The Local Buzz July August 2020

For those living, working or visiting Dordogne, Lot et•Garonne, Gironde, Haut Garonne, Tarn et Garonne & Gers A Lifestyle Magazine & Website for • Gironde • Dordogne Lot et Garonne • LotLot, • Gers • Tarn et Garonne • N.Haute Garonne

Coming up

ROSES! Taking care in the sun Insurance thoughts Renovation Theme it!

Summer

JULY & AUGUST 2020

15 PAGE REGIONAL SPECIAL

FREE

I’m priceless

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Apéro Treats Local Entrepreneur • Seven Wonders • Reader Offer

EUROPE GRANITE Specialists suppliers of marble, granite, ceramic and quartz materials Decorative marble, kitchens and worktops, creative bathrooms

www.sarleuropegranite.com

Providing expertise, advice and a tailor-made service in Gironde, Dordogne, Lot et Garonne.

Please contact us for a free quotation: Tel: 06 48 97 09 36

Email: europegranite@gmail.com

Welcome The Local Buzz is the only A4 glossy magazine and comprehensive website covering these departments.

Lifestyle focused, the magazine is informative, fun and highlights what’s on in the region.

Looking for a local business, more listings of what’s on, articles, blogs and local information?

Then visit our website. By the way, if you can’t pick up a copy, every issue can be read online and postal subscriptions are available. You can find all the details at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com.

Meet the Buzz team LESLEY ASHBURNER, Editorial & Managing Director PAMELA LA FORGIA, Production & Creative Director JEANETTE HYDE, Distribution & Finance Director You can read our bio’s at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/ about-us www.facebook.com/ TheLocalBuzzMag www.instagram.com/ the_local_buzz_mag

DORDOGNE H PERIGUEUX H BORDEAUX

GIRONDE LOT

LOT et GARONNE AGEN H

H CAHORS

TARN et GARONNE H MONTAUBAN

GERS H AUCH

TOULOUSE H

N.HAUTE GARONNE

Hello from our Queen Bee Yay, we are out of lockdown!

We hope you are all safe and well.

Social distancing and maintaining awareness is still vitally important and, whilst not everyone agrees with the safety measures being taken by some, it’s essential that we all respect each other’s preferences. Touch elbows, kick feet (gently) or wave but avoid those bises!

Thankfully, the property market looks like it’s taking an upward turn and those who are thinking about their next move may be interested in our Renovation feature. We also have an overview on French Insurance, and we introduce a Local Entrepreneur with a new hotline concept for French lifestyle issues.

The Themed Events special presents some fun ideas to make the most of your garden, and our Gardening pages will help to keep your roses blooming.

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

Just for this issue, we have added a new page to our What’s On section with interesting titbits about our region.

Speaking of titbits, delicious apéro’s are the subject of our food and drink pages, whilst the guest chef does something amazing with zucchini flowers and a poached egg!

Once again, we would like to thank our advertisers and contributors, most sincerely, for their commitment to The Local Buzz. If the COVID situation continues to improve as it is, our September issue will be a printed version. In the meantime, please tell your friends, family, guests and colleagues to take a look at this issue online.

Keep safe, keep well and look after each other.

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SPEAKING YOUR LANGUAGE Nous parlons votre langue Our lawyers Nos juristes

Legal services Services juridiques

adj. Bilingual Dual qualified Multi-talented

n. Property transactions Wills Estate planning and administration Inheritance tax and dispute resolution

Your advice needs Vos besoins en conseils adj. Sorted

Buckles Solicitors LLP Delivering bespoke advice for France, Italy, Spain and the UK www.buckles-law.co.uk • enquiries@buckles-law.co.uk

14812_The Buzz Advert International Offering Expats_final.indd 1

21/10/2019 10:13

We hope you enjoy this issue.

Please spread the word about The Local Buzz and let our advertisers know that you saw them in this magazine.

For all enquiries please contact buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

CONTENTS July & August Issue

Editorial & Managing Director: Lesley Ashburner Production & Creative Director: Pamela La Forgia Distribution & Finance Director: Jeanette Hyde Layout: The Magazine Production Company Advertising: buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com Photography: Shutterstock or Jeff Ross unless otherwise stated Regular contributors: Katie Gardner, Emma and John Gilchrist, Sue Adams, Puzzles-to-Print

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Our thanks go to our regular contributors as well as Sarah Bright, Thierry Pszonka, Dominique Slater, Léna Eaton, Adrian Lithgow, Château les Merles, Yannick Laboisse, John Cook and Château Chic.

Cover: Shutterstock The Local Buzz is free and is published by The Local Buzz, Labarthe, 47120 Baleyssagues. ISSN 2516-8134. RCS AGEN Siren 842 643 173.

Printed by Rotimpres

SA on paper from a

renewable source.

All trademarks are trademarks of the companies concerned.

No material may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

The general editorial and articles in this issue do not necessarily reflect the view of the editor or publishers.

Please ensure that the company you are dealing with is registered in France.

To become a distribution point, to advertise, to send us information, or for any other enquiry contact buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com Emergency Numbers: 15 - SAMU Service on a nationwide basis – call for medical assistance 17 - Police (gendarmerie) 18 - General emergency you will need to ask for ambulance, gendarmes or service d’incendie (feu) or sapeur pompiers 112 - European standard emergency number for anywhere in EEC 114 - Text messaging service for the deaf or hard of hearing 119 - National helpline for children in danger

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FEATURES 34 Theme It Events!

38 Guest Chef 39 Local Entrepreneur 40 Insurance Explained 44 Renovation Do’s & Don’ts 48 Improving Your Golf 51 Legal Query

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The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

REGULARS 3 Hello 7 What’s the Buzz 8 The start of our regional guide to what’s on 28 Gardening – it’s coming up roses 30 Gardening jobs for now 32 Seven Wonders 36 Food & Drink 43 Buzz Bits 52 Puzzle Page 53 Buzz Words 55 Business Directory 60 Just Droning

WELL -BEING 46 Taking care in the sun 51 Ask Katie

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PLUS… 31 Reader Offer 54 Prize Competition 59 Next Issue

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BIS, the international bilingual school of Bordeaux Bordeaux International School is the only school in the region accredited by the CIS (Council of International Schools) proposing bilingual teaching from Early Learning through to the end of Middle school and then continuing in English up to the end of Secondary (with internationally recognised Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels).

25 nationalities come together and learn at Bordeaux International School.

Small class sizes, innovative, active, and differentiated teaching are all brought together to allow students to follow a path of high quality education, and also to develop their creativity and independence of spirit, in order to become global citizens!

The results speak for themselves, with 100% of our students going on to attend a school or university of their choice.

The school welcomes children of expats hoping to benefit from the continuity of an international education, and also French children wishing to acquire the English language or continue their learning.

At BIS, we are confidently preparing for the new school year: throughout this time of Covid, our teaching has continued via our distance learning system, and has proved effective, innovative, and resilient.

