Annual Subscription Costs: 34€ within France, 29€ UK addresses. (Unfortunately the cheaper ‘printed papers’ rate cannot be applied to addresses within France, only when sending abroad) Full Name:.................................................................................................. Postal Address:........................................................................................... ................................................................................................................... Postcode:..................................... Country:............................................. Tel:.............................................................................................................. Email:.......................................................................................................... Please make cheques payable to ANNA SHAW.
Welcome! to Issue 103 ‘The Deux-Sèvres Monthly’ magazine.
of
Anna and I are at that age when things start failing us or dropping off. I am going deaf, according to Anna, who will only ever communicate with me from another room, if I am using a power tool or have an electric toothbrush in my mouth. The fact of the matter is that Anna mumbles and her Scottish accent doesn’t help. A lot of the time she talks to herself, so it is often hard to tell if she requires an answer. Our eyesight is not what it used to be either. I have trouble focussing on things far away and close-up (hold something two feet from the end of my nose and I can see perfectly). Anna is long-sighted. I go to an opticians for my glasses, Anna goes to Poundland. We have a plethora of glasses dotted about the house, all very similar in style. A great chunk of my day is taken up locating the correct glasses I need for a specific job. I know if I have accidentally put on a pair of Anna’s glasses because everything is enormous, the lenses are covered in fingerprints and she has a very small head so they are very tight on my fat head. I have never had a sense of smell, whereas she is like the Child Catcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. I can drive past a field that has just been ‘mucked-spreaded’ and not smell anything, Anna has to have a lie-down if she gets a whiff of paint. One thing that has not diminished is our love of French food and wine, in fact quite the opposite and in recent months it has come to a head. To try and get a grip on things we decided to go ‘Sober for October’. As I write we have not had ‘a drink’ for six days. When our November issue comes out we will either be irritatingly pleased with ourselves and hitting the bottle to celebrate or drowning our sorrows in recognition of our own lack of willpower. However November finds you, we hope you enjoy our latest issue...if you can find the correct glasses.
à la prochaine Stephen & Anna
Tel: 05 49 64 21 98 Email: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr Website: www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr
Contents
What’s On Getting Out & About Clubs & Associations Hobbies Spotlight Home & Garden Motoring Take a Break Health, Beauty & Fitness Our Furry Friends Food & Drink Communications A-Z of the Communes in the Deux-Sèvres Building & Renovation Business & Finance Property
This Month’s Advertisers
ABORDimmo Adrian Butterfield (Handyman) Affordable UK Designs (Kitchens & UPVC Double Glazing) AKE Petits Travaux (Builder) Alan Tulley (Property maintenance and gardening) All Saints Vendée Christmas Craft Fair
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All Seasons Cleaning Amanda Johnson - The Spectrum IFA Group Andrew Longman (Plumbing & Heating) Arbes et Abeilles (Plant nursery) ARB French Property Ark 79 (Animal Charity Association) Ark 79 Christmas Market Assurances Maucourt (GAN Parthenay) Bayleaf Books Beaux Villages Immobilier BH Assurances / Allianz - Isabelle Want Blevins Franks Financial Management BM Construction Building & Renovation Services Café Pause! Christmas Fayre Château de Saugé Chat-eau (Luxurious country cattery) Cherry Picker Hire Chez Lou (Upholstery and Furniture) Chris Bassett Construction Chris Parsons (Plumber/Heating Engineer) Christies (English Book Shop & Tea Room) Cindy Can Help (Translation services) CJ Electricité Clean Sweep Chimney Services Cosmetic Contour Craft Fair and Farmers’ Market CSSG Christmas Fayre Darren Lawrence ESCOVAL (The English Speaking Church of the Valley of the Loire) Franglais Deliveries (Transport & Removal Services) Hallmark Electricité Helen Booth (deVere Group) HMJ (Renovation service) Inter Décor (Tiles and Bathrooms) Irving Location - Digger Hire and Gravel deliveries Jeff’s Metalwork John Purchase - Mobile Mechanic Jon the Carpetman J.W.Services (General building work) La Deuxieme Chance (Decorative paint specialists) Leggett Immobilier Le Regal’on (Bar and Restaurant) Lisa Pryke (Psychic medium) LPV Technology (IT services) Mark Sabestini - Renovation and Construction MD Project Management Michael Glover (Plasterer, tiler, renderer)) Michel Barateau (Cabinet Maker) Mike Sweeney (Sports car and motorcycle specialist) ML Computers Motor Parts Charente Mutuelles de Poitiers Assurances Needa Hand Services (Grass cutting etc.) Pamela Irving (Holistic Therapist) Pinnacle Garden Care Plombier 85 (Plumbing, Heating, Sanitation) Poitiers Biard Airport Projet Piscine (Swimming Pool solutions) Restaurant des Canards R J Coulson Building Services Rob Berry (Plasterer) Robert Mann (Upholstery) Ross Hendry (Interface Consulting & Engineering) Safe Hands 79 (Garden maintenance) Simon the Tiler Steve Coupland (Property services) Steve Robin (Plumbing, heating, electrics) Steve Shaw (Cartoonist) Strictly Roofing Sue Burgess (French Classes & Translation) Sunny Sky Cars (Cars, Motorhomes and Vans wanted) Terves English Christmas Market The English Mechanic & Son - Tony Eyre The Fixer - Rick Denton The Hope Association Tony Wigmore(IT services) Town Renovations Val Assist (Translation Services) Vienne Tree Services Vintage et Chic (English gift shop) Zena Sabestini (Translation service)
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© Anna and Stephen Shaw 2019. All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced without permission. While care is taken to ensure that articles and features are accurate, Anna and Stephen Shaw accept no liability for reader dissatisfaction. The opinions expressed and experiences shared are given by individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the publisher. Please ensure you verify that the company you are dealing with is a registered trading company in France and/or elsewhere. It is strongly advised to check details of published events with other sources before setting out on long journeys. <<The Deux-Sèvres Monthly>> est édité par Anna and Stephen Shaw 2 Jaunasse, Louin, 79600 Tél: 05 49 64 21 98. Directeur de la publication et rédacteur en chef: Anna and Stephen Shaw. Crédits photos: Anna and Stephen Shaw, Clkr, Shutterstock et Pixabay. Impression: Graficas Piquer SL, 29 Al Mediterraneo, Pol. Ind. San Rafael, 04230, Huércal de Almeria, Espagne. Dépôt légal: novembre 2019 - Tirage: 4500 exemplaires. Siret: 839 041 282 00014 ISSN: 2115-4848 TVA: FR 48 839 041 282
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 3
What’s On... 3 - CELEBRATION OF THE 20 YEARS OF THE ORGAN AUBERTIN in SaintLoup-sur-Thouet. Artists, their guests and friends, musicians and singers celebrate together, plus a firework display. Meet 5pm. 3 - THE CSSG CHRISTMAS FAYRE at Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux. From 11am - 5pm. Free entry. See poster on page 6. 8 - CHARITY QUIZ NIGHT for Les Amis des Chats Vix at La Bohème, Mervent at 7pm. Tel: 06 42 00 27 96. 10 - CRAFT FAIR AND FARMERS’ MARKET in Le Retail. 9am-6pm. See poster on page 7 for more information. 10 - MULTICOLLECTION EXHIBITION AND EXCHANGE in Bressuire. Postcards, stamps, coins, miniature cars, etc. At the Bocapole, entry 1€. 16 - CLASSICAL CONCERT OF EDWARD ELGAR MUSIC (Morning and Night Songs) in Surgères (17), Notre Dame. Starting at 6.30pm. Tickets 8€ - 12€ and free for under 18s. 16 - PLANT SWAP at La-Chapelle-Saint-Laurent. The chance to swap or buy plants, seeds and other garden items. From 9.30am-midday. 16-17 - NATIONAL EXHIBITION OF POULTRY in Thouars. The 27th edition. Poultry enthusiasts and professionals introduce you to numerous species of poultry, waterfowl, rabbits, pigeons plus park and aviary birds. Saturday 9am-7pm and Sunday 9am-4pm. Entry 3€, children free. Poster page 6. 21 - DOWNTON ABBEY (Film in English) in the Salle Belle Epine, La Châtaigneraie. Starting at 8pm. For other venues showing films in English see page 15. 22 - FANCY DRESS 60s QUIZ NIGHT at Restaurant des Canards, Chef Boutonne. Reservations on 05 49 29 73 46. More information on page 29. 22 - FÊTE DE LA SAINTE CÉCILE in Thouars. A unique concert in the SaintMédard church at 8pm with hot chocolate, wine and brioche. 23 - ALL SAINTS VENDÉE CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR in salle, Puy-deSerre. Exquisite handmade crafts, cards, Christmas gifts, produce and soft furnishings. 11am-3pm. Free entry. See poster on page 7. 23 - MARCHÉ DE NOËL - THE FUNNY FARM CAT RESCUE 10am-6pm in St.Germain-de-Longue-Chaume. See poster on page 27. 23-24 - PINK DAY in Niort. The 15th edition organised by the ‘Slip and Lace’. Handmade items, decoration, jewellery, accessories, clothing and lots more ideas for the lady in your life. Free parking, free admission, food available on site. See poster on page 7. 24 - CLASSICAL CONCERT OF EDWARD ELGAR MUSIC (Morning and Night Songs) in Rouillé (86), Temple. Starting at 4pm. Tickets 8€ - 12€ and free for under 18s. 24 - SAUZÉ-VAUSSAIS CHRISTMAS MARKET. From 9am-5pm. 26 - ARK 79 CHRISTMAS MARKET. Artisan stalls and Santa. 10am-4pm. For more information see poster on page 8. 30 - AZAY-LE-BRÛLÉ CHRISTMAS MARKET. From 4pm. 30 - BEAUSSAIS VITRÉ CHRISTMAS MARKET. From10am-6pm. 30 - OPEN DAY TO RAISE FUNDS FOR ANIMAL CHARITIES. At Fortified French Retreat, La Boucherie, 79380, La Ronde, La Forêt-sur-Sèvres 05 49 74 19 80. From 10am-5pm. Free entry (donations would be appreciated of cat/dog foods/items). Local artisans will be displaying their crafts, etc.
contact ‘The DSM’ Call Anna Shaw on 05 49 64 21 98 Monday - Thursday: 9am - 1pm & 2pm - 6pm
FIND ‘THE DSM’ AT ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY DISTRIBUTORS THIS MONTH: Markey’s pork ‘n’ pies Traditional British cooking Sat: Fontenay-le-Comte (marché), Vendée and at Saint-Jean-d’Angély (marché intérieur), Charente-Maritime Sun: Aulnay (marché), Charente-Maritime Tel: 05 46 01 54 65 www.markeys-pies.com
OPEN mornings
4 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
30-1 December - SAINT-LOUP-SUR-THOUET CHRISTMAS MARKET. The 23rd edition. Saturday 3-11pm and Sunday 10am-7pm. Dates in green = Christmas Markets!
REGULAR EVENTS... EVERY MON & WED 2PM-6PM Duplicate Bridge at Civray. Lessons available free. Contact Marian Green: 05 49 27 14 52 or email: mazza47@icloud.com EVERY TUES AT 5PM Belote at Café des Sports, L’Absie. EVERY TUES & THURS AM - Annie Sloan Painting Workshops. Please see www.ladeuxiemechance.com EVERY WEDs AT 2PM - 4PM - Charity shop, café and cats at the Funny Farm Cat Rescue, St Germain-de-Longue-Chaume. EVERY WEDS - Franglais Bressuire 8-10pm in term time at the Centre Socio-culturelle. EVERY THURS AT 7PM - Scottish Dancing at Café des Belles Fleurs. EVERY THURS FROM 8PM - Quizwitch Quiz at le Chaudron, 79320 Chantemerle. 2.50€. In aid of Cancer Support Deux-Sèvres. EVERY THURS - Jean David Art Group at L’Absie. For times contact Jean on tel: 06 52 93 33 60. EVERY THURS - Franglais group in Montournais. Contact Penny Homewood 02 51 63 31 21 or pennyhomewood@hotmail.com EVERY FRI AM - Reaction Theatre’s Art Scene meet in Secondigny. Contact Jane Trescothick: trescothick.jane@orange.fr EVERY FRI 6PM-7.30PM - Line Dancing at Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux. Contact: ian.sue79@gmail.com or 05 49 10 37 80. EVERY SUN 2PM-5PM - Chats de Châtillon Adoption/Visiting afternoon. All other times tel: 06 85 63 55 94 EVERY OTHER THURS AT 6.30PM - Franglais Group at LA TABLE DU CENTRE, Mouilleron-en-Pareds. 2nd Tues of Month AT 8PM - Quiz Night at Le Regal’On, Allonne. 3RD WEDS OF MONTH AT 3PM Franglais Group at Café Pause!, L’Absie. Last FRI of month - Books, CDs, DVDs etc. sale. Chez Sue and Stuart Marshall, 12 rue du Bourg Chasteigner, Cheffois, in aid of animal charities (2pm-5pm) tel: 02 51 51 00 96.
what’s COMING UP... 1 - TERVES CHRISTMAS MARKET. 10am-5pm. Free entry. See poster on page 7. 14-15 - December - THE ENCHANTED ALLEY CONTEST of La Garette. A free competition, open to everyone (young and old). Participants must create extraordinary little houses and/or decorate a tree and come to exhibit their work in La Garette. You can see examples at: www. sansais-lagarette.com/lalleeenchantee-2019/ or contact Corinne Bouhier at cdf.sansaislg@gmail.com 6-7 - December Téléthon 2019 Christmas Markets galore !
La Vendée Chippy Weds: ‘Pub Le St Vincent’, St Vincent Sterlanges Thurs: ‘La Bohème’, 69 route du lac, Mervent NEW VENUE for Friday nights Fri: ‘Bar...Miton’, 14 rue Jean Marie Mellisson, Antigny Sat: Last of month : Bar ‘Le Chaps’, La Chapelle Thireuil After 7 years, we will be finishing ‘fish & chips’ at the end of Nov. New owners will be taking over next year. Tel: 02 44 39 16 73 www.lavendeechippy.com OPEN 6 - 8.30pm
MR T’S FRITERIE Regular venues at: • • • • •
Aulnay 17470 (from 6pm) Ballans 17160 La Chapelle 16140 St Jean d’Angély 17400 Les Essards-Saintes 17250
Tel: 06 02 22 44 74 www.frying4u2nite.com
OPEN 6 .30- 9pm
...november 2019 LOCAL MARKETS Mondays.........
