Robin and Dr Paris at the Clinic Beaulieu in Poitiers worked miracles They performed a particularly complex operation to repair her shattered pelvis She s under strict house rest for a month but her savannah instincts are shining through, the little minx will be the death of me

“ The amount of care for Mrs Maisel, both when she went missing and since she was run over has been quite humbling and we so grateful to ever yone who s asked about her We want to say thank you so much to you all for your concern about the amazingly Mar vellous Mrs Maisel We’re so lucky to be part of such an amazing caring community ”

You can follow Mrs Maisel on Facebook @MrsMaiselNoLongerLostinFrance

Back home after 6 weeks

Amanda Baughen

Calm down, calm down!

mer weather is with us, s are flourishing, and eason has well and of our bee colonies e Spring successfully exponentially in the ue to the abundance temperatures and edators compared to To be honest, the Asian ually become a er in the summer but njoying their absence ) There are more g in our gardens, which we see as a positive, but we are often told by people that they don’t like bees as they are frightened of being stung So, is it true that bees are aggressive and are just looking for an opportunity to sting us? While many beekeepers, us included, will argue that honey bees aren’t aggressive, they’re just defensive, there are times when bees will display aggression Our regular hive observations tell us lots about our bees, and we enjoy the challenge of assessing why our bees act in particular ways Granted, aggression is thankfully quite rare but there are two main factors that can cause a colony to act in this way These are environmental circumstances and genetics

It’s almost a given that at some point during your beekeeping life you will have to manage some form of aggression from your bees if you are a more hands-on beekeeper It’s no fun

to have to deal with such a situation (stroppy bees do mess with the ‘zen’ nature of being at a hive!) but there are ways of coping with it and getting them to calm down

In the first instance, the environment, the ‘aggy’ behaviour can be due to the presence of predators (usually Asian hornets, although wasps and other bees robbing honey are included in the list), as well as the noise and vibrations from garden machinery As a novice beekeeper, many years ago, I made the mistake of mowing the grass in front of our hives the bees mobbed the electric mower and I had to abandon it until the evening! Weather conditions play a huge part in the temperament of the bees which is why we steer clear of our hives when it’s humid, windy, and/or stormy Having a hive in an unsuitable location e g an exposed area, will make them irritable, and interference from a clumsy or rushed beekeeper will simply annoy them Colonies that are queenless will also feel unsafe and ‘lost’ and will react accordingly

The second cause of unrest is genetics and is more difficult to identify and to plan for Further research is required but it is believed that the drones, the males in a colony, possess the ‘aggressive’ gene which is passed on to future bees via the mated queens A calm queen bee and several less-calm drones will create semi-calm bees, but with each generation the ‘calm’ element will become diluted As all the bees in a colony come from one queen, it’s easy to see how a colony will become progressively more ‘aggressive’ with each new queen

It can be difficult to work out exactly what’s causing your bees to be a bit ‘touchy’ so the first things to try to deal with are the environmental factors Practise being more careful when carrying out hive inspections (if and when you conduct them) – be patient, unhurried and decisive Ensure you only approach the hives when the weather is decent – not too hot, a storm isn’t brewing, and it’s not too windy or raining Consider relocating the hive if it’s not protected from the elements and think about gardening around it If none of the above change the behaviour of the bees then it is

probably caused by the queen If there is no queen then the bees will be cranky, and if successive generations of bees are making your beekeeping life unenjoyable, then the same solution is required This is to re-queen with a queen bee of your choosing Don’t allow a queenless colony to raise their own queen from eggs in the hive as the new queen will have the same genetic makeup as the previous problem queen It’s often easiest to buy a mated queen from a trusted source or take an egg from a ‘calm’ colony that the queenless bees can raise Re-booting a colony can work wonders for the temperament of the bees and you can enjoy beekeeping again

Next time, we’ll focus on the philosophies of Natural and treatmentfree beekeeping which feature in our apiaries

If you’d like to find out more about making beekeeping an enjoyable pastime, please contact us at 13 Bees via our website www 13bees co uk, email info@13bees co uk or phone 05 45 71 22 90

OVERSEAS REMOVALS

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PLEASE CALL STEPHEN on +44 (0) 7966 287430 or email: smartmovers@hotmail.co.uk

www.smartmovesremovals.com www.facebook.com/smartmovesukfrance

What

Bees defending their hive against an Asian Hornet

Clare’s Garden Diary

Welcome to my garden diary, by the time you read this, maybe the sky will be blue, the rain clouds parted, the temperatures risen The weather has certainly been challenging for everyone this year, and for nature of course The soil was beginning to warm up then cold rain and cold nights arrived Four frosts in a row in late April, I recorded minus 3 on my sheltered wall My kiwi plant missed the frost for the first time in its 5 years in my garden, I shouldn’t speak too soon, but each day we are closer to Summer and I may get the gift of a homegrown kiwi!