Across the whole school, new practices are now well-established, and will provide a solid basis for the years to come.

BIS is accepting applications for 2020/21 Visit us at:

www.bordeaux-school.com

BUZZ

H PERIGUEUX H BORDEAUX

GIRONDE

DORDOGNE

what’s the

DORDOGNE

LOT

LOT et GARONNE AGEN H

H CAHORS

TARN et GARONNE H MONTAUBAN

GERS H AUCH

TOULOUSE H

N.HAUTE GARONNE

OUR PICK OF WHAT’S ON IN YOUR REGION DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: (Hopefully) Vide Greniers • Langon, 19 July (33) • La Fleix, 2 August (24) • Monclar, 8 August (47) • Beauregard, 26 July (46) • Eauze, 8 August (32) • Moissac, 9 August (82) • Frouzins, 2 August (31)

The What’s On pages are colour coded for quick, easy department identification.

Don’t forget, for lots more What’s On listings visit our website at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

BONNE FÊTE!

Bourses d’Objets • Pessac, 29 August (33) • Le Buisson-de-Cadouin, 5 August (24) • Boé, 1 August (47) • Catus, 23 August (46) • Montréal, 15 August (32) • Auvillar, 22 August (82) • Toulouse, 14 August (31)

Marchés Traditionnels • Bordeaux Capucins, Monday (33) • St Astier, Thursday (24) • Aiguillon, Tuesday (47) • Salviac, Friday (46) • Gimont, Wednesday (32) • Lauzerte, Saturday (82) • Toulouse Cristal, Sunday (31)

We bet this year’s National Day of France will be celebrated like no other!

The Fête Nationale is, of course, on 14 July and is the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille in 1789. It is also the Fête de la Fédération celebrating the unity of the people a year later. Hopefully, restrictions won’t stop the festivities and fireworks in our towns and villages. Don’t forget to switch on French TV

and watch what is said to be the oldest and largest regular military parade in Europe at the Champs-Elysées in Paris.

Vive la France!

WHAT TO DO? Why not take in art galleries and museums where smaller gatherings are allowed?

Also, don’t forget to keep an eye out for nearby food and music events at small villages and vineyards which may be announced at the last minute in line with COVID changes. It’s also a perfect time of year to dine “dehors” at the many restaurants extending their pavement space to make up for lost time and custom. Then, of course, there’s the beach, lakes, rivers and our fabulous countryside! Time to take up a new water sport or golf perhaps? As long as the social distancing and health concerns are managed, these present ideal opportunities to meet near and not so near neighbours and explore your local area. Here’s hoping you make some great discoveries.

Are you buzzing?

Don’t forget to add your event, for free, to our What’s On pages at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/whats-on

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

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GIRONDE

what’s the

BUZZ GIRONDE

Whilst correct at the time of writing, these events may be subject to change in line with COVID-19 restrictions. More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

CELEBRATING ART

Love Bats?

In its second major artistic exhibition, almost 150 works from French and European collections of paintings, ceramics, music books and scores, instruments and, amongst others, costume jewellery, go on view at La Cité du Vin, BORDEAUX from 1 July to 30 August. 05 56 16 20 20.

Otherwise known as Little Amazon, the River Leyre is a great place to delve into the mysteries of les chauvessouris (bats). Your guide will highlight the playful, sensitive and scientific aspects of these wonderful creatures in a two-hour walk leaving LE TEICH at 21:00 on 30 August. 05 24 73 37 33.

Classic Cars

The Ausone Square in MONTAGNE is planning to host an interesting selection of vintage cars on 19 July from 10:00 to 18:00. Each vehicle will be presented in the afternoon and, as well as catering on site, there will also be kart races for adults and children. 06 89 76 71 21.

Seaside Adventure

How about discovering the comings and goings of the animals and plants at high tide on the Prés Salés nature reserve at ARES and LEGE-CAP-FERRET on 23 July from 19:30 to 21:30? Nets are provided, just turn up with your aquatic shoes, a swimming costume and a face mask. 05 56 60 18 07.

Tanks Beware Unique in France, the blockhouse at the entrance to the Parc de la Chêneraie at GUJAN-MESTRAS is steeped in history. Originally a fortified housing for a 4.7cm antitank gun, it has been completely restored. For dates and times of the guided visits contact 05 56 66 12 65.

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www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Erected around 1900 and completed in 1924, the Monument aux Girondins is one of the most iconic fountains and monuments in Bordeaux yet, in 1943, it was removed to be melted down! Found intact in 1945 and reinstated in 1983, the sculpture depicts rearing horses with webbed feet and Liberty “breaking the chains”. Amongst the allegorical figures look for Eloquence, History and the French cockerel.

DID YOU KNOW? SILVER WAVES

Gironde’s Atlantic coast line is known as La Côte d’Argent (or silver coast).

It stretches from the mouth of the Gironde to the river Adour and is made up of a single line of fabulous white sand that squeaks underfoot (sand squeaks when it’s good).

Master Builder

GIRONDE DORDOGNE

Nearly Lost

Heard of Sébastien Le Prestre or Maréchal de Vauban? One and the same, he was a master when it came to building military strongholds and is said to have repaired or built around 150 when he was appointed Commissaire Général de Fortifications in 1678. We have him to thank for the likes of Blaye, Fort Médoc and Bayonne.

What’s in a Face

RENAMED The region of Gironde was formed on 4 March, 1790 from parts of Guyenne and Gascony. From July 1793 to April 1795, its name was changed to Bec d’Ambès to avoid confusion and association with the Girondins campaigning for an end to monarchy.

Have you noticed these Mascarons (masks) in Bordeaux?

Dating back to the 18th-century, there are around 3,000 of them, usually found above first floor windows (l’étage noble). In Place de la Bourse they are above ground-floor arcades and, as with them all, range from the grotesque to beautiful, pagan to Christian and from old to young.

How to Shuck

Oysters on the Gironde coast are two a penny (not literally) from one of the largest oyster farms in the world, annually shipping around 3 billion oysters to Europe. How do you shuck and eat an oyster? Take a look at our Nov/Dec 2018 issue at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online or see our articles pages.

Read more about the region at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/area-info/ The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

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Real Ale British Style BREWERY MONPAZIER FANTASTIC NEWS!

We are now open again. You can visit the brewery everyday from 11am until 8pm.

On Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays we will close at 11pm.

Tel: 05 53 27 72 49

As seen on Channel 4’s New Life in the Sun

All Fired Up

A MAZE THING Make sure you find your way out of this maze or you might be “away with the fairies” and miss the 14 July fireworks!

The night-time Labyrinthe “Les Fées Mères” Nocturne at Château de Bridoire, RIBAGNAC combines a warm atmosphere with musical entertainment, catering and, yes, fairies. 06 47 44 20 74.