Benet 85490 La Châtaigneraie 85120 Lencloître (1st Monday in month) 86140 Tuesdays......... Lezay 79120 Civray 86400 Coulonges-sur-l’Autize 79160 Thouars 79100 - and - Bressuire 79300 Vasles 79340 Wednesdays.... Parthenay 79200 - and - Celles-sur-Belle 79370 Ruffec 16700 Thursdays........ Sauzé-Vaussais 79190 - and - Niort 79000 La Mothe St Héray 79800 Gençay 86160 Friday............... Thouars 79100 - and - Melle 79500 Secondigny 79130 (pm)-and-St Aubin le Cloud (pm) Civray 86400 (small food market) Saturdays........ Bressuire 79300 - and - Champdeniers 79220 Chef-Boutonne 79110 Airvault 79600 - and - Niort 79000 Saint Maixent-l’École 79400 Fontenay-le-Comte 85200 Ruffec 16700 Magné 79460 and Moncoutant 79320 Sundays............ Coulon 79510 - and - Neuville-de-Poitou 86170 Thénezay 79390 Saint-Varent 79330 Saint-Loup-Lamairé 79600
The National Holidays, Religious and Feast Days 2019
CHURCH NOTICES... The Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd, Poitou-Charentes, holds English speaking services. www.church-in-france.com The Filling Station - Poitou-Charentes. Local Christians of all denominations who meet for spiritual renewal and evangelism. www. thefillingstationfrance.com or Carolyn Carter on 05 45 84 19 03. ALL SAINTS, VENDÉE - Puy de Serre. We hold two services each month (+ Sunday school), on the 2nd and 4th Sundays at the church of St. Marthe, Puy de Serre, at 11am. www.allsaintsvendee.fr The Rendez-Vous Christian Fellowship hold meetings throughout the month in the Deux-Sèvres and the Vendée. Contact Chris & Julie Taylor 09 60 49 78 50 or visit: www.therendezvous.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 11.00am (just off the D759, Thouars to Loudun).
1st November All Saints’ Day (Toussaint) 11th November Armistice Day (Armistice) 25th December Christmas Day (Noël) (Dates in bold=Public holidays)
SAMU (Medical Advice) Gendarmes (Police) Pompiers (Fire Service) European Emergency Drugs and Alcohol
TOP HAT QUIZ Nights 4: 7: 11: 13:
Limalonges Chef Boutonne Theil Rabier Aigre
Tel: 05 45 71 70 91 www.tophatquizzes.com FROM 7pm
There will be no January 2020 issue of ‘The DSM’ If you have New Year offers or events to promote, please be sure to send us the information in time for the December issue, (deadline 15 November). Businesses and events advertised in the December issue will benefit from the standard Facebook coverage during January.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS: 15 17 18 12 113
Don’t forget!
Online advertising will run as usual during January.
FISH 4 CHIP & AUTHENTIC INDIAN MEALS
FRYER TUCKS
Mon: Charroux Tues: Sauzé-Vaussais (main square) Weds: Chef Boutonne (near château) Thurs: Sauzé-Vaussais - Eve (main square) Fri: Ruffec (Baobab car park)
1 Fri: Genneton - Café de la Mairie 6.30 - 9pm 15 Fri: Genneton - Café de la Mairie 6.30 - 9pm Every Tuesday: Saint-Jouin-de-Marnes L'Embuscade 5.30 - 8pm
Tel: 06 37 53 56 20 www.mobilefishandchipsfrance.com
Tel: 06 23 25 48 36 www.facebook.com/pg/fryertucks1
OPEN 6 - 8.30pm
Visit each website for further information or to confirm venue and dates The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 5
Getting Out & About Chez Christie’s
BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS CARDS Relations, Charity Packs, Boxes … Buy Any 3 Single Cards ~ Save 1€ !
GREAT GIFT IDEAS : Tapestry,
Scarves, Mugs, Puzzles, Notepads, Candles, Calendars, Diaries, Pens …
LOVELY CHRISTMAS CRACKERS DELICIOUS HOME-BAKING Cream Teas, Cupcakes, Brownies, Rich Fruit Cake, Bread Pudding …
Saturday 23rd November 10am-6pm Le Grand Beaupuits, 79200 St Germain de Longue Chaume Xmas Tombola
Reopens after leave FRIDAY 8th NOV ! www.CHEZCHRISTIES.com 05.49.50.61.94 GENÇAY (86) - behind the Mairie
Siret: 47876969800018
Have you LIKED us on Facebook?
Games Xmas Gifts
Coffee & Cake
Cards
Beautiful Painted Furniture
Marché de Noël Le Grand Beaupuits, 79200, Saint-Germain-de-Longue-Chaume Association number W793001884. www.facebook.com/ The-Funny-Farm-Cat-Rescue
We post regular updates, things to do and promote special offers on our page, so why not pop over and say “Hello”! www.facebook.com/thedeuxsevresmonthly 6 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
Crafts & jigsaws
Party Clothes & Shoes
Books
AMAZON.CO.UK / SHOPS / CHRISTIESGENCAY
Hot Soup & Rolls
Cats & Kittens
Xmas Foods
ENGLISH BOOKS from only 0,50 € --and INTERNET ACCESS & PRINTING Thousands of Books & Cards Online :
Xmas Decorations
HOW TO PREPARE
FOR BREXIT?
If you are a British citizen residing in France: Request your residence permit now. For full details visit www.brexit.gouv.fr You have until 30 April 2020 to request a permit. A residence permit will be mandatory as of 31 October 2020.
FREE ENTRY TO THE DSM ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Simply register on our website: www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 7
Letter from Blighty (October) Dear Frankie Autumn is here, the nights are drawing in fast, leaves are falling all over the place and need to be swept up patiently off lawns and drives; and conkers are hitting the ground (so much so that the owner of a pub in Lincolnshire with a protected horse chestnut tree outside is issuing his external customers with hard hats by way of protection). And after a very dry summer, we are now enjoying a lot of grey clouds and heavy (and welcome) rain. And the political outlook remains decidedly grey if not downright ominous. The rolling drama of Brexit continues to fill the news and airwaves. At the time of writing, with only a few days to go before ‘le crunch’, things are not looking good. The language between the EU and UK has become increasingly undiplomatic and the political temperature has become torrid. Is this the dark before the dawn? Will a deal miraculously appear as the midnight hour strikes? Will we be out on our ear from the EU by the end of the month? Or will a further extension to the negotiations be agreed (with Boris Johnson ‘dying in a ditch’, as he promised)? Only a fool would predict the outcome at this stage. Just keep your fingers firmly crossed, if you want a deal. In the meantime, the rest of the world continues on its dangerous way. Fires burn in the Amazon, there is serious unrest in Iraq, Turkey is poised to move against the Kurds in Syria, and the Republicans and Democrats are at each other’s throats in the USA over the move to impeach Donald Trump. Nearer to home, Extinction Rebellion are bringing parts of Central London to a halt and as soon as one illegal protester is hauled away by the Police, their place is taken by several others. Greta Thunberg, fresh from shaming world leaders at the United Nations and now tipped by some for the Nobel Peace Prize, has certainly started something, I wonder how many of the following news items you spotted in recent weeks: (a) UK banks closed about a third (3,300) of their branches between January 2015 and August 2019; (b) Bob Marley has finally acquired a blue plaque (in Oakley Street, Chelsea); (c) Reading prison, once the ‘home’ of Oscar Wilde and now an LGBT landmark, is up for sale; (d) a Durham pub continued to get adverse reviews on TripAdvisor for five years after it closed in 2011; (e) David Hockney is moving from Los Angeles to Normandy so that he can work and smoke in peace; (f) John Humphrys has retired from the Today programme after 32 years and Graham Norton has admitted that he is not worth his £600,000 a year salary but still takes it because this is his market value. Recent deaths have included Ginger Baker (I nearly typed Rogers!), ‘an obnoxious git’ by his own admission but a maverick drummer and founder of Cream, aged 80; Jacques Chirac (aged 86), who served two terms as President of France, opposed the invasion of Iraq, and enjoyed a somewhat colourful private life; Jessye Norman (aged 74), a soprano possessed of a voice of extraordinary range and richness, who rose to become one of the biggest stars of classical music in the 1970s and 80s.; Brian Barnes (aged 74), Ryder Cup golfer who beat Jack Nicklaus twice in a day; Peter Sissons (aged 77), journalist and broadcaster. Three snippets to end with. Charles Darwin said, ‘If I had my life over again, I would have made a rule to read some poetry and listen to some music at least once every week’. A sign by the lake at the Summer Palace in Beijing reads, ‘No romping’. And, finally, a contributor to a woman’s magazine, asked for the one thing she would like to know before she died, said, ‘What if the hokey cokey really is what it`s all about?’. Yours Johnny
8 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
Mushrooms by Sue Burgess
T
he end of the summer la fin de l’été and the autumn l’automne are the seasons for foraging for mushrooms la cueillette de champignons. It is extremely important to be able to recognise edible mushrooms les champignons comestibles if you intend to eat any of the ones you find. In Deux-Sèvres several people are rushed to hospital each year because they have been poisoned empoisonné/intoxiqué. Some even die. Your local pharmacy la pharmacie may be able to help you identify the mushrooms you have picked but some pharmacists le pharmacien don’t want to take any risks - they don’t want to take the responsibility in case of mistakes.
Cap chapeau, gills lamelles, stipe pied, volva volve… the mushroom has characteristics that are important to know. Learning these characteristics will help you identify the difference between a parasol mushroom une coulemelle or a shaggy parasol mushroom une lépiote déguenillée. The French word champignon is used for both mushrooms champignons comestibles and toadstools champignons vénéneux. Cultivated mushrooms les champignons cultivés can be grown all year round. Paris button mushrooms les champignons de Paris is the most popular cultivated mushroom in the world. They were first served in Versailles in the 17th century and originally grown in Parisian quarries les carrières parisiennes until the end of the 19th century. Nowadays, they are mainly grown in the Saumur region in the Pays de la Loire, in special caves une champignonnière. France is the third largest producer of Paris mushrooms in the world.
Vocabulaire / Vocabulary: velouté de champignons ............ cream of mushroom soup risotto aux champignons ............. mushroom risotto sauce aux champignons .............. mushroom sauce pleurote ...................................... oyster mushroom champignon des bois/ wild mushroom champignon sauvage .................. oreille de Judas/lantin de chène
wood ear mushroom
cèpe............................................
bolete
pied-bleu...................................... blewit girolle chanterelle commune........ chanterelle pied de mouton .......................... hedgehog mushroom morille......................................... morel vesse de loup..............................
puffball
truffe........................................... truffle The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 9
Help for Heroes
by Lisa and Elf Jones
H
aving decided to pursue our dream of a life in France, we sold our home in Dorset and moved to a beautifully restored farmhouse in Étusson, north Deux-Sèvres, our minds filled with ideas and ambition. Continuing the holiday letting business (TLC Gîtes) was our first priority and relatively straight forward to set up. However, our intention was always to do more than just offer accommodation. Back in the UK, Elf worked for The Royal Air Force for 30 years. Having served with many people, as well as tours to the Falkland Islands, Bosnia and Afghanistan, he had first hand knowledge of some of the difficulties experienced by people serving in the Armed Forces. It was therefore only natural that offering respite holidays for serving personnel and veterans, would be part of our plan. We wanted to offer free accommodation to those most in need and therefore approached a few UK based military charities. Help for Heroes were quick to respond and after a series of emails and telephone calls, TLC Gîtes became an approved location for veterans, serving personnel and their families to visit. Help for Heroes, through their Band of Brothers and Band of Sisters programmes, offer a wide range of support to military families especially during difficult times. Many families struggle with injuries, both mental and physical, that are inflicted during their time of service but also have to adapt to a new way of life after leaving the Armed Forces. As they support thousands of people, both serving and veterans, it was clear that the demand for a free respite holiday would be high, which proved to be the case, with over 400 people making applications within a week. In order to manage the demand, Help for Heroes ran a ballot, selecting people at random and offering them a week long holiday at TLC Gîtes. We were delighted with the response and are looking forward to welcoming our first Help for Heroes family at the end of 2019. During their stay, our guests will have the opportunity to experience all the wonderful activities that our region has to offer as well as providing them with aromatherapy treatments and massage on site. We are immensely proud of working alongside Help for Heroes and really look forward to welcoming all our guests to this wonderful part of France. We have first-hand experience of some of the issues service personnel and veterans face and can offer a safe and relaxing place to unwind. For some, it is their first holiday abroad, and for others, a respite break comes at a time when they really need help and support on their journey of recovery.