Having spent some time indoors reading over this Spring, rather than actually doing, I wanted to include some recently published gardening books this month

Rachel de Thame’s new book A Flower Garden for Pollinators, is on my wish

list, with illustrations by her daughter Lauren Lusk, learn how to sustain and support nature with this practical planting guide

A Year in a Small Garden, by Frances Tophill has recently been released, covering her new garden and her approach to using what is there and creating new areas You may have seen her progress with her new garden on Gardener’s World too

I follow Arthur Parkinson on Instagram, and a podcast too, and heard him talk about his latest book, The Flower Yard: Growing Flamboyant Flowers in Containers After all we don’t all have a large garden, so his approach to containers caught my eye

One of my favourite books from 2018 has recently been updated and illustrated Wilding: How to Bring British

Wildlife Back - The New Illustrated Guide, by Isabella Tree The story of the Knepp Estate in West Sussex, how it changed from a failing arable farm into a sustainable business with nature at its heart

Finally, released in 2023 is A Year Full of Veg: A Harvest for All Seasons, by Sarah Raven Learn how to develop a kitchen garden of your own, which is colourful and generous no matter how small or large your space Following the Year from her home at Perch Hill

Clare Hill

“ What is one to say about June, the time of perfect young summer, the fulfilment of the promise of the earlier months, and with as yet no sign to remind one that its fresh young beauty will never fade” (Gertrude Jekyll, British horticulturist, garden designer 1843-1932)

Jobs for June;

• Keep dead heading to encourage more blooms, most summer flowering plants will benefit from a tidy up

• If there is a good downpour you can add a layer of mulch to your beds and borders Avoid adding mulch onto dry ground If adding to damp soil this will help retain moisture and keep the weeds down Keeping the hoe moving can soon clear annual weeds

• Perennials can still be divided and re planted, just make sure to keep them watered whether in pots or in the ground

• Continue to stake and support dahlias, peonies, delphiniums and other taller plants, I tend to use a mix of hazel sticks and metal supports Keep an eye out for pests on these plants too, removing and relocating them

• Continue to tie in new shoots from clematis, climbing and rambling roses which often put on a growth spurt this month

• Now is the time to prune Spring flowering shrubs like kerria, choisya and ribes after flowering

• Keep on top of the lawn mowing, leaving some wild if you have room to help the insect life and birds too Often by June the mower has less use if the grass is drying out, this year we may have to keep mowing areas for a while longer

If growing Sweet Peas, remember to keep picking them, to encourage more flowers Save the seeds too for following years June can be ideal for

harvesting poppy seeds and aquilegia too, when they have dried on the plant, you can store the seed heads in a paper bag

Remember Feeding Friday! Your bedding plants and hanging baskets will benefit from a feed to keep them looking at their best, remember to deadhead regularly too

• During June you can plant out the pumpkin and squash family, as they can be grown for size or flavour, check which varieties carefully

Pinch out the side shoots of cordon tomatoes, support them with either poles or tie into strings tied from above These can be grown either outside or in a polytunnel, keep well ventilated

If growing potatoes, earthing them up as new growth appears Watch for flowers, once the flowers fade they may be ready to eat

• Plant out sweetcorn if you have raised them in pots A grid format works best or plant with beans and squash to form a “three sisters” method, where the relationship between the plants supports each other and keeps pests away

• On apple and pear trees the rule of thumb is to remove one apple in three, to allow air circulation and for the apples to grow well June into July is the time for this

• Keep an eye on your strawberries and cherries; the birds can soon eat more than their fair share! I’m hoping for more cherries this year from our young trees, last year we had two cherries, tasty but only one each!

• Keep providing water for birds and insects A shallow container with pebbles will help the bees and dragonflies to land safely

Try to spend some time sitting in your garden Easier said than done I know, I do try on a Sunday afternoon to take a book into the shade of the trees and relax a while Those jobs you spot will wait for another day, really they will Well, that’s all from me for my June diary, I will see you back here in July A bientôt,

About Clare

Clare along with her husband Martin and their furr y family moved to North Vienne in 2017 With a passion for plants inherited from her family Clare is currently studying Horticulture with the Royal Horticultural Society Previously working in corporate and private banking, Clare now enjoys the tranquility of her garden, where she experiments and nurtures her favorite plants, especially roses An animal lover, Clare shares her home with 4 rescue dogs and a mischievous puppy She also loves brocantes and vide greniers and is a Reiki Master Teacher and a Tai Chi/Qi Gong teacher

Clubs & Associations

Alcoholics Anonymous - South West France

If you or someone you know has a drinking problem, there are now a number of English-speaking meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous in the South West of France

Alcoholics Anonymous is a Fellowship of men and women who share experiences, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking

There are no dues or fees for AA membership and AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety

For help or information, telephone: 05 31 60 90 95 or visit: www aafrance net

Crafts, Community and Friendship We run regular workshops and events as well as offer community workshop space for crafting and making Learn new skills and share your talents New members welcome Contact us for details: therepairshed@naturalcrafts.eu or telephone 05 49 80 39 57

French Lessons for English Speakers

Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), 4 Place Leopold Bergeon, 79150 Argenton-les-Vallées

Classes: beginners or intermediate Private lessons on request

Contact: rendez-vous79@orange.fr

CHORALE MELUSINE, PARTHENAY - French 4-part choir, established over 30 years (with 4 English members) and always looking for "new blood"! Excellent Musical Director Come to a rehearsal on Tuesday evenings and see if it's for you Contact Keith for info keithandcarol@orange fr 0671 14 16 72

Combined Services Support Group - CSSG is a community of ex services, police, and firefighters. We meet socially and raise funds for ex-service charities For information, email Andrea Cornwall: andreacornwall79@icloud com

For confidential welfare support contact Geoff Godfrey: geoffandhelen@hotmail co uk

Airvault Conversation - Come and practice your French with a friendly group of French and English speakers Every Wednesday at 7pm at the Salle CSC 16 rue Emmanuel Bonnet, 79600 AIRVAULT

Call Christian for more information: 05 49 63 04 78

AFVBC - The newly formed North Charente Maritime Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club meets the second Sunday of every month at 10:15 a m at the Relais d'Aulnay

Reservations with Ann and Allan at walpcs@yahoo co uk

PLAY and LEARN ACOL BRIDGE

If you are interested in learning or playing acol Bridge at Pause Cafe, L’Absie, every second and fourth Friday at 2pm please contact philjan9@hotmail com

Clair De Lune Montessori School, Xaintray. Opened September 2023, ideal for English-speaking families

Contact us at 06 01 88 54 37 or clairdelune pedagogie@gmail com

Learn more: clairdelune-ecolea.wixsite.com/accueil. Join our nurturing educational community

Craft Café Creatif - We are a craft group who meet once a fortnight on a Wednesday afternoon at Pause Café, L'Absie Our members knit,crochet,sew, embroider etc We craft and socialize over a cup of tea New members welcome - contact barbarawhitehouse@yahoo co uk

CONVERSATION WORKShOP FRENCh/ENGLISh IN ThOUARS

An opportunity to have a friendly contact, to form friendships,and improve mutual understandings of different cultures Come along every wednesday, from 7 30pm to 9pm, at Centre Socio-Culturel 21 avenue Victor Hugo 79100 THOUARS Contact : v venotbonnet@gmail com or eugene mc cabe@hotmail com

Melleran Chanteurs - Amateur singing group that meets every Monday at 6:45 pm at the Salle des Fêtes in Melleran French and English members singing in many languages. New voices are always welcome, especially tenor and bass. For more information, please contact Alison Hudson 05 49 29 65 31

Vasles Netball Club - Want to keep fit, have fun & make new friends? Join us every Monday from 5 30 - 7pm & Thursday 6 30 - 8pm at the Salle Omnisports in Vasles Open to men & women of all abilities and experience Two free taster sessions FB @VaslesNetballClub Email: vaslesnetballclub@gmail com

Acceuil des Villes Françaises - A French association dedicated to welcoming newcomers from all over France and abroad to their new surroundings; helping them integrate, speak French, and feel 'at home' through social events pjhenderson@orange fr www.avf.asso.fr

Les Amis Solitaires is a group of people living alone in France We organise social events and meet for coffee at The Lemon Tree in Sauze Vaussais, 11am every 2nd and 4th Thursday Contact Pennie on pennietelford@hotmail.com

Royal British Legion - Bordeaux & South West France

Do you need help or advice?

Contact us at: rblbx assistance@gmail com www facebook com/groups/306085566632991

Discover your love of acting with Reaction Theatre a vibrant choral and theatrical association in Scillé, near L’Absie Open to all backgrounds,we produce four shows annually and meet regularly at the Café des Belle Fleurs Fenoiuxcheck the What’s On more info www.reactiontheatre.eu or email reactiontheatrefrance@gmail com

WhY NOT jOIN ThE RAF FAMILY? RAFA Sud-Ouest France

Le Perail, 17250 BEURLAY, France Tel: 05 46 95 38 89 email: admin@rafasudouest fr

Are you single and living in the South Vendee? Would you like to meet others for social events with the emphasis on fun and not dating? We meet in Fontenay-le-Comte on the first Wednesday morning of each month Occasional weekend lunches Find us on Facebook SOLO EN FRANCE (Sud Vendée) or contact Rosalind at soloenfrance@outlook fr for further information

Clubs & Associations Submission: Include title and 40-word max entry (with contact details) and optional logos if space allows. Free ads rotate monthly; for guaranteed monthly printing, pay a 4.50€ monthly fee (54€ annually). Email submissions to: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