EYMETOISES Three talented artists from Eymet, Haley-Jay Daniels, Lise Moloney and Marilyn Southey will be showing their fascinating range of sculptures and paintings from 17 to 23 August at Salle Cadix, EYMET. Definitely worth a look! 05 53 22 48 92.

Be creative! First you model one or more clay pieces on 11 and 12 July and then return to enamel and Raku fire them on the 18th.

The Atelier Découverte: Modelage en Argile et Cuisson Raku is being held at La Monnerie in LA COQUILLE. 06 62 88 07 52.

DORGOGNE DORDOGNE

Whilst correct at the time of writing, these events may be subject to change in line with COVID-19 restrictions. More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

what’s the

BUZZ DORODGNE

GOLD RUSH

You could find gold in this Initiation à l’Orpaillage in July and August at JUMILHAC-LE-GRAND, 05 53 52 55 43. You can also try your hand at panning for gold in EXCIDEUIL on 6 August, 05 53 52 29 79, or in SAVIGNAC-LEDRIER on 12 August, 05 53 52 29 79.

Just Beautiful The fabulous works of Liz Hansen, botanical watercolour painter, and Penelope Waters, landscape paintings in watercolour, acrylic, oils and Chinese ink can be seen at the Pigeonnier des Arts in SOURZAC from 3 to 22 July from 13:45 to 18:45. Free entry. 05 53 81 01 06.

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

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DORDOGNE

GOING WEST

DID YOU KNOW?

WHAT’S

In a name?

Despite its name, the 483 km Dordogne River passes through 173 communes and six departments: Puy-de-Dôme, Corrèze, Lot, Dordogne and Gironde, where it meets the Garonne River and the Atlantic Ocean. Great for water sports, it flows at around 270 cubic metres per second, that’s 4,500 litres a minute (measured at Bergerac).

Graffiti

If you want to know what a hot air balloon flight is like without actually flying, go to Domme and stand right up against the rampart looking over treetops. Surreal!

Here’s another oddity, you wouldn’t expect such a pretty town to allow graffiti but it’s inside the Porte des Tours; carved by Templars in 1307-18!

If you thought that Périgord Noir (Black) was so named because of its truffles, think again. Instead it comes from the density of its woodland, especially the dark bark of the cork oak forests.

Périgord Pourpre (Purple) is synonymous with the purplyred grapes of its wines, and Périgord Blanc (White) refers to its limestone rock cliffs and quarries. Périgord Vert (Green) is all about lush vegetation, meadows, forests and hills.

Ancient Art

Prehistoric drawings abound in Dordogne’s caves. Mostly depicting animals such as bison, horses and mammoths, they were “painted” with colours made from iron oxides, iron ore, manganese dioxide or carbon to give yellow, a brownish red and black. Dabbing colours on with the finger or using a coloured rock as a pencil, they also used hair or moss as an early paintbrush. Oddly enough, spray painting was also practiced in pre-historic times by pigment sprayed from the mouth or through a hollow bone. Don’t try that at home!

CALYPSO It may sound exotic but the Ile de Calypso was named after the island in Aventures de Télémaque, a book written

by François de Salignac de la Mothe-Fénelon, Abbot of Carennac. It seems he wrote the book, which criticised Louis XIV’s politics, whilst tutoring Louis’ grandson.

He was disgraced as a result but became Archbishop of Cambrai at the end of his life.

Read more about the region at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/area-info/ 12

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www.agence-eleonor.com Agence Eleonor Estate Agency, 36-38 rue du Temple, 24500 EYMET Tél. : 05 53 27 83 45 info@agence-eleonor.com

Other offices at Villeréal, Bergerac, St. Cyprien, Monpazier, Lalinde, Issigeac & St. Foy la Grande

Ref: 8669-MO. 787,500 € HAI. DPE: B Immaculate Maison de Maître and gîte, artist studio, barns and outbuildings, heated swimming pool and tennis court. Within the 6.25 acres of grounds are a barn, garage, carport, horse stables workshop, cave.

Fantastic landscaped garden and water well.

(5% fees inc)

Ref: 8478-VI. 299,600 € HAI. DPE: Vierge In a countryside setting, yet not isolated, this stone property comprises a 2-bedroom house and a cottage with swimming-pool and a former barn. Set on a hill with about 3.10 acres of land and fantastic views.

(7% fees inc)

Ref: 7663-EY. 397,000 € HAI. DPE:C Magnificent modern house comprising living room, kitchen/dining room, office and four en-suite bedrooms (the master bedroom has doors opening onto a full-length balcony).

Second 2-bedroom stone house. Nearly two acres of garden with a pool and views.

(6% fees inc)

Ref:8724-EY 192,600€ HAI. DPE: E Pretty stone house comprising a dining room/ kitchen, living room with mezzanine, 3 bedrooms & games room. Independent garage and 2 parking spaces. Several cellars, two outbuildings and a 0.2 acre garden.

(7% fees inc)

Ref: 8078-BGC 895,000€ HAI. DPE: D Combining character & comfort, this ancient XIII C armoury sits beside the river Dordogne surrounded by 2 acres of land with swimming pool & tobacco drying barn. 5 bedrooms, «cathedral» living room, kitchen, playroom & extra bedroom in the loft.

(5% fees inc)

Ref: 8632-BGC.349,860€ HAI. DPE: Vierge 19C 5-bedroom stone house in a countryside hamlet close to Bergerac. Impressive fitted kitchen with granite worktops semi-open to the living room. French windows leading to the terrace, over an acre of enclosed garden, swimming pool & double garage.

(5% fees inc)

Ref:8435-SF. 310,300 € HAI. DPE: D This bourgeois style house in the heart of a bastide offers a separate kitchen, a large living/ dining room & 4 bedrooms. Two vaulted cellars (one for wine). The terrace faces a south exposed enclosed private landscaped garden with a shed.

(7% fees inc)

Ref: 8723-IS. 349,000 € HAI. DPE: C Rare opportunity to buy one of the most impressive houses in a medieval village, with living area and shop/potential restaurant, two garages, garden, sitting room, office, veranda, kitchen, bright and spacious bedrooms, first floor terrace.

(6% fees inc)

LOT ETDORDOGNE GARONNE

what’s the

BUZZ LOT ET GARONNE

Middle Age Spread

Whilst correct at the time of writing, these events may be subject to change in line with COVID-19 restrictions. More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

EONOTOURISME New for 2020!

There are several ways to learn about Buzet wines in July and August. A 2-hour walking tour with a wine-grower and a beekeeper explains grape cultivation and the measures taken to protect biodiversity. Beehives, nest boxes for protected owls and rows of vines are part of the tour at BUZET-SURBAIS. Or you could do your own thing and ride a circuit of eco-friendly vines on an electric bike! A dégustation follows.

05 53 84 17 16.