DID YOU REMEMBER US? Remembrance Day and big parade The bugle blown, the poppies laid And tears are shed for those most dear Who died for us and are not here Did you stand and say a prayer Thinking of those souls out there? Lying in a grave so cold Lots of men with names untold Did you think of the price we paid And who in far off fields are laid? Deep in the cold and lonely ground We cannot hear the bugle sound We gave our lives so long ago When we came here to fight the foe With soldiers from the world so wide We fought so hard, but so many died Nevermore the fields to roam Nevermore to see our home We gave our lives so you'd be free To see the sun, the stars, the sea So live your life and heed our call Be kind and loving to one and all But most of all to those most dear Hold them close and keep them near Our bodies lie in some cold grave But our dear Lord our souls did save He gathered all from far and wide And now we sit here at His side So when you stop to think and pray Remember what you've read today We had a heavy price to pay So you could stand, so quiet, and say WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
Photo below: Somewhere to relax and recoup. Inset photo: Elf in his Royal Air Force years.
by Dennis Davison
10 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
View from the Vendée by Karen Taylor
I love travelling by train in France - it really is a Truly Great Vehicle in my opinion! Yes, you guessed it, I’m talking about the TGV (Train de Grande Vitesse), which for us takes just three and a half hours from La Roche-sur-Yon to Paris. We can arrive five minutes before departure, take as much luggage as we want and pack a random selection of penknives, drinks and nail files - how refreshing! In our experience the train leaves on time and arrives on time, though you can’t overlook the possibility of a strike (a favourite pastime of fonctionnaires in France!). Having said that, we’ve only been caught out once in the past nine years. As you can pick up some amazing bargains if you book three months in advance, we’d already bought our return tickets to Paris well before they announced the strike dates. Apparently travel companies in France are obliged to maintain a skeleton timetable during disputes, so although our allocated train was cancelled, we had the option to jump on any other train on the same day! OK, so three and a half hours sitting on the floor of the refreshment carriage isn’t the most comfortable way to travel, but at least we still got to our destination in good time! Once in Paris, you are spoilt for choice. The capital is much smaller and more compact than London, so you can travel from one end of the city to the other quite easily on the métro. A quick word of warning at this stage - we’ve just returned from our latest visit which we thoroughly enjoyed, but our stay was almost spoilt by an unpleasant incident on the underground. It was the rush hour, the train we were travelling on was packed and as we pulled into Montparnasse station and the doors opened, a large number of passengers descended at the very same moment David realised that his wallet had disappeared! I’ve never seen him move so fast, and me as well apparently, as I was hot on his heels as he leapt off the train and grabbed the pickpocket! All’s well that ends well because he dropped the wallet and made a quick getaway, but it was a lesson learnt…. Paris has been touched by a succession of tragedies in recent years, but it always bounces back stronger than ever. We were interested to see progress on the rebuilding of Notre-Dame Cathedral - although supported by scaffolding at one end, it’s still a hugely impressive building. We’re already planning our next visit…. Fact file Paris - area: 105 km2, population: 2.2 million London - area: 1,570 km2, population: 8.8 million
Karen runs a gîte business near the Vendée coast at:
www.gitedumoulin-vendee.com
French Engineering Marvel of the month: The Millau Viaduct (Le Viaduc de Millau)
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his cable-stayed bridge spans the valley Tarn near Millau in southern France. It was designed by the French structural engineer Michel Virlogeux and English architect Norman Foster (of the Gherkin fame). It is the tallest bridge in the world at 336.4m, part of the A75-A71 autoroute from Paris to Béziers and Montpellier, and took three years to build at a cost of 394€ million. Inaugurated on 14 December 2004, and opened to traffic two days later. History - In the 1980s, high levels of traffic near Millau were causing congestion, especially in the summer due to holiday traffic on the route from Paris to Spain. In 1991 the decision was made to build a high crossing of the Tarn by a structure of around 2,500m in length. In 1995, the government solicited designs for a competition and in 1996 the jury decided in favour of a cable-stayed design with multiple spans, proposed by the Sogelerg consortium led by Virlogeux and Foster. Cost and concrete - The builders, Eiffage, financed the construction in return for a concession to collect the tolls for 75 years. However, if the concession yields high revenues, the French government can assume control of the bridge as early as 2044. The project required 127,000m3 of concrete, 19,000 tonnes of steel for the reinforced concrete, and 5,000 tonnes of pre-stressed steel for the cables and shrouds. The builder claims that the lifetime of the bridge will be at least 120 years. Opposition - Numerous organisations opposed the project citing several arguments, including: • A more westerly route would be better, longer by 3km, but a third of the cost with a more conventional structure. • Because of the toll, the viaduct would be little used, and the project would not solve Millau’s congestion problems. • The pylons, sitting on the shale of the Tarn Valley, would not support the structure adequately! Construction • In March 2002, the pylons emerged from the ground; 4m in height every three days. Thanks to a system of shoe anchorages and fixed rails in the heart of the pylons, a new layer of concrete could be poured every 20 minutes. • The bridge road deck was constructed on land at the ends of the viaduct and rolled lengthwise from one pylon to the next, with eight temporary towers providing additional support. • The mast pieces were driven horizontally over the road deck, joined together, then tilted upwards - a tricky operation. • The deck has an inverse airfoil shape, providing negative lift in strong wind conditions. • The cable stays were made of 55 to 91 high tensile steel cables, themselves made of seven strands of steel. Interesting facts • The Millau Viaduct is 19m taller than the Eiffer Tower! • The speed limit on the bridge was reduced from 130 to 110kph because tourists were slowing down to take photos. • This bridge was featured in the film Mr Bean’s Holiday. The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 11
Clubs & Associations ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 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 experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for A.A. membership and A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.
Want to keep fit, have fun and make new friends? Join us at Vasles Netball Club (no experience necessary). We meet every Monday from 5.30-7pm at the Salle Omnisports in Vasles. For more information contact Lynn on 05 49 63 52 39 or mobile 0044 7527490241
Tai Chi classes
Exercise for the body and mind. Age and physical abilities are no obstacle. Classes are held in Bressuire on Tuesday evenings and Breuil Barret on Friday afternoons. Call Terry on: 05 49 65 60 34 or go to: www.chentaiji-fr.com
Pure Fitness
Telephone: Angela: 05 49 87 79 09, Jim: 00 44 79 60 16 83 30 or Janet: 05 46 26 90 85. Email: publicinfo.swfrance@aa-€pe.net or visit www.aafrance.net for details of English-speaking meetings. Acceuil des Villes Françaises - A French association dedicated to welcoming newcomers, from across France & abroad, to their new environment; helping them integrate, speak French and feel ‘at home’ www.avf.asso.fr through social events. pjhenderson@orange.fr
Franglais Anglo-French Group Thouars - Centre Socio-Culturel
We meet every Wednesday 7.30pm-9pm, at 7 rue Anne Desrays, for conversation in English & French, for a mutual understanding of each other’s language and culture. Contact 05 49 66 35 11 or email jpc. allorent@orange.fr or eugene_mc_cabe@hotmail.com Royal Air Forces Association Sud-Ouest France Le Perail, 17250 BEURLAY, France Tel: 0033 (0)5 46 95 38 89 Mobile: 0033 (0)6 89 90 55 82 Email: admin@rafasudouest.fr https://sites.google.com/site/rafasudouest
Exercise to music classes - every Wednesday 7.30pm-8.30pm Salle des Fêtes, Vernoux-en-Gâtine 79240 For more info contact jane-trescothick@orange.fr
DUPLICATE BRIDGE
Every Monday and Wednesday afternoon 2-6pm in CIVRAY. Lessons available free. Call Marian Green on: 05 49 27 14 52 or email: mazza47@icloud.com
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 demand. Contact: rendez-vous79@orange.fr
TTL Photography Group
Local photography group on the Deux-Sèvres/Vendée border. New members always welcome, all levels of expertise and knowledge. We meet every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 1pm at Pause! L’Absie (79240). Feel free to pop in and join us.
The Jean David Art Group meets every Tuesday at Scillé (79), and Thursdays at Jean’s studio near Chef Boutonne (79). Classes cater for all media and all levels of students - beginners most welcome! For details, please visit www. jeandavidart.com or phone Jean on 06 52 93 33 60. MERIDIEN GREEN ASSOCIATION We are a cross cultural association who aim for closer integration of the inhabitants of St Coutant 79120 and surrounding areas. Free weekly language classes on Monday evenings and Tuesday afternoons. For all our events visit www.meridiengreen.eu THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION LINAZAY, POITOU-CHARENTES BRANCH
AL-ANON Support Group
Please visit the branch website: www.rblpoitou-charentes.fr
Do you wish the Drinking Would Stop? Are you troubled by someone’s drinking? If so we can help. There is now an English-speaking Al-Anon meeting every Wednesday @ 2.30pm in the meeting room behind Civray Mairie. Just turn up or ring Angela on 05 49 87 79 09.
Amateur woodturners/woodworkers interested in joining our association ‘Faisons des Copeaux’. Any level of ability from debutant to experienced. We meet Wednesdays & Thursdays, 2-5pm, every 2 weeks. Contact Roland 05 49 96 44 10, preferably evenings. 12 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
Cancer Support Deux-Sèvres
Aims to improve the lives of people affected by Cancer in the Deux-Sèvres. Please contact the team on 06 40 77 27 35 or visit www.cancersupportfrance.org
PATRON: HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II
by Eric Edwards
UK REGISTERED CHARITY No. 219279 FRENCH L’ASSOCIATION REGISTRATION No. W862000780
A
s ever a list of outlets where you will be able to find Poppy Boxes is published on our website. Unfortunately, this year the number of locations will be very much reduced because our branch is closing in December and we have to collect the boxes, count and pay the proceeds into our accounts before our closing audit. We would like to thank everyone for helping over the last 13 years resulting in a total of over 120 000€, sent to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
www.rblpoitou-charentes.fr
You did it! - Walking For Violet
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any congratulations to David Jeapes and his team for completing his mammoth walk (one million steps) from SaintPardoux to Hastings, East Sussex (where his granddaughter, Violet lives). David is fundraising for Violet (who has Complex Needs) and two other charities - APEEIMC (France) and Charity for Kids (UK).
by John Blair
November already and we are back into our weekly singing, dancing and painting sessions. So here’s the news!
Keynotes Choir
David, Violet and friends celebrate his achievement at St. Leonards-on-Sea.
“How do I feel? I said I would do it, everyone believed that I could and then after thirty days it was successfully completed. The very first question people asked me when I arrived at the finish-line was ‘how do I feel?’ Of course my immediate reaction was to express the joy that I felt to be reunited with Violet and when I first saw her I thought my heart would break. As that initial reaction passed and the enormity of the question dawned on me I began to ponder, if you had walked 478 miles (1,032,843 steps) how ‘should’ you feel? One might think that the obvious answer would be relieved. Relieved that is was over, relieved that it was a success, relieved that I didn’t suffer any injuries, relieved that pretty soon I would be back home with my lovely wife, Suzette, and celebrating with all my friends who, over the last few months, have been so supportive. You might think that I would even be elated, caught up in the celebration of the achievement and with the culmination of so much hard work by so many wonderful people. However, what I actually felt was a sort of malaise, I expected to be really excited and yet I felt sad and deflated. Why? Because for me it was over, but for Violet it was not. For Violet it would never be. The realisation that this day was just another day that Violet has to fight to get through, another day Violet’s mummy and daddy might lose her, a day Violet has to struggle to communicate, a day of multiple seizures, a day that Violet works hard to control her limbs, another day filled with a cocktail of drugs just to carry on living. This day is just like any other day for families living with disability. Another day they have to fight. Fight for equality, money, help, understanding and respect. And then I realised that for me the walk, this journey, has to continue. I know that my family and friends will understand and I know that they will continue to walk beside me. I give heartfelt thanks to all of our supporters, sponsors, friends, family and strangers that have gone above and beyond what my greatest expectation was. I am humbled by their unstinting commitment. So when you ask me ‘how do I feel’, please remember that I am thinking of how the families living with disability feel. It is these families that are important. It’s all about them; it was never about me…” by David Jeapes Because of the kindness of so many people, I’m confident that we will have raised our £15,000 target by October 31st. Thank you! We also have an anonymous benefactor that will be contributing £10,000. Association Violet will continue to raise money for disabled children and have two charity events planned for 2020. Suzette Jeapes
Aidan Fairlie has now taken over the role of Musical Director of the choir and started putting us though our paces. Our new Christmas song books have arrived and we will be introducing some new carols and songs to our repertoire and practising for our many Christmas concerts. We have four weeks to go, a tight schedule but if anyone can get us ready then Aidan can! Linda Fairlie, our superb pianist, is raring to go with our new super-duper keyboard. This keyboard can do just about anything except make a cup of coffee and it cost a lot of pennies. So on the 12 September our Reaction President, Andrea Cornwall, assisted by hubby Geoff, arranged a quiz night to raise some money towards the cost of the keyboard and over 350€ was collected. Well done the Cornwalls.
Out of Kilters
Tony Murdoch, our Scottish Dancing supremo, returned to lead the group at the end of September. As with the choir, we meet at the Café des Belles Fleurs in Fenioux. • Scottish dancing every Thursday evening at 7.30 - 9pm • Keynotes Choir every Friday afternoon 2 - 5pm We will be returning to Oléron next summer but more about that next year.
The Art Scene
Well we actually started in early September and that wonderful lady, Caroline Self, got the group off to a flying start with a demonstration on how to paint bubbles. Talk about jumping off at the deep end! A most difficult subject. Thank you Caroline, brilliant as usual. I then demonstrated painting with pastels for two weeks. The programme for November is as follows: • 1 - Klimt landscapes with Vronni Ward • 8 - Still life oils with Grace McKee • 15 and 22 - Stained glass style in acrylics with Zena Sabestini • 29 - Pastel portraits with John Blair If you would like to become a member and participate in all or any of our groups, you would be very welcome to come along and try us out for a couple of weeks before joining. No experience is required and assistance will be given. New members will be very welcome. Contact johnblair@btopenworld. com for more information.
Best wishes, John
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 13
Hobbies How to write a book review
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by Alison Morton
hy write a book review? Analysing and expressing your thoughts about a book can help you understand it better and enrich your reading experience. Reviews are crucial in letting other readers know what a particular book is about and whether they should invest time in reading it. An honest, well-written book review also helps your favourite authors. Reviews not only provide valuable feedback for the author, they also boost visibility of books on retailer sites, helping more people find the books that you love and want to recommend. Some tips • Before writing, consider who the review is for: online retailer e.g. Amazon, magazine/newspaper article, Goodreads, etc. • Don’t think your review must be erudite or cover several pages. Some of the best reviews can be only three lines long. • Key guideline: it’s about the book, and not you. A few general guidelines • Make notes. Writing down things you want to include helps commit them to memory. • Read the whole book unless it’s so dire you can’t bear it. But be prepared to say why. • Engage your review readers immediately – use the first sentence to state your overall opinion. • Be constructive in your honesty - authors are people too! Nitty gritty • Mention the main theme, genre, whether it’s part of a series, or a debut. • Does it fit into the genre? If not, does that make it a more interesting or engaging book? • Does the book give you a sense of its setting? • What is the author’s ‘voice’ like? • Mention the character development, whether the plot works (but no spoilers, please!), and the writing style. • Is the dialogue lively or dull, correct for the period/setting? Your reactions • Other readers don’t want just facts; they want to know what you thought about the book, how it made you feel. Did you like the story? Hate it? Why? What particularly excited you? What made you want to throw the book away (if you did)? • What did the author do well or could have done better? • Be yourself. Your followers/readers want to hear what you thought of the book, and in your own voice. Extras • Include comments on any illustrations, reading guide, map, family chart, glossary, etc. and whether there are any incorrect facts. (Check very carefully, though, before you say so!) • DO NOT include half the plot, or heaven forbid, the whole plot, or spoilers in your review. (No one enjoys spoilers.) And finally, check your formatting • Space out your paragraphs so your review is easily readable. • Don’t use ALL CAPS ever in a review. • Don’t overdo punctuation, such as multiple exclamation points or question marks. • Proofread your review for grammar, spelling mistakes, typos, etc. before sending it in or publishing it. A simple typo or error can discredit your review in the eyes of readers. These are just a few guidelines – you don’t need to do all of this but I hope it encourages you to leave a review after you’ve finished reading that book on your bedside table.
Happy reviewing!