ALL ENQUIRIES ARE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENCE

Clubs & Associations

Combined Ser viced Support Group (CSSG)

AGM was held recently and the main event was the tion of a new President and Secretary Alan and stine Hester have had two very successful years in se positions Our new President is Paul Gapper and the ew Secretary is Andrea Cornwall Paul gave the following overview of his career in the Royal Marines

“I am honoured to be the new President of the CSSG I started my military career in November 1979 with 6 months training with the RM Commandos in Devon After transferring to 40 Command RM in Plymouth, I was eployed in the Falklands conflict and later in Northern Ireland I also served with the United Nations in Cyprus After 9 years of service I embarked on a career in the police I eventually became a Detective Inspector in a Murder Investigation Team I then came to France in June 2010”

We also welcome our new secretary, Andrea Cornwall Andrea is a retired nurse She does not come from the military, but is the wife of a retired "Chef de Police Honorifique de Jersey" in the Channel Islands We warmly welcome them both and wish them every success in their new positions

The CSSG is, as the name suggests, a group of ex-military, police and other individuals who have come together to support serving and ex-British and French military personnel when needed We welcome new members and if you are interested in joining our group, please let us know We meet regularly with our friends in the French ex-military groups and visit many interesting places associated with military history events Why don't you come and join us? Contact: Andreacornwall79 @icloud com

Here at the Repair Shed, we have been overwhelmed with the positive response that our Association has received over the recent months Our membership continues to grow which in turn provides more opportunities for future workshops and creative activities We would like to send out a huge thank you to everyone that has supported and attended our workshops and we look forward to seeing more new faces at future events If you have visited us or attended a workshop, please do leave us a review on Facebook or Google as this helps others to find us and potentially join the crew!

One of our core values at the Repair Shed is to share skills and knowledge to support wellbeing and creativity and as such we are delighted to be able to announce our new Skillshare initiative This is designed to provide an opportunity for anyone to run a demonstration workshop and invite people that may be interested in that particular skill or craft to come along, for free, to see what’s involved and ask questions This could be anything from weaving baskets to welding! If you would like to showcase your skills and share them with others, we would love for you to get involved Please get in touch via our website or email us at info@therepairshed fr

Vienne & Deux-Sèvres

Philip Buckle

Lisa Jones

Andrea Cornwall

Seasonal Recipes

Sujatha Otzen

Spinach & Chickpeas in a Yogurt Sauce (Serves 4)

This recipe is based on a North Indian classic curry called 'kadhi pakora' in which fried fritters (pakoras) are stirred through the yogurt sauce Here I've used seasonal spinach and chickpeas instead to make it more substantial It makes for a very comforting dish when paired with hot steaming rice

INGREDIENTS

2 cups full fat yogurt (1 cup equals 250ml)

2 cups room temperature water

3 tbsp chickpea flour

(farine de pois chiche available in most supermarkets)

1 tsp turmeric powder

2 small shallots finely sliced

3 tbsp vegetable or sunflower oil

1 tsp cumin seeds

Meatballs with a Fennel & Tomato Sauce (SERVES 2-3)

This nice little sunny dish with its Mediterranean inspired flavours makes a great accompaniment to rice, pasta or bread The meat can be replaced with fillets of firm white fish to make it even more spring/summer friendly

INGREDIENTS

For the meatballs -

350g minced meat (beef, pork or a mix of both)

1 heaped tsp smoked paprika powder

½ tsp cumin powder

½ tsp dried oregano

¼ cup dried breadcrumbs

1 small egg

Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce -

3 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion finely chopped

1 large or 2 small cloves of garlic

finely minced

1 fennel thinly sliced

1 tsp smoked paprika powder

½ tsp cumin powder

½ tsp coriander powder

½ tsp dried chilli flakes

½ tsp dried oregano

1 400g tin canned tomatoes

A good pinch of sugar or a tsp of honey

Salt to taste

METHOD

• In a bowl, place all the ingredients for the meatballs and mix it together with your hands until well combined Roll the mixture into balls by scooping out about 2 tablespoons for each ball Place the meatballs on a plate and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes

• Place a shallow, wide, heavy bottomed pan on medium heat Add the olive oil to the pan Once the oil is sufficiently hot, add the chopped onion and garlic Saute for a couple of minutes until softened

• Add the fennel slices followed by the spices Stir everything together and cook for another couple of minutes Add the tomatoes and a cup of hot water to the pan Season generously with salt

• Take the meatballs out of the refrigerator and add to the sauce Cover the pan, lower the heat to a simmer and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes Then remove the lid and let the sauce simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the fennel and tomatoes have softened and the sauce has thickened If you find the sauce thickening too fast, add a splash of water and continue to simmer Stir in the sugar or honey to balance the acidity of the tomatoes