No, we aren’t being personal. Historical enthusiasts, La Herpaille, will be spreading out a range of war machinery at the foot of the Chateau de GAVAUDUN on 19 and 20 August. Experience how wars were fought in the Moyen Age and, at the same time, try your hand at archery or, if you prefer, calligraphy before visiting the château.

05 53 40 04 16.

Discover the flora and fauna of the wild, preserved Lac des Graoussettes at SAINT-COLOMBDE-LAUZUN on a Global T3 all-terrain electric scooter.

Various dates, ride durations and times are available in July and August, including a night ride!

07 69 78 28 14.

SPECTACULAR FALCONRY

Immerse yourself in the world of birds of prey at Château Musée Henri IV, NERAC, on 28 July at this free show. Demonstrating an ancestral practice that is over 4000 years old, Falconry Walk combines the gliding flight of the eagle, the power of the falcon, the attack of the buzzard and the majestic, silent flight of the owl.

A thrilling, magical and awe-inspiring event! 05 53 65 21 11.

It’s Abstract

The works of prize-winning, contemporary artist, Nadine Calais, are on show at Maison du Roy, CASTELJALOUX from 17 to 29 August. “L’Alchimie du Bleu, Isatis Tinctoria” focuses on how she explores rich colours, shapes and light, bringing cosmology and the heavens to life in her abstract paintings. 05 53 93 00 00.

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www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

King Henri de Navarre lived in Nérac from 1576, earning his reputation as a Vert Galant (charmer) due to his many amorous adventures. Two years later, when his wife, Marguerite de Valois and his mother in law, Catherine de Médicis arrived, the court became as lavish as the Louvre.

Sadly, once he became King of France in 1589 he left for Paris.

DID YOU KNOW? VIRTUAL GOYA

From Agen to USA

Rembrandt

You don’t have to go very far to view a Rembrandt painting. The stark but powerful rendition of Christ on the Cross can be seen in the north chapel of the L’Eglise St-Vincent in Mas d’Agenais. The Dufour family were from Mas d’Agenais originally and, having purchased the work, donated it to the town in 1804. It was authenticated in 1960. That turned out to be quite a gift!

Don’t spend too long gazing at the wonderful architecture of the Musée des Beaux-Arts d’Agen or you’ll miss the enthralling art inside! Originally four hotels dating from the Renaissance period to the 17th-century, the museum houses stunning works by contemporary artists as well as old masters, all beautifully displayed within 26 rooms.

The Goya collection is a particular favourite, and even has its own virtual visit.

Around 65% of the nation’s plums are grown in Lot et Garonne. Templar Knights brought plums back from Damascus in the 11thcentury but it was to be some 400 years before prunes would become popular. Originally bearing the Port of Agen stamp when shipped on the Garonne River, the name stuck as “Pruneaux d’Agen”. In 1856 Pierre Pellier took some plum scions (live shoots) embedded in potatoes to his brother in California and the US west coast prune industry was born. Of course Agen prunes are still claimed to be the best!

LOT ET GARONNE DORDOGNE

VERT GALANT

Scenic Treasures Bastides are not exclusive to SW France but their density (we still have around 300 between Bordeaux and the Pyrenées), makes them one of our most treasured and beautiful sights. Deriving their name from the Occitan or old French word bastir, meaning to build, they originally provided administrative centres and were later fortified to become military strongholds.

Read more about the region at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/area-info/ The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

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www.glasspoolfencing.co.uk / www.cloture-verre.fr

T. +44 2392 287 998 E. info@glasspoolfencing.co.uk

Beautiful frameless glass fencing for pool safety & wind protection Design and installation service in the UK and France Avoid the €45,000 fine. Compliant to AFNOR NF P90-306

VISIT THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY VISIT & TASTING May/June/September : Tuesdays and Thursdays except public holidays.

July and August : Monday to Friday except public holidays.

SHOP Monday to Saturday from 9h to 12h and from 14h to 18h30.

MAISON GUINGUET - 163 rue des Cavales 47120 DURAS FRANCE +33(0)5 53 83 72 47 - contact@maisonguinguet.com

Ooh, ahh...

A magnificent, free fireworks display is being scheduled above the ruins at SAINT-CIRQ LAPOPIE on 18 July for around half an hour from 22:30. Enjoy! 05 65 31 31 31.

RACING AT THE

HIPPODROME

Focused on the world of equestrian sport, the Courses Hippiques de GRAMAT take place on 2 and 3 August. Trotting, gallop and obstacle events will be held over the two days and children can enjoy pony rides, free snacks and other entertainment. 05 65 33 03 97.

what’s the

BUZZ

Pots Galore The Marché de Potiers in CAJARC on 18 and 19 July will have pots of all shapes and sizes, pottery making exhibitions, clay modelling for children, and the traditional create “Le Chat” contest.

05 65 36 80 17. Over in UZECH, the 29th Pottery Fair takes place on 23 August. 06 14 70 96 91.

LOT DORDOGNE

Whilst correct at the time of writing, these events may be subject to change in line with COVID-19 restrictions. More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

LOT

BUZZING!

The Fête de l’Abeille from 08:00 to 18:00 on 25 July at GOURDON is all about bees and includes an exhibition, honey products and tastings, and beekeeping equipment.

Books will also be on sale and don’t miss the glass hive for an exclusive look at the queen bee. 06 15 66 27 77.

GO BY!

Having trouble training your dog or rounding up your family?

You might learn a few techniques at this Démonstration de Travail de Chien de Berger at 19:00 on 21 August. Held at l’Oustal in ESPEDAILLAC, Rochefort et René Valery will be showing how they work their Berger dogs in a fascinating display of herding team work. 05 65 11 48 47.

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

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LOT

DID YOU KNOW?

FOLLOW THE TRAIL Delicious!

If you come across a bronze plaque set in the pavement and decorated with an acanthus leaf design in Cahors you are on a route that links Les Jardins Secrets, all 25 of them. The walk takes in parks as well as botanical and ornamental gardens such as The Heavenly Lawn, the Garden of the Witch and Dragon, and Le Clos des Jacobins.

A look at this region wouldn’t be complete without a mention of truffles. These rock hard delicacies look like a lump of coal but command prices, per kilo, that would buy two or three radiators! As a type of underground mushroom and snuffled out by pigs or, nowadays, mostly dogs, they are a true delicacy. Sadly, production has reduced from over 200 tonnes a year in around 1900 to between 5 and 20 tonnes today.

UNDERSTOOD

You don’t have to go to Egypt to see hieroglyphics.

One of Jean-François Champollion‘s major successes in life was the deciphering of the granodiorite Rosetta Stone discovered during Napoleonic expeditions to Egypt

By Georges!

What does Georges Pompidou, former President of France, have to do with Cajarc?

Not only was he an MP for the area in the National Assembly, but Cajarc was one of his favourite places to stop and have a drink during his frequent visits to the Quercy.

The town now bears his name on the Georges Pompidou Centre d’Art Contemporain.

