welcome to the March 2025 issue of The DeuxSèvres Monthly!
Spring is just around the corner and we’re delighted to bring you another issue full of stories and ideas with plenty to celebrate.
As we write these lines in the middle of February, it seems like the rain will never leave us! A friend recently said that this weather reminded her of Wales, only with a lot more mud – we couldn’t agree more. Perhaps we all need a bit of sunshine now to brighten not only the sky but also our spirits. Fingers crossed we won’t have to wait much longer!
This month we celebrate the Celtic traditions of St David’s and St Patrick’s Day. In this issue you’ll find fascinating articles about the shared history of Wales and Ireland and their unique connections to France. What better way to celebrate these special days than to learn a little more about these rich cultures?
If you, like many of us, are looking for a break from the chaos of current events, we hope you’ll enjoy this month’s features. Smile as you read about Life in 79, immerse yourself in Jacqui Brown's book reviews or discover a new passion – perhaps photography or even learning to play an instrument!
On a thoughtful note, our feature on January’s new clothes recycling law is a must-read. With so many items of clothing ending up in landfill, we show you how you can reduce waste, avoid fines and, of course, protect the environment.
In our “What’s on” section, you'll find a variety of local events, despite things still feeling a bit slow to awaken after winter. Don’t forget to email us your events for a future issue: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr.
As always, we'd like to thank our advertisers – their support makes this magazine possible. Have a wonderful March and we’ll see you again in April!
insurance. Before embarking on a long journey to attend a published event, it is highly recommended that you verify the event details with other sources. The Deux-Sèvres Monthly est édité par Kathleen Butler-Donnelly, 27 rue de la Madoire, Bressuire 79300 tel: 07 86 99 16 17. Directeur de la publication et rédacteur en chef: K Butler-Donnelly. SIRET: 90043034900028 Crédits photos :Adobe Stock, IStock, Pixabay sauf mention contraire. Impression: Graficas Piquer SL, 29 Al Mediterraneo, Pol. Ind. San Rafael, 04230, Huércal de Almeria, Espagne. ISSN: 2115-4848 Dépôt légal: À purition
CHURCH
NOTICES
The Filling Station - PoitouCharentes. Local Christians of all denominations who meet for spiritual renewal and evangelism. Carolyn on 05 45 84 19 03 or www. thefillingstationfrance.com
All Saints, Vendée - Puy de Serre. We hold two services each month (plus Sunday school), on the 2nd and 4th Sundays at the church of St. Marthe, Puy de Serre, at 11h. www.allsaintsvendee.fr
The English Speaking Church of the Valley of the Loire (ESCOVAL) meets at the R.C. Church in Arçay every 3rd Sunday of the month at 11am (just off the D759, Thouars to Loudun).
Eglise Vie Nouvelle English service (translated into French) every week in the Salle Annexe behind Civray Mairie at 10.30am. Contact 06 25 04 36 51 www.vienouvelle-civray.com
The Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd, PoitouCharentes. Normally holds Sunday services in English. Please see our website for current information: www.churchinfrance.com
Assemblée Evangélique Le Rendez-Vous. Every 1st Sunday in St Hilaire de Voust for bilingual worship, Bible study & lunch. Other Sundays we meet in home groups. Contact: 07 75 75 07 52 email: contact@lerendezvous85.com www.lerendezvous85.com
Word of Life Fellowship Sundays 3:00pm. 10 Rue de l’Huilerie, 79110 Chef-Boutonne. Please visit our website for more… www.word-of-life.net
Monday a.m. Cerizay 79140 place des Halles
Tuesday a.m.
Bressuire 79300 place Dupin
Coulonges-sur-l'Autize 79160 Centre Ville
La Creche 79260 rue du Marché
Lezay 79120 place du Marché
Niort 79000 place des Halles
Thouars 79100 place Lavault
Vasles 79340 la place du 25 Août
THE ENGLISH SPEAKING CHURCH OF THE VALLEY OF THE LOIRE
“ESCOVAL”
We meet on the third Sunday of each month at the church in Arçay at 11h00. The services are multidenominational and vary between Matins and Holy Communion - both usually include hymns. Afterwards there is usually a bring-and-share lunch. Arçay is situated between Loudun and Thouars just off the D759.
www.escoval.jimdofree.com
Contact Geoff Cornwall : gcfrance6052@gmail.com
Jim Burrows : 05 49 22 41 78
Carole Taylor : mumsikins@hotmail.com
Wednesday a.m.
Thursday a.m.
Friday a.m.
Celles-sur-Belle79370 Centre Ville
Niort 79000 place des Halles
Parthenay 79200 rue Jean-Jaurès
Argenton-les-Vallées 79150 place Philippe de Commynes
La Motte St Héray 79800 place Clémenceau
Niort 79000 place des Halles
Sauzé-Vaussais 79190 Centre Ville
Coulon 79510 place de l'Eglise
Melle 79500 place Bujault
Niort 79000 place des Halles
Nueil les Aubiers 79250 place Pierre Garnier
Thouars 79100 place Lavault
Saturday a.m. Airvault 79600 place Saint-Pierre
Bressuire 79300 place Dupin
Cerizay 79140 place des Halles
Champdeniers 79220 Centre Ville
Chef-Boutonne 79110 Centre Ville
Coulonges-sur-l'Autize 79160 place des Halles
Le Tallud 79200 place de l'Église
Lezay 79120 place du Marché
Mauleon 79700 place du château
Mauze sur le Mignon 79210 place de l'Eglise
Moncoutant 79320 Centre Ville
Niort 79000 place des Halles
Parthenay 79200 rue Jean-Jaurès
Saint Maixent-l'Ecole 79400 place du Marché
Sunday a.m.
Chatillon sur Thouet 79200 place du Parnasse
Coulon 79510 place de l'Eglise
La Creche 79260 rue du Marché
Niort 79000 place des Halles
Saint-Loup-Lamairé 79600 place du Marché
Thénezay 79390 place de L'Hôtel de Ville
Local Markets in neighbouring departments
Monday a.m. Benet 85490 place du Champ de Foire
Tuesday a.m.
Doue-la-Fontaine 49700 place du Champ de Foire
Civray 86400 place Leclerc
Montrueil-Bellay 49260 place du Marché
Mortagne-sur-Sèvres 85290 place Hullin
Surgéres 17700 rue Audry de Puyravault
Wednesday a.m. Fontenay-le-Comte 85200 place du Commerce
Lusignan 86600 place Isabelle d’Angoulême
Ruffec 16700 Centre Ville
Vihiers 49310 place Charles-de-Gaulle
Thursday a.m. Aulnay 17470 Centre Ville
Friday a.m.
Pouzauges 85700 les Halles
Surgéres 17700 rue Audry de Puyravault
Civray 86400 place Leclerc
Doue-la-Fontaine 49700 place René Nicolas
La Châtaigneraie 85120 place de la République
Saturday a.m. Cholet 49300 place du 8 Mai 1945
Fontenay-le-Comte 85200 place du Commerce
La Châtaigneraie 85120 place de la République
Pouzauges 85700 place de l’Hôtel de Ville
Ruffec 16700 Centre Ville
Surgéres 17700 rue Audry de Puyravault
Sunday a.m.
Aulnay 17470 Centre Ville
Latillé 86190 place Robert Gerbier
Valence-en-Poitou 86700 place du Marché
WANTED - A MUSICIAN
ESCOVAL, The English Speaking Church of the Valley of the Loire, which holds services at 11 am on the 3rd Sunday of each month, is seeking a musician who would be prepared to accompany four traditional hymns at our services, which are normally a simple service of Holy Communion or one of Morning Prayer. After most services, we hold a Bring and Share lunch in the neighbouring Salle des Fêtes.
The Parish Church of St. Paul, Arçay, 86200, where we meet, very kindly allows us to use their basic but functional electronic keyboard.
We are a friendly group of mostly anglophone Christians from a wide range of denominational backgrounds. Our common ground is that we believe and trust in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Anyone volunteering for this position should contact our Secretary, Carole Taylor, by email: mumsikins@hotmail.com or by phone: 02 47 97 74 86.
NATIONAL HOLIDAYS, RELIGIOUS AND FEAST DAYS
Pâques Easter Sunday
Sunday 20 April 2025
Lundi de Pâques
Easter Monday
Monday 21 April 2025
Fête du Travail Labour Day
Thursday 1 May 2025
Victoire de 1945 VE Day
Thursday 8 May 2025
Ascension Ascension Day
Thursday 29 May 2025
Dimanche de Pentecôte
Whit Sunday
Sunday 8 June 2025
Lundi de Pentecôte
Whit Monday
Monday 9 June 2025
Fête Nationale "Bastille Day"
Monday 14 July 2025
Assomption Assumption Day
Friday 15 August 2025
Toussaint All Saints Day
Saturday 1 November 2025
Armistice de 1918
Armistice Day
Tuesday 11 November 2025
Noël Christmas Day
Thursday 25 December 2025
Jour de l'An
New Year's Day
Thursday 1 January 2026
Exciting adventures await at our farm! Enjoy daily feedings, picnics with alpacas, alpaca walks, and wool workshops. Perfect for all ages. Book your unforgettable experience today!
www.lapetitefermedalpagas.com
What’s going on with the 25,000€ TVA Threshold?
Just as we stepped into February, another storm hit small business owners in France. The controversial 25,000€ TVA threshold was been approved, sending waves of worry through countless artisans. How was anyone supposed to plan for this? And then out of nowhere the threshold was suspended. This temporary reprieve was thanks to FNAE, La Fédération Nationale des auto-entrepreneurs et microentrepreneurs. If you’re not already familiar, they’re the only national body representing self-employed workers . Their efforts have been vital in this fight, but they can’t do it alone. The ball is in your court. Add your voice - sign the petition, and consider becoming a member of FNAE. Together we stand a chance of making a difference. The situation is still uncertain, but doing nothing guarantees who will bear the brunt of it.
Stay updated atfnae.fr
Don’t forget to put your clocks forward on 30 March!
This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action", reminds us of the ongoing fight for gender equality. Over a century ago, courageous women demanded better pay, fair working hours and the right to vote. While much progress has been made - in classrooms, boardrooms and beyond - major challenges remain.
Sexism, pay gaps and prejudice persist around the world. Women still earn less than men, even though they're often better qualified. This injustice isn't only unjust - it hinders society. But we won't be discouraged. Empowered women create safer, healthier and more prosperous communities. Raise your voice for International Women’s Day on .8 March
Together, we can achieve true equality.
EXPOSITION: S'ÉVADER. L'ART EN DÉTENTION
Until 8 March
Niort
Explore art made in detention between the 19th and mid-20th century, including graffiti, poems, paintings, and sculptures. This compelling exhibition blends history and creativity, offering unique insights into penal artistry. Entry is free. regardsnoirs.niort.fr
L'ANGÉLIQUE, DE LA TERRE À L'ASSIETTE
Until 9 March
Niort
Explore the history, culture, and culinary transformation of angelica in this free exhibition at Le Séchoir, Port Boinot featuring photography, videos, and educational displays. niortmaraispoitevin.com
EXPOSITION 'LES ARBRES DANS LA LITTÉRATURE JEUNESSE'
Until 29 March
La Crèche
Discover L’École des Loisirs' illustration exhibition at Médiathèque La Ronde des Mots. Explore the tree as a symbol of time, seasons, and renewal. Free entry for all ages. A celebration of nature’s beauty and significance.
cc-hvs.fr
VISITE GUIDÉE - BELLES DEMEURES ET MONUMENTS D'EXCEPTION
1 March
Argentonnay
Discover the rich history of Argentonnay on a guided tour featuring its magnificent houses and remarkable monuments. Organized by the 3A association, this cultural visit offers a unique glimpse into the town’s heritage. Admission is free. tourisme-bocage.com
ST. DAVID'S DAY
1 March
Worldwide, especially in Wales
St. David's Day is a celebration dedicated to Wales’s patron saint, St. David or Dewi Sant in Welsh. A 6th C bishop, St. David is often depicted holding a dove on a hill, and his symbol is the leek. To pay tribute to the patron saint, people commonly wear daffodils, a national symbol of Wales. This tradition gained popularity thanks to David Lloyd George.
visitwales.com
VISITES GUIDÉES DU CHÂTEAU
2, 3, 4 & 8 March
Oiron
Explore the fascinating curiosities of Château d'Oiron with your family and uncover its rich history and unique treasures. From stunning architecture to intriguing artworks, there’s something for everyone to admire and remember. chateau-oiron.fr
RASSEMBLEMENT DE VÉHICULES ANCIENS
2 March
Bressuire
Join the monthly exhibition in the Place St Jacques showcasing vintage vehicles . See pre-war cars, youngtimers, motorcycles, trucks, bicycles, and other exceptional models, presented by their proud owners. A must-visit for vintage vehicle enthusiasts. Organised by Tacot-Club Bressuirais, Tacot-club.fr
FÊTE DES GRANDS-MÈRES
2 March
Throughout France
The Fête des Grands-Mères is a heartfelt annual event in France dedicated to celebrating grandmothers. It's a day of family gatherings, special activities, and expressions of love and gratitude for all grandmothers.
MARDI GRAS
Across France
4 March
Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) is the celebration observed throughout France as a prelude to the fasting period of Lent. In the United Kingdom, we know it as "Pancake Day." This time tradition involves indulging in decadent and fatty foods, specifically pancakes, waffles, and beignets, to deplete the household's stores of fats. Its origins can be traced back to medieval Europe.