• Remove from the heat and serve immediately

All recipes and food photographs by Sujatha Otzen Born in India, Sujatha is a trained chef who runs runs Indian cookery workshops from her kitchen at Closerie Les Roches in Bouillé-Loretz (79290) For more details check out Sujatha’s advertisement on page 13

½ tsp cumin powder

½ tsp coriander powder

Approx 100g fresh spinach leaves

1 400g tin chickpeas

1 tbsp ghee or butter or oil

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 green chilli sliced lengthwise in half (optional)

1 tsp paprika powder

Salt to taste

METHOD

• Place the yogurt, water, chickpea flour and half a teaspoon of turmeric powder in a large bowl and whisk together until well combined and no lumps remain

• Heat 3 tablespoons of the oil in a large heavy bottomed saucepan on medium heat Once hot, add the cumin seeds followed by the shallots Cook the shallots until they are soft Then add the rest of the turmeric powder, cumin powder and coriander powder Mix it all together and cook for a couple of minutes Add the spinach to the pan and cook until it wilts

• Add the yogurt and water mixture to the saucepan Lower the heat to a simmer and stir the contents of the pan carefully until the sauce begins to thicken Add the chickpeas to the saucepan, season with salt and continue stirring for another 3-4 minutes If you find the sauce thickening too quickly, add more water to the pan

• Heat the one tablespoon of ghee, butter or oil in a small frying pan on medium heat Once hot, add the 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and the green chilli slices if using When the seeds begin to splutter, add the paprika powder and stir it all together Turn off the heat Add this mixture to the saucepan with the yogurt sauce Mix it in, check for seasoning and serve immediately

• You will notice that the sauce thickens as it sits so you may want to thin it out with more water while reheating any leftovers at a later time

Mixed Berry, Cardamom, Cream & Meringue Swiss Roll (8 servings)

This Swiss roll makes for a lovely and light spring treat Mangoes and pineapples can also be used for an exotic twist To keep the whipped cream stable, you can use 'Chantifix' It can be found in the baking aisle of supermarkets and is a great way to make perfect whipped cream the easy way

INGREDIENTS

125g sugar

125g flour

3 large eggs

½ tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp ground cardamom

2 tbsp icing sugar + extra for decorating

175ml whipping cream (crème fleurette)

25-30g ready-made meringues

200-250g fresh berries (a mix of raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, etc)

METHOD

• Grease the bottom of a Swiss roll tray (13x9 inch or 23 x 33-cm) with oil, line it with parchment paper and set aside Preheat the oven to 180c

• Wash and pat dry the berries Crush the meringues into smaller bits

• In a small bowl, mix together the flour and ground cardamom and set aside

• Add the sugar, eggs and vanilla extract to a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer Using a handheld electric whisk or the whisk attachment on the stand mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together on a medium speed until the mixture has almost tripled in volume

• Sieve in the flour a little at a time and carefully fold it into the egg and sugar mixture with a rubber spatula trying not to lose too much of the volume

• Pour the batter onto the prepared tray and spread evenly with the back of a spatula or spoon so it's an even thick layer all throughout

• Place the tray in the middle of the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes until it's light golden brown and the top is springy to the touch

• Remove the tray from the oven Spread out a clean kitchen towel on the countertop and sprinkle the icing sugar on top of the towel Loosen the edges of the cake in the tray using a butter knife or small offset spatula and then flip the tray upside down onto the towel Once the cake has come out of the tray, peel off the parchment paper and roll the towel and cake together starting at the narrower side Leave it this way for about 10-15 minutes until the cake cools down a bit

• In the meantime, place the whipping cream in a large bowl and whip until stiff peaks form

• Unroll the cake Spread an even layer of the whipped cream on it followed by the meringues Now spread the berries evenly throughout and roll the cake once again tightly Transfer carefully to a serving plate Sprinkle the top of the cake with more icing sugar and decorate with a few extra berries.

The Deux-Sèvres

TAKE A BREAK

Easy Crossword

ACROSS

7 Provided with protective covering (8)

8. Basic unit of matter (4)

9 Gather (5)

10 Boat race (7)

12. Type of variable electrical control (6)

13 Embarrass (5)

15. Stimulus (3)

16 End of life's journey (5)

18. Voluntarily leave a position (6)

20 Wool fat (7)

23. Mechanism for lifting (5)

25 Solidifies; arranges in groups (4)

26 Pertaining to a school (8)

DOWN

1 Quivered (8)

2. Drunk or pickled (6)

3 Illustrative craft (3)

4. Perimeter or margin (4)

5 Largest desert (6)

6. Otter's den (4)

11 Curved structure (4)

13 Relating to aircraft (4)

14. Clean and germ-free (8)

17 Awaken feelings or interest (6)

19 Scandinavian kingdom (6)

21. Second son of Adam & Eve (4)

22 Formerly Mesopotamia (4)

24. Informant or rodent (3)

Cr yptic Crossword

ACROSS

1. Seaside playgrounds but, we are told, may not be open in July and August? (5)

4 VS exchange of letters on how to make summer wear for hooligans? (7)

(with many thanks to Mike Morris)