There it was, gone The ornate Tympanum of the north portal of St-Etienne Cathedral in Cahors may have been one of the great masterpieces of Romanesque sculpture but for a while, you couldn’t see it! Disappearing from view in the 18thcentury, it wasn’t until the approach to the door was lowered in the 1990s that the porch recovered its original proportion and, thank goodness, came back into view.

in 1799. Comparing picture images with known scripts he “cracked the code”!

Little wonder that there is an exhibition dedicated to this monumental feat in his birthplace, Figeac, as well as an oversized copy of the Stone.

Read more about the region at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/area-info/ 18

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JUST KITCHENS www.justkitchens.fr

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Michael Staines began installing kitchens in the UK in 1990. He opened his first showroom in Mielan, France in 2008 and in 2013, a second showroom in Marciac.

With many years of experience, Mike and his son, Tim, can offer you a competent design and installation service, taking your initial ideas through to the reality of a beautiful and functional fitted kitchen.

Interested in hearing more about our kitchens and services?

OPENING HOURS:

TWO LOCATIONS:

Wednesdays at Marciac 9.00am to 12.30pm 2.00pm to 5.30pm

4 Place Jean Senac 32170, MIELAN, France OR 3 Place Hotel de Ville, 32230, MARCIAC, France

Thursdays at Mielan 9.00am to 12.30pm Saturdays at Marciac 9.00am to 12.30pm

You are welcome to visit by appointment at other times. If you have any questions at all, or just want to chat about kitchens, please call or send an email...

Tel: 05 62 58 03 64

Email: justkitchens.fr@gmail.com

English/French speaking estate agents Quality properties for sale urgently required.

We are an efficient and friendly team of bilingual professionals with excellent local knowledge and a portfolio of properties in the Dordogne, Gironde and Lot et Garonne.

T: +33 (0)5 53 83 30 46 info@richardimmo.com

www.richardimmo.com

7 rue du Château 47410 Lauzun

GERS

what’s the

BUZZ

Whilst correct at the time of writing, these events may be subject to change in line with COVID-19 restrictions. More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

Aquarelle

Learn how to draw and paint at this spring-inspired “Flore Onirique” workshop by painter and author of the imaginary world, Christophe Dougnac. Held in FLEURANCE on 12 and 13 July, this workshop on water colour painting is limited to just 10 people so reserve your space soon.

All materials are provided and the cost is €50 pp.

Don’t forget to take your masterpiece home with you!

06 37 03 14 69.

GERS

NEW IDEAS

Combining theory with a practical session, this free “Ma Déco Intérieure Naturelle” workshop at RISCLE, will have you creating new and interesting interior decorative effects on the theme of a Spanish Auberge from 09:30 to 17:30 on 18 July. Take a dish for sharing at lunch and your own trowel and hand float!

Reservations required as places are limited.

05 62 69 89 28.

Arts Pluriel

Looking for inspiration or just love art?

Paintings, sculptures and photographs are the subjects of an exhibition by local artists at the Salle des Fêtes in LUPIAC from 18 July to 2 August. Entry is free from 10:00 to 18:00 every day. 06 82 11 79 80.

AWE-INSPIRING! Walk Thru Time The first International Les Feux de Gascogne pyrotechnic festival, “France/Chine”, comes to the skies over Château de L’ISLE DE NOE on 31 August. Starting at 19:00 with an exhibition of paintings, circus artists, inflatables and street art, the fireworks commence at 21:30 with no less than six 10-minute displays!

Entry is €15 for adults and €7 for children under 10, and those with a carte d’invalidité. 06 23 71 62 34.

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This is definitely a great afternoon out for lovers of history, old stone and ancient architecture.

Starting at 16:30 on 4 August this guided visit takes you through the history of LARRESSINGLE, one of the smallest fortified cities in France.

05 62 28 00 80.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Born in Beaumontde-Lomagne in 1601, mathematician Pierre Fermat flummoxed mathematicians for around 350 years with his Last Theorum. In 1994 British mathematician Andrew Wiles proved the theory, that the Pythagorean equation xn + yn = zn has no whole number solutions if n is greater than 2. Funnily enough, the Theorem was referred to in an episode of Star Trek in which Picard told Commander Riker about “not being able to unravel a simple knot tied by a part-time French mathematician working alone without a computer”.

DID YOU KNOW? DELICIOUS DISTILLATION Armagnac is thought to be France’s oldest wine distillate. Taken for medicinal purposes in the 15th-century (where have we heard that before), it became more popular from the 16thcentury onwards. Defined as the Armagnac Appellation in 1909 and now covering around 13,000 hectares in Gers and, to a lesser geographical extent, Landes, it is designated as XXX, for less than two years distillation in oak casks, VSOP being four years and Napoleon for five years or more.

What a find!

Bulls and Rams?

GERS DORDOGNE

EASY PEASY

After the Gallic Lactorates tribe surrendered its oppidum to the Romans, the Gallo-Roman city we now know as Lectoure, then the capital of Novempopulania, grew substantially. Its high grounds contained temples dedicated to Jupiter and Cybele, an ancient Phrygian earth goddess whose worshippers sacrificed the bull and ram as symbols of strength and fertility. Incredibly, an altar decorated with bulls heads was unearthed in 1540 when the east side of the cathedral was demolished.

It can now be seen in the Lectoure museum.

The Musée du Trésor d’Eauze may be small but it’s a veritable treasure trove, thanks to a find in 1985 which saw a new museum created and opened in 1994. Spread over three floors, the basement is a virtual walk-in vault where, presented vertically, you will find 28,003 silver Roman coins dating from the 3rd and 4th-centuries. Not only that but there are 45 coins in bronze and three in gold. Opposite is a fabulous display of jewellery studded with precious stones and intaglios. The rest of the museum displays prehistoric tools and reflects daily life and religion in Roman times.

Read more about the region at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/area-info/ The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

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Création : CCI Limoges Haute-Vienne | octobre 2019 | Crédits photos : Adobe Stock

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ILLUMINATING! And

they’re off!

Showing their features in a new light, several towns and villages are offering theatrical, night-time tours including CAUSSADE on

27 July, 05 63 26 04 04, MONTPEZAT-DE-QUERCY on 3 August, 05 63 02 05 55, and CAYLUS on 21 July and 4 August, 05 63 67 00 28.

Plus LARRAZET with its 1001 candles on 15 and 17 August, 05 63 20 76 50, and STANTONIN-NOBLE-VAL on 28 July and 11 and 18 August, 05 63 30 63 47. Why not go and experience them all?

Fascinating Art

Another interesting exhibition awaits at Espace Points de Vue in LAUZERTE. Artists signed up for July are Martine Cazin (paintings and drawings), Mélanie Duchaussoy (paintings and ink drawings), Françoise Langlois (paper sculptures) and Patrice Poutout (sculptures). In August you can enjoy the works of Bilitis Farreny (engravings, drawings and serigraphy), Hyane (sculptures and drawings), Yzo (sculpture) and Carole Nouet (drawings). www.artpointsdevue.com The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

Hippodrome Bordevieille at BEAUMONT-DE-LOMAGNE is planning eight trotting races each afternoon from 12:00 on 10 August, 12:15 on 23 August and 13:30 on 28 August. It’s always an event filled with excitement.