Alison has compiled a selection of articles from this column into ‘The 500 Word Writing Buddy’, available on Amazon and in paper format at events. Her ninth book in the Roma Nova thriller series, NEXUS, came out in September. 14 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
YOUR Book Reviews
Warm thanks go to Gordon Simms and Beverly Milton for sharing their book review with us. If you’d like to send us a book review, please email it to: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr
TRANSCRIPTION by Kate Atkinson Set in post-war London (the third of a series) Atkinson vividly encapsulates the grey years of austerity, but laced with the intrigue of the seamy world of espionage. The narrative is a mix of sharp humour, reflection and passages of well-paced action. The narrative does not follow a strictly linear course, so that the reader may revisit a familiar scenario but with added material, thus learning more as the layers unravel. The voice is third-person, but very much in the head of the principal character, Juliet Armstrong, who, whether observing idiosyncrasies of life within children’s broadcasting at the BBC, or dutifully transcribing secret recordings of inane discussions between fifth-columnists, retains a questioning attitude to the purposefulness of her employment. The apparent futility of her activities does not deter her from the hope that she is in some way contributing usefully to Britain’s recovery from the shattering effects of the war. Miss Armstrong is in fact caught up in clandestine affairs to a much greater degree than she realises, and much of the intrigue (and the humour) derives from her encounters with colleagues whose functions and operational methods are not at all clearly defined. The author often quotes a phrase or sentence which has been spoken by another character in a previous scene, and whilst these echoes may be amusing they are usually cautionary, serving to undermine Juliet’s confidence in carrying out her undercover work. This device is reversed on occasion, so that the repeated echo in fact becomes a foretaste, serving to underline the inevitabilities associated with her activities, and thus increasing the paranoia which eventually overtakes her. The central character nonetheless retains her sense of humour in challenging the attitudes and behaviours of her contemporaries, lending the novel an aura of ironic detachment with which today’s reader may readily identify. by Gordon Simms
DEATH IN HOLY ORDERS by P.D. James New Scotland Yard Commander Adam Dalgleish is asked to take a second look at the death of a student at St. Anselm’s theological college. His initial examination of the evidence reveals nothing, but when a much-disliked visiting Archdeacon, who is seeking to close the school entirely, is brutally killed, Dalgleish must determine if the motive is related to the school or the result of something more personal. We are given an array of disfunctional characters, all with secrets they are hiding under their cassocks, from which we formulate our own conclusions. The plot twists and turns and keeps us guessing to the very last page. Never has insomnia been so enjoyable and I raced through the book in double quick time, for me. I will be perusing the book sales of the Deux-Sèvres for other P.D James’ titles. by Beverly Milton
MOVIES
We’ve got racing, murder, creepy families and a haunted dress in our pick of this month’s cinematic offerings - what more could you ask for?
FORD Vs FERRARI (13 November) Matt Damon and Christian Bale share the screen in the true story of American car designer Carroll Shelby (Damon) and British driver Ken Miles (Bale) journey to beat Ferrari and win the 1966 Le Mans race. Petrol heads will of course be at the front of the queue to watch this, and they’ll be thrilled with the action on offer. Director James Mangold (Logan) throws us into the breathless world of classic racing, while remembering to flesh out the characters in the narrative pit stops. Perhaps not an Oscar front runner, but an engaging drama nonetheless. IN FABRIC (20 November) Marianne Jean-Baptiste plays a lonely woman who finds a dress in a mysterious department store that fits perfectly. However, she soon finds that the dress possesses an evil power that threatens people in her life. Proudly peculiar, this horror comedy delves into consumer vanity and campy horror for a mix that is a little different to what you’re used to, but will be a treat for those who like their cinema out of left field. It’s also a pleasure to see Jean-Baptiste being given the spotlight after years as a compelling support actor in films like Secrets & lies and TV shows such as Sons of Anarchy. KNIVES OUT (27 November) Director Rhian Johnson (The Last Jedi) dives into Agatha Christie territory for an old fashioned whodunit! Daniel Craig plays a charming detective who is tasked with finding the murderer of an elderly millionaire (Christopher Plummer). An all star cast including Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Colette and more bring the fun in a new take on the classic murder mystery that mixes a clever plot with moments of hilarity to make for a great night at the movies. THE ADDAMS FAMILY (4 December) The creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky family are back on the big screen in animated form, this time trying to save their beloved home from a ruthless developer. An incredible cast provides the voices - Charlize Theron as Morticia, Oscar Isaac as Gomez, Chloë Grace Moretz as Wednesday and Bette Midler as Grandma would be perfect for live action, however here they infuse enough personality to match the energy of the animation. A great twist on a familiar franchise.
Release dates are nationwide in France.
Winners of the Charroux Memoir Prize 2019 by Kate Rose
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he winners of the Charroux Memoir Prize 2019 are Matt Bryden for his poem Crossing the Owl’s Bridge and Moira Ashley for her short memoir, Encounter in the Forest. The first and second prizes were awarded to Gail Anderson, Lawrence Illsey, Sally Pearson and Debra Lewis. Deux-Sèvres based poet, Gordon Simms judged the poems from a selection of 118 entries, while the short memoir attracted 67 entries, was judged by the travel and food author, Susie Kelly. Entries to the competion exceeded expectation for the first year, with submissions from across the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, Belgium, Spain and Portugal as well as the United States and Canada. A celebration event is being hosted by the Charroux Litfest team in Confolens on the 25 October, to include readings of poems and memoir, and a showcase of local authors. To find out more about the festival or read the winning entries go to: www.charrouxlitfest.com
Take a Break - SOLUTIONs - P.25
Easy Crossword: Across: 1. bedsit 4. osprey 8. sprat 9. absinth 10. gorge 11. liberty 12. analgesic 15. Bermuda 16. piano 17. epitaph 18. stump 19. archer 20. abroad Down: 2. employ 3. slanging match 5. prime minister 6. estate 7. calligraphy 13. keeper 14. anemia Toughie Crossword: Theme followed just in the corners - parts of the body Across: 1. trunk 4. forearm 8. moa 9. works well 10. LXIII 11. enabler 13. shot in the dark 16. fussier 18. Corfu 19. macadamia 21. dak 22. ribcage 23. nerve Down: 1. temples 2. unanimous 3. Kuwaiti 4. far be it from me 5. rasta 6. ave 7. molar 12. lead rider 14. enchain 15. knuckle 16. femur 17. India 20. cob Brain Gym: Q1. 1. December. The other only have 30 days. 2. Calculus. The others are cloud types. 3. Cabbage. The others grow underground.Q2. Both hurricanes. Q3. They were skydiving, and she was unconscious. He pulled the ripcord ring for her, and the parachute opened. Q4. Divide them in groups of 4. Then, put each group below the other, and read column wise - See it is not so easy Q5. ‘Each’ is the name of one of the kings Q6. Three for one pair, and twelve to ensure one pair of each color. Q7. 984 feet. Q8. a) potatoes b) mother-in-law
FILMS IN ENGLISH.....
look for screenings in ‘VO’ or ‘VOST’ Bressuire Le Fauteuil Rouge: www.lefauteuilrouge.fr CineChef, Chef-Boutonne: email: cine-chef@orange.fr Salle Belle Epine, La Châtaigneraie: filmsinenglish.lachat@gmail.com L’échiquier at Pouzauges: www.echiquier-paysdepouzauges.fr Melle cinema: www.lemelies-melle.info Niort CGR cinema: www.cgrcinemas.fr/niort/# Niort Moulin du Roc: www.moulinduroc.asso.fr Parthenay Cinema: www.cinema.foyer.cc-parthenay.fr/foyer and find others at www.allocine.fr The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 15
Patc hwor k Bo rders Last month we looked at creating a patchwork square and the techniques involved. This month the project continues as we look at how to finish the outside edge of our patchwork piece with a decorative border.
by Nicola Chadwick
Th e straig ht bo rde r wit h co rne r squ
are s
1. Follow step on of the straighte border and ad two side borders tod the main piece.
Most quilts are finished with e, stabilise the work and piec the e fram borders. They help border as a frame. the of k protect the edges. I like to thin our frames. They can be We can be as creative as we like with narrow. Once you know or wide k, thic plain, patterned, thin or nt as much as you like. rime the various techniques you can expe that we never cut borders The only rule we need to follow is ld stretch and be no good wou on the cross grain, as the border t borders are cut on the for stabilising the piece. The strongesof the fabric. edge selv straight grain, alongside the Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s look at the straight border as this
T h e st ra ig ht b
o rde r
size as the top of the piece 2. Cut two strips that are the same add 1cm seam allowance - but without the side border added, to the ends to allow for stitching.
is the simplest.
1. Decide on the width you would like your border to be, for example 5cm. Cut two strips of fabric the same length as the piece you are working on. You will need to add seam allowance to your chosen finished width to allow for sewing. If the border is 5cm finished then you will need 1cm seam allowance for both the internal and external join. 2. Place the border to the patchwork with right sides together and stitch. Press the seam allowance towards the border side.
h of the border and the 3. Now cut four squares to the widt allowance all around seam 1cm add er, bord the height of end of the border piece. these squares. Join a square to each 4. Now apply the joined borders to the main piece. Make sure that the seams match at the squa res. The square corners should be in line with the previous bord er.
3. Measure the top and bottom of the piece (they should be the same), cut two strips to that length and to the width you require (adding your seam allowance to the width). 4. Now sew the top and bottom strips into position as before and press the seam allowances to the border side.
For a different look you can make the strips from patchwork squares. There is also no need to stop at one border, why not experiment with two or three!
16 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
You now have the skills to create some stunning borders. I would love to see pictures of your creations. As always you can find out lots more information about sewing and pattern making at my blog page www.modeliste-creative.com Nicola
Spotlight Veluché Remembered by Beryl Brennan
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hat links Morocco, Poland and Airvault? The answer is Veluché – a small hamlet in the commune of Assais-les-Jumeaux just outside Airvault. During WWII the site was firstly an army camp for training the Poles who fought with the French; secondly there is a cemetery for 26 of the Moroccans who died as prisoners of war in the camp and thirdly, Airvault is twinned with Wisznice in eastern Poland.
Training only lasted a few months and in May 1940 the 2nd Division was sent to the Front at Nancy and yet another 1,100 new recruits arrived at Veluché for training. In June 1940 evacuation orders were received from General Sikorski, Prime Minister of the Polish government in exile, and before the arrival of German troops some 3,000 Polish troops sailed from La Rochelle to England to support the British forces. Sadly they didn’t all make it. On 18 June 1940 at Airvault Station, the train which was to transport them to the port was bombed by German planes and eight soldiers were killed. Their resting place is at Airvault cemetery where a memorial service was organised in their honour in September 2000. With the arrival of the Germans, the camp became Fronstalag 231 and converted into an internment camp for mainly Moroccan and Algerian prisoners of war captured fighting with French forces – some Senegalese and Tunisians also. They were forced to work in local fields and factories but because of malnutrition, dreadful sanitary conditions and an epidemic of tuberculosis and dysentry, many of the 1,500 prisoners died because medical treatment was denied by the Nazis. In February 1941 the surviving prisoners were moved to Fronstalag 230 at Poitiers.
Following the annexation of Poland by Nazi Germany in September 1939, a Franco-Polish agreement was signed, which responded to the desire of Polish emigrants and refugees living in France to join the fight against Nazi Germany and free their country. On 16 November 1939 the decision was made to set up a military camp for the training of fighting units of the 2nd and 4th Polish Divisions, under the orders of a Polish government in exile in Angers, and which included some Hungarian and Romanian refugees.
After the Liberation in 1945, 26 corpses were discovered under a pile of stones and these now lie at rest in a small military cemetery up a track overlooked by the camp water tower, opposite the entrance to the main Veluché camp and maintained by local Airvaudois. In all, over 90,000 African prisoners of war were interned in France.
Specialist civilians, Spanish former soldiers and political refugees fleeing the Franco regime supplied the labour to build the camp, which had to be totally self-sufficient. It included 50 barracks, hospital, stables, bakery, kitchen, armament stores and more, covering a triangular zone of 3km in length and a base of 1.5km. It needed a water supply, a road access network, electrification and a narrow gauge railway line to be built to facilitate internal transport and link up with Airvault railway station.
Today the site at Veluché has been reclaimed by nature, overlooked by the water tower built to supply the camp. Foundations of some of the barracks are still visible and the entrance to the site is marked by a traditional Polish cross covered in small pebbles made and erected for the inhabitants of Airvault at the time of the soldiers’ departure for England. It bears the inscription ‘Cross erected by the Poles in 1940. Designed by an officer named Lewinsky, an architect from Poland, after a traditional type of cross of the Polish countryside’.
In December 1939 more than 3,000 Polish recruits arrived at Veluché, their number reaching 15,000, many men being quartered in vacant houses and agricultural buildings until the building work was completed. Their training ground was on the plain of Assais between Migny and Les Jumeaux and a shooting range occupied a similar vast area around Availles to St Jouin. Miniature blockhouses and observation posts were developed, four are still visible on the road from Saint-Jouin to Oiron. In all, 32,000 men were to pass through training in the camp in less than a year.
Many of the local inhabitants feel close ties with the Polish soldiers who lived in their area for nearly a year and in October 2010 a twinning committee was formed with Wisznice in Poland, which lost many of its Jewish citizens during the Nazi occupation of that country. In May 2005 some 300 children from 28 schools in the area visited Airvault and the site at Veluché to pay homage to the Polish and French soldiers who had fought to free their two countries.
It is hard to imagine the impact this must have had on the local population – suddenly this mass of soldiers transplanted on them – but probably all positive. Until the camp was completed, it is likely the local businesses prospered with the increased clientele.
To visit the site, take the D46 from Saint-Loup-sur-Thouet to Airvault and Veluché Polish Memorial is signposted right.
Background photo: A military cemetery opposite the entrance to the Veluché camp. Top left photo: a traditional Polish cross marks the entrance to the camp. Inset photo below: The water tower built to supply the camp.
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 17
Home & Garden
Love your
garden
by Greenfingers
November The leaves have fallen to the ground with rustling sound so soft Soon winter will come marching in, with leaden skies aloft. Bright autumn hues of red and gold have faded to dull brown, But soon an ermine mantle, will cover all the ground, These precious days we’ll treasure, when winter’s in full bloom, The memories of our golden times, will banish all the gloom. Ardenelle M. Mason
N
ovember is bringing us nearer to the end of the year, but it is still a month full of colour and ‘busyness’ in the garden. The fading light in the afternoon means getting outside earlier to get the jobs done. A lot of it is tidying, cleaning and clearing, but at the same time we can see the bare bones of the garden - many plants have been cut back and growth has, for the most part, stopped - except for the bulbs that we’ve planted and the cuttings we have made. It’s a time to take stock: What needs moving? How can I change that flower bed? When can I start the wildflower ‘meadow’? Can I grow more veg? Now there is time to consider these questions. Pencil and paper, websites, seed catalogues, garden design programmes, all are useful and our imaginations and ideas can turn into reality, sitting in a comfy armchair with a cup of tea or coffee.