8 Firing pet organisation spells the end for digital extension (9)

9 Celestial body, followed by seekers, burn hat for instance (3)

10 Pan Southern States? (5)

11 Sodium I steal myself in African destination? (7)

13 My Marie should turn up to see the film after the young ones (6, 7)

15 Get in for a clean-up, however upset with western city (7)

16. Entertainers could have had a hand in exposing this villain on the beach? (5)

18. Fat product sticking to the back of the vessel. (3)

20. "I mean anti re-establishment is dead!" (9)

21. Charles losing direction for an hour, turns up in North Wales. (7)

22 Drops in sensing easily seduced principals after a party (5) DOWN

1. Commonly spoken US agent following constraints of duty in Wales (5)

2 Obliged to participate, the French say no to former endless unfurnished term (9)

3 Filter primary elements of solution in each vessel examined (5)

4 Horrible base tone with awkward hitch not good for holiday pastime. (3, 2, 3, 5)

5. As regards marriage, tail off on retracted play on words. (7)

6. Idiot boarding Santa's sleigh. (3)

7. Apply cunning about international organisation of province; hope it turns out like this? (7)

Building & Renovation

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

<

<

< Groundwork, Patios and Paving

< Kitchens (Howdens) & Bathrooms

tel/WhatsApp:

•

Tel:

FOSSE AND GROUNDWORKS 79

•

•

•

•

•

•

Need

DARREN L AWRENCE

Building & Renovation

Our Furry Friends

Coping with an injured cat

When our beloved cats get injured, it's not just their pain that worries us, but also the overwhelming feeling of not knowing how best to help Cats are notorious for hiding their pain, so it's difficult to recognise when they're really hurting Knowing a few first aid skills can make a big difference to your furry friend's health and may even save their life We chatted to Heather from The Funny Farm Cat Rescue to get some expert tips

If you notice something is wrong with your cat, this is the first step Look out for any signs of discomfort or strange behaviour An injured cat may appear weak, have difficulty standing, be bleeding profusely, be swollen or in severe pain If your cat has been poisoned, has an eye injury, has been burnt or has been in a fight with another cat, it's important to see a vet as soon as possible Since cats are so good at hiding pain, any small sign of discomfort means it's time for a more thorough examination

It's important to approach your injured furball with calm and care Talk to them in a soothing tone and, if necessary, wrap them carefully in a towel without pressing on the sore areas Safe transport to the vet is very important to prevent the injuries from getting worse

A cat-friendly first aid kit is a must Be prepared with bandages, gauze,

plasters, cotton wool, saline solution to clean wounds and something to remove ticks Stay away from human medications, however, as they can be toxic to our cats For burns, carefully cool the area with lukewarm water and then bandage loosely If they're having a seizure, keep them away from anything dangerous, but don't hold them down And remember that you shouldn't try your own treatment methods without the go ahead of a vet

It's better to play it safe and get professional help for any injuries, unless it's just a small cut Speak openly with your vet about what has happened and what you have done so far Following your vet's advice closely, such as administering medication, treating the wound or restricting your cat's activity, can help ensure a speedy and full recovery

Familiarising yourself with basic first aid for cats and being prepared for emergencies will make you much better able to respond in those crucial moments Nobody likes to think about their cat being injured, but knowing what to do can be a lifesaver By educating yourself and being prepared, you can provide the best possible care for your furry family member when they need it most

What to do if your pet is bitten by a viper

If your pet is bitten by a viper, it’s important to understand the urgency of the situation

Recognising the signs early and knowing what action to take can be life saving

These include obvious pain, constant licking of a specific area or swelling and pain, especially in the head and legs These symptoms indicate that your pet has been bitten by a snake, possibly a viper

Here are the main steps that are recommended:

1. Cold application: Immediately apply a cold compress to the bite site to reduce swelling and relieve pain This can be a damp cloth or an ice pack, but make sure it’s wrapped in a towel to avoid direct ice contact with the skin

2. Avoid further interventions: Apart from applying a cold compress, you shouldn’t take any further action Home remedies or incorrect first aid can make the situation worse

3. Contact your vet immediately: Speed is of the essence Call your vet immediately and inform them of the situation By providing details such as the appearance of the snake, you can better prepare to treat your pet when it arrives

Not all snake bites are venomous, but viper bites can be particularly dangerous and sometimes even fatal It’s therefore important that you react quickly and seek professional veterinary help Credit - Clinique Vétérinaire La Licorne

Insurance and asset management advice in English

Hello, my name is Isabelle Want For the past 10 years, I have been working for Allianz as an asset manager

Being married to an Englishman and having lived in the uK for 8 years gives me a better insight into what British people are experiencing and what they need Being French and born in the

Charente has enabled me to offer some answers

I am, as always, available for any free advice on the subjects listed below:

I work in the Allianz offices in Ruffec, La Rochefoucauld, Roumaziere Loubert and Chasseneuil sur Bonnieure and my details are at the end of the article

- INHERITANCE LAW (who inherits, death duties, solutions)

-TAXES (everybody's fear! The month of May tax forms, etc)

-INVESTMENTS (what is available, what rate, etc.)