MARIE CURIE: LA VIE D’UNE FEMME HONORABLE
4 March 2025
Parthenay
Discover the inspiring journey of Marie Curie, the first woman to earn a Nobel Prize for her pioneering work on radioactivity. A fascinating event at Le Foyer Cinéma, celebrating her legacy. uia.cc-parthenay-gatine.fr
REACTION BOOK CLUB
5 March, 3pm
Fenioux
The Reaction Book Club meet on the 1st Wednesday of the month at 3pm in the Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux. This month the book is “The Comedians” by Graham Greene. Everybody welcome. reactiontheatre.eu
UN DRAGON DANS MON JARDIN
5 March
Les Châteliers
Join us at Jardin des Sens for an enchanting evening discovering fascinating amphibians, some of which resemble tiny dragons. Wander through the labyrinth and explore the pond in this family-friendly adventure. Don’t forget to bring torches and sturdy boots! The event begins at 20h30, and registration is required. cpie79.fr
MYSTÉRIEUSE ANGÉLIQUE – À LA
RECHERCHE DE L'ELIXIR PERDU
6 & 7 March
Niort
Embark on a thrilling medieval quest to uncover a legendary potion in this familyfriendly adventure at Le Séchoir, Port Boinot, . Solve mysteries and beat the clock! Limited to 12 participants. Tickets: €6 per person or €20 family pack. niortmaraispoitevin.com
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
8 March
Worldwide
International Women's Day is a global celebration that recognises women's social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. This day also serves as a call to action for gender equality. internationalwomensday.com
SORTIE NATURE - MARAIS DE LAIROUX
12 March
Lairoux (85400)
Immerse yourself in nature with a presentation in Saint-Denis-du-Payré, followed by a stroll through the communal marsh of Lairoux, where you can spot various species like Purple Heron, White Stork, Black Kite, and Lapwing.
vendee.lpo.fr
WORLD KIDNEY DAY
13 March
Worldwide
Celebrate World Kidney Day to promote awareness of kidney health and disease. The day emphasizes the importance of kidneys to our overall health and encourages early detection and a healthy lifestyle for maintaining optimal kidney health.
worldkidneyday.org
LE RÉGIME JURIDIQUE DE L’ANTARCTIQUE
13 March
Saint-Jean de Thouars
Explore the Antarctic Treaty of 1959 and its role in fostering peace, science, and environmental protection. Join Florian Aumond for insights into this unique geopolitical and legal landscape. uia-du-pays-thouarsais.fr
NUIT DE LA CHOUETTE
14 March
Fontenay-le-Comte
Explore Fontenay-le-Comte's historic monuments and nocturnal birds of prey during this guided evening walk starting at Place Viète. Part of the Nuits de la Chouette 2025, this free event is in partnership with the Ville d’Art et d’Histoire.
vendee.lpo.fr
LES FRANGLAISES
14 March
Niort
Experience a hilarious musical journey as Les Franglaises reinterpret iconic English hits with absurdly literal translations. A unique and entertaining show that has captivated over a million spectators. Tickets from €37. lacclameur.net
SOIRÉE
JEUX DE
SOCIÉTÉ
(BOARD GAME NIGHT)
14 & 28 March
Coulonges-sur-l'Autize
Join an exciting board game night organized by Ludiquez-Vous. Whether you're a casual or seasoned player, come and visit us! We have games to suit all tastes. Feel free to bring your favourite games to share with others! facebook.com/ludiquezvous79
CARNAVAL
15 March
Saint-Maixent-l'École
Join the festive parade themed 'Fur and Feathers' with music, costumes, and lively activities. Enjoy a morning of fun with artists, associations, and refreshments.
saint-maixent-lecole.fr
CHÂTEAU REOPENING
15 March
Chef-Boutonne
Join us for the spring opening of the Château de Javarzay. The doors will open at 2pm, and visitors will be entertained with musical surprises taking place in many of the rooms of the château and museum during the afternoon. The château will be open every Saturday afternoon and all day on Sundays, until April, when the hours will be extended. chateau-javarzay.fr
SOIRÉE CABARET
15 & 16 March
Coulon
Join Les Tégadons for two vibrant cabaret performances filled with feathers, glitter, and unique acts. Make sure to reserve your spot before March 14th.
lestegadons.fr
LES ATELIERS DE LA SIMPLICITÉ:
VANNERIE TEXTILE
16 March
Melle
Take part in an engaging hands-on fabric weaving workshop and enjoy a snack with fellow participants. Hosted by the association, this free event celebrates creativity and sustainable living. Advance registration is required. lesateliersdelasimplicite.com
FESTIVAL NOUVELLES SCÈNES
17 to 23 March
Niort
Join us in celebrating the next generation of talent in contemporary music at this
dynamic festival. Experience unforgettable performances across Niort's iconic venues, all while fostering creativity and strengthening community connections.
facebook.com/nouvellesscenesniort
ST. PATRICK'S DAY
17 March
Worldwide
Join the St. Patrick's Day celebrations! The holiday began in 1631 as a feast day honouring St. Patrick, who brought Christianity to Ireland. Now, it's a global event featuring parades, traditional music, food, and the iconic green attire. Embrace this rich Irish heritage and history! ireland.com
L’ARBRE DANS LA HAIE
19 March
Fontenay-le-Comte
Join this free monthly walk exploring the vital role of trees in biodiversity. Organised by LPO Vendée and the Ville de Fontenay-le-Comte, it’s a great way to connect with nature. vendee.lpo.fr
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF HAPPINESS 20 March
Worldwide
Join the global celebration of happiness and well-being. The International Day of Happiness is a day to promote happiness as a universal human right and goal. This year’s theme reminds us that lasting happiness comes from caring for each other, feeling connected and being part of something bigger. dayofhappiness.net
BAUDELAIRE, POÈTE MAUDIT, POÈTE MODERNE 20 March
Saint-Jean de Thouars
Discover the life and poetry of Charles Baudelaire, who expressed his unease and mood in innovative forms, breaking away from Romanticism. Presented by retired literature professor Christian Pipet. uia-du-pays-thouarsais.fr
Regular venues including:
• Argentonnay 79150
• Funny Farm Cat Rescue 79200
• Thouars 79100
• Noirlieu 79300
Other venues to be announced soon! Remember to pick up your copy of The Deux-Sèvres Monthly! Find us on Facebook: Oh my Lord Franck’s fish and chips or email: lordmaurin@yahoo.com
INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ELIMINATION OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
21 March
Worldwide
On this day, people worldwide unite to uphold human rights and root out racism. The day highlights the urgency of combatting racial discrimination and promotes equality, inclusion, and dialogue.
un.org
WORLD WATER DAY
22 March
Worldwide
Join the global celebration of water, our most precious resource. This day aims to raise awareness about the crucial importance of water in our lives, the need for sustainable management of water resources, and the challenges faced due to water scarcity. un.org
MARCHE SEMI-NOCTURNE DE LA SAINT-PATRICK
22 March
Saint-Chartres (86330)
Celebrate Saint Patrick with a seminighttime walk. Choose between 7 km or 12 km routes with refreshment stops. Dinner available by reservation. Highvisibility vest and torch required. Organised by La Tar'Dive. facebook.com/latardive86
FESTIVAL LA NUIT SÉVRIENNE
22 March
Saint-Pierre-des-Échaubrognes
Join us for an unforgettable evening, featuring electrifying live performances by Mano, Joyeux Bordel, and Alice April. Don’t miss this exciting debut event filled with energy and music! Secure your tickets online now. instagram.com/lanuitsevrienne
WATERMILL IN OPERATION
22 March
Nieul sur l'Autise (85240)
Experience a watermill in operation, producing authentic traditional flour. Throughout your visit, the miller will explain the intricate workings, the necessary conditions, and the process of obtaining the finest flour. maisondelameunerie-vendee.fr
PARTHENAY HIP HOP FESTIVAL
22-23 March
Parthenay
Celebrate hip hop culture with open mics, rap battles, and live performances by Rémy and Lexie T. A weekend of music, dance, and creativity for all ages. Tickets and details online. sallediffart.com
REACTION POEM & PINTS GROUP
26 March, 3pm
Fenioux
An afternoon of poetry and drinks with Reaction Theatre members and friends. The Reaction Poem & Pints group meets every 3rd Wednesday at 3pm at Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux. We share our favourite poems – this month's theme is Transport. Everybody welcome - contact John Round at 05 49 95 03 65 if interested. reactiontheatre.eu
"LE CHEMIN DES LÉGENDES”
27 March
Niort
Irish Celtic presents "The Path of Legends," a new production celebrating Irish culture. Enjoy a unique mix of music, dance, and storytelling as you explore timeless values, ancient legends, and cherished traditions in this unforgettable journey.
lacclameur.net
SALON DES VINS ET TERROIRS
28-30 March
Thouars
Embark on a unique journey through French vineyards and gastronomy at the Salon des Vins et Terroirs. Over a hundred winemakers and local producers will present their offerings in the historic Orangerie du Château. salon-vins-terroirs-thouars.org
ATELIER "RÉPARE CAFÉ"
28 March
Airvault
Join us for the "Répare Café" workshop every last Saturday of the month from 14h00. Get help from volunteers to repair items like appliances, bicycles, small furniture, and some computer equipment, all while enjoying a hot cup of coffee. cc-avt.fr
LES ABEILLES SONT-ELLES BONNES
EN MATHS ?
29 March
Secondigny
Explore how bees and maths intertwine in this engaging conference-show blending science and performance. Presented by mathematician Romain and actress Camille. Suitable for ages 10 and up at the Médiathèque Secondigny. mediatheques-ludotheque.parthenaygatine.fr
TRANSHUMANCE 2025
29-30 March
Vasles
Celebrate the season opening of Mouton Village with a traditional sheep transhumance. Enjoy a scenic hike, gourmet breaks, and festivities across the Gâtine region. A unique weekend experience for all ages. moutonvillage.fr
VISITE DU PETIT MUSÉE - AUTREFOIS
L’ÉCOLE
30 March
Fontenay-le-Comte (85200)
Step back in time and experience the ambiance of a bygone era at the "Autrefois l’école" museum. Discover the settings and activities of old-school classrooms. Admission is free. facebook.com/autrefoislecole
LE LAC DES CYGNES
1 April
Niort
Join the International Festival Ballet for a performance of "Le Lac des Cygnes". This acclaimed ballet, accompanied by a live orchestra, narrates the romantic tale of Prince Siegfried and Swan Princess Odette.
internationalfestivalballet.com
LES HERBIERS SOUS PRESSION
5 April
Les Herbiers (85500)
Come and enjoy tasting beer from Wales, Germany, Spain and France at the International Beer Festival organised by the Comité de Jumelage du Pays des Herbiers. A fun-filled day with entertainments and treats brought by visitors from our twinned towns. At Espace Herbauges 10h to 19h. Free entry. Food trucks available. jumelage-paysdesherbiers.fr
HOPE79 SPRING FAYRE
6 April
Sauzé-Vaussais
We would love to see you at our Spring Fayre from 10h00 to 16h00, at 2 Route de Vauthion. Enjoy food stalls, a tombola, crafts, gifts, artisan stands, bargains, and the opportunity to meet some of the incredible associations we support.
hope79.org
FAULTY HOMES...
4 & 5 April
Clussais la Pommeraie
After the Covid shutdown Fawlty Towers transformed into a Care Home. Join us for an evening of comedy with a little musical entertainment. Tickets €8 on the door, or from Ark79.
Facebook - Pommeraie Players
DE VIGNES EN CAVES... À CHAMPIGNONS!
Until 30 November
Le Puy Notre Dame (49260)
This tour will allow you to enjoy two major specialities of the Anjou: wine and mushrooms. Above ground, you'll explore the vineyards of Puy Notre Dame, and underground, you'll discover traditional mushroom farming. A wine tasting at the Domaine will complete your experience!
escapadesviticool.com
If You're Happy and You Know It.
Whilst doing mundane jobs around the compound (uprooting brambles, re-grouting swimming pool slabs, stacking five stere of logs) my mind drifts away and I reflect on some of the highs and lows of life in the UK. Sometimes I will start laughing like a loon when I remember some of the more embarrassing incidents from my murky Thespian past.
The local amateur dramatic society were holding auditions for their upcoming production of the King and I and my mum had informed us (me, my twin brother and sister) we were going to audition for one of the King's 106 children. None of us wanted to audition but our mum, who was a forceful woman, was adamant. Our audition prep was lacklustre to non-existent. If You're Happy and You Know It Clap Your Hands was our chosen song, as we thought the choreography would take care of itself. On the big day we had barely sung Clap Your Hands before we descended into uncontrollable giggles of embarrassment. The more we tried to hold it together the worse it got, much to mum's annoyance who was coaching from the sidelines. Before we had a chance to 'stomp our feet' we were thanked and asked to leave.
Fast forward to when I was fourteen years of age and my involvement in am-dram had burgeoned. My dad had read an article in the Observer colour supplement about Lionel Bart's musical Oliver! in the West End auditioning boys to be part of Fagin's gang and if interested, apply, which I did. The only suitable photo included my brother (who had no interest in drama...more sporty). They wrote back inviting me to audition and 'why don't you bring your brother as well'.
We all trouped up to London and Simon and I gave our renditions of Where Is Love? Well wouldn't you know it, he was offered a part and I wasn't. My mother said 'they come as a pair or not at all' at which Cameron MacIntosh acquiesced, and I too was accepted.
Fast forward another few years. I'm 22, 23 and fresh out of drama school. For some reason my agent is under the misapprehension I am a good singer (yes, I can carry an upbeat tune, but Russell 'The Voice' Watson I am not). I auditioned for all the big musicals Les Misérables, Joseph, Jesus Christ Superstar.
Just as my confidence was hitting an all-time low my agent sent me along to the Putney Dance Attic to audition for the part of Tony in West Side Story...bloody hell!
I joined the long line of hopefuls doing their vocal warm-ups in the corridor awaiting my name to be called. My preparation for
the audition was lacklustre to nonexistent. I had chosen a song that I liked but had been too tight to pay a pianist to go over it with me. It started quite low, then got higher and higher building to a crescendo or so I thought. I gave my music to the pianist and introduced myself to the panel of stern faces sitting behind a table.
The pianist started playing...Blimey! That's high, I thought... .and I was right. I was okay initially, but as the song progressed I was struggling more and more to hit the ascending notes. Just as I thought it couldn't get any higher up it went. In the end I was virtually shrieking at the top of my voice to hit the notes that were clearly out of my range. After my final shriek the ordeal was over and there was a sigh of relief from all in the room. I might as well have been singing If You're Happy and You Know It.. .at least that was in my range. I gave an apologetic smile and left the room.
The walls at the Putney Dance Attic are very thin and my caterwauling could be clearly heard by all the other auditionees in the corridor. As I exited the room thirty people all stopped what they were doing and looked at me. My forehead became very hot, and I left the building as quickly as I could.