18 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
I managed to get to the UK for the annual Mavern Autumn Show. As usual it was interesting, informative and full of good things to buy. Something for all the family! The weather was absolutely foul, with strong winds and heavy downpours and in fact the show directors were suggesting that people leave for home before the show actually closed, as they were concerned for visitors’ safety on the roads. Carol Klein and Joe Swift were there for question and answer sessions (always worthwhile) and as usual, the plant stalls were irresistible! I bought foxtail lilies (Eremurus) for the first time and I’m hoping for some success when I plant them. They look like huge dried spiders with a hard bulb in the centre. They need well drained soil with a ‘hump’ of gravel mixed with compost for them to sit on, so they don’t become waterlogged. The flower spikes can be more than a metre long - spectacular! I’ll let you know of their progress! Our hotel is already booked for the Malvern Spring Show next year. Now is the time to: • Plant bare root trees, shrubs and hedging as soon as you have bought them or heel them into a spare flower or veg bed to protect them from drying out and to encourage root growth. • Remove fallen leaves from around perennials and low growing sedums to prevent rotting at the centre of the plants. • Cut back overlong shoots on rose bushes to prevent damage from windrock. • Remove plant supports from borders, clean, dry and store. • Continue to collect seeds from plants as they ripen and store in a cool dark place in envelopes, paper bags or jars. • Buy fleece if you haven’t any, or find where you stored it last year in preparation for early frosts. Wrap precious tender plants when a frost warning is given even if it turns out only to be a light one, better safe than sorry! I found some fleece bags with zipped sides last autumn and they proved invaluable for protecting bigger shrubs like lemon trees and the ginger lilies. • Plant tulips now, ensuring they are covered with at least two or three times the bulbs ‘length’ in compost. If they are being planted in layers with other bulbs, they will tolerate deeper planting. Finish planting other spring flowering bulbs. Pots can be covered with fine metal mesh to prevent squirrels from digging them up. • There are lots of bulbs available in the supermarkets, garden centres and online at the moment so there is plenty of choice.
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It is still not too late to take root cuttings from perennials such as Dicentra, phlox or Japanese anemones. Select thick, healthy looking roots, cut into pieces about 6-8cms in length, lay them on damp compost and cover lightly with vermiculite or perlite and leave in a cool place to root. Indoor bulbs such as paperwhite narcissus, can be planted now in pots, to flower around Christmas time. Grow in a well lit, cool place. Make sure that the greenhouse is clean and free from debris, dead leaves and moss. Ensure that mould and moss don’t grow around new young plants and rooted cuttings, and ventilate the space to prevent fungal infections and green mould taking hold. Clean bird feeders and bird baths to prevent avian infections and top up food regularly. Continue to remove fallen leaves from ponds; clean and service any pumps and water features and thin out oxygenating plants. Winter prune apple and pear trees, removing any dead, dying or diseased wood. Cut out any branches that are crossing with others, as they will rub the bark away and allow disease in. Pruning in winter promotes growth and is a time, whilst there is no foliage on the branches, to shape the tree too. Look at side shoots, if they are long and whippy, reduce their length by half to a bud that you can feel on the branch. If branches are growing inward, cut them right off. The resulting effect, should allow you to look right through the tree and make it easier for air to circulate and for the sun to get to all the developing buds and fruit. Pruning nectarine, plum and peach trees is similar. Remove large central branches to encourage an open system. As above, each branch will then receive an optimal amount of sunlight. Cover late beetroot and carrot crops with straw or cardboard to prevent frost damage. Make the first prune of grape vines at the end of the month and finish it by the end of January. Keep on harvesting leeks, kale, winter cabbage, parsnips and Brussels sprouts. The flavour of parsnips is better if they’ve been left in the ground for one frost. Store lifted root vegetables in trays of moist sand. Clear plant debris from veg plots and sow green manure which can be dug in, in spring. Check pelargoniums for rust or mould on the leaves and if affected, remove immediately. The hairy leaves on these plants tend to trap moisture and this can easily lead to the development of fungal disease or mould. Prune currant bushes and make hardwood cuttings from the prunings if needed. Cut straight stems about 20cms long; remove all the lower leaves, just leaving a few at the top. Fill pots with a good potting compost and push each stem into the compost around the edge of the pot; water well and leave in a sheltered spot to root. Sow broad beans and garlic if not already done. Prune acers now rather than later to avoid the risk of sap ‘bleeding’ from the cut ends of stems.
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Trees and shrubs that need moving can be moved now whilst the earth is still relatively warm. Check tree stakes and ties to make sure they are secure but not too tight. Put gravel/grit around alpines and make sure that dying leaves are removed to prevent rotting. Blackspot can overwinter on fallen leaves around roses, so collect all fallen leaves and dispose of them. Trees can be planted now, either bought potted or as bare root specimens. There are lots of varieties available in garden centres locally, but perhaps more unusual ones are available online. If you have a small garden, acers are a good buy. Preferring acidic soil, the red leaved varieties are slower growing than the greener types. Examples include Acer palmatum ‘Atropurpureum’, Acer palmatum ‘ Bloodgood’ and Acer palmatum ‘Garnet’. Cornus controversa, the Wedding cake tree, is a lovely white flowered, tiered type, slow growing and reaching about four to seven metres in height. Junipers are evergreen, tall, slim and elegant, taking up little space and add height to a border. Juniperus ‘Skyrocket’ is a good variety. Magnolias produce flowers before leaves in the spring and lift the spirits with their white or pink blooms. Plant up some troughs for colour during the winter. Bedding pansies and violas are available now and both are extremely frost hardy and will flower right through until spring with regular deadheading and feeding. Mixtures of cyclamen, Heucheras, ornamental cabbage, ivy, carex grass and heathers make a good display and the colours are very cheering. Tear off suckers from the base of trees and cut out any found growing from the bases of roses. Sow seeds of hardy annuals for an early display next year, and sow sweet peas into deep pots or rootrainers. Make sure gutters are clear of leaves so that rain water can flow freely into water butts. Plant rhubarb now. Do not completely bury the crowns, they will probably rot if you do. Add compost to the soil and water in well. November is the month when most leaves finish falling from the trees. Collect up the leaves, put into black bin bags. Water them well and tie up the tops of the bags. Make small holes in the sides and leave the bags somewhere out of the way…the end of the garden? The leaves will rot down and give you leaf mould. This makes a very good potting compost and soil improver, and it’s free! Raise pots and containers up onto bricks or pot feet to prevent plants from becoming waterlogged. Dig up dahlia tubers after the first frost and store in a cool dry place.
Happy gardening, wrap up warm!
Greenfingers
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 19
20 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 21
Where We Live...
New Life by Justin Wescombe
M
y favourite film used to be Close Encounters of the Third Kind. I must have watched it a hundred times, sitting bemused as Richard Dreyfuss fed his obsession for the Devil’s Tower by building a model inside his house using mud and plants from the garden. “Is that what adults really do?” I would think, looking with concern towards my parents, “surely, no one behaves like that in real life”. Many years later, as my marriage disintegrated and I knew serious changes were ahead, it was my turn to ‘behave like that’. Thankfully, I didn’t build giant mud-pies in front of the television but as I searched for somewhere new to call home, I would obsess about the numerous places where I have lived, mentally swiping left for the most trivial of reasons. I swiped right once… the Loire; my Devil’s Tower. I had a clean slate. I could move anywhere. It was both exciting and terrifying. I have spent my life travelling the world, but this time was different. It wasn’t a temporary multi-year assignment, nor the result of an impulsive thought “I wonder what it is like to live in …”, this was it; flying ducks on the wall, chintz curtains at the window and eventually a dog. My version of ‘The Good Life’. I was choosing a place to call home. My background is startups in the technology industry. It made sense to begin in Nantes, an up-and-coming tech centre but it wasn’t right. I tried, I really did. I wasn’t quite at the stage of wearing a Steve Jobs’ style black skivvy, but I had my laptop and I did sit in cafés. In the end, I had to be honest - who was I kidding, those days are gone. I didn’t have the burn anymore and I was too broken anyway. I just didn’t have the desire to change the world one click or micro transaction at a time. I didn’t want to pitch to investors or discuss in mind-shattering detail the capital structure for the nineteenth time. Once upon a time I could justify the extravagant valuations of a company selling any form of stupidity on the internet, now I am as bemused as anyone with the valuation, and relevance, of the latest unicorn. Maybe it is just an age thing or I am really turning into my father.
One Saturday morning in Nantes, sick of everything, I caught a train with plans to visit Chinon and its extraordinary château. Of course, I would make time for a long lunch and perhaps a glass of my favourite red wine. Once I realised the journey took forever, I lost interest and disembarked at Saumur. It was market day and I was quickly hooked. The market leeched along the lanes and passages of the town. Place Saint-Pierre was full of stalls and people. There was life; I felt alive. I stopped at the café Saint Amour for a coffee and started talking to the delightful patronne. I asked about houses for sale and was told “yes, there is a house for sale; 15th century”. Tentatively I asked whether it needed renovation. “No” came the quick reply. I am full of envy of those who can transform three bricks and a roof tile into a home but sadly, Lego is the limit of my ability. When I saw its location and realised that I could walk to a café for my morning coffee, it was a done deal before I had even seen it. The owners were keen to sell before retirement so the deal was done quite quickly. My notaire was amazingly patient with the Englishman who spoke French like a Spanish cow. He shook his head as he read the engineer’s report: “It is in excellent condition” he confirmed, probably bemused that an English person would want to buy a house that didn’t need total renovation. I asked a few questions which I thought showed my intellect but, in reality, were an indictment of my naivety. On the first of December, I packed my car with the basics and drove away from what had been my family home. It was the toughest thing I have ever done and I can still feel the pit in my stomach as I pulled out of the driveway. I hope I never feel like that again in my life. Fortunately, an old school friend of mine came along to help with the move and we laughed our way across France. The next few days were a blur as I signed document after document before finally receiving the keys to the house. My school friend and I moved my scant belongings into the house before heading straight out to the square where we celebrated my new life and new house, with the inevitable steak, frites and red wine. We had to return to the square the next morning for a coffee or ten. I have been in the house almost a year and I love it. The Café Saint Amour was my anchor when I first arrived and became my second home. The patronne, now sadly moved on, took me under her wing and introduced me to everyone. She was always there with a smile and a coffee whether ordered or not. I made friends with many of the regulars; one of whom, is now a good friend and I see him most days. He speaks no English and I speak rubbish French but we manage to knock along somehow. I have been invited to the most wonderful events. One of the most memorable was deep in a cave, dug into a hillside by those seeking the foundation rock of the Loire - tuffeau. It is owned by a local stonemason who uses it as a source, storeroom, workroom and showroom but as the candelabra lit table shows (below), it makes a wonderful dining room as well.
Photograph this page: Subterranean dining in the tuffeau of the Loire. Opposite page: 2CV racing … on water!(left), getting caught up in a gilets jaunes riot (centre) and the art of the illuminator - a page created on velum (right). Background: Saumur © Wikimedia Commons/Martin Falbisoner
22 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
I made friends slowly both local and expat. It’s a cliché but a smile really does work wonders. I was dreading my first Christmas alone and wanted to simply lock myself away and yet was invited to lunch by the most wonderful people and had a fantastic day. People have been incredibly kind with their time and generous with their help. I have been very fortunate. I rarely said “no” or “I can’t be bothered” so I went to every vide-grenier, place of interest and château that I could find - I still do. I turn off the GPS and relish getting lost. I have a camera with me at all times. It is totally liberating. Despite their size and frequently falling population most towns and villages seem to have a range of events to amuse both the inhabitants and visiting tourists. My most recent expedition was to a nearby village which advertised 2CV racing … on water. For some reason, fans rip apart a 2CV before fitting it with a powerful outboard motor and hull, and then race across a local lake. It was a typically French day: food, wine, conviviality and utterly bonkers. One of my favourite excursions is not a place but a person. In a nearby town lives one of only two illuminators in France. He uses the same technique as those who lived in the abbey centuries ago to create the most wonderful and vivid illuminated page. It is incredible to watch his patience as he floats slivers of gold leaf onto velum followed by hand crushed pigments of the most radiant earth colours. I wanted to ask the inevitable question: “if it takes you weeks to create one page, what happens if you make a serious mistake?” but I didn’t want to hear the answer. Exploring has not always been a success. One Saturday, whilst walking through Nantes oblivious to the world, my eyes started watering. Looking up, I realised that I had walked between a line of gilets jaunes who were quite happily throwing paint and rocks at the local CRS, who reciprocated with generous amounts of tear gas. Once they realised that I was just an oblivious idiot and not the person with the half-time oranges, I was quickly marshalled behind the line of police, so play could continue. Initially, I butchered a beautiful language (and I know that I still do), but I didn’t give up and rabbited on. On many occasions, I wanted the earth to open up, as the target of my beautifully constructed sentence looked at me with a blank face or even worse, replied in English. Sometimes I grinned like an idiot when I received a nod of comprehension, after using an idiom that had been repeated countless times in my head before I even dared open my mouth.
Fortunately, I enjoy cooking. I haven’t tried making fouée yet but I will. I have mastered a few dishes but ruined countless others so I am frequently reduced to bread and cheese which, in France, is no punishment especially when paired with one of the amazing Loire wines. I try to assuage my love of anything sweet with a quick uphill stroll from the house to the château of Saumur and beyond (it happens regularly which is probably more a testament to my lack of willpower than my interest in the château). The château at Saumur like many others is now pretty bland; corridor after corridor of perfectly presented rooms with ‘advanced augmented reality guides’ and an ever changing calendar of events and displays. Whilst enjoyable, my favourite has to be a ruin - Montbazon. It is not the ruin itself (although there is a great working trebuchet), but the story of its founder, Fulk Noir; 11th century Count of Anjou also known as the Black Raven that is so fascinating (unfortunately, this name always triggers images of Rowan Atkinson). Fulk Noir would make a great subject for a Sunday night pot-boiler, especially as his grandson Geoffrey and Geoffrey’s wife Mathilda, were the first of the line so adored by authors and screenwriters - the House of Plantagenet. It is worth visiting. If this makes it sound as if my life in France has been a chapter from a Peter Mayle book, it hasn’t. These are the highlights, edited highlights of a year of my life. There have been moments, many moments when I look in the mirror, shudder, and think I must be mad. There are times when I want to throw everything in the car and move on, again; the life of a nomad is difficult to shake. I still haven’t come to terms with the bureaucracy or the seeming indifference of many people in positions of responsibility. I miss the family life, but, fortunately, those moments tend to pass quickly. If they linger then I go exploring, head out to take photographs, wander down to the café or simply walk by the sadly depleted Loire; any of which quickly puts life back into perspective. I belong in the Loire, it is now home and for that I am grateful. I have indulgently given myself the rest of the year off. My brain and bank manager tell me I am mad but my heart knows I need it, anything I do this year would be a mess. Next year, I will be back in (not on, hopefully for everyone) the game. In the calm of the present, I have already formulated plans for new startups. Not the skivvy-wearing, software-focused ones of my past but those that meld emerging technology with the world of the Loire - the best of all worlds as far as I am concerned.