05 63 26 12 50.

TARN ET GARONNE DORDOGNE

Whilst correct at the time of writing, these events may be subject to change in line with COVID-19 restrictions. More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

what’s the

BUZZ TARN ET GARONNE

Labour of Love?

How did they work the land in the old days compared to today? You can find out at the Concours de Labours d’Hier à Aujourd’hui in GIMAT on 8 and 9 August. This fascinating look at machinery includes ancient tractors as well as modern systems. Hay hoe!

06 37 33 59 61.

ENCHANTING

It may be a small medieval village but VAREN has a lot to offer! This guided visit takes in the 11th-century church, its 15th-century château, fortified gates, the historic fountain and a refreshing walk along the banks of the Aveyron River.

The tour leaves at 10:30 on 6, 20 and 27 July and 3 August.

05 63 65 45 09.

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TARN ET GARONNE

IMPRESSIVE

Unlike other departments in the region, Tarn et Garonne wasn’t created in 1790. Instead it was Emperor Napoleon I who took parts from Lot, Haute-Garonne, Gers and Lot et Garonne in 1808.

His decision came after an invitation to visit the industrial and commercial centre of Montauban whose people and location so impressed him that it became the capital of the new department.

Sarracenum

The oldest mention of the sub-prefecture, Castelsarrassin, was found in Raymond II of Rouergue’s Will in 961 as Castel Sarracenum in the Saracen area. He gave the Saint-Saveur church to the Moissac monastery. The town survived many conflicts but the Hundred Years’ War caused probably the greatest unrest with Catholics living in the city and Protestants living outside.

DID YOU KNOW? MONTAUBAN’S SON

Born in the capital, Montauban, in 1780, JeanAuguste-Dominique Ingres became known as the last of the great history painters with “The Vow of Louis XIII” (on display in Montauban’s NotreDame Cathedral).

Donating paintings and antique vases to the town during his life, he added thousands of drawings and paintings to the collection following his death. Many of these can be seen in the Musée Ingres.

Romanesque Origins Some date the foundations of Moissac’s original Romanesque Abbaye de St-Pierre to Clovis in 506. Others claim that the Benedictine monastery was founded by Bishop Didier of Cahors at the time of Clovis II around 639. Receiving gifts of land from rich benefactors, including the Carolingian monarchy, it was protected by the Counts of Toulouse because of its revenue. Part of the church had collapsed by 1030 and a fire destroyed the rest in 1042 and a sad history followed during various wars. It was rebuilt after the Hundred Years War in the Gothic style we see today.

Size Doesn’t Matter Despite being one of the smallest French departments, Tarn et Garonne has a beautiful and diverse landscape ranging from the plains between the rivers Tarn and Garonne, the lush Aveyron river valley, the Lomagne hills in the south west, and the limestone plateaux (Causses). Small but perfectly formed!

Read more about the region at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/area-info/ 24

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Precision & Procedure No two words better describe how to practise French Law.

France, like no other country, is a legal and administrative obstacle course.

This is why when you choose a lawyer to handle a French matter, you need to work with a firm who only specialises in French Law. We have English French-trained lawyers (avocats), living and working in Toulouse.

Being there on the spot is certainly practical, but the secret of Bright Avocats’ success is simple: listening, asking the right questions, and finding the most effective course to a satisfactory conclusion.

+33 (0)5 61 57 90 86 - brightavocats@orange.fr 16 place Saint-Georges 31000 TOULOUSE

www.brightavocats.com

N HAUTE GARONNE

what’s the

BUZZ

Whilst correct at the time of writing, these events may be subject to change in line with COVID-19 restrictions. More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

Have a Laugh N.HAUTE GARONNE

Beyond The Limit

CLASSICAL WORKS

Les Violins de France brings a collection of unforgettable works to L’Eglise Saint Exupère, TOULOUSE, on 21 August at 20:30. The programme includes Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Pachelbel’s Canon, Albinoni’s Adagio, Bach’s Jesus May My Join Remain and Schubert’s Ave Maria. 01 42 50 96 18.

L’Envol des Pionniers is a remarkable exhibition charting the history of French flight. They said it couldn’t be done but, 100 Years after the first postal flight, you can relive the amazing adventures of the Aéropostale in its historic buildings. Held at La Piste des Géants in TOULOUSE from 4 July to 30 August, it is open every day except Monday from 13:00 to 18:00. www.lenvol-des-pionniers. com/en/

MARTIANS!

Celebrating the launch of the 2020 Mission to Mars, complete with the robot Perseverance which was designed in Toulouse by IRAP-CNES, this special day on 17 July at Cité d’Espace, TOULOUSE, is dedicated to current and future exploration of Mars, the red planet. Don’t miss the full-sized robot replica during this awesome day out! www.cite-espace.com

The comedy, WALL-E, is said to be one of the best films from Pixar Studios and can be seen in the open air at Rue du Tour, TOULOUSE, on 14 August at 21:30.

This comedy centres on Wall-E, a robot who turns out to be the last thing on earth. His job is to clean up the planet but a technical fault means that he develops a strong personality! It forms part of the Cinéma en Plein Air series. www.lacinemathequedetoulouse.com/

TAKE A TRIP

This re-enactment will take you all the way back to medieval times at the Couvent des Jacobins in TOULOUSE, every Tuesday from 7 July until 25 August, 10:00 to 18:00. Dive into the heart of the 13-century in the wings of the Jacobin cloister and see how merchants and pilgrims travelled across Europe. www.facebook.com/events/382754915692595

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www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Don’t be too quick to cross Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Toulouse. Erected in the late 16th-century, it is well known for its colourful nighttime illuminations. However, did you also know that the history of its construction can be found along its 220m length? In addition, from a distance, can you see the manes and faces of any lions? Apparently that’s what the openings in the piers were designed to represent.

Grrreat architecture!

DID YOU KNOW?

WHAT A VENUE UNESCO

Be prepared to be overwhelmed by the exquisite art in the Musée des Augustins.

Together with modern 20th-century works, you will find sculptures, paintings and special collections dating from the Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance periods, including Rodin, Rubens and Delacroix. However, this fabulous building isn’t just a museum, you can attend courses and workshops on a wide range of subjects from art and design through to yoga.

What’s That?

You never know what you are going to see on the two runways at Blagnac Airport but it’s probably best to keep a curious eye on runway 32L/14R. This is the one that’s nearly always used for flight testing and delivery flights by the nearby aviation industry, including Airbus and ATR.