Thirty-five years on, as I finish my fifth stere, my forehead starts heating up at the memory of it.
If You're Happy and You Know It has been etched in the annals of our family history; not a family get together goes by without someone suggesting a rendition. -
If you would like to read more ramblings from Mr Shaw, go to www.lifein79.blogspot.com
Hypnosis
What It Is (and What It Definitely Isn’t)
For a lot of people, the word hypnosis brings up images of swirling spirals, people clucking like chickens, or mysterious figures swinging pocket watches, whispering, “You are getting very sleepy…” It’s no wonder hypnosis has a bit of a reputation! But here’s the truth - it’s nothing like that.
Hypnosis is simply a natural state of focused relaxation, where your mind becomes more open to positive suggestions.
That’s it.
No mind control, no mystical powers, and definitely no embarrassing antics (unless youwantto cluck like a chicken, but to each their own!).
What HypnosisIsn’t
Let’s bust a few myths!
1. Hypnosis is NOT mind control You can’t be made to do anything against your will. If that were possible, hypnotherapists would be the richest people on the planet! Instead, hypnosis works *with* your mind, reinforcing what you already want to achieve.
2. You’re not unconscious or asleep. You won’t wake up wondering what happened or find yourself doing anything weird. In fact, most people remember everything and feel more aware than usual.
3. You can’t get “stuck” in hypnosis. This one’s a Hollywood favorite. In reality, if a hypnotist stopped talking, you’d either open your eyes or drift into a regular nap. No one stays “trapped” in hypnosis - it’s just deep relaxation with a purpose.
4. It’s not just for quitting smoking, curing phobias or weight loss. Sure, hypnosis is famous for helping with habits, but it’s also powerful for reducing anxiety, boosting confidence, improving sleep, and even enhancing creativity.
So, WhatIsHypnosis?
At its core, hypnosis is a way to bypass the noisy, critical part of your brainthe one that overthinks everythingand access your subconscious, where real change happens. Think of it like daydreaming or getting lost in a good book. You know that feeling when you’re driving and suddenly you're home but you don't recall a section of the journey? That’s a form of hypnosis! Your focus narrows, your imagination kicks in, and for a little while, you’re fully engaged in the experience.
When used in a professional setting (like clinical hypnotherapy), hypnosis helps people overcome fears, break bad habits, manage stress, and even improve performance in areas like sports or public speaking. It’s a tool for positive change, not some eerie force taking over your mind.
So, Is Hypnosis for You?
If you’ve ever felt stuck in a rut, struggled with self-doubt, or wished you could shake off stress more easily, hypnosis could be a game-changer. It’s a safe, natural, and effective way to rewire old thought patterns and step into a better version of yourselfwithout the need for force, fear, or funny business.
So, maybe it’s something that could help make a positive impact in your life?
If you have any questions, or want to know more - my details are on page 11. And I promise - there’ll be no clucking about!
Everyday yoga for everyone
Slow Progress or No Progress
What blocks us from making progress in anything, whether that be a yoga practice, learning to play an instrument, or speaking a new language? Is it really, as we so often tell ourselves, that we are “too slow,” “too old,” or simply “not good at (fill in the blank),” or whatever other accusations we launch at ourselves to rationalise our fears around learning? Perhaps we were mocked as children when we attempted something, or told repeatedly that we would never be able to do such and such, and somehow we have internalised voices that never want to engage in the learning challenge because it makes us feel vulnerable, stupid, or inadequate - you pick your adjective.
Unrealistic expectations of ourselves, together with false ideas around our own capacities, along with fears and misunderstandings about what learning really involves, lead to learning blocks that can manifest in multiple ways but are often signalled by constant procrastination, distraction, and avoidance of proactively engaging in one’s learning goals.
Progress can only happen in the context of self-honesty. Accepting and being comfortable with exactly where we are, right now, while at the same time opening ourselves up to new information. This is called a ‘beginner's mind,’ which also involves shutting down the interior critical voices that, if you listened to them, would have you giving up before you have even really tried. The critic accepts
nothing less than perfection, but perfection is an illusion. Progress has nothing to do with perfection. Progress only happens when you take a step, and then another. Meanwhile, the cynic sits on her/his sad bottom and slings barbs and arrows around your head to discourage you. Don’t listen. Just take another step forward. Those snarky voices will soon fade into the distance.
Progress is the domain of the small. It is those little steps towards your goals that lead to real and lasting understanding. The advantages of slow progress are many. Here are just a few:
• Deepening knowledge
When you progress slowly, you have more time to absorb information, practise skills, and identify potential pitfalls, leading to a solid foundation.
• Reduced stress
Avoiding the pressure to achieve quick results can lessen anxiety and allow for a more relaxed approach to learning and progress.
• Better decision-making
Taking time to reflect on each step can lead to more informed choices and adjustments along the way.
• Building resilience
Encountering challenges and overcoming them gradually can strengthen your resolve and ability to persevere.
• More adaptive
Building learning gradually allows us to make necessary adjustments along the way, adapting to the challenges as they unfold.
• Focus on quality
Slow progress allows for greater attention, enabling us to correct our mistakes and ensure higher standards of accomplishment.
• Improved attention
Slow progress allows us to be more honestly aware of where we are on the learning path and understand what we need in order to advance further.
• Patience
Going step by step teaches us to go easier on ourselves and others and to manage unrealistic expectations of our progress.
Yes, slow progress can sometimes be hard to measure and can also become frustrating when the changes we hoped for seem to remain elusive. But more often than not, slow progress is our insurance against no progress. To learn more and for information on private and group yoga sessions or breath coaching, contact me at lavieenyoga@gmail.com
Respect yourself, explore yourself.
Rebecca
email: DavidMurphyHypno@gmail.com
Callortextmeon 0675301822 siret89241290900020
2 March 1933, the ground-breaking horror film "King Kong" premieres in New York City. Celebrated for its pioneering special effects and the first to feature an animated character, it propels actress Fay Wray to international fame.
8 March 1974, Charles de Gaulle Airport, previously planned as Aéroport de Paris Nord, opens. Designed by Paul Andreu, the avant-garde terminal features a ten-story circular building surrounded by seven satellite structures. The airport, carries the IATA code CDG.
14 March 1991, the "Birmingham Six," six Irish men jailed for the 1974 pub bombings, are released. Convicted based on dubious confessions and later discredited forensic evidence, their release follows widespread calls questioning their guilt. Later, their sentences are formally overturned due to concerns about police evidence and interrogation methods.
18 March 1871, Paris witnesses an insurrection against the French government, resulting in a revolutionary government leading Paris until 28 May. Despite divisions, the Commune government adopts radical measures. After facing opposition from Versailles, the uprising is violently suppressed by late May.
20 March 1828, Henrik Ibsen, the prominent Norwegian playwright is born. Known for his influential works like "A Doll’s House," "Ghosts," and "Hedda Gabler," His plays tackled societal issues and psychological conflicts, significantly shaping modern prose drama.
21 March 1965, Martin Luther King Jr. initiates a historic march for African American voting rights from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. This pivotal moment in civil rights history is later depicted in the 2014 film "Selma."
26 March 1793, a significant pro-royalist uprising takes place in the Vendée region of France. This event marks a critical phase in the French Revolution, leading to intensified conflict and setting the stage for the Reign of Terror.
31 March 1999, The Matrix, a visually spectacular and innovative film, is released. It tells the story of Neo, a computer hacker who discovers a world controlled by machines. The film becomes a massive success, earning $470 million worldwide and winning four Academy Awards.
Abernathy Family, Public domain
Alamy
Saint Patrick and his French connection
When you hear the name Saint Patrick, you may think of lively parades, shamrocks and the Irish countryside. But behind these symbols lies a remarkable story that goes beyond the shores of Ireland. Behind the stories of snakes and miracles lies a lesser-known chapter: St Patrick’s connections to France, a country that greatly influenced his life and shaped his path to becoming Ireland’s patron saint. St Patrick, originally named Maewyn Succatt, was born in 386 AD, although the place of his birth is disputed. Traditionally, historians point to Roman Britain, with "Bannavem Taburniae'," mentioned in his writings, tentatively associated with modern England or Wales. However, an alternative theory by the Reverend Marcus Losack suggests that Patrick may have been born in Brittany. He associates Bannavem Taburniae with Bonavenna de Tiberio near the present-day Château de Bonaban. Although most scholars favour a British ancestry, the possibility of a French origin adds
ordained a bishop, he was well prepared for his later mission in Ireland.
When Patrick returned to Ireland in 432 AD, his goal was clear: he wanted to convert the Irish people to Christianity. When he initially encountered resistance, he realised that cultural sensitivity would be the key to his success. Instead of fighting Irish traditions, Patrick looked for ways to adapt them to Christian teachings. The Celtic cross, which combines the Christian cross with indigenous circular symbols, is an enduring testament to this inclusive approach.
another intriguing layer to the narrative of a figure so closely associated with Ireland.
Patrick’s early years were characterised by great upheaval. At the age of 16, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and enslaved for six years, forced to work as a shepherd. During this time in isolation, Patrick’s faith deepened. After escaping from captivity, he eventually returned to his family, but felt called to a higher purpose - to spread Christianity.
This calling led Patrick to religious training, which took him to Auxerre in Burgundy, France. Under the guidance of Bishop St Germanus, Patrick underwent a transformation. Auxerre was not only a spiritual refuge, but also a centre of education. It was here that Patrick learnt to read and writeopportunities that had been denied to him during his enslavement. These skills and the study of theology were crucial to Patrick’s development as a missionary. By the time he was
SOLUTIONS FRANCE SOLUTIONS FRANCE
Patrick’s work went beyond evangelisation. He baptised thousands, founded Christian communities and oversaw the building of churches and monasteries. These efforts laid the foundations for Ireland to become a centre of Christian scholarship. His ability to combine spiritual innovation with respect for the local culture enabled him to leave a lasting impression.
Patrick’s life story is interwoven with many myths. From the expulsion of snakes to the use of the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity, there are many folkloric embellishments. But his autobiographical Confessio reveals a deeply humble and pious man who was driven by an unwavering commitment to his mission. His time in France provided him with the intellectual and spiritual foundation that qualified him for his success in Ireland.
Today, Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated around the world with parades and cultural pride. Whether in France, where his theological foundation was laid, or in Ireland, where his legacy grew, Patrick’s life remains a symbol of faith, perseverance and cross-cultural exchange. The link between France and Ireland, forged by Patrick’s life, continues to work, uniting cultures and celebrating a rich, shared heritage.
Book Club
The Evolving Writer
When I started this scribbling business in 2009, I sat down one morning in front of my computer and typed for ninety days.
As a professional translator, I knew I would have to edit anything I produced. I joined a writers’ group and survived the terror of reading my offering aloud for the first time and receiving comments and criticism. Then I had to toughen up. I ordered and consumed books on writing, I swapped with other members in the writing group. Next, I put out feelers to find out how to publish. I went along to seminars, listened to talks. Basically, I put on my big girl pants and set off on my way. How naïve I was!
My first manuscript’s heroine was established in her role, she knew her world, she had a significant other and she duly saved the day. I had built a coherent setting for her and her fellow characters. What could be wrong?
But after one writers’ group evening, the discussion confirmed a doubt which had wormed its way into my head by the back door a week or two earlier. Why had I started where I had? Why hadn’t I started at the beginning of my heroine’s story?
I explained to myself and the group that I would publish an earlier part of her story later. I had started right in the middle of her career story. Wasn’t that where you were supposed to start without a lot of background at the beginning?
I had learned one lesson but not the right one
Agreed, the way to hook the reader from the first sentence, then the first paragraph and the first page, a good place to begin is in media res, a posh way of saying slap bang in the middle of the action.
However…
We should not confuse or repel readers by dumping an indigestible superabundance of assumptions on them. Some assumptions, yes, in order to create an atmosphere, but not on the scale of a Roman Saturnalia.
Neither should the story start at absolute beginning of the heroine’s or hero’s life, unless his or her birth is a dramatic moment in itself and an essential part of the story.
The ideal place is the moment the trigger of their first adventure/ case/ revelation/pivotal point in their life strikes
Back to my own mis-start… I saw the logic of my writing group’s opinions and of my own inner voice and took another three months to draft the first part of my heroine’s story. Several versions later, I submitted it to an editor and received terrific feedback plus a load of points to work on. In 2013, this script was published asthe first in what would become an eleven-book series. Page one starts in the middle of the heroine’s day, but at the exact moment that triggers the cascade of
events that change her life over that book and the following three books. But what of that story I wrote first –the later part of her story? The one I cut my teeth on. I dug it out of the archive, printed it out and wept. It was terrible. The story was basically sound and logically followed the first novel I’d published but, dear gods, the words: clichés, telling, dough, fluff, gratuitous scenes, sag, cardboard characters.
So out came the machete. I left some sentences and even the odd paragraph untouched. New sentences, paragraphs and even chapters were added. I convinced myself it would be over before Christmas. It wasn’t, but the bulk of the honing and slicing was done by then.
I realised that in putting that first manuscript aside, I learnt so much and practised so much more My writing rose to a different level altogether and importantly, I could see that. By the time I sent my fourth novel to my developmental editor, I felt much more confident and knew the words were flowing much more easily. That wonderful editor sent me back her shortest report yet, ending with, “There is little to improve. You no longer need me.”
Wow!
Of course, I still needed a copy editor and proofreader for the final prepublication stages, and I still sent my next manuscript to my eagle-eyed critique writing partner, but I realised that I had taken off on my own wings. So, of course, can you.
Alison has compiled a selection of articles from this column into ‘The 500 Word Writing Buddy’, available in print and ebook on Amazon and other retailers. EXSILIUM, her new historical novel set in the late 4th century, is out now.
Alison Morton
This month’s book reviews Book Club
The Sea House
by Louise Douglas
review by Jacqueline Brown
The Sea House is the third book in a brilliant series set on the wild Breton coast, an area that can be dark and unpredictable, especially when the storms roll in, much like this book.