I was told the best way to master French is to read. However, whilst some books were absorbing, I found the majority of the masters of French literature a bit overwhelming and so, it is not the language that has captivated me but something far simpler - a bread oven. One that is frequently found sitting in the corner of a restaurant or if outdoors, on a trailer. Every now and again little pieces of heaven float out, fouée: a small, light and airy bread. It can be savoury or sweet. It really doesn’t matter as they are both wonderful but for breakfast, fresh out of the oven with butter and jam, unbelievable.
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 23
Motoring
FIND the CHEAPEST FUEL prices in your area. This government run website provides comparative petrol and diesel prices in all areas of France. Just simply select your department from the map, and voilĂ !
www.prix-carburants.gouv.fr
24 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
Take a Break DSM Easy Crossword
Across: 1. Small sitting room with sleeping accommodation (6) 4. Large harmless hawk (6) 8. Small herring processed like a sardine (5) 9. Strong green spirit flavoured with wormwood and anise (7) 10. A deep ravine (5) 11. Leave granted to a sailor (7) 12. A medicine used to relieve pain (9) 15. A group of islands in the Atlantic off the Carolina coast (7) 16. A keyboard instrument (5) 17. An inscription on a tombstone(7) 18. Any three upright wooden posts that form a wicket (5) 19. A person who is expert in the use of a bow and arrow (6) 20. In a foreign country (6)
Down: 2. Engage or hire for work (6) 3. A bitter verbal quarrel with the exchange of insults (8-5) 5. The head of the government in the UK (5-8) 6. Everything you own; all of your assets (6) 7. Beautiful handwriting (11) 13. One having charge of buildings or grounds or animals (6) 14. A deficiency of red blood cells (6)
With thanks to Rob Berry
Across: 1. Work, keeping within restrictions of thick, main body? (5) 4. Prepare, using previous convictions about discrimination in music? (7) 8. Second article on extinct bird?(3) 9. Something made by a toff proves to be successful? (5, 4) 10. That makes nine times, seven have recorded that in Rome! (5) 11. Rebel, an alternative way to become an organiser? (7) 13. The kind a short fabrication takes to make a lucky guess? (4, 2, 3, 4) 16. More exacting US fries recipe? (7) 18. Top military man OK about radio frequency coming from island? (5) 19. Tree giving rain protection for first man to get to heart of liar? (9) 21. Being the first to decide about Korean mulberry tree? (3) 22. Protecting vital organs With thanks to M.Morris from anger over one taking aback regularly? (7) 23. Never confuse this with cheek! (5)
Brain Gym
Q1. One of the four words does not belong with the other three. Which word does not belong? 1. April, December, November, June 2. Cirrus, calculus, cumulus, stratus 3. Carrots, radishes, potatoes, cabbages Q2. Craig died in Florida. Shortly after, Tracy died at sea. Nobody mourned. In fact, everyone was absolutey delighted. Why? Q3. A man grabbed a woman’s ring and pulled on it, then dropped it. How did this save her life? Q4. Decipher this code - S T O E E I T A E S S S I N O Y (Hint - count and you will have the answer!)
Q5. Q6. Q7. Q8:
Down: 1. Politician joining large number in NE river, arriving at places of worship? (7) 2. A Stubbs, for example, in turning out tailless rodent has no dissenters? (9) 3. Middle eastern leaders know unity will always improve their interests. (7) 4. “It’s not my habit to intrude”, but now I’m free from a BT conversion! (3, 2, 2, 4, 2) 5. I join a sect, being in character as tactician? (5) 6. Address of bereavement centre in Rome? (3) 7. PM in exchange of crusher for Arctic region? (5) 12. Heavy metal condition for wearer of yellow jersey? (4, 5) 14. English tea in tie-up? (7) 15. The kind of duster keeping Ken in luck? The opposite, and very upset! (7) 16. Setter turned over in thick skin, getting a bone? (5) 17. I find I adore the cradle of the sub-continent? (5) 20. Work animal finding love in two- way radio set up. (3)
There are 50 horses and 50 kings riding along an old dirt road. They came to a peach tree with 50 peaches. Each took one, yet there were still 49 left. How is this possible? I have 10 red socks and 10 blue socks in a drawer. How many socks must I take out to ensure that I have at least one matching pair? How many to ensure I have at least a pair of red and a pair of blue? The Eiffel Tower’s height is 492 feet plus half its own height. How high is the eiffel tower? Can you work out the well known phrase or saying from the visual clues? b. a.
Pot00000000
Polmumice
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 25
Answers on P.15 and our website: www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr
DSM Toughie Crossword
Health, Beauty & Fitness DON’T FORGET OUR DEADLINE!
OF THE MONTH
Everyday Yoga for Everyone by Rebecca Novick
The Fascination with Fascia
I
t is the body’s largest organ and yet medical and physical therapy students were lucky if they got to study it for more than fifteen minutes, and it was routinely tossed into the bin during anatomy class, although Leonardo Da Vinci did sketchings of it 500 years ago, even before the science of anatomy had been born. Today, however, the study of the fascia is revolutionising the world of sports therapy and bodywork with exciting implications for athletes and anyone wishing to improve their strength, stamina, flexibility, agility, and balance, and even to manage chronic pain and heal from stubborn injuries. Fascia is the biological fabric that holds us together - literally. Without the support of the fascia, our bodies would simply collapse in a soupy heap. But the fascia is far more than mere packaging. It is highly mutable and dynamic and plays roles in the body that we are only just beginning to understand. The fascia comprises an intricate matrix of connective tissue (made mainly of collagen) that lies beneath the skin (think Spiderman’s bodysuit). It wraps around our entire muscular system, attaching, enclosing and separating muscles and internal organs. The deeper fascial layers contain large amounts of elastin and are involved in complex energy dynamics that influence the body’s endurance and range of movement. The fascial matrix is both fibrous (for example, around the bones where it forms a kind of web-like growth) and viscous, which is how it manifests at the cellular level as a glue-like mucus. Wherever the fibres are denser and the mucus drier, the flow of molecular movement is more restricted, cellular waste-nutrition management processes slow down, and regions of stiffness, pain and tension emerge. Yoga, particularly poses held over periods of time, helps to tease out and create more space within this fibrous webbing, relaxing tension points, optimising our range of movement and increasing the body’s metabolic efficiency. The study of the fascia is offering a radically interdependent view of the body’s system of muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones. There is a simple exercise that anyone can do that demonstrates this, popularized by Tom Myers, a pioneering researcher in fascia and structural health. First of all, try to touch your toes. Do this gently, exploring and noticing your present reachable limits. Now roll a tennis ball under the arch of each foot, about sixty seconds for each foot, pressing firmly so that there is some discomfort but not agonizing pain. Now try to touch your toes again. The increase in range of movement is because the fascia is connected over the entire body. If you spot a Spiderman outfit this Halloween, you might want to think about your own personal living bodysuit hinting at hitherto unharnessed superpowers.
Respect yourself, explore yourself.
Classes held weekly in central Parthenay For more information email: lavieenyoga@gmail.com or follow Rebecca on www.facebook.com/groups/lavieenyoga 26 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
Our Furry Friends Saturday 23rd November 10am-6pm Le Grand Beaupuits, 79200 St Germain de Longue Chaume
Xmas Decorations Crafts & jigsaws
Hot Soup & Rolls
Games Xmas Gifts
Xmas Tombola
Party Clothes & Shoes
Cats & Kittens
hope association charity shops helping animals in need
café • bric à brac • books dvds & cds • clothes • furniture
hope 79 • sauzé-vaussais
17 route de civray 79190 sauzé-vaussais open every thursday & 1st sunday of each month, 10am - 4pm
@ shopseventynine4hope@gmail.com • Good quality donations of clothes, books and bric-à-brac are always welcome
generalenquiries4hope@gmail.com • www.hopeassoc.org • N°RNA W792002789
Coffee & Cake
Cards Xmas Foods
Beautiful Painted Furniture
Books
Marché de Noël Le Grand Beaupuits, 79200, Saint-Germain-de-Longue-Chaume Association number W793001884. www.facebook.com/The-Funny-Farm-Cat-Rescue
Henri Henri, a five-year-old basset x has the most fabulous hound ears. He is calm, cuddly and affectionate, and in our experience hounds adjust brilliantly to life on the sofa. Please get in touch to find out more.
The Association En Route tel: 07 69 18 56 81 or by email: henri@assoenroute.com Visit the website: www.assoenroute.com
Ruby
Joram
Ruby is a lovely little kitten with beautiful colours. She is around 5-6 weeks old and came to us with her mummy and three siblings. She will be vaccinated soon, tested and microchipped but is ready for reservation now. If you are interested in her or any of our other kittens (we have loads) please contact us at thefunnyfarmrescue@gmail.com
Meet Joram, a not-so-young setter x who has had a tough and unloved beginning to his life. He dreams of daily walks and a family to love and treasure him! Joram’s new family will need to be patient and support him in adjusting to all things new in his life. He will be microchipped, neutered and have his injections and passport ready before adoption. Joram is currently in pound 79.
Le Grand Beaupuits, 79200, Saint-Germain-de-Longue-Chaume Association number W793001884. www.facebook.com/The-Funny-Farm-Cat-Rescue
The Assocation Orfée tel: 09 77 48 71 43 or by email: asso.orfee@laposte.net www.facebook.com/OrfeeInEnglish/ The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 27
Food & Drink A Shortish Version of the Really, Really Long History of French Wine
Part 3 - Pestilence, War, Another War, Reinvigoration
P
art 2 took us up to the secularisation of vineyards following the French Revolution1. I’m willing to bet that none of us has been through a revolution. I mean at first hand, with fire and brimstone and severed limbs, wanton destruction, murder most foul by sword or musket shot.
Revolution means upheaval, positive or negative. For the wine world, it was generally positive. More vineyards were planted, taxes were lowered, quality generally increased, and exports rose. By the 1820’s France was exporting 120 million litres per year. The mediocre wine went to Sweden, Norway, Germany, Switzerland and Mexico (yup, strange but true) each taking about ten million litres. The better stuff went to England and the English colonies, most importantly India. Reflecting the increasing consumption of wine by the middle classes, more and more books on French wine were published in the mid1800s. In 1816, André Jullien, a French wine merchant, published A Description of All the Known Wine Regions - all the known wine regions, for the most part, being French. Naturellement. The English equivalent, A History and Description of Modern Wines, came out in 1833. These were but two examples of consumer-centred wine writing. The consumers in question were of course the middle classes. The peasants drank the plonk that was made locally. The cognoscenti, i.e. them wot could read, focused on the ‘quality’ regions of Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne. Bordeaux because of its already long history and track record, Burgundy because of its increasing reputation, and Champagne for fun and naughty luxury, my dear, tra-la! So all good then. But wait. What is that I hear? It’s getting louder and louder. It’s coming from a boat full of vine cuttings crossing the Atlantic. Now it’s almost deafening as the boat skims across the Mediterranean and docks at Marseille. The vines, imported as an experiment to see if American vines could thrive in French soil, harboured an alien without a visa. But in those crazy old days it didn’t matter. The vines were planted, and… ‘Hey. I’m new here and I’m really hungry. Do you mind if I…? What? Oh, sorry, yeah, I’m Phil, nice to meet ya. I hear ya got some tasty vine roots. Back in the States I got the cold shoulder, but here, I’m already getting a good feeling. Yab-a-dab-a-doo.’ Allow me to introduce you to phylloxera vastatrix, a suitably spooky name for a Hammer horror movie kind of bug. Vastatrix: you really could make a movie, non? Anyway, Phil looked like the tiniest speck of dirt, unassuming, wouldn’t hurt a fly. Except that he’s just arrived in vine root heaven. US vines didn’t like Phil. French vines fell for him big time. Think of him carrying nylons, gum and an attitude. How would you feel as a vineyard owner/wine maker if you saw vines that were perfectly healthy in week one keel over and die in week two? You would look for obvious signs of disease, obvious being above ground.
by John Sherwin
Nothing. Then you would try everything you could to make your vines better. Still nothing. And all the while Phil and his ilk were spreading, from Marseille and the southern Rhône to the whole country within ten to fifteen years. Underground. Unseen. Nibbling away at roots and cutting off the life blood to the plant. Depending on the region, wine production from the 1860s to 1900 or so went down by 80%. I’m giving you a rough figure, but this was potentially the beginning of the end for French wine. Then some guy, history is not accurate but there should be a statue erected to him in every wine-making commune, sussed that if American vines had given Phil the cold shoulder then maybe they could help their sisters in France. Grafting. Let me repeat: grafting. With hindsight it’s obvious. American rootstock was impervious to Phil. Therefore, you, French winemaker, graft your vines onto American rootstock. Long story short, it worked, which is why you’re enjoying your glass of French wine now. Every vine you see as you cruise our lovely country is wearing Stars ‘n’ Stripes knickers. Then some other guy in Sarajevo killed some important guy and other important guys didn’t much like it, or saw a chance, and lots of unimportant guys got killed during WWI. Alsace and Champagne were all but destroyed. Elsewhere in the country men left the land to fight at the front and didn’t come back. They had worked on farms. And vineyards. Lack of manpower = desolation. Slowly, slowly, the comeback came. Replanting, new growth, young arms and strong. All that work, then WWII. The less said the better. What do you do to reinvent a ravaged countryside? I’m talking specifically of vineyards. Well, in the post-war era, with science seen as Saviour, you threw chemicals at it. Herbicide, pesticide, fertiliser, the inglorious trinity which boosted production at the cost of quality. In short, in the post WWII period a lot of crap wine was made, but more importantly the land, the soil, the soul of the soil was ravaged. You can see the point. We’re all only human. For wine making families it had been a long hundred years, so cash in while you can. For consumers, let the wine flow, even if it was a bit under par it was still solidly French and it still got you tiddly. Babies begat babies. The younger generation had no memory of war and devastation. Grow your hair, irritate your parents, take everything for granted. Then get serious. Hmm, if I’m going to take over the vineyard, I’m going to do it my way. Reduce chemicals, maybe even do away with them and go biodynamic, planting, cultivating and harvesting by the phases of the moon. The monks would be proud. This three-part history has given you the swells and flows of how wine has developed in France. Never forget that it doesn’t just come from a bottle, it’s made by Nature and Man, and history continues.