-LIFE INSURANCE (how to protect your loved ones)

-FUNERAL COVER (preparing for the inevitable, unfortunately!) -TOP UP HEALTH INSURANCE (why you need it and how much it is)

-INSURANCES (get a free quote to see if you could save money)

Please do not hesitate to contact me for free advice on any of the above or if you think you are paying too much on your insurances and want a free quote We have a dedicated bilingual team to deal with claims

Finally, we have an English website with all sorts of useful information and tips on all of the above subjects: www bh-assurances fr/en

Isabelle Want, BH Assurances

Conseiller Financier/ Asset Manager

Mob:+33(0)6 17 30 39 11

Email: isabelle want@bh-assurances fr N° orias : 07020908/07021727/07004255

Open every Tuesday 10am - 4pm and the last Saturday of the month 10am - 2pm

Shop and Café Open every Wednesday 11am - 4pm

Oh my lord Francks fish and chips second Wednesday of the month from 12h00

THE ASSOCIATION EN ROUTE tel: 07 69 18 56 81 or email: henri@assoenroute com

CLEMENT

Clement is about 2 year old Bruno de Juras x He was found in a terrible state, has been nursed back to health and is now a gentle, calm and loving family dog

Sadly, the family is no longer able to keep him so we are helping them look for a home with an enclosed garden as he has a very good nose, and where someone is at home most of the time

If you understand the breed and are interested in giving this young dog the future he deserves, please get in touch with us in the first instance at henri@assoenroute.com.

MOUSTAChE

Moustache, rescued as a kitten with his brother Romeo during a heatwave, is calm, affectionate, and loves exploring outdoors

Magasin et Café Ouvert tous les mercredis de 11h à 16h

Oh my lord Francks fish and chips le 2ème mercredi du mois à partir de 12h00

Wednesday 19th June from 12h00 mercredi 19 juin de 12h00

Donations welcome

He's great with dogs and kids, seeking a loving home with secure outdoor access Consider adopting them together for twice the fun! Both are vaccinated, neutered, and ready to fill your life with love and adventure

Breed: Européen Sex: Male Age: Adult Date of birth: 21-04-2020

For more information, visit www association-galia fr email assogalia85@gmail com or visit facebook com/associationGaliaEN

money matters

by Catrina Ogilvie, Blevins Franks

Tax residence in France and UK

Are you paying tax in the right place? Tax residency can be complex and paying tax in the wrong countr y can prove costly with back taxes, interest and potential fines France tax residence rules ’

You are deemed to be tax resident in France if one of four tests is fulfilled:

1) France is your main residence or home (foyer) – the place where your close family (spouse/ partner/dependent children) habitually live or most of your personal life is centred

2) France is your principal place of abode This usually means you spend more than 183 days in France a year but it may apply with less days if you spend more days here than in any other single country

3) Your principal activity is in France – for example your occupation or main income arises here

4) France is the centre of your economic interests – where your most substantial assets are based; your business affairs are or where you draw a larger part of your income

If you meet any of these criteria you are liable to pay French tax on your worldwide income gains and property wealth timing your move

France takes a split-year approach When relocating you could avoid French tax by timing when you sell assets

Weigh up whether you are better off selling uK assets while you are still uK tax resident or waiting until you live in France

uK tax residence test

If you spend time in both countries or retain ties with the uK , you could be deemed uK resident for tax purposes

The Statutory Residence Test includes three tests:

1) Automatic overseas test: You are not resident in the uK if you spend less than 46 days there in a uK tax year and were not resident in any of the previous three tax years (if you were, just 16 days back could trigger residency)

2) Automatic residence test: You are uK resident if you spend 183 days or more there in the tax year, or your only or main home is in the uK or you work full-time there

3) Sufficient ties test: Other wise whether you are uK tax resident or not depends on how many ties you have with the uK (family, work, accommodation) and how many days you spend there

If you meet the domestic tax residency rules of both countries double taxation treaty tie-breaker rules determine where you pay taxes

France may have a reputation of being a high-tax country but don’t let that put you off becoming resident here

Restructuring your assets to make them suitable for a French resident can improve your tax liabilities – you may be surprised by how much, especially if you are retired and living off private pensions and investments

Summarised tax information is based upon our understanding of current laws and practices which may change Individuals should seek personalised advice

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

Ask Amanda

Expert advice

How often should I review my financial situation?