I couldn’t wait to get back into the action and discover the latest about the mysterious and tragic loss of Sophie and Charlie, a storyline that has run throughout all the books. Mila, who put her UK life on hold to look after her orphaned niece Ani, is no nearer to deciding where her future lies, and the current investigation she and Carter are working on for the Toussaints detective agency, is the most frustrating yet. As they endeavour to find the elusive Astrid Oake, to fulfil a final request, Mila finds herself in a dark and dangerous place where lives are at risk as family secrets and friendship pacts that lasted a lifetime, were slowly revealed.
This book took the events in the first two books and raised them, so much so, there were times when I wasn’t sure I could read on – heart stopping it most certainly was, but I was also too hooked to put down. In this multi-plotted mystery, the more that is uncovered about the past, the more questions are raised.
As this series has evolved, so too have my feelings for some of the characters and the direction I want them to move in – I will say no more, just that I’m enjoying being fully immersed into a really gripping series of novels where the dynamics of the characters change from book to book, as do my reactions to them.
I reached the end thinking oh no! This hasn’t given me enough, I have so many questions. The relief to then read a teaser of the next book in the series was like exhaling a longheld breath, but as the action and tension has notched up steadily in each of the three books so far, will I cope with book four? I’ll do my best, so bring it on Louise.
I can’t recommend this series enough.
ASSURANCES MAUCOURT
The Making of Us
by Debbie Howells
review by Jacqueline Brown
This book is another powerfully emotional read from Debbie Howells.
There is something particularly lovely about a book that brings me to a France I know, so with Limoges airport featuring in the opening chapters, and the characters setting off for a rural village in the Corrèze, I certainly felt at home within the pages. When they meet on a flight to Limoges in southwest France, Stevie and Ned are both in a difficult place. Stevie, alone and recovering from a loss, Ned, not sure where his life or career is going. I felt I bonded with them both from the beginning and couldn’t wait to see how their journeys would evolve.
Fay, alone in her second home in France, needs something different from her life, rather than being a dutiful wife at husband Hugh’s beck and call. Making the decision not to return to Surrey, but to immerse herself in a local allotment, run by the mysterious Zeke, is a decision that changes the path of her life and that of her family. Zeke was one of my favourite characters. Wise, caring, always believing in the signs nature sends him, but hiding a difficult secret.
As we get to know them, and the other characters in the village, the intricacies of village life often made me smile, and I especially loved the way the character’s paths crossed, often without them realising the significance of the meeting. This book deals with illness, loss and grief sensitively and with feeling. There are family stories to piece together, new lives to carve out and a real sense of the community coming together.
Ultimately, it perfectly highlights the importance of life, living it to the best of our abilities and loving those who are important. Zeke, Fay, Stevie and Ned, all touched my heart as I was immersed in their lives. It was great to be back in a Debbie Howells novel.
La Vie en France
Merveilles of March
We have made it through the gloom of January and February, now it is time to welcome in March, a month of possibilities and the final step that bridges the gap between winter and spring. With Shrove Tuesday, or Mardi Gras, falling on the 4th of March this year, the month will mostly be taken up with Lent, traditionally a time of abstinence, but at least we get to start the month off with some tasty treats, like merveilles (meaning wonders).
We might be used to Shrove Tuesday being celebrated with pancakes, topped with a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkled with sugar, but as crêpes are traditionally eaten in France on 2nd of February to celebrate la chandeleur (the midpoint between the shortest day and the spring equinox), many regions of France prefer a deep-fried delight to celebrate Mardi Gras. Merveilles, tourtisseaux or bottereauxI have seen many names and almost as many recipe variations, are essentially a dough made from a mix of flour, eggs, milk and raising agent (often with a splash of rum), rolled out and cut into thin diamond shapes that puff up when they are fried. Far less stodgy than a doughnut, but far more hassle to make than a pancake mixture, in my opinion.
Whether you are a Shrove Tuesday pancake type person, or a Mardi Gras merveilles person, the idea behind them is the same, a naughty, rich treat to keep our sweet tooth satisfied during the lean days of Lent.
Jacqueline Brown
March is also the month where many tourist sites will reopen after winter. At the Château de Javarzay in ChefBoutonne, we have something special planned to celebrate the new season this year. The doors will open at 2pm on Saturday 15th March, and visitors will be entertained with musical surprises taking place in many of the rooms of the château and museum during the afternoon. It will be the perfect way to breathe life into the building and help it wake up fully from its winter hibernation. The château will then be open every Saturday afternoon and all day on Sundays, until April, when the hours will be extended during the school holiday period, and we will be running a brand-new Easterthemed treasure hunt. I can’t wait to get back to sharing this fully bilingual museum experience with our visitors once again. Don’t forget, group bookings (for ten or more) can be scheduled for weekdays out of season, when you will have the château to yourselves and benefit from the reduced-price entry.
Let’s just hope there is some wonderful weather to enjoy in March too, I think we deserve it. Cycling over winter has been challenging, but we have done our best to keep pedalling, both here and on a visit to the UK. Some morning coffee rides have seen me wrapped up like a yeti with ski gloves and my puffer jacket, with hood
pulled over my cycling helmet. It’s not a particularly attractive look, but anything to get me outdoors and protected from the biting wind was a win for me.
Sophie Hargreaves
Glamping, season 5 (spoiler
alert, it's
still good)
Time flies; I can barely believe that it being March means it’s been six months since we dismantled our glamping site next to the alpacas’ fields. Therefore, it’s time for it to be reassembled, ready for our fifth season of glamping with alpacas.
We are regularly asked how we were able to obtain planning permission for the site, as a lot of permissions have now changed, and it seems nearly impossible to obtain camping/ glamping planning permission in the area since the changes. Our planning permission also had to include approval from the Bâtiment de France, as being opposite Château de Sanzay, a historical monument, they must ensure everything surrounding the château stays in keeping with the area.
It wasn’t plain sailing when we first applied for permission. We actually had a rejection initially, but with some research on the land designations and a long (very long) covering letter too, we were finally given the go-ahead. A few years later, we’re now entering our fifth season of glamping.
Whilst it’s retained its look and feel, each year there has been a lot of work and improvements. Some improvements come organically, for example, just due to the exposure to the extreme weather we get with the hot summer sun and the odd autumn storm. We’re on our second bell tent and even now have a UV protection hood for the tent to prolong the life of the one we currently have. Head height was really important when we were replacing the tent, as this really adds to the comfort you get when inside—no ducking needed for most, with four 2m doors into the tent. We’ve gotten through three external canopies too, as the material can perish with its constant exposure to the weather.
Other improvements come from us wanting to maintain the great reputation we’ve built. Over the years, the lucrative star ratings on various platforms, whilst fantastic in attracting others to the area, also set a high expectation that we want to meet when guests arrive and stay. Lighting has been something we’ve worked on to ensure a beautiful ambient feel in the countryside, whilst being practical for moving around at night.
With it being atypical accommodation, it’s so popular, and I can confirm, more popular than our gîte, which, despite being fully booked through high-season dates, cannot compete with the desirability of the glamping—something that should be experienced at least once, in my opinion.
When it’s possible, we really enjoy glamping out with the alpacas ourselves, though our stays look a little different now with our little one in tow. We used to have BBQ steak, the red wine flowing, a relaxing soak in the jacuzzi, toasted marshmallows, and a classic movie likeJawsprojected onto the tent at dark. Now, it’s a not-so-relaxing splish-splashing in the hot tub, a BBQ, perhaps toasted marshmallows that used to be hot but are now cooled down, andFinding Nemoat
projected onto the canvas ceiling. It’s just as fun, but a different kind of fun…
When we first opened up glamping to the public, I have to admit to being a little nervous about the guests’ access to the alpacas and how we could ensure their safety, such as making sure they were not being fed human food, which could be unpleasant for the alpacas, if not fatal, and whether everyone would keep gates closed and animals safely enclosed. Actually, we found that everyone who came fully respected the wellbeing of the animals and also only wanted the best for them. They all kept to the bag of treats we gave them to feed over the fences—food we know is healthy and safe for them. And most gates are closed at all times… we’re working on a more foolproof system!
Glamping is still relatively new in the world of accommodation and comes in all shapes and sizes. To me, it is comfortable and effortless camping; there’s no lugging around all the equipment needed for camping, and there are little extras to make the stay interesting and memorable… alpacas included.
For more information, visit: www.lapetitefermedalpagas.com or email: hello@lapetitefermedalpagas.com
dark
Taking Better Photographs... TheImportanceofPlace
Most of the images I have used for articles in the Deux-Sèvres Monthly have been landscape and nature, so the exact places do not really matter.
I would like to explore portrait photography more, so if you would like some photographs taken please get in touch. A model needs to be interesting not traditionally necessarily attractive or young and there are many interesting things about all of us. You would get copies of every shot taken and other than personal use any publication in print or electronically would require the consent of us both.
And some photographs depend upon location because there is a story to tell about that location. Like portrait shots they are much more about the subject than the techniques that were used. There has to be a story behind my photograph of this strange statue. She stood almost three metres high on a
small roundabout on a road from Sanxay, near to where I live, facing out of the village towards Ménigoute and just appeared one day last Autumn and by the end of January had gone.
The statue’s body is mainly wood, I think driftwood from its smoothness.
The hair is rope, some of it thick enough to be appropriate for ship or boat use. The face and hands are metal, in places they appear quite crudely constructed, but create an intriguing and expressive visage.
If it has anything to do with the sea or shipping I have failed to discover what, and if so why place it on the edge of Sanxay, more than 100 kilometres from the ocean? Photographically the main work was removing a cable that ran behind the figure. Please get in touch if you know anything about her.
The other two images have had little done to them. They were taken at the
end of a journey I began not long after Brexit.
We had been here long enough to allow the efficient French bureaucracy to provide each of us with a Carte de Sejour fairly swiftly but by then I had also started the process of trying to obtain an Irish passport based on my mother’s mother – a woman I had never known in life as she had died in 1948 a few years before I was born.
Johanna Connelly was born in 1884 in south-west Ireland and was one of more than a million Irish people who arrived in the UK as part of the rolling diaspora following the Great Hunger of the 1840s and 1850s. I obtained her birth, marriage and death certificates and having completed the online application sent them off.
The Irish authorities identified the first problem as a disparity between my grandmother’s age at death, 64 and the
age on the death certificate being 56. My grandfather, who had registered the death, hated the fact that his wife was older than he was. The Irish asked me to get the General Registry Office in the UK to correct it.
The GRO refused because the fairly common anglicisation of her name on the certificates – Johanna at birth, Joanna at marriage and Joan at death – meant they could not be certain all was right.
I failed to think of anything else I could do and eventually wrote to the Irish authorities with the response from the GRO and the family history about my grandfather. Then nothing happened.
The best I was hoping for was a refund of my fee, generously standard if an application is rejected. 18 months later an envelope arrived. It started with an apology for the long delay, caused by covid, and finally got round to telling me I had been registered as an Irish citizen.
Last year I had the opportunity to go to south-west Ireland and decided to see if I could find my grandmother’s home at 7 Georges Street Clonakilty. But there is no Georges Street in Clonakilty. And then I discovered that many of the streets in Clonakilty had been renamed, including Georges Street to Connolly Street.
This felt very appropriate given my grandmother was born a Connolly but I suspect it was after James Connolly one of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising rather than my ancestor. They are not the best photographs I have ever taken but they are very important.
A more detailed version of what led me to Clonakilty can be found online in an article I wrote for Kent & Surrey Bylines –https://tinyurl.com/9a2yen74
If you would like to discuss your photography and the work of other photographers or are interested in some portrait shots please get in touch at stevemarshall128@gmail.com
Clonakilty Bay
new ban on textile waste What you need to know
Since January 2025, the disposal of clothing, textiles and shoes in the general waste bin (ordures ménagères) has been banned in France. The legislation aims to tackle the growing problem of textile waste and reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry. For residents in France, adapting to these changes will not only help reduce waste but also avoid a fine of up to €75.
Clearing out your wardrobe? Start by donating clothes that are still wearable. Local associations, many of whom are featured in this magazine, actively accept clothing, and are keen to give them a new lease of life. Supporting these local charities is even more important now given the challenges faced by larger organisations such as the Red Cross.
Faced with a high volume of donations, the Red Cross has recently closed several recycling bins in the Deux-Sèvres, including Bressuire, Niort and Melle. These closures highlight the urgent need to support smaller, local organisations that are better placed to take donations at the moment.
If your clothes are not suitable for reuse, you can also think about textile recycling bins. Déchetteries are equipped to accept textiles such as shoes, curtains and even bedding. In addition, some retailers, such as H&M, offer special collection systems for textiles. Underwear, bras and other intimate items can be a tricky area when it comes to recycling textiles. Clean and intact underwear can sometimes be donated - each association has a different policy so check in advance for specific guidelines. If not suitable for reuse, these items can end up in the recycling bin along with other worn textiles. The materials are often reprocessed into industrial cloths or upholstery, but should always be clean and dry to avoid contamination.
When textiles are recycled, they go through a sorting process. Usable items are resold or donated, while damaged materials can be shredded into fibres for new purposes. Old cotton, for example, is turned into cleaning cloths, wool is spun into new yarn and synthetic shoes are turned into playground
surfacing or sports tracks. Modern recycling techniques even break down textiles down to the molecular level and turn old materials into new ones.
But not all items are suitable for recycling. Textiles that are contaminated with colour, oil or harmful chemicals, as well as wet textiles, must be disposed of in residual waste so as not to disrupt the recycling process.
The fashion world is one of the most polluting industries and produces more emissions than international air and sea transport combined. Recycling is one solution, but reducing consumption is just as important. why not opt for fewer pieces of clothing, visit second-hand shops and learn basic repair techniques to extend the life of your clothes. Check the “Whats On” section every month, we often feature repair cafes and recycling events.
If you want to know even more about sustainable fashion, visit Refashion.fr. This website offers valuable tips on recycling and how to deal with textile disposal laws in France.
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Learning to play an instrument in France
Traditionally, bands in France were family oriented with children learning from their siblings or parents already in the band. Volunteers would teach music theory (solfège) for at least two years before children or adults were allowed to play an instrument. It is really quite remarkable that these students persevered. Saying this, the importance of understanding music theory is not to be taken lightly and is necessary. Introductory music theory courses called Formation Musicale are offered at Music Schools
It is said that the language of music is universal but unfortunately the actual vocabulary is not. How you read a piece of music to play an instrument is the same for a North American or European but when deconstructed the notes and other symbols have different names.