________________________ 1 1789 to 1799 as I’m sure you know, particularly if you want the Préfecture to give you a ‘titre de séjour’. You will also have to be able to hum the Marseillaise backwards.
John Sherwin, French Wine Tours 07 50 90 02 00 or www.french-wine-tours.com www.bestfrenchwinetours.com 28 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
Parenting Success by Jacqueline Brown
I
know we have had a hot, dry summer and needed the rain as much as we needed the sunshine, but a few wet weeks and the weeds I have managed to tame all summer have beaten me once more. Thankfully, the butternut squashes are of a decent enough size to stand out in the weed patch that was once my veggie garden, and I’m looking forward to lots of comforting roasted squash dishes as winter approaches. The tomatoes are still doing their best to ripen, although my potager barometer (peering over the wall into my neighbour’s garden) tells me it is time to pull out the remaining plants and get the garden ready for winter once more. It has been a few years since we sowed onions and garlic, but if I can get myself organised, I think I might give them a go again this year. Most of my cherry harvest was in the rain this spring and if picking cherries in the rain is a damp and miserable experience, it is nothing to a wet walnut harvest. We have had so many sunny and warm autumns over the years, collecting walnuts by the bucket load and then laying them out in crates to dry naturally in the sun, before they go into storage, but not this year. The soggy casings leave a black slime that stains my cold, wet fingers, and the drips from the large leaves run down my neck and make me shiver. It is also never a good idea to put damp nuts into storage. Even the chickens, who are usually keen to scrape and scavenge under the walnut tree with me, have been taking shelter in the barn and ruffling their feathers in an attempt to keep warm. I would really love a last blast of sunshine before it’s time to begin my hibernation, although with a few new ideas for fun-filled music nights at the village bar, we are doing our best to keep the summer fête feeling alive. On a more positive note, as Ed enters his final year as a teenager, I think I have reached my parenting pinnacle; my work as mum is done and I can rest happy. I am delighted that after a year spent living on pizza and tinned food, he seems to have discovered the joy of cooking and not just any cooking, courgette cooking. As well as the laundry drop, I have been asked to provide lettuce, tomatoes, courgettes and eggs from the garden, and his girlfriend’s mum has been doing the same. His texts regularly include photos of delicious dishes, lovingly cooked using homegrown produce, and often contain phrases like ‘with crème fraîche’ or ‘drizzled in olive oil’. You have no idea how happy this makes me, as it only seems like yesterday when he was a fussy little wotsit, who knew what he liked and refused to try anything new. Even if everywhere is a bit soggy outside, I’m basking in a warm inner glow.
www.frenchvillagediaries.com Email: frenchvillagediaries@gmail.com
Fish Pie - with a twist Ingredients:
Serves
6
1 celeriac or small swede 4 sweet potatoes 2 eggs 5 medium tomatoes - sliced 1 red onion - sliced 1 large carrot - diced 285ml crème fraiche 4 heaped tbsp of grated cheese Juice of a lemon Chopped parsley - large handful Tsp French wholegrain mustard 500g of mixed diced fish (salmon, smoked haddock and cod work well) Grated nutmeg Method:
Preheat the oven to 230°C/gas 8. Peel the potatoes and celeriac and boil for ten minutes. At the same time boil the eggs for eight minutes then plunge into cold water before shelling. Meanwhile fry the onion and carrot in a little oil for five minutes. Bring milk to the boil, remove from the heat and add cheese, lemon juice, mustard and parsley. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Put back onto a very gentle heat, add the fish and simmer for five minutes. Pile the onion and carrots, along with the fish into a well-greased pie dish and top with slices of egg and tomatoes. Mash the potato mixture with a little oil (or butter). Spread on top of the fish using a fork. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes and finish off under the grill to give a crusty golden topping.
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 29
Communications Posturing at your PC
M
by Ross Hendry
any people use their computers for long periods and do not consider the damage they could be doing by not sitting correctly. Using a laptop or tablet may be even worse. Doctors have been reporting a rise in people with aches and pains in the hand with which they hold their device, as well as the fingers they use to type and swipe. Other users report shoulder and back pain because they hunch over to use the tablet supported on their lap. The size of the screen means they have to peer to see it, causing eye strain. These problems may be resolved by improving posture and placement. Here are some basic tips for reducing pain and strain: 1. The chair you use should allow you to keep your back straight, perpendicular to the floor, your forearms and thighs should be parallel to the floor. 2. There should be no obstructions under your desk preventing you from placing your feet in their natural position firmly on the floor, or on a footrest if necessary. 3. You should sit well back in your chair, with the chair close enough to the desk so that your hands sit naturally on to the keyboard, with a little room for your wrists to rest on a pad, between you and the keyboard whilst typing, if used. 4. Your forearms should be at the same height or very slightly higher than the desk. 5. Your screen should be placed no more than arms length from your head, between 50-75cm, and the top of your screen should be at eye level and directly in front of you, not to one side! 6. Your keyboard should be close enough to you so that your hands fall naturally on it when at rest, with only your wrists able to touch the desktop. It should be positioned directly in front of you without making you stretch to reach the keys or, if you use a mouse a lot, slightly to the left permitting your right hand to reach the mouse without having to angle it to the right too much. The idea is to have your shoulders and spine vertically in line, your forearms parallel to the desk and hands relaxed on the keyboard. Many people cram everything on one small desk including printers, speakers and desk lights and force themselves to work around everything, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t! You may need to raise your screen or use a box under your feet. For more detailed information go to: www.openerg.com/dse/index.html or www.ergonomictrends. com/proper-sitting-posture-computer-experts/ Ross Hendry is the proprietor of Interface Consulting and Engineering, who has over 44 years experience in communications, computer technology and direct marketing. (see advert below).
30 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
A-Z of the Communes in the Deux-Sèvres
by Sue Burgess
Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars
Saint-Jean-de-Thouars
T
he commune of Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars is situated in the north of the Deux-Sèvres. It is bordered by the river Thouet which separates Saint-Jacques from Thouars on the other bank.
T
Previously known as Saint-Jacques-de-Montauban (from Monte Abboioni), Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars was the home to two priories from 1038: the priory of Saint-Nicolas and the priory of Saint-Jacques of which nothing remains. Both depended on the Abbey at Saint-Jouin-de-Marnes. Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars is on the pilgrims’ road to Compostela.
This abbey dedicated to the order of Saint Benoît was founded in 973, when large areas of land were given to the nuns of Saint Jean by King Lothaire.
Two archaeological finds have been made at Saint-Jacques-deThouars. A man’s head and a horse’s head sculptured in stone dating from the Roman period, have been found. They can be seen in the museum in Poitiers. Between 1871 and 1873, a viaduct was built by the Compagnie Eiffel (Gustave Eiffel - of the Eiffel Tower fame) to satisfy the demand of the railways of Vendée and the opening of a line from Tours to Les Sables-d’Olonne. The evolution of the number of inhabitants can be studied through the censuses that have been held since 1793. In 2016, the commune had 445 inhabitants. À Voir / Must See • A Romanesque church dating from 1037 • Ancient priories • The valley of the river Thouet • Église Saint-Jacques The village is opposite Thouars from the side of the promontory where the château is, to the right of the other side of the Thouet. The church can be seen from the château. The square bell tower, surmounted by a four-sided arrow, flanks the nave of the Romanesque church which has been modernised to suit the tastes of the 18th century.
he commune of Saint-Jean-de-Thouars, which used to be called Saint-Jean de Bonneval-lès-Thouars, developed around a once powerful abbey.
Thanks to gifts and taxes from the local lords, the Royal and Papal abbey of Saint Jean gained great power. The abbess controlled not only the abbey but also the churches of Saint Denis (no longer in existence), Saint Médard de Thouars, the church of Saint Pierre de Missé as well as other churches and possessions. A brief history: • In 1169, Pope Alexander III confirmed that Saint Jean was one of his possessions. But as the Protestant spirit spread across France it did not spare the nuns of Saint-Jean de Bonneval. • In 1557, the Abbess Philippe de Chasteigner and eight nuns set off for Switzerland to join Calvin (the French theologian, pastor and reformer during the Protestant Reformation). • A period of decline followed until the arrival of the abbess, Isabelle de Vivonne, at the beginning of the 17th century. From 1625 on, she had the church and the abbey which had been burned during the Wars of Religion, rebuilt. She restored the power of this religious community. • But the Revolution put an end to the religious institution. The abbey was sold in 1791 and destroyed. The last abbess, Louise de This, died in great poverty. • In 1910 the commune of Saint-Jean de Bonneval became Saint-Jean-de-Thouars. The town had developed around the abbey. • In 2014 the commune bought part of the ancient abbey and a project to make the area beautiful again is under way. A park will be created, the discovery walk will be extended and people will be able to discover buildings which are present in the park: the wash house, pigeon loft and the fountain of the three Marys, also some remarkable trees.
Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars (left photo) Saint-Jean-de-Thouars (centre photo) The lavoir at Saint-Jean-de-Thouars (right photo) Photos by Sue Burgess Eiffel’s viaduct at Thouars ©wikicommons/Remi Jouan (background picture)
More A-Z of the Communes of Deux-Sèvres next month... The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 31
Building & Renovation
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The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 33
34 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
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OF THE MONTH Annual Subscription Costs: 34€ within France, 29€ UK addresses. (Unfortunately the cheaper ‘printed papers’ rate cannot be applied to addresses within France, only when sending abroad) Full Name:...................................................................................... Postal Address:.............................................................................. ....................................................................................................... Postcode:............................Country:............................................. Tel:.................................................................................................. Email:............................................................................................. Please make cheques payable to ANNA SHAW.
36 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
Hot Stuff
Pellet or Log? That is the question.
• by Steve Shaw
'Outside 'tis icy-cold and a thick layer of snow covers every available surface. Inside they are keeping warm by drinking hot toddies, roasting chestnuts and singing carols as they huddle around ye olde... pellet burner.'
I
t's not the same is it....doesn't have the same romance of a log burner and yet everyone seems to be getting one. You can't enter a supermarket without having to navigate a pallet-load of bagged pellets. We are thinking of upgrading our heating source and are asking ourselves the question 'pellet' or 'log'? We have two log burners at present, one at either end of the house. The one in the kitchen is a modern model which we bought last year, the only problem is that when the wind blows in a certain direction smoke is blown back into the house and we have to open a window... which defeats the object of a log burner, I know; I appreciate this is not the fault of the burner but our 'draw'. We have tried opening the top vent and closing the bottom vent...didn't work, opening the bottom vent and closing the top... no joy. We have now bought a cowell or 'spinney thing' that goes on top of the chimney and...spins, hopefully sucking the smoke out of our kitchen and into the great outdoors. We lit a test fire in mid September when the wind got up. It was 30° outside so you can imagine how hot the kitchen was, ...but the good news was no 'blow-back'. The other log burner is an older model which has three flaws. To get any heat from the old girl you have to keep chucking logs in; she doesn't understand the concept of a 'slow burn'; either 'furnace' or 'cold'. We must have burnt enough trees over winter to cover an Amazonian football pitch. The second problem is she doesn't like logs thicker than a family sized swiss roll. If she gets anything bigger she will just give up and go out. So you end up having to extract a semi smouldering log and relighting the thing. Thirdly, on windy nights a sound akin to an asthmatic moaning eminates from the fireplace, as if the ghost of Christmas present is living up our flue. On the plus side both log burners look lovely...like log burners should look like. Not like pellet burners which look so clean and characterless. In our rustic French fireplace it would look out of place to install something that looks like a drinks dispenser. One log burner would be manageable, but two! Last winter it was exhausting watching Anna beetle back and forth to the wood shed with barrow loads of timber... a full time job. It was almost a relief when it was windy and the burner in the kitchen was out of action due to blow-back, so she could slow down a bit. On the plus side we have become great friends with Christoffe, our wood supplier, who is now like one of the family, we see him so often. We have come to a crossroads. A decision needs to be made. We need to replace the log burner in the sitting room, but to log, or to pellet? That is the question. There's only one way to find out. FIGHT! Advantages: • Pellet stoves (as they seem to be referred to) are very userfriendly; because of the automatic ignition, no more struggling with a box of damp matches on a chilly morning. • You can adjust the temperature with a remote control or room thermostat. Some models allow you to programme by day or week or even with a text message or an app. • The efficiency of a pellet stove is 90% or more. • A pellet stove with a small hopper (pellet feeder) may need to be filled twice a day, while stoves with large-capacity hoppers
•
can run hot for four or five days before they need to be refilled. A pellet stove is CO2-neutral but the integrated computer system also ensures efficient burning. The ash content of the burnt pellets is just 0.5 to 1%. Pellets are relatively cheap compared to other fuels. They are easy to store, compact and always ready for use.