Toulouse is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Canal de Midi, the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route, and the largest remaining Romanesque building in Europe, the Basilica of Saint Sernin. With origins dating back to the 4th-century, it was constructed in the Romanesque style between 1080 and 1120 and contains the remains of the Saints Sernin and Honoratus, along with other saints buried in the crypt.

N HAUTE GARONNE DORDOGNE

I-SPY

Some Suit!

Where can you go to see full-scale models of the Ariane 5 rocket, Soyuz modules and the Mir space station, and visit not one but two planetariums and a 3D IMAX cinema?

The Cité d’Espace, it’s out of this world for information.

For instance the outfit worn by astronaut JeanFrançois Clervoy on the Atlantis shuttle in 1994 was well travelled - 7,330,226 km to be exact!

Read more about the region at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/area-info/ The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

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HOMES + GARDENS

Everything’s coming up

roses Hyde Hall

Gloire de Dijon

Munstead Wood Olivia Rose

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www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

HOMES + GARDENS

Sue Adams has lived in SW France for 15 years.

Turning her garden into a veritable haven of produce, colour and scents, she knows how to create and maintain beautiful, productive gardens, regardless of the season.

A FR ENC H FAVO U RITE

The rose has a longer history than most other garden plants, with primitive forms of the varieties we know today existing for millions of years. Many centuries ago they became an essential part of important Chinese gardens, spreading westwards until they arrived in Europe in the middle ages. Here in France the person who is perhaps most credited with bringing the rose to general popularity was Napoléon’s wife.

In 1799 Empress Joséphine bought Château Malmaison, which still exists and is about 15 km to the west of central Paris. She started to collect plants from around the world and, fairly soon, her passion became focused on roses, with Napoléon’s generals bringing her examples from wherever they had been waging their campaigns.

Sadly, her collection was never fully catalogued but, by the time she died, she

The Generous Gardener

had amassed around 250 different varieties. At the time this was the biggest collection in the world, but today there are thousands of varieties and cultivars.

After her death, France became the center for rose breeding with many of today’s “old’ roses originating there.

These include such wonderful types as Bourbons, Moss roses and Centifolias and historic named varieties such as Souvenir de Malmaison, Louise Odier, Gloire de Dijon, Cuisse de Nymphe (Maiden’s Blush), and even one called Chapeau de Napoléon. Apart from Joséphine’s enthusiasm, the rose has succeeded here because the conditions, especially those found in SW France, suit it well with lots of sunshine, some rain and warmth.

F RO M AP RI L TO AUT UMN

The selective breeding of the French experts and later work by people such as David Austin means that we can now have roses in flower from April through to the autumn months, with additional autumn interest via the colourful hips and thorns of some varieties. However, to ensure a continuous, marvellous display in July and August you need to follow some rules.

• Most important is to choose your roses well in the first place. Not all varieties

A traditional sight

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

Strawberry Hill

thrive here. Some are more resistant to disease than others and, if you want a succession of blooms throughout the summer, choose repeat flowering “remontant” varieties.

In France I have had particular success with Gertrude Jekyll, Olivia Rose, The Generous Gardener, Strawberry Hill, Munstead Wood and Hyde Hall. In addition, The Mayflower will flower into December and it becomes a challenge knowing when to prune it before it bursts into growth again the following year.

• Next, plant your roses in the right place. They need airy, sunny places so that the leaves dry quickly.

Some will tolerate shade but they all need a good few hours of daily sunshine to thrive. They are greedy plants and like deep, rich soil which will retain moisture and nutrients.

• Water roses well and feed them regularly. If stressed through lack of food and water they will not only wilt but will become more susceptible to disease. Water well throughout dry periods, ensuring that the water goes to the ground around the plant and soaks into the roots rather than over the leaves, and feed with either a proprietary or tomato food. A good long water once every few days is better than a quick visit with the watering can every morning as it enables the water to

soak down into the ground.

• Dead head roses regularly, unless you want to keep the seed heads on the plant to develop into hips for autumn colour. As a general rule, once a plant has set seed it will stop flowering.

• Finally, watch out for disease and blight. Some roses are very vulnerable to fungal problems, especially if stressed.

In France you will commonly see a rose bush planted at the end of each row of vines.

Traditionally, this serves as an early warning system as the rose will be affected by blight before a vine. If the rose developed powdery mildew, for example, the vigneron knew to treat the vines to protect them.

So, as July rolls into August, lie back on the sunbed and inhale the magnificent fragrance of your roses and then pick up the plant catalogue. Now is the perfect time to choose and order the bare rooted roses you are going to plant this coming winter.

Chapeau de Napoléon

Sue Adams founded the website French Properties Direct.

You can see more of her gardening advice at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/meet-the-bloggers and in our online articles section.

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HOMES + GARDENS

July and August Gardening Help your summer garden

Keeping the garden going July and August in SW France are typically hot and dry and the challenge of keeping the garden filled with interest is a major preoccupation. Here Sue Adams gives us ideas on what we can do to help.

• Collect seeds from flowering plants. Label and store in paper envelopes when completely dry.

• Irrigation – remember to water regularly. Save grey water for watering plants where possible and be aware of local hosepipe bans or restrictions.

• Prune lavender once it has stopped flowering but don’t cut back into the old wood.

• Pay particular attention to trees and shrubs which have been planted within the last 12 months.

Water them at least every other day throughout the dry dry summer period.

• Feed pot plants and tired in-ground plants with liquid tomato food.

• Cut back herbaceous plants once they have died back for the year.

• Leave the stems and seed heads of grasses and selected plants as they will provide structure and food for the birds in winter.

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www.gerslandscaping.com

• Dead head flowering plants regularly, unless you want the seed heads. Flowering usually stops once a plant has set seed.

• Now is the time to divide and move Irises. Ensure their rhizomes are exposed to the sun as this promotes next year’s flowers.

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The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

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OUT + ABOUT

These pretty towns and villages are definitely worth a visit with their fabulous architecture and scenery. Enjoy!

7 WONDERS HAUTEFORT

OF THE REGION As its name suggests, HAUTEFORT in Dordogne was originally dominated by a medieval fortress, sitting high on a hill on what is believed to have been a Roman camp.

Transformed into Château de Hautefort during the 17thcentury, it now features a remarkable collection of 17th and 18th-century furniture, beautiful French gardens, an English-style park and amazing boxwood “embroidery”! Nearby, in the same commune, is the historic monument of Château des Charreaux with its long rectangular building and side pavilions, an unusual dovecote and a bell tower in the shape of a buckwheat helmet.

LUPIAC

On Guard! As the birthplace of d’Artagnan, you won’t be

surprised to see an incredible statue of the famous Musketeer in the centre of LUPIAC, one of the oldest castelnaux in Gers. Arcaded houses and covered galleries surround this sculpture by Daphné du Barry with his magnificent horse rearing up and d’Artagnan looking resplendent in his feathered hat and sword at the ready.