The French name the notes using the words "do, ré, mi, fa, sol, la, si, do" whereas the English and North Americans name the notes with letters; do=C, ré=D, mi=E, fa=F, sol=G, la=A, si=B, Do=C. This doesn’t seem too complicated thanks to Julie Andrews singing “Do-Re-Mi” in The Sound of
Leslie Macdougall
Music, but when the conductor talks about "si" which is "B" and you think he means "c" which is "do" concentration is needed!
In very simple terms, each note on the staff (la portée), has a specific fingering on each instrument so that when you blow, that is the note that sounds.
The length of note (how long it is held), is indicated by the colour of the note (black or white), whether the note has a stem attached and how many tails on the stem of the note. Each music note of a different length has a different name. The British, North American and French all use different terminology. If the conductor was conducting a piece of music with four beats in a bar (une mesure), the whole note is held for four beats, the half note is held for two beats, the quarter note is held for one beat and the eighth note is held for ½ beat. Just for interest, I asked ChatGPT what was the fastest kind of musical note in music notation and it said, “It is called a two hundred fiftysixth note (or demisemihemidemisemiquaver in British terminology) It has 7 flags or beams attached to its stem”. Fortunately, it is extremely rare and used mostly in experimental compositions!
A final little useful French snipet; when the conductor says “En haut, à gauche”, it means start again from the beginning!
For more information, visit our Facebook page Orchestre d’Harmonie Lezay or email orchestreharmonielezay@gmail.com with your questions and a contact number and we’ll phone or email you back.
Generated
Macdougall
bringing the outside in...... bringing the outside in......
Spring is in the Air
The mornings and evenings are getting lighter and there’s far more time to get outside, both before and after work. Spring is a time of hope, new beginnings and proof of how resilient nature can be. Everything is bursting into life and even broken branches and damaged plants offer surprises. Have you ever noticed how many apparently dead tree stumps produce new shoots, or how empty stems of last years plants have offered shelter overwinter, and the warmer days now lure out all sorts of wildlife that has been hidden for months.
Some dead matter offers a new space for plants like moss or certain fungi to grow. Everywhere you look there are signs of life and a teaser of what’s to come. One sign of new life we will probably all spot soon is birds building nests… maybe you can help? Last year I made nest balls to hang in trees. Try to use natural untreated fibres for the birds (pet fur that’s been treated with pest repellent is toxic to birds so please don’t use this!) think natural fibres, plants stalks, moss, straw, dried grass, hair from your hair brush etc.
You should avoid severely cutting hedges back now so as not to damage the newly made nests. If you have ever tried to make a nest yourself, you will realise just how difficult it can be…and that’s with two hands, just imagine how hard it must be for a bird who only uses its beak! Making nests can be a fun game to play with children, helping them to think about wildlife and you can also save the nests for Easter decorations ready for next month, maybe fill them with some chocolate eggs.
If you do need to tidy some of your hedges, go carefully and pay attention to what you might be disturbing. If you prefer a more natural approach to gardening, you may have some old lengths of wild clematis still trailing around. These make great wreath bases, so carefully extract them from the branches and twist them round into wreath bases of your chosen size. You can decorate these throughout the
year, varying the flowers and foliage as often as you like and finishing in December with evergreens.
When you start creating with nature you cant help but follow the seasons and slowly learn to appreciate how whilst each month has its own unique treats, the yearly cycles run smoothly from one to the next. Sophie Stokes
You can find me on Facebook www.facebook. com/CueilletteetDecouvertebySophie
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Microsoft Ending Support for Windows 10 in 2025: What You Need to Know
If you use a computer with Windows 10, there’s an important change coming. Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will officially end onOctober 14, 2025. But what does this mean for you, and what should you do? Here’s a simple explanation to help you understand.
What Does “End of Support” Mean?
When Microsoft ends support for a version of Windows, it no longer provides security updates, bug fixes, or technical support. That means if hackers find a security weakness in Windows 10 after October 2025, Microsoft won’t fix it, making your computer more vulnerable to viruses and cyberattacks.
Will My Computer Stop Working?
No, your computer will continue to work as usual. You can still open your files, browse the internet, and use your favourite programs. However, because Microsoft won’t be providing updates, your system may become less secure over time. Also, some newer apps and programs might stop working with Windows 10 in the future.
What Should I Do?
To stay safe and keep your computer running smoothly, here are your options:
1.Upgrade to Windows 11
• Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 11, is designed to replace Windows 10.
• It comes with better security features and new tools to improve performance.
• Not all older computers can run Windows 11, so check Microsoft’s website to see if your device is compatible.
2.Keep Using Windows 10 (with Caution)
• If your computer can’t upgrade, you can continue using Windows 10, but it won’t be as safe.
• Consider using extra security tools, like antivirus software, and be cautious about downloading files or clicking on unknown links.
3.Buy a New Computer
• If your current computer is too old to upgrade, you might consider buying a new one with Windows 11 already installed.
• Newer computers are faster, more efficient, and offer better security.
When Should I Take Action?
You don’t need to do anything immediately, but it’s best to plan ahead. As October 2025 gets closer, check whether your computer can run Windows 11 and decide the best option for you.
Final Thoughts
Windows 10 has been a reliable operating system, but all good things come to an end. Upgrading to Windows 11 or considering a new device will help keep your computer safe and running smoothly
Jason Khan
Sioni Winwns
A Connection between Wales and Brittany
If you’ve ever heard of the 'Johnny Onions' or "Les Johnnies", you’ll know that they were part of a unique tradition that linked Brittany in France with Wales and other parts of Britain. Known for their berets and bicycles laden with pink onions, these Breton traders were a common sight in 19th and early 20th century.
In 19th century Brittany, life was not easy for farmers. The soil was fertile and the famous onions from Roscoff - with their sweet, mild flavour and long shelf life - were in great demand. They grew excellently in the Breton soil. But selling them locally did not bring in enough money, so some enterprising farmers decided to open up new markets.
In the 1820s, they sailed across the Channel to Great Britain. They packed up their onions, loaded them onto ships and travelled to Cornwall, Devon and, of course, Wales. Once in Britain, they didn’t stop at the docks, but hopped on bicycles and took their onions to every doorstep they could find. What began as a creative way to make ends meet developed into a long-standing tradition.
Wales became one of the favourite stops for the Onion Johnnies. Here they were known as "Sioni Winwns", a Welsh nickname that translates as Johnny Onion. The Sioni Winwns travelled from house to house with their onions and were a firm favourite with their Welsh customers. Their annual visits became something to look forward to and their sweet onions were a must to add to dishes like Lob Scaws the traditional Welsh stew (Cawl in the south).
‘gwna’n siwr bod ti’n cael winwns gan Sioni os weli di un!’¹
Although the days of the Onion Johnnies are largely gone, their legacy lives on in other ways. Today, Brittany Ferries, a company founded by Breton farmers in 1972, continues the tradition of connecting Brittany with the UK. The ferries may not carry bicycles laden with onions, but they symbolise the same spirit of trade and exchange across the Channel. Originally established to facilitate the export of produce, Brittany Ferries epitomises the resilience and creative drive that has made the Johnnie Onions so memorable.
But what made their connection to Wales really special was the shared Celtic heritage of the two regions. Breton and Welsh are both Celtic languages, and although they are not exactly the same, they are similar enough that some understanding was possible.
At the height of the Johnnie Onions trade in the early 20th century, over 1,500 vendors made their way to the UK each year. By this time, they had become part of the fabric of communities like those in Wales. But times were changing. After the Second World War, farming methods were modernised, imported produce became more common and the need for door-to-door onion sales diminished.
My mum used to tell a story about her grandmother in North Wales who could converse with the Sioni Winwns in Welsh while they spoke Breton. It’s a lovely anecdote of how people can connect across cultures despite a language barrier.
Geoff Charles, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Packing onions on to strings in Porthmadog
Daniel Tanguy, from Roscoff, with roadworkers near Pont Gwenyny Meirch, Llanycil
Today, the Sioni Winwns are rarely seen, but their memory of them still brings a smile. In Roscoff, the tradition is celebrated with the annual Fête de l’Oignon in August. The Maison des Johnnies et de l'Oignon de Roscoff is a small museum located in a former traditional Breton farmhouse and tells the story of the Onion Johnnies, their trade and the famous onions. Visitors can explore the exhibits, learn about the cultural significance of onions and sample products.
LOBSCAWS
This traditional meat and vegetable broth is called lobscaws in North Wales and cawl further South. The ingredients may be identical but the origins of the names are entirely different. While cawl appears to be a Welsh word for soup, ‘lobscaws’ actually derives from the Norwegian ‘lapskaus’, which in northern England became ‘lobscouse’.In South Wales it sometimes made with ham and served with bread and cheese.
INGREDIENTS
(SERVES 6)
• 1kg lamb (preferably middle neck or shoulder)
• 1 Roscoff onion, coarsely chopped
• 6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into pieces
• 3 carrots, peeled and cut into pieces
• 1 small swede or 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into pieces
• 2 leeks, rinsed and sliced
• A small bunch of fresh parsley
• Meat or vegetable stock
• Salt & pepper to taste
METHOD:
1. Put the lamb in a large pot, fill it with water, and heat until boiling.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2-3 hours. Allow it to cool overnight and remove any fat that has surfaced the following day.
2. Detach the meat from the bone and return it to the broth. Add the vegetables and continue simmering until they’re cooked through. If necessary, add more broth at this stage. Season your dish with salt and pepper as per your liking.
3. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can create a paste using flour and water to thicken it.
4. Serve your delicious stew with a side of crusty bread and cheese (optional). Enjoy!
¹ ‘Make sure you get onions from Sioni if you see one’
Ask Amanda
Hi Amanda, can you remind me of what I need to gather for completing my French tax return. I want to be prepared this year!
That is a great question and it’s always a good idea to plan ahead. As the tax season approaches in France, it’s essential to be well-prepared to ensure a smooth and efficient filing process. Whether you are a resident, a foreign national living in France, or a business owner, understanding the French tax system is crucial. Here are the key points to remember when preparing for your French tax return.
Know Your Tax Residency Status
Your tax residency status plays a crucial role in determining your tax obligations in France. Generally, you are considered a tax resident if you meet one of the following criteria:
- You spend more than 183 days in France during the calendar year.
- Your primary home (domicile fiscal) is in France.
- Your main professional activity is in France.
If you are a non-resident, you will only be taxed on your French-source income. Ensure you understand your status, as it influences what income you need to declare.
Understand the Types of Income to Declare
In France, you are required to declare various types of income, including:
- Salary or wages
- Pension income
- Rental income from property
- Investment income (dividends, interest, etc.)
- Business income (if self-employed)
- Capital gains
Gathering all relevant documents related to these income sources, such as payslips, rental agreements, bank statements, P60 and any other financial records, is essential for accurate reporting.
Gather Necessary Documentation
Before you start filling out your tax return, compile all necessary documentation. Some key documents include:
- Your last tax return (if applicable)
- Proof of income (payslips, invoices, etc.)
- Bank statements
Having all the required documents at hand will save you time and reduce the chances of errors on your tax return.
Deductible Expenses and Tax Credits
Familiarise yourself with the various deductible expenses and tax credits available to you. Common deductions include:
- Professional expenses (transport, meals, etc.)
- Charitable donations
- Childcare expenses
Expert advice
Understanding these deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income and, ultimately, your tax liability. Make sure to retain all receipts and documentation related to these expenses.
Filing Methods: Online vs. Paper
In France, tax returns must be submitted online if your income exceeds a certain threshold. If you are filing a paper return, be aware of the deadlines and ensure your return is postmarked by the due date. For online submissions, you can usually file your return through the official government portal, which provides an easier and faster process, including automatic calculations.
Deadlines and Penalties
Be mindful of the tax return deadlines, which generally fall in May or June, depending on your department of residence. Failing to submit your tax return on time can result in penalties, including fines and interest on any unpaid taxes. If you are unable to file on time, consider requesting an extension or consulting with a tax professional.
Consider Professional Help
If you find the French tax system complex or if you have a unique financial situation, consider consulting a tax professional. They can provide valuable insights into tax optimisation strategies and ensure compliance with French tax laws. This is particularly important for expatriates or those with income sources in multiple countries.
Stay Informed About Changes in Tax Laws
Tax laws can change frequently, and it’s essential to stay informed about any new regulations, rates, or exemptions that may affect your tax return. Subscribe to newsletters from the French tax authority (Direction Générale des Finances Publiques) or follow reputable financial news sources to stay updated.
Final thoughts
Preparing for your French tax return requires careful planning and organisation. By understanding your tax residency status, gathering necessary documentation, being aware of deductions and credits, and considering professional help if needed, you can navigate the French tax system with confidence. Remember, timely and accurate filing is key to avoiding penalties and ensuring compliance with French tax regulations.
Amanda Johnson tel : 06 73 27 25 43 e-mail : amanda.johnson@spectrum-ifa.com www.spectrum-ifa.com/amanda-johnson
Amanda Johnson works as an Independent Financial Adviser with the Spectrum IFA Group tel: 06 73 27 25 43 or email: amanda.johnson@spectrum-ifa.com www.spectrum-ifa.com/ amanda-johnson Whether you want to register for a newsletter, attend a roadshow or speak Amanda directly, please call or email her. The Spectrum IFA Group do not charge for reviews, reports, or recommendations.
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Lunch with Bertrand Bourdil
Bertrand Bourdil is a key figure in the world of Bordeaux wine, although his modesty might not immediately reveal his extensive influence. Trained as an oenologist, he spent many years as a winemaker at Château Mouton Rothschild, one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious estates, renowned globally for its wines from the Pauillac region. During this time, he also helped establish the Opus One project, a collaboration between Château Mouton Rothschild and California’s Mondavi winery. Later, Bourdil spent three years at Baron Philippe de Rothschild, where he worked to expand the export of their wines.