I am asked this question frequently, and whilst their are no hard and fast rules as to when is a good time for a financial review, below are some questions you can ask yourself to help you decide if the time is right

Have my circumstances changed since I last spoke to a financial adviser?

These could include a change in health, new job reduction in income bereavement or simply a change in personal goals since you last reviewed your finances

Have any recent articles or programmes you have seen caused you concern?

The internet and social media provides us with a wealth of information which is sometimes difficult to decipher It is essential to separate fact from fiction

Do you know how your investments are performing?

Financial performance since 2020 has certainly been a rollercoaster

Discussing your risk profile and ensuring this matches your investment funds is crucial to ensuring you avoid sleepless nights

How much tax are you paying on your investments?

We should all have completed our tax returns at the time of this publication and know approximately how much tax will be due when the Avis D Impots are issued at the end of August or in early September

When did I last review my finances or speak to an international financial adviser?

Once a year is an ideal time, as a lot can happen in a year and getting up to date information in this ever changing world is important

Has my financial adviser changed companies or retired?

Getting to know your replacement adviser is also important, as you may be working with this person for a long time and you need to feel comfortable and confident that a long term relationship is workable

Whether you want to register for our newsletter, attend one of our roadshow events or speak to me directly please call or email on the contacts below and I will be glad to help you

We do not charge for our financial planning reviews, reports or consultations

Amanda Johnson tel : 06 73 27 25 43

e-mail : amanda johnson@spectrum-ifa com www spectrum-ifa com/amanda-johnson

Amanda Johnson works as an Independent Financial Adviser with the Spectrum IFA Group tel: 06 73 27 25 43 or email: amanda johnson@spectrum-ifa com www spectrum-ifa com/amandajohnson Whether you want to register for a newsletter, attend a roadshow or speak Amanda directly, please call or email her The Spectrum IFA Group do not charge for reviews, reports, or recommendations

« The Spectrum IFA Group » is a registered trademark, exclusive rights to use in France granted to TSG Insurance Services S A R L Siège Social: 34 Bd des Italiens, 75009 « Société de Courtage d'assurances » R C S Paris B 447 609 108 (2003B04384) Numéro d'immatriculation 07 025 332 - www orias fr « Conseiller en investissements financiers, référence sous le numéro E002440 par ANACOFI-CIF, association agréée par l Autorité des Marchés Financiers »

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Puzzle answers

Crossword

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST

Sainte-Verge

€399,999

Ref: A23553 - Splendid 5-bedroom property with outbuildings and grounds.

5% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Energy class: E Climate class: E Room to

Aubigné

Melleran €183,600

Ref: A28991 - Lovely 5-bedroom house

8% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: D Climate class: D

€69,900

Ref: A10396 - Cute 3-bedroom house in quiet hamlet close to a market town.

10% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: G Climate class: C

Paizay-le-Chapt €318,000

Ref: A28952 - 4-bedroom house with pool, gîte, studio and workshop.

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer. DPE: In progress

farmhouse with garden and views.

Agency fees to be paid by the seller. Energy class: E Climate class: E

Argentonnay €114,450

Ref: A16734 - Bright 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom village house with garden.

9% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: D Climate class: B

Messé

€241,100

Ref: A26953 - Renovated 3-bedroom home with garden and stone sheds.

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: D Climate class: D

Chef-Boutonne €599,990

Ref: A25456 - Superb 5-bedroom water mill with château views and pool.

5% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: D Climate class: C

Fomperron

€329,900

Ref: A26693 - 4-bedroom superbly restored house with pool and garden.

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: D Climate class: D

Ménigoute €235,400

Ref: A28797 - Impressive 5-bedroom village house with outbuildings.

7% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: E Climate class: B

€333,900

room home with 1-bedroom gîte.

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: E Climate class: D River

€157,608

Ref: A26680 - 3-bedroom house with garden, paddock and barns.

Agency fees to be paid by the seller. Energy class: F Climate class: F

Renovated Mill

Ref: BVI57972 Lovely 3-bed property with 3 guest houses and pool

Fees: 6% paid by the buyer Net

CLUSSAIS-LA-POMMERAIE

€199,800 HAI

Ref: BVI71370 Gorgeous 2-bed, 2-bathroom property with guest studio and large garden

Fees: 8% paid by the buyer Net price: €185,000 Energy class: D Climate class: F

Ref: BVI68292 Attractive property with guest house, outbuildings and large garden

Fees: 6% paid by the buyer Net price: €226,227 Energy class: D Climate class: D

€178,200 HAI

Ref: BVI69643 Pretty stone longère with large garage and garden

Fees: 8% paid by the buyer Net price: €165,000 Energy class: C Climate class: A

Ref: BVI73309 Superb barn conversion with swimming pool, woods and paddocks Fees : paid by the vendor Energy class: C Climate class: C

Ref: BVI72820 Beautifully renovated mediaeval château with caretaker’s cottage Fees : paid by the vendor Energy class: C Climate class: A