As well as a museum nearby, the statue is the start of what will eventually be some 4000 km of historical route linking the town to Maastricht in Holland where he died.

the Monconseil and Bellevue chateaux. Not only that but the village itself adds to its historical, archaeological and natural local heritage charm with a Gallo-Roman villa and museum. Built between the 1st and 5thcenturies, these historical monument ruins display three main areas of the villa including polychrome mosaic slabs. For a fascinating 3D virtual reconstruction tour (in French) visit www.villagalloromaineplassac.com/index.php/ museum

In addition to guided walking and hiking tours, visitors to the officially certified “old town” of PLASSAC in Gironde can also take in nearby Montuzet’s former convent, the Saint Pierre church and

Within the Seven Wonders we take you to the seven towers. The medieval town of MARTEL (meaning hammer) in Lot takes its name from its founder, Charles Martel who received the nickname

MARTEL

PLASSAC

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www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

OUT + ABOUT

MERVILLE

Hautefort

H

H Plassac H Martel

Mezin

H

H Lupiac

Caussade H

H

Merville

“hammer” after winning the Battle of Tours in 732. With seven medieval towers rising above narrow streets with pale stone and reddish-brown tiled houses and a cobbled central square, it is easy to spot its distinctive skyline from a distance. Famed for its walnuts and truffles it is also where Henry the Young King, Eleanor of Aquitaine’s son, died in 1183.

MEZIN in Lot et Garonne highlights its rich industrial past through ancient factory rooftops, alleys, rampart remains, and the classified

monument and former Benedictine Priory, the 11th and 16th-century Saint Jean Baptiste church. Romanesque in style and with a barrel vault, it also features a series of stunning stained-glass windows. Not to be missed is the cork museum. Cork became “local gold” in the 19th-century and turned the village into the capital of the cork stopper world during the presidency of, Armand Fallières, who was born in Mézin in 1841.

Often referred to as “hat city”, CAUSSADE in Tarn et

Garonne is famous for its millinery production and the straw hat or boater of the late 19th, early 20th centuries. Its heritage in heavy stone construction still keeps cropping up today with ceramic remains in the form of bricks and tiles. Harking back to GalloRoman times, other relics include the Bénéchie, vases, medals, bronzes, and gold and silver coins. Even wooden spindles were unearthed at the bottom of a well, highlighting its roots in the wool textile industry. So keep your eyes open!

The red brick, white stone L’Eglise Saint Saturnin in MERVILLE, Haute Garonne, boasts a high gable end with three bells and, inside, a wall mounted wooden pulpit, ornate altar and exquisite wall art and plaques. Built in the early 19th-century, it is also home to an emotional sculpture in the Chapel of the Virgin of Pity. For a trip back in time, visit the 18thcentury Château de Merville and its park where you could lose yourself in the largest boxwood labyrinth in Europe.

Bordered by high boxwood walls, it is some 10km long!

CAUSSADE

MEZIN

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Go with

! e m e h t the

We have all been through a pretty difficult period and now it’s time to do something different! What better than a themed outdoor event for friends, family and neighbours.*

THE BIG FRENCH ONE! Given the current restrictions, it’s unlikely that there will be large gatherings to celebrate Bastille Day on 14 July but there’s nothing to stop you hosting a smaller event in your garden or nearby field. Think red, white and blue, berets, striped shirts and, if your local mairie allows them, fireworks for this Fête Nationale.

You could even have President Macron as guest of honour with a life-sized cardboard cut-out! It’s one of the biggest, happiest and most loved celebrations Vive La France!

FOOD AND AMBIANCE You don’t want to be in the kitchen away from the fun so make the food easy with a mix of meat and fish pate’s and French bread to dip into, a big pot of something like a coq au vin with garlic mash, plenty of French dressed salad leaves and cheeses, and a cook ahead dessert that won’t spoil in the heat, such as a traditional Tarte Tatin.

Homemade lemonade and French 75 cocktails would be very apt as it’s the 75th anniversary of VE Day too!

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THIS GARDEN’S GOT TALENT One by one your guests show off their skills in front of a discerning panel of judges and a raucous crowd. Jugglers, acrobats, magic tricks, impersonators, singers and dog acts are all welcome! Make sure the judging is based on the most outlandish costumes as much as the performance and you will be sure to have a spectacular evening.

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME Don your red shoes, click your heels three times and host the party of the year with a Wizard of Oz evening.

Create a magical atmosphere with lights, a few coloured water fountains in the pool and huge paper and plastic flowers. Lay a yellow “brick road” to your door and prepare to welcome the munchkins, help the tin man to find a heart, and give some (bon) courage to the king of the jungle. Watch out for the wicked witch though!

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

THE FRENCH QUARTER Gumbo, jambalaya, Cajun spices, po’boys, blackened chicken, rice ‘n beans and jumpin’ jazz of all kinds. Recreate the fabulous atmosphere of New Orleans, Louisiana with music, dancing and good ole fashioned Creole hospitality. Date it back to the 30’s, 50’s or 80’s or add the Mardi Gras into the mix and you have a themed event to rival all others.

We dare you to give that cardboard another outing and create a paddle steamer – or a wheel at least!

COMIC BOOK HEROES! Bam, Splash, Wowser, Crunch and Kapow!

Dot these (colourful) expressions around your garden, include a few spiders webs, a couple of old capes (left by the last crusaders), a cascade of zigzagging lights and marvel as the comic book heroes arrive. Bat mobile optional!

CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER

CLUED UP CLOUSEAU Forget Murder Mystery and spend a baffling night with the infamous Inspector instead. A family heirloom has been stolen but a series of clues (maybe in French?) lead your guests from one clue to another, finally, unveiling its whereabouts. Who will find it first?

Dress code: hats, moustaches, overcoats (quickly discarded) and magnifying glasses. Dodgy French accents are an absolute must!

How about a mad tea party with Alice and all kinds of bizarre sarnies, tarts, cakes and personalities! They may not have to arrive via a rabbit hole but only Alice in Wonderland characters are allowed!

Fill your garden with psychedelic colours, clocks of all kinds (there goes that cardboard again), and pots and pots of tea plus bottles of “pop”.

If you can find an oversized chair and miniature teacups even better.

Raspberry jam and banana sandwiches anyone?

Lighting makes all the difference and you’ll find some great tips on how to create inexpensive outdoor lighting in our Bright Ideas For the Night Garden in our online articles section pages under homes and gardens at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/articles/bright-ideas-for-the-night-garden/

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

* Each of these themes can accommodate social distancing. Please be responsible and meet the restrictions which are applicable at the time, sanitise hands regularly, stay safe and have fun!

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FOOD + DRINK

Apéro Treats

for Summer King Prawn, White Bean and Chorizo Tartine

Emma (chef) and John (sommelier) Gilchrist bring us some “cool”, delicious ideas for apéros on a hot day.

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(makes 4 medium Tartines) 2 White onions, diced 3 Garlic cloves, finely chopped 400g Tin of