Eventually, Bourdil settled in SaintEmilion, where he undertook the role of overseeing the technical operations of the “Union of Saint-Emilion Producers” cellar. He spearheaded the renovation and modernization of its facilities, enhancing the overall quality of the wines. Alongside his professional
ventures, he also offered guidance to friends setting up their own vineyard and cellar projects.
In 2005, Bertrand Bourdil fulfilled a lifelong dream by acquiring the Chérubin vineyard, located on the southwest side of the Saint-Emilion hill, near the renowned Château Angélus and several other prestigious Crus Classés, including Grand Maine and Clos des Jacobins. His two daughters joined him in this exciting venture from the outset, and his wife Magali and their two sons, Clément and Léo, have since been active participants. The design on the Château Chérubin label is inspired by the famous pair of angels sculpted in the central nave of the Saint-Emilion church. These cherubs symbolize the guardians of the sacred laws in many religious traditions.
I was warmly invited, along with a group of my colleagues, to join Bertrand and Magali for lunch one Wednesday afternoon. We began the day with a tasting, starting with the first vintage from the Chérubin estate, the 2006, and making our way up to the 2021. It was an incredible experience, especially comparing the more subtle vintages with the bolder ones and witnessing the variations between the years.
Afterwards, we were treated to a truly sensational feast, with course after course of delicious food. By the time dessert arrived, I was almost ready to nap it all off!
The home itself, quaint yet full of character, seemed to mirror Bertrand’s own nature - authentic, unpretentious, and welcoming. The warmth of the meal and the atmosphere reflected a quiet grandeur in our host.
As the afternoon went on, I felt deeply humbled. Tasting wine is one thing, but to share in its depth alongside the person who created it is an experience
all its own. One moment that particularly stayed with me was the spark I saw in Bertrand’s eyes as he spoke about his wines. There are those who simply make wine, and then there are those who understand and embody its deeper significance within our culture.
During our tasting, Bertrand shared a thought that resonated with me: "It is the wine that makes us, lest no one forget. That is just common sense, a fact that can easily be forgotten."
My recommendations for vintages to buy and drink now are 2013 and 2015, sadly previous vintages are no longer available. If you get the opportunity to buy, do not miss out!
Winter is almost behind us, the Spring equinox approaches, and the extra hours of daylight quicken our pulses as we look forward to warmer days. March is a nervous month for beekeepers as we are close to being able to carry out gentle hive inspections and discovering quite how our bees have fared since we last saw them in autumn. If we are lucky we’ll have some balmy weather with ambient temperatures in the early teens, just enough to allow the bees to take cleansing flights and begin foraging for early pollen and nectar.
So why the nerves? It’s a bit like being an athlete on the starting line, waiting for the signal to go, or being an actor waiting to go on stage. We’re ready, we’ve made all the preparations, have all the equipment, now we just need to see the bees and assess the situation. Over the past few weeks we have been mending brood boxes, painting new crownboards, putting new foundation wax into frames, cleaning out smokers and sterilising hive tools – we have all the gear and hopefully some idea!
Lots of other preparations have taken place too, including tidying up the garden around our hives. Bees aren’t keen on power tools so any branches/ brambles that were in the way of the hives have been cleared away before the bees are out in full force. We used to keep the grass in our apiary short
but in recent years have allowed it (along with ferns!) to grow within reason as it seems to deter Asian hornets. These predators hover at hive entrances but if there is foliage blocking clear access then catching bees as they return home from a foraging flight becomes a little difficult for them. Why should it be easy to prey on our girls and boys?!
Setting off to carry out the first hive inspections of 2025, there is no reason to suspect that there will be anything wrong with our colonies. Our reasons for optimism are that we have checked their food stores and ensured that the queens were young and fertile when we closed up the hives for winter. We have monitored the levels of varroa mites and helped the colonies when they could do with a boost, so we fully expect to find our hives full of brood and bees. We also expect to find swarm cells, a good sign that the colony is doing well as it is planning on dividing itself to further the species. What we do on finding swarm cells depends on timing and our requirements. We can decide to do nothing and just leave the colony to swarm, although this has consequences – the bees may end up under our neighbours’ eaves, or the bees may continue to swarm with each newly-hatched queen bee so that we have no bees left in the original hive! Usually, all being well, we choose to leverage the natural swarming behaviour by splitting the colonies, effectively fooling them into thinking they have swarmed, without us losing them.
If there are no swarm cells – yet – then we hope to see plenty of healthy brood as the queen should be increasing her rate of egg-laying. If the colony build-up is slower than expected then there may be an issue and so we have to look for clues to identify it. The queen may be older, the level of varroa infestation may be inflicting too much of a burden on the bees, there may be dysentery or nosema in the hive, all of which can be resolved once detected.
As you can tell, we are nervous but also excited to start the beekeeping season. We can’t wait to welcome our bees to 2025 and hope that March, and the coming months, will provide us with the ‘right’ kind of weather – watch this space for updates!
If you are interested in becoming a beekeeper this year, or if you need a refresher on swarm management techniques, please visit our website www.13bees.co.uk or contact us on 05 45 71 22 90 or email us at info@13bees.co.uk
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Has Spring sprung yet? After a long and, at times, cold winter combined with very wet weeks and floods, alongside our cellar flooding again, I need springtime, please! The spring equinox approaches, and I’m very glad that lighter mornings and evenings are on the way.
It’s a time to look forward and plan any new projects and planting for the year ahead. As we well know, March can come in like a lion and go out like a lamb, or be a case of “March many weathers,” so keeping an eye on the meteo forecast is essential for planting and maintaining your garden. One spring, my Grandad and I were trapped in Mum’s garden shed for what felt like hours, together with Midge my guinea pig, who was in her warm winter quarters! The rain fell like sheets and then turned to hail. When we had ventured into the garden to do a few jobs together, the sky was blue, and the birds were singing... In the end, we had to make a dash for the house, up the garden path, emerging soaked through and dripping!
I’m looking forward to seeing my camellias in flower again, the catkins on
the willow, and the blossom on our mirabelle and ornamental cherry. Those two are usually first in blossom at the end of February into early March. The bees adore them, and, well, I adore watching the bees! Each year, I try to take a photo where the pink blossom meets the white blossom, and I try for a blue sky background. Taking my coffee outside mid-morning is one of those simple pleasures which I am looking forward to doing too.
I planted many tulip and narcissus bulbs in the autumn, so I am hoping for a pretty display this year. As per usual, I ran out of pots, so started to use some old tins found abandoned under the workbench, added a few holes for drainage, and a mix of compost and sand for a sharp, well-drained mix. I rarely remember to label all the pots either, so they will be a surprise when they come up! I enjoy moving the pots around on a dry, bright day, and usually buy a few primulas to pop in for instant spring colour.
At the end of January, a plant I had named “spikey plant” suddenly popped out long pink flower stalks, and one morning I opened the curtains to discover two amazing flowers! It's really called Billbergia nutans, or commonly
Clare Hill
named Queen's Tears. It's a bromeliad originally from Brazil and flowers annually. It was given to me by a friend, but she didn’t mention its potential! It’s on year three with me and decided to show me who she really is. I will look forward to more flowers next winter.
Over the last few years, I have found help and inspiration by listening to some gardening podcasts, especially useful when it’s too wet or cold to get outside and I am missing my garden! I like:
Gardening with the RHS, presented by Guy Barter and other horticulturalists, a new episode each Thursday.
Grow, Cook, Eat, Arrange, the podcast of Sarah Raven and guests, gardener and mail order business owner. From garden to plate or garden to arranging ornamentals, new episode weekly.
Sip and Sow podcast with Tom Coleman and a wide range of guests, something for everyone.
Finally, the Dear Gardener Podcast by Ben Dark. Often exploring gardens with their gardeners around the world. I listen via Spotify, but I’m sure it’s available where you find your music, etc.
Turning now to your gardens, here are a few ideas for the March garden:
• Planting out summer-flowering bulbs, including alliums, lilies, and gladioli to where you want them to flower.
• Planting drought-resistant plants such as salvias, gauras, scabious, perennial geraniums, lavender, and daisies in a sunny position. Tidy up existing salvias by cutting back by one-third.
• Check over peonies, and either place a support over them, or make a support
from birch or hazel twigs tied together with string. I tried this last year and it held together well for the peonies.
• Check on dahlia tubers you have in storage. They should be firm and not squishy. Plant out after the last frost has passed, usually late April or early May. Discard any that are soggy or squishy. Some gardeners like to plant the tubers into pots first in March or April to give them a head start.
• Sweet pea plants can be planted out during March into their final flowering position.
• Look into trying something new in your garden. I'm going to add different varieties of iris over the summer. Once they have flowered and the foliage has died back is the ideal time to split and plant iris rhizomes.
• Mulch the borders after weeding. Remove the annual weeds with a hoe on a dry day, then add compost/mulch. Adding mulch helps keep moisture in and keeps the weeds down, as well as adding goodness back to the soil. Looking after your soil will go a long way to having healthy plants.
• Lift and divide overgrown clumps of perennial plants. Either replant or divide and give to garden friends. Dividing them will make sure the plants stay vigorous and perform each year.
• Top-dress your pots with fresh compost. This really helps refresh the plants for the coming growing season.
• Plant out early potatoes. Tradition says to do this at Easter, but it can be done earlier in the month of March.
Seed sowing:
Outdoors: Broad beans can be sown outdoors in March, and beetroot can be sown in lower temperatures too. If you have a shady spot, you could try some Swiss chard. Carrots, parsnips, onions, radish, peas, spinach, leeks, and summer cauliflower. Check the weather though and the soil, and only plant if the conditions are suitable.
Indoors: Lettuce crops, alongside peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and celery, can all be started now.
Why not organise or visit a plant and seed swap? March or April is usually when these are held, so people can swap their saved seeds and spare plants when they have divided them. It’s a lovely way to make new friends and bag yourself a new plant for the garden. Just be aware of weeds or pests - check carefully before you introduce the new plant into your garden.
Wishing you a warm and joyful March.
À bientôt,
About Clare
Clare, along with her husband Martin and their furry family, moved to North Vienne in 2017. With a passion for plants inherited from her family, Clare is currently studying Horticulture with the Royal Horticultural Society. Previously working in corporate and private banking, Clare now enjoys the tranquility of her garden, where she experiments and nurtures her favorite plants, especially roses. An animal lover, Clare shares her home with 4 rescue dogs and a mischievous puppy. She also loves brocantes and vide greniers and is a Reiki Master Teacher and a Tai Chi/Qi Gong teacher.
www.instagram.com/healing_gardener_clare
Driving Down Under
Apparently international road signs were standardised in the ‘60s (by the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, in case you wanted to know), but even so, individual countries still have their own quirky signs to suit their differing highways and byways. In the UK for example you’re warned about toads migrating across the road, (but only from January to April – useless quiz fact!), whilst in France, forget the toads, instead you have to watch out for marmots (but apparently only on mountain roads). A little further from home, when we were visiting family in Western Australia (WA) recently, we took a trip into the Outback to be greeted by kangaroo crossing signs (not to be ignored, believe me, because if you meet one on those on the road you certainly know about it!).
So…whilst we were driving around the state of WA, we decided to look out for interesting road signs, and we weren’t disappointed! So here are just a few examples of signs that made us chuckle:
1) Who needs a ‘No Entry’ sign when you see this message loud and clear!
2) No, you’re not seeing double – I guess this is the work of 2 different departments…
3) And what about this one – it’s clear that there’s no right turn, but for which vehicles if cars and motorcycles are excepted??
4) Hmm, this is interesting – to stop or not to stop, that is the question!
5) And finally, how about this little yellow diamond? It made no sense to us at all, until we decided to turn left one day and discovered… (see below*)
Of course all road signs have a serious message on our busy highways these days, but let’s face it, it’s also a bit of fun if they can raise a smile from time to time…
*Did you manage to work it out? As we turned the corner we were met by a barrier – and yes, you guessed it, it was a railway level crossing!).
Karen Taylor
More Tips for Solving Cryptic Crosswords
Our topic this month is anagrams, I should point out that I shall be referring to the March 2025 crossword; beginners may well appreciate that, more experienced solvers may prefer to read this after they have solved (or not!) the crossword.
Some will recoil at the mention of anagrams; I am not alone among solvers in welcoming them. Quite often we can be faced with a barrage of clues that we don’t understand; an anagram offers a way in to solve a clue without full understanding from the start.
The secret is spotting that there is an anagram, and there are many common and more obvious indications. 14D and 16D include “recipe” and “turning up”, two of the more hackneyed ploys. So look out for words like “changing”, “altering etc. etc.
Sometimes the compiler tries to make the anagram indicator less obvious; 9A uses “better” with the secondary meaning of “improve”. Other Across clues include the words “readied”, “production” and “practise on”, 3D uses the word “administration”, not usually an obvious pointer.
Sometimes the presence of an anagram is suggested by the unusual language in the clue, proper names for instance, or just an odd phrase. The nearest I get to that in the above is my favourite clue, 2D, where “bomb” is not necessarily a recognisable anagram indicator.
Mike Morris
Seasonal Recipes
Green Vegetable Lasagne (SERVES 4)
This comforting lasagne recipe is a brilliant way to enjoy Swiss chard. Swapping out butter for olive oil makes it a lighter option, and preparing the sauce using a simple all-in-one microwave method keeps things quick and fuss-free.
INGREDIENTS
200g Swiss chard, stems trimmed and roughly chopped, leaves shredded
1 medium-sized head of broccoli (approx 350g), broken into small florets
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp plain flour
¼ tsp ground nutmeg (noix de muscade)
1 tsp dijon mustard
650ml milk
75g grated cheese ( eg cheddar or comté)
200g lasagne sheets
Mixed salad leaves, to serve
150g cherry tomatoes, quartered
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp cider vinegar
METHOD
• Preheat the oven to 200°C Set a large pan of water to boil.
• Trim and roughly chop the Swiss chard stems, and shred the leaves. Break the broccoli into small florets.
• Add the broccoli to the pan and cook for 3 minutes, then add the Swiss chard stems. Cook for another 3 minutes before stirring in the shredded chard leaves. Cook for 2 minutes the drain the vegetables thoroughly and rinse under cold water.