Disadvantages: • Pellet stoves are not maintenance free. The 'burn pot' has to be vacuumed weekly, every three months you need to clean it out and once a year it needs to be professionally serviced. • The built-in ventilator and 'auger motor' (pellet feeder system) produce a lot of noise when in operation. The sound of the ventilator is more pronounced, especially when starting. This problem has been solved to some extent in more recent and more expensive models. • The in-built computer system runs on electricity so this has to be considered when installing one. • The flames produced by a pellet stove are not comparable to those produced by a wood stove. The flame is smaller. Some people even consider it to be 'nervous' or 'unnatural'. • A pellet stove requires a major investment. Prices for pellet stoves start at 2,000€ but can increase to up to 6,000€, depending on the options of your choice. Disadvantages of a log burner: • They can be hazardous to your health. Recurrent exposure can exacerbate illnesses such as emphysema and heart failure. They produce toxins that can damage your lungs, increase the risk of cancer, heart disease and premature death. • Wood smoke is toxic waste. It sticks to your chimney as creosote which can create a chimney fire. • Old or poorly installed wood-burners pose a higher risk of smoke emission, air pollution, and greater risk of house fires. Advantages of a log burner: • They are more aesthetically pleasing. • Wood burners are not reliant on an electrical supply. • A log pile is more environmentally friendly than pellets, which come in plastic bags. • You can cook a casserole on top of a log burner. Safety procedures when using a wood-burning stove: • Ensure that your stove is installed properly and maintained. • Keep your flue open to allow oxygen in while using your stove. • Start your fire with clean newspaper or dry kindling. • Only burn clean, dry wood that has been properly seasoned. • Don't burn particleboard, treated wood, stained wood, painted wood, or wet wood. • Never start a fire in your wood stove with gasoline, kerosene, charcoal starter, or a propane torch. • Remove ashes from your stove on a regular basis. Maintaining safe surroundings includes: • Install and maintain a smoke alarm. • Install and maintain a carbon monoxide detector. • Always keep a fire extinguisher handy and in working order. • Keep anything flammable away from your wood-burning stove, including drapes, furniture, books, and newspapers. With all this information at hand, I am none the wiser. My head says one thing but my heart another. We moved to rural France for the simple life, what's simpler than a log burner? I will have to give the matter some more thought. I shall retreat into a dark, cold, slightly smokey room and contemplate my dilemma further. The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 37
Business & Finance ASSURANCE VIE SAVING ACCOUNT FOR THE OVER 70s, by Isabelle Want LET’S TALK ABOUT IT!
I
s opening an assurance vie saving account viable after you reach 70 years old?
YES, because the amount you invest from this age is entitled to a death duty allowance of 30 500€. This allowance is added to the one you were already entitled to before you were 70 (152 500€ per beneficiary). For example: You have invested 305 000€ on an assurance vie saving account before you were 70 and named two beneficiaries. This sum of money will be given to your named beneficiaries without any death duties (152 500€ allowance per beneficiary). After the age of 70, you open a new assurance vie saving account with 30 500€ and name the same two beneficiaries. You can then pass on 335 500€ to them, free of any death duties (305 000+ 30 500). Furthermore, the interest or gain made by this contract is not liable to death duties. For example: You invest 30 500€ after the age of 70. At your death, at the tender age of 85, this assurance vie saving account is worth 40 000€ (30 500€ of capital and 9 500€ of interest). The beneficiary you have named will get the sum of 40 000€ without any death duties.
General information on assurance vie: It’s a saving/investment account. The money you invest is available at any time. You name beneficiaries when you take out the policy. You are only taxed on interest, not capital (and only when you withdraw money). You can set up regular monthly/quarterly or annual withdrawals. A lump sum (min 5 000€) or a regular monthly amount (min 100€) or both can be invested! You can monitor what it is doing or even make a withdrawal via your online customer account. Please do not hesitate to contact me for any further information. I am available at any of our four branches or to come to your home. And remember to check out our website www.bh-assurances.fr/ en for all my previous articles (‘practical information’) and register to receive our monthly Newsletter. You can also follow us on Facebook: Allianz Jacques Boulesteix et Romain Lesterp And don’t hesitate to contact me for any other information or quotes on funeral cover, inheritance law, investments, car, house, professional and top-up health insurance, etc.
As a reminder, here are the allowances before death duties in France (non-assurance vie saving accounts): Children: 100 000€ Grandchildren: 1 594€ Brother or sister: 15 932€ Nephew or niece: 7 967€ Other: 1 594€ For example: You wish to leave a lump sum of money to your grandson upon your death. You write a will which states that you are leaving him one of your saving accounts currently at your bank (like a Livret A or PEL) of 20 000€. On your death, your grandson will have to pay death duties of 18 406€ (20 000€ - 1 594€). If you invest this money in an assurance vie saving account and name your grandson as beneficiary, he will have no death duties to pay. So, whether you have opened an assurance vie before you were 70 or not, it is still worth thinking about opening a new one now! No, this is NOT a life insurance policy! Assurance vie is a saving account! Assurance vie saving accounts have been so successful that today there is over 1.5€ trillion invested in these policies. Over 22 million individuals have either invested lump sums or save regularly this way.
No Orias: 07004255
BH Assurances 22 rue Jean Jaures 16700 Ruffec
Contact Isabelle Want: Tel: 05 45 31 01 61 Mob: 06 17 30 39 11
Email: isabelle.want@bh-assurances.fr Visit our website: www.bh-assurances.fr
Useful English Language Numbers... Cancer Support Deux-Sèvres
06 40 77 27 35
French State health insurance advice line
08 11 36 36 46
Orange helpline
09 69 36 39 00
EDF International Customer Service
05 62 16 49 08
CLEISS (Social security advice between countries)
01 45 26 33 41
Funeral Information (AFIF)
01 45 44 90 03 or www.afif.asso.fr
Passport Advice
0044 300 222 0000
SOS Helpline English speaking service (affiliated to the Samaritans)
01 46 21 46 46 (daily 3pm-11pm)
38 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
Ask Amanda
by Amanda Johnson
H
i Amanda, I’m not very technical financially, yet have heard that an assurance vie is a good, tax efficient way of investing. Could you explain, in simple terms, why this may be the case? I am often asked why an assurance vie is a sensible way to invest your hard-earned savings as a French resident. Here are three good reasons explaining how they can be tax efficient: 1. If you do not withdraw money from your assurance vie, investment growth need not be included in your annual tax return calculations. 2. If you do withdraw money from your assurance vie, tax is applied to the growth element only, as a percentage of the overall investment pot. This means tax is not applied to the whole withdrawal.
3. In the event of your death, when calculating the Inheritance Tax liability, funds within your assurance vie are treated differently and favourably compared to the rest of your estate. You receive an allowance of 152,500€ per beneficiary and the balance is taxed as follows: • • •
Amounts between 152,501€ and 700,000€ are taxed at a rate of 20% Any balance above 700,000€ is taxed at 31.25% The allowance is reduced if you take out the assurance vie when you are above the age of 70 to 30,500€ in total.
Everyone’s circumstances are different, so it is important to take professional financial advice, from a regulated company, before deciding whether an assurance vie may be right for you. Whether you want to register for our newsletter, attend one of our roadshow events or speak to me directly, please call or email me on the contacts below and I will be glad to help. We do not charge for our financial planning reviews, reports or recommendations. Amanda Johnson Tel: 05 49 98 97 46 or 06 73 27 25 43 E-mail: amanda.johnson@spectrum-ifa.com www.spectrum-ifa.com/amanda-johnson The Spectrum IFA Group is fully regulated to offer financial advice in France and we do not charge for reviews, reports or recommendations we provide.
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 39
by Bradley Warden, Blevins Franks
Cross-border tax planning for today’s global transparency
T
ax transparency has been revolutionised by the global automatic exchange of information under the ‘Common Reporting Standard’ (CRS). This initiative enables tax offices across the world to keep track of taxpayers’ offshore assets and accounts.
Meanwhile, many countries have introduced additional measures to check taxpayers are making correct declarations. For example, the UK’s HM Revenue & Customs collected £560 million from offshore tax investigations in the 2018/19 tax year – 72% more than 2016/17, before CRS data collection began. It is more important than ever to make sure you are paying the right taxes, in the right place, at the right time. What is the CRS? In 2016, the CRS ‘early adopters’ began collecting information on financial accounts held by non-residents. The first exchange – where 2016 data was passed on to the taxpayers’ country of residence – took place in 2017 between 49 jurisdictions, including the UK and France. Today, over 100 countries are cooperating, with more joining each year. Financial information being shared includes investment income earned over the year (interest, dividends, income from certain insurance contracts, annuities etc.), account balances and proceeds from the sale of financial assets. Local scrutiny Tax offices receiving CRS information can easily verify whether taxpayers have accurately reported their worldwide income on their tax returns.
In France, the authorities have started following up undeclared foreign income. We are hearing about local tax offices calling British expatriates in for interviews to discuss non-declaration of foreign bank accounts, premium bond winnings, capital gains in the UK etc. Beware that penalties for non-compliance are more severe following France’s 2018 anti-fraud act. You must now also include all inactive accounts when declaring non-French bank accounts and insurance policies each year. In the UK, HMRC has made it clear that those who voluntarily declare and correct their offshore tax arrangements will be in a much better position than anyone who waits until investigators find them. Its ‘Connect’ analysis programme cross-checks data it receives from abroad with its own, providing tax officials with information to challenge 500,000 cases each year. The importance of getting it right If you are tax resident in one country and have assets or earn income in another, take care to make sure you are correctly declaring income and paying tax where you should be. While cross-border taxation is highly complex, getting it wrong can have serious consequences. There are tax planning arrangements available in France that can help you legitimately reduce your tax liabilities, particularly on investments, so take advice for the best results. An adviser with cross-border expertise can help you enjoy favourable tax treatment while offering peace of mind that you are meeting your obligations, here and in the UK. 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
Does your tax planning travel well? The tax planning vehicles you used in the UK are unlikely to be effective in France; ISAs are fully taxable here, for example. You need to set up new arrangements to make France a tax-efficient place to live. Likewise, French tax planning may not work if you return to the UK. Blevins Franks specialises in cross-border tax planning and can provide solutions for both countries.
Talk to the people who know
05 49 75 07 24
niort@blevinsfranks.com
040-fr
I N T E R N A T I O N A L T A X A D V I C E • I N V E S T M E N T S • E S T AT E P L A N N I N G • P E N S I O N S Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (BFFM) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided outside the UK, via the Insurance Distribution Directive or the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II, the applicable regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks Trustees Limited is authorised and regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority for the administration of trusts and companies. Blevins Franks France SASU (BFF), is registered with ORIAS, registered number 07 027 475, and authorised as ‘Conseil en Investissements Financiers’ and ‘Courtiers d’Assurance’ Category B (register can be consulted on www.orias.fr). Member of ANACOFI-CIF. BFF’s registered office: 1 rue Pablo Neruda, 33140 Villenave d’Ornon – RCS BX 498 800 465 APE 6622Z. Garantie Financière et Assurance de Responsabilité Civile Professionnelle conformes aux articles L 541-3 du Code Monétaire et Financier and L512-6 and 512-7 du Code des Assurances (assureur MMA). Blevins Franks Tax Limited provides taxation advice; its advisers are fully qualified tax specialists. This promotion has been approved and issued by BFFM.
40 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019
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Property
Published by Anna Shaw, 2 Lieu Dit Jaunasse, 79600 LOUIN Tel: 05 49 64 21 98 Email: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr Siret: 839 041 282 00014
The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019| 41
SEASON OF MELLOW FRUITFULNESS by Joanna Leggett
I
t’s said an apple is the noblest of fruits! What schoolbag has been complete without an apple (not for the teacher but to enjoy yourself)? And what could be better than picking a fresh one from a tree growing in your own garden?
With ideal growing conditions in the Gâtine area of Deux-Sèvres and parts of Maine-et-Loire, crops are bounteous and celebrated each October with an Expo and Foire aux Pommes in Secondigny. Naturally any such event in France (and this one has taken place for the past 65 years) is accompanied by all sorts of fun and games while, at the same time, judgement of the crop is taken very seriously indeed. While Newton needed an apple to fall upon his head before he could shout ‘eureka!’, your choice of a new home could be much simpler this month as we’ve ‘hand-picked’ three choice properties just perfect for your delectation. Best of all, there’ll be no need to climb the fence and scrump from neighbours! The first is a gorgeous classically styled four bedroom house in La Ronde (Leggett reference 104708) not far from Bressuire, close to Moncoutant with supermarket and schools. Spread over three floors, this well renovated home has spacious rooms and every comfort. The double aspect lounge with wooden floors, exposed timbers and fireplace will make you feel at home from the moment you enter. Outside more treats await in the extensive beautiful gardens, naturally replete with apple trees, including a detached yoga studio! A snip at 199,800€.
A charming three bedroom cottage in Chanteloup (Leggett reference 103557) is next from our pick of the crop. Just quarter of an hour from Bressuire and two minutes from the local village. Rooms radiate from the hallway with large sitting room, fitted kitchen, dining room with French windows opening out to the charming covered dining terrace. The front of the property is walled with high gates, there’s a stone outbuilding and newly built garage but it’s the beautiful garden which will tempt you with its fruit trees and charming patio -178,200€. In a quiet hamlet, an easy walk from La Chapelle-Thireuil, is this converted farmhouse (Leggett reference 103777) set around a courtyard which would make the most wonderful family or perfect holiday home. On the ground floor vast living spaces provide utmost flexibility and upstairs are four enormous bedrooms, two baths, and loft space! But wait, there’s more - an independent one bedroom gîte provides income flow! Outside the large garden has wonderful views and more than enough space to plant your own apple orchard - think of the spring blossom! 240,000€. With all this bounty to hand you’ll be able to make massive apple tarts, though if your crop was particularly plentiful a cider press might be advantageous? Joanna Leggett is marketing director at Leggett Immobilier – you can view their full portfolio of properties for sale in France at
www.leggettfrance.com
LEGGETT
EXCLUSIVE
IMMOBILIER
LAGEON
€256,800 HAI
Ref. 105419 - Vast property comprising a 2-bed house with 5-bed annex, 1-bed gite and outbuildings. DPE D - agency fees included : 7 % TTC to be paid by the buyer
EXCLUSIVE
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST Buying or selling a property? Contact us now!
AIRVAULT
€172,800 HAI
Ref. 104831 - Pretty 3-bed house just 4kms from Airvault with large living spaces, garden & terrace. DPE N/A - agency fees to be paid by the seller
EXCLUSIVE
MENIGOUTE
€323,300 HAI
SAINT-VARENT
€67,100 HAI
SCILLÉ
€162,000 HAI
SECTEUR SAUZÉ-VAUSSAIS
€310,000 HAI
Ref. 105831 - Carefully designed and well-tended
Ref. 86414 - Lovely 2-bed cottage with terrace,
Ref. 104995 - Renovated farmhouse with 5 beds,
Ref. 104801 - Spacious property including a 2-bed
4-bed house, with heated pool and outbuildings.
BBQ area, pool, parking and 282m² garden.
outbuildings, on-ground pool, garden and field.
house, 6-bed gîte, studio, sauna, pool and garden.
DPE N/A - agency fees to be paid by the seller
DPE F - agency fees to be paid by the seller
DPE D - agency fees included : 8 % TTC to be paid by the buyer
DPE C - agency fees to be paid by the seller
Be a part of our award winning team If becoming an independent property sales agent interests you, contact Head of Recruitment Lorraine Deuré:
05 53 60 82 77 - recruitment@leggett.fr
+33 (0)5 53 56 88 48 - www.leggettfrance.com - info@leggett.fr 42 | The Deux-Sèvres Monthly, November 2019