• Combine the olive oil, plain flour, milk, in a large microwave-safe bowl or jug. Whisk everything together until smooth. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then whisk again to break up any lumps. Continue at 30-second intervals until the sauce thickens. This usually takes 3–5 minutes. Add 50g of cheese, nutmeg, mustard and season.
• Spoon a quarter of the cheese sauce into the base of a 20cm ovenproof dish. Cover with a third of the lasagne sheets, followed by half of the vegetable mixture. Add another quarter of the sauce, a second layer of lasagne sheets, and the rest of the vegetables. Top with another quarter of the sauce, then the remaining lasagne sheets. Finish with the last portion of sauce, spreading it evenly over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining grated cheese.
• Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 40 minutes, removing the foil for the final 10 minutes to allow the top to turn golden and bubbling.
• While the lasagne is baking, prepare the salad. Toss the salad leaves with the quartered tomatoes in a large bowl. Whisk the extra-virgin olive oil and cider vinegar together with a pinch of salt and pepper, then drizzle over the salad. Serve the fresh salad alongside the lasagne.
Socca
Socca is a classic chickpea flatbread from Nice, France, known for its nutty flavour and beautifully crisp edges. It's naturally gluten-free and versatile as a snack, side dish, or light meal. We often make socca when we realise we’ve run out of bread - it comes together quickly and pairs wonderfully with soups.
INGREDIENTS
120g chickpea flour (farine de pois chiche) 240ml water
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
½ tsp sea salt ½ tsp dried thyme
METHOD
• Combine the chickpea flour, water, 2 tbsp of the olive oil, and sea salt in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps. You can use the batter immediately, but for the best results, cover the bowl and allow it to rest for at least 30 mins. Resting gives a better texture.
• When ready to cook, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a 25cm non-stick frying pan over a medium heat, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
• Pour in the batter, tilting the pan gently to spread it in an even layer. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the edges start to brown and the top has mostly set.
• Carefully flip the socca using a spatula and cook for another 2–3 minutes on the other side, until golden and cooked through.
• If desired, pop it under a grill for 1–2 minutes, and cook further for a crisper texture and golden top.
• Remove from the pan, allow the socca to cool slightly, and serve while warm for the best flavour and texture.
Lamb, Carrot, and Harissa Pies
Infused with the perfumed spices of the Middle East, these lamb pies are packed with bold flavours and tender bites of lamb, encased in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for a comforting main dish, this recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic. If you're short on time, prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble and bake the pies when ready to serve.
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
600g diced lamb
200g carrots, roughly chopped
1 tbsp ras el hanout (or mélange marocain)
1 tbsp ground cumin
400g tinned chopped tomatoes
1 tbsp harissa paste
1 tbsp tomato purée
300ml water
1 tbsp cornflour (maïzena)
2 rectangular sheets of puff pastry (pâte à tarte feuilletée rectangulaire)
1 egg, lightly beaten
METHOD
• Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Add the diced lamb and cook until browned all over, about 6–8 minutes. Stir in the carrots, ras el hanout and cumin, cooking for another 5 minutes.
• Pour in the chopped tomatoes, harissa paste, tomato purée and water. Stir well, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover. Simmer for 1½ hours, or until the lamb is tender and the flavours are rich and well developed.
• Transfer 4 tablespoons of the cooking liquid to a small bowl. Mix it with the cornflour to make a smooth paste, then stir it back into the lamb mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from the heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
• Preheat your oven to 200°C. Divide the cooled lamb mixture evenly between four individual pie dishes, approximately 13cm in diameter.
• On a clean work surface, place the two sheets of puff pastry on top of each other and roll gently to seal. Cut out four rounds of pastry to fit the tops of the pies. Lay a pastry round over each pie dish, pressing down the edges gently to secure. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and place the pies on a baking tray.
• Bake the pies for 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy. Remove them from the oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Serve the pies warm with your choice of new potatoes, chips, or mashed potatoes.
These seasonal carrot fritters are perfect for a light meal or as a side dish, they’re a great way to use up fresh ingredients. To save time, you can make in advance and refrigerate it until ready to cook.
INGREDIENTS
500g carrots (about 3 large carrots), coarsely grated
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground coriander
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
300g soft goat's cheese
1 bunch fresh coriander, leaves and stalks chopped
2 eggs
75g plain flour
80ml extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
Optional: sliced avocado, mâche and lemon wedges
METHOD
• Place the grated carrot in a large bowl. Add the ground coriander, chopped red onion, 150g of the goat's cheese, chopped fresh coriander, eggs, and flour. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well until the ingredients are combined.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Using approximately 4 tablespoons of the mixture for each fritter, shape three fritters i n the pan.
• Cook the fritters for 2–3 minutes on one side, until golden and set, then carefully flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes on the other side. Remove the cooked fritters from the pan and keep warm. Repeat the process with the remaining mixture and oil to make approximately 12 fritters.
Serve the fritters warm, with the remaining goat's cheese accompanied by sliced avocado, mâche, and lemon wedges. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for added richness.
Blood Orange Upside-Down Cake
This pretty cake is both easy to make and impressively delicious. Its combination of vibrant blood oranges and tender sponge makes for a show-stopping dessert. For an extra flourish, serve with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios and a dollop of vanilla yoghurt.
INGREDIENTS
2 blood oranges (oranges sanguines)
200g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing
200g light brown soft sugar (cassonade)
4 medium eggs
125g plain flour
75g fine or medium grain polenta
2 tsp baking powder
100g natural yoghurt
2-3 tbsp milk (if needed)
METHOD
• Zest both blood oranges and set the zest aside. If you don’t have an orange zester, you can use a potato peeler to remove the outer zest and then finely chop it.
• Carefully peel the oranges, removing as much of the white pith as possible. Slice them into thin rounds, removing any seeds, and set aside.
• Preheat your oven to 180°C. Grease the base of a 23cm loose-bottomed cake tin and line it with a circle of baking parchment. Arrange the orange slices on the base so they overlap slightly and cover the surface.
• Cream the butter, sugar and orange zest together in a mixer or by hand until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding a spoonful of flour with each egg to prevent curdling. Gently fold in the remaining flour, polenta, and baking powder. Stir in the yoghurt, and if the batter feels too thick, mix in 2-3 tablespoons of milk.
• Spoon the batter over the arranged orange slices and spread evenly. Place the tin on a baking tray and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Carefully turn it out onto a serving plate, then peel back the parchment to reveal the pretty orange slices on top.
• Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge and eat within three days.
What’s in season?
Winter is loosening its grip and March brings the first signs of spring to French markets. If you shop with the seasons, you'll be rewarded not only with fresh flavour, but often with cheaper prices and a more sustainable selection. Here's what’s in season this March.
In addition to savoury winter stables, this month also sees bright greens begin to emerge. Cabbage (chou) is still very popular, including savoy cabbage, red cabbage and other varieties. Leeks (poireaux) are still a favourite in the kitchen, adding a mild, onion-like flavour to soups, quiches and even tarts.
Spinach (épinards), with its tender, green leaves, is ideal for salads or cooked dishes such as spinach casseroles. Swiss chard (blettes), with its sturdy stems and tender leaves, is also a versatile side dish that is ideal for stir-fries or creamy casseroles. Carrots (carottes) are still abundant, whether roasted, pureed or grated in bright salads. Root vegetables also keep a little longer. Look out for radishes (radis), with their peppery flavour, and salsify (salsifis). Salsify may look intimidating, but their nutty, artichoke-like flavour really rewards the effort.
In March, the markets start to shine with late citrus and early spring offerings. Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits (pamplemousses) and lemons (citrons) are still in season, as are blood oranges (oranges sanguines) with their ruby red colour. Apples (pommes) and pears (poires) are plentiful and offer crunchy and juicy options for desserts, snacks or savoury dishes. Kiwis, grown in the warmer regions of France, are a fresh and tangy addition to fruit salads or desserts.
Rhubarb appears in late March, when its stalks begin to emerge. Its tangy, tart flavours go wonderfully with sweet treats such as crumbles or compotes.
March is also the time to look out for the first strawberries, especially the prized Gariguette variety. These early strawberries are tender and sweet and are perfect for garnishing desserts or as a refreshing treat on their own.
Buying locally and seasonally not only saves you money, but also ensures that your dishes are not just tasty, but also environmentally sustainable.
Bon appétit!
Easy Crossword
ACROSS
1. Painter of "The Scream" (6, 5)
7. Quick tempo in music (7)
9. Third letter of greek alphabet (5)
10. Thin strip of wood under plaster (4)
11. The day after today (8)
12. Engaged person, not yet married (6)
14. Small ape found in Asia (6)
TAKE A BREAK
17. Small, round nut or a French brown butter sauce (8)
19. Film set in Iran, directed by Ben Affleck (4)
22. Organs used for breathing (5)
23. Another name for Rooibos tea (7)
24. Pre-university qualification (13)
DOWN
1. Digital message sent online (5)
2. Capital city of Malta (7)
3. Equipment used for drilling (4)
4. Italian cocktail with gin (7)
5. Author of ancient epics (5)
6. Famous naturalist, first name Charles (6)
8. Woodwind instrument with a double reed (4)
12. Group of devoted supporters (3, 4)
13. London football club in blue (7)
15. Island known for its shorts (7)
16. Bright object in the night sky (4)
18. Type of Greek column (5)
20. Yellowish-brown earth pigment (5)
21. River flowing through Sussex (4)
Cryptic Crossword
(with many thanks to Mike Morris)
ACROSS
1. Small county very strong in organising children’s tests? (6)
4. Effect of part of play on one member? (6)
8. Fellow turning back to sign agreement? (3)
9. It’s down to Mr. Switch to get expensive cars for gangsters wives? (5)
11. First among poor and defenceless found a home? (3)
12. A toy few Greens could use; it goes against their whole philosophy. (5, 2, 6)
15. Sinister, lacking energy, but has given me a pick-me-up? (4)
16. The first of high earning weekly newsreaders to be axed? (4)
20. A beer to slow up condition of complete control? (8, 5)
21. Mine dug up, possibly putting you on a winner? (3)
23. Wise to pay out every month? (5)
24. We are told the river in question is in Wales? (3)
25. Uncover former partner’s pretence? (6)
26. The way to get high just on a whiff? (6)
DOWN
1. Stringy product of yew coming after transgression? (6)
2. Leaders of army in distress getting help? (3)
3. For fun, get less drunk and you may achieve nirvana? (13)
5. Set printers; I’m confused so mistakes are made. (13)
6. Magnitude of current article on politician? (3)
7. Lawyer implicated in playthings given as presents? (6)
10. Existence of the French on conditional expression? (4)
13. Solitary renditions working both ways? (5)
14. Refresh end points of cutter edge on fine saw? (5)
17. A lot of straw put around island race contest? (6)
18. Toff’s college strikes a bum note? (4)
19. Enthusiastic for introduction of tourists to Shakespeare’s forest? (6)
22. Spanish agreement lifted from soft drink that provided energy? (3)
24. Put on no resistance to misery? (3)
Clubs & Associations
AlcoholicsAnonymous
- South West France
If you or someone you know has a drinking problem, there are now a number of English-speaking meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous in the South West of France.
Alcoholics Anonymous is a Fellowship of men and women who share experiences, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism.
The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.
There are no dues or fees for AA membership and AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.
For help or information, telephone: 05 31 60 90 95 or visit: www.aafrance.net
Camp LGC - 1940’s Re-enactment Group (and Museum) showcasing all aspects of 1940’s life. Based near Sommieres Du Clain on over 20 acres of land. We hold monthly meetings and offer a range of on-site and off-site activities. New members are always welcome! For more details, email: CampLGC@hotmail.com
Airvault Conversation - Come and practice your French with a friendly group of French and English speakers. Every Wednesday at 7pm at the Salle CSC 16 rue Emmanuel Bonnet, 79600 AIRVAULT
Call Christian for more information: 05 49 63 04 78
Are you single and living in the South Vendee? Would you like to meet others for social events with the emphasis on fun and not dating? We meet in Fontenay-le-Comte on the first Wednesday morning of each month. Occasional weekend lunches. Find us on Facebook SOLO EN FRANCE (Sud Vendée) or contact Rosalind at soloenfrance@outlook.fr for further information.
CONVERSATION WORKSHOP FRENCH/ENGLISH IN THOUARS
An opportunity to have a friendly contact, to form friendships,and improve mutual understandings of different cultures. Come along every wednesday, from 7.30pm to 9pm, at Centre Socio-Culturel 21 avenue Victor Hugo 79100 THOUARS Contact : v.venotbonnet@gmail.com or eugene_mc_cabe@hotmail.com
French Lessons for English Speakers
Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), 4 Place Leopold Bergeon, 79150 Argenton-les-Vallées
Classes: beginners or intermediate. Private lessons on request. Contact: rendez-vous79@orange.fr
CHORALE MELUSINE, PARTHENAY - French 4-part choir, established over 30 years (with 4 English members) and always looking for "new blood"! Excellent Musical Director. Come to a rehearsal on Tuesday evenings and see if it's for you. Contact Keith for info keithandcarol@orange.fr 0671 14 16 72
AFVBC - The newly formed North Charente Maritime Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club meets the second Sunday of every month at 10:15 a.m. at the Relais d'Aulnay. Reservations with Ann and Allan at walpcs@yahoo.co.uk
PLAY and LEARN ACOL BRIDGE
If you are interested in learning or playing acol Bridge at Pause Cafe, L’Absie, every second and fourth Friday at 2pm please contact philjan9@hotmail.com
Vasles Netball Club - Keep fit, have fun & meet new people. Join us each Monday 5.30-7pm & Thursday 6.30-8pm at Salle Omnisports Vasles, 79340. For all aged 14 years and over. All abilities & are welcome. 2 free taster sessions. FB@VaslesNetballClub Email: vaslesnetball@gmail.com
Combined Services Support Group - CSSG is a community of ex services, police, and firefighters. We meet socially and raise funds for ex-service charities. For information, email Andrea Cornwall: andreacornwall79@icloud.com. For confidential welfare support contact Geoff Godfrey: geoffandhelen@hotmail.co.uk.
Clair De Lune Montessori School, Xaintray. Opened September 2023, ideal for English-speaking families. Contact us at 06.01.88.54.37 or clairdelune.pedagogie@gmail.com. Learn more: clairdelune-ecolea.wixsite.com/accueil. Join our nurturing educational community.
Acceuil des Villes Françaises - A French association dedicated to welcoming newcomers from all over France and abroad to their new surroundings; helping them integrate, speak French, and feel 'at home' through social events. pjhenderson@orange.fr www.avf.asso.fr
Craft Café Creatif - We are a craft group who meet once a fortnight on a Wednesday afternoon at Pause Café, L'Absie. Our members knit,crochet, sew, embroider etc. We craft and socialize over a cup of tea. New members welcome - contact barbarawhitehouse@yahoo.co.uk
Les Amis Solitaires is a group of people living alone in France. We organise social events and meet for coffee at The Lemon Tree in Sauze Vaussais, 11am every 2nd and 4th Thursday. Contact Pennie on pennietelford@hotmail.com
Royal British Legion - Bordeaux & South West France Do you need help or advice?
Contact us at: rblbx.assistance@gmail.com www.facebook.com/groups/306085566632991
Netball: Clessé Allstars - The Clessé Allstars netball club meets every Monday at Salle Omnisports, Clessé 79350 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. We welcome players and supporters of all ages and abilities. Join us for a free taster session before signing up. Please email us at: clessenetball@gmail.com
British and French cultural association consisting of theatre group, choir (Keynotes), book club and poetry appreciation. Weekly choir rehearsals at Scillé. Monthly book and poetry meetings at Fenioux. New members warmly welcome. For more information email reactiontheatrefrance@gmail.com.
WHY NOT JOIN THE RAF FAMILY?
RAFA Sud-Ouest France
Le Perail, 17250 BEURLAY, France Tel: 05 46 95 38 89 email: admin@rafasudouest.fr
Melleran Chanteurs - Amateur singing group that meets every Monday at 6:45 pm atthe Salle desFêtes in Melleran.French and Englishmembers singing in many languages.New voices arealways welcome, especiallytenor and bass. For more information, please contact Alison Hudson 05 49 29 65 31
‘Loire Valley Voices’ community choir - Fontevraud-L’Abbaye
We are a friendly group of French and non-French people who enjoy singing pop/rock and soul in both languages. Come to a rehearsal on Thursday evenings 6.30pm-8.00pm! All dates & details here: www.lvv-chorale.fr
Clubs & Associations Submission: Include title and 40-word max entry (with contact details) and optional logos if space allows. Free ads rotate monthly; for guaranteed monthly printing, pay a 4.50€ monthly fee (54€ annually). Email submissions to: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr
Coping With Death in France – A practical workshop
Dealing with the death of a loved one is one of the most difficult challenges in life. Reaction Theatre has organised a unique workshop entitled Coping With Death – processes you should know should a loved one die in France. The workshop aims to guide people through the often overwhelming practicalities that arise after the death of a loved one in France.
Dealing with paperwork in a foreign language, overcoming cultural differences or simply the speed at which tasks need to be completed can be daunting. This workshop offers practical advice and a supportive space to ask questions.
Anne Friend from Reaction Theatre explained the motivation for this workshop: “Although some people can handle these processes with ease, we have heard from many others that they feel unprepared. The idea for this workshop came from conversations where people expressed how valuable this kind of information would be.”
Anne added: “Not everyone has the language skills or support network to deal with this, especially in the case of sudden death. The workshop aims to provide clarity, reduce anxiety and offer the opportunity to share concerns.”
The event will take place on Wednesday 12 March at 10.30am at the Mairie in Mervent. This is a pilot workshop and further events may be planned depending on the response.
The workshop costs €15 to cover room hire and and materials. For more information or to register, contact Anne Friend at friend.anne@orange.fr or visit www. reactiontheatre.eu.
This sensitive yet practical workshop is a step towards easing a difficult process and provides everyone with the knowledge and confidence to deal with loss in France.
Vienne & Deux-Sèvres
In this edition I want to draw your attention to a cafe that is on the border of our two regions, Deux Sevres and The Vienne. They have one of our collection boxes and during the time that I have been President it has been emptied several times. The cafe in question is LeCafé Civray in Rue du Commerce. When the box was opened last time the amount donated was a staggering 245.73 euros. This included two anonymous donations. One of 45 euros and the other 100 euros. We are so grateful to all those who have used this café and supported us financially. In this day and age when many of us carry very little change this has been a remarkable effort by the customers.
As it happens, I rarely visit Civray but one Winter Tuesday my wife and I decided to pay the cafe a visit and savour one of their pie specialities for lunch. We received a very warm welcome as we delivered the ' thank you' card and then went on to enjoy their home baking. The proprietor even showed me that they are one of the distributors for this magazine. Circumstances have changed for Laura and Keith, the current proprietors, and they have decided to hand over the running of the Cafe to their good friends Simon and Jenny. This is happening on March 28th. Simon and Jenny have plenty of experience in the hospitality business gained recently from their street food truck enterprise. During the last few months Keith and Laura have been making changes to their home so that Keith, with the new purpose built kitchen, can continue making pies.
So, best wishes and good luck from CSF to the two new ventures in Civray - 'Crafty café' and 'Keith Bakerboy'.
National Helpline 0800 240 200 email: helpline@cancersupportfrance. org. You can find more details about CSF Vienne & Deux-Sèvres by visiting: vienne.cancersupportfrance.org
Farewell to the Repair Shed
After 18 months of fostering creativity and community spirit, Elf and Lisa, the Repair Shed team, have announced the closure of their cherished ShedQuarters. Following instructions from the local mairie, they have been advised that their building does not meet current accessibility regulations, particularly for people with disabilities.
“At first glance this seemed like an inconvenience,” they said, “but as discussions progressed it became clear that it was not possible to fulfil these requirements.”
The Repair Shed, a space born out of a passion for connection and creativity, has been an integral part of the local community. “Without ShedQuarters, we can no longer offer the services we set out to provide,” explain Elf and Lisa, referring to the difficulty of continuing the workshops without the certified space.
In the coming weeks, the donated items and assets will be sold, with the proceeds going to the Familles Rurales in Argentonnay. “Thank you for your support over the last 18 months”
Philip Buckle
Our Furry Friends…………
Hope79 Donations 2024
Dear Supporters,
We are delighted to share that in 2024, with your incredible help, we were able to donate an impressive 119,771€ to support animal charities. Each euro donated has gone towards making a real difference to animals in need. Here are the wonderful organisations we’ve supported this year with your generosity:
• Ad Hoc 422.03€
• 3 P'Tits Chats Rentais
• Armour & Protection des Animaux
• Association AdoptAnimaux
• Association En Route
• Association Pas à Pattes
• Association Chapitre Chats
• Chats de Chatillons
• Chats du Clain
• Darquinn Animal Rescue
• Félin Pour L’Autre
• Funny Farm Cats
• Heehaws
• L’Abra Chats
• L’Arche de Vokkody’s
• L’Ecole du Chat Libre de Poitiers
• Le Refuge des Grands Ajoncs
• Les Amis Équines
• Les Amis des Chats Vix
• Les Chats de la Clouere
• Les Chats de Queaux
• Les Jardins de Matoune
• Lévriers & Compagnie
• Milles Pattes Refuge
• Miss Marple Universe
• On Peut les Aider
• Paws 4 Thought
• Raggie Dog Retreat
• Refuge Oléronaise
• Rigadoux
• Sanctuaire des Plumes
• SPA Cognac
• SPA Niort
• SPA Poitiers
• Twilight
• Valencia Refuges
2,518.38€
• Valencia Refuges Public Appeal to 11/12/24672.81€
Every name on this list represents an organisation working tirelessly for animals, and your contributions made their efforts possible.
Save the Date!
We would love to see you at our Spring Fayre on Sunday, 6th April 2025, from 10h00 to 16h00, at 2 Route de Vauthion, 79190 Sauzé-Vaussais. Enjoy food stalls, a tombola, crafts, gifts, artisan stands, bargains, and the opportunity to meet some of the incredible associations we support.
SIREN 923 389 704
Email: info@hope79.org
Tél 07 80 11 37 39 Website: www.hope79.org
The Hope79 Team
Fish and Chips back at The Funny Farm!
Fish and Chips are making a return to The Funny Farm! By popular demand, Oh My Lord Franck's Fish & Chips are back on the menu starting from March. And they're bringing their tasty chip shop curry sauce along too!
Mark these dates on your calendar:
• Wednesday 12 March,
• Wednesday 9 April,
• Wednesday 7 May,
• Wednesday 11 June
• Wednesday 9 July.
No need to book in advance, just show up on the day and enjoy a freshly cooked meal.
Open every Tuesday 10am - 4pm and the last Saturday of the month 10am - 2pm
Pensions in France
Some of you are working in France and are therefore entitled to a French pension. Below is a detailed explanation of the pensions in France, how they are calculated, and what steps you need to take to claim them.
In France, there are two main types of pensions :
1. La retraite de base (the basic state pension), which applies to everyone and is similar to the UK State Pension.
2. La retraite complémentaire (the supplementary pension), which varies depending on whether you are an employee or self-employed.
Pensions in France are primarily based on two factors: the number of quarters you have worked and your earnings during your career. Below is a detailed breakdown of how their operates.
1. La Retraite de Base
a) How long do you need to work?
The official retirement age in France is 64 (following the 2024 reform), but this does not automatically guarantee you a full pension. To qualify for a full pension at 64, you need to have worked 172 quarters if you were born after 1972. For those born between 1961 and 1972, the required number of quarters varies between 168 and 172. If you were born before 1961, you may have different requirements.
If you do not meet the required number of quarters, you may have to continue working or accept a reduced pension. However, if you choose to retire at 67, you will receive a full pension regardless of the number of quarters worked.
b) Rate
The maximum pension rate in France is 50%. There are two ways to receive the full 50%:
• Retire at 67 (regardless of the number of quarters worked).
• Retire at 64, having completed the required number of quarters.
If you retire before 67 and have not accumulated enough quarters, your rate is reduced by 0.625% per missing quarter. For example, if you have worked 170 quarters instead of 172, your rate will be 48.75% instead of 50%.
The minimum pension rate is 37.50%, provided you have worked at least one quarter.
c) Calculation
Average income × Pension rate × (Quarters worked / Quarters required).
For example, if your average income is 25,000€ and you qualify for a full pension (50%), your yearly pension will be: 25,000€ × 50% × (172/172) = 12,500€ per year
If you have worked 170 quarters instead of 172, your pension will be: 25,000€ × 48.75% × (170/172) = 11,859€ per year.
d) Children
If you have children, you may qualify for extra quarters:
• Mothers receive 8 additional quarters per child (as long as they have raised them).
• If you have three or more children, your pension increases by 10%. This increase applies to both fathers
2. La Retraite Complémentaire
Unlike the basic pension, the supplementary pension works on a points-based system. You earn points throughout your career, which are later converted into pension payments. However, the value of these points is often significantly lower than what you paid for them!
a) Employees: AGIRC-ARRCO
• You contribute 6.20% of your salary up to 47,100€ and 17% for earnings between 47,100€ and 376,800€.
• While working, each point costs 19.63€, but when you retire, its value is only 1.43€!
• For an average annual income of 20,000€, you will receive 3,984€ per year.
b) Self-Employed Workers
• Contribution rates: 7% on earnings up to 38,493€, and 8% between 38,494€ and 164,544€
• Points cost 17.765€ each, but their retirement value is only 1.208€.
• For an average income of 20,000€, you will receive 4,188€ per year.
If you are a self-employed teacher or consultant, you only start accumulating points when you earn more than 41,137€ per year. So if you earn less, you will not have a supplementary pension at all.
3. Auto-Entrepreneurs
As an auto-entrepreneur, you must earn a minimum amount per year to validate your quarters for the French state pension:
4. You Have Worked Abroad?
If you have worked in another country, the years worked abroad count towards your total quarters, but not your average income.
5. Website
You can check your pension on:
• Info Retraite for an overview of your career and pension estimate.
• L'Assurance Retraite to apply for your pension (you must apply to receive payments).
6. Prepare for Retirement
The French pension system can be complex, but understanding how it works will help you plan better. Note that you cannot complete your career until you are 55 years old. Activity 1 Quarter 2 Quarters 3 Quarters 4 Quarters
Since the French pension system offers limited payouts, it is essential to save for retirement. There are various investment and pension plans available, some offering tax benefits. Feel free to contact me for advice or information to prepare for retirement effectively.
In conclusion
Building & Renovation
This month’s advertisers
Alcoholics Anonymous
Association Escoval.
Assurances Maucourt (GAN Parthenay)
Baudouin Barateau - Cabinet maker
Beaux Villages Immobilier
BH Assurances / Allianz
British Mobile Mechanic
Cancer Support France
Chris Bassett Construction
Cooke Couverture.
Créatif Paysage
Dapper Direct Ltd
Darren Lawrence
David Murphy - Hypnotist
Franglais Deliveries
Glendee Property Services
H & R Building Services
Hallmark Electricité
Holly Services (SAS).
Home Pool Services Vendée
Irving Location
Jeff's Metalwork
JSL Couverture.
KM Property Maintenance.
KM Services 79
La Cachette
La Deuxieme Chance
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La Petite Ferme d'Alpagas
Leggett Immoblier.
Leggett Recruitment.
LPV Technology
Magic Renovations
Maison Secondaire
Mark Sabestini
Mark Wazny Handyman Services
ML Computers.
MT Menuiserie.
Mutuelle de Poitiers
Oh my lord! Franck's fish and chips.
Reaction Theatre.
RT Construction.
Smart Moves Removals
Solutions France
Spectrum IFA Group.
Stephen Shaw EI Painter
Steve Coupland
Zena Sabestini
Thank you to all our contributors and advertisers - your support helps us to produce the magazine every month!
Puzzle answers
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST
Ménigoute
EXCLUSIVE
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Ref: A28975 - 5-bedroom mill house with 4-bedroom gîte, pool, 1.3 acres.
Agency fees to be paid by the seller.
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6% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: D Climate class: B Holiday Rental Income
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Brûlain
Our selection of properties for sale in the Deux-Sèvres welcomes you ! The Leggett family
€449,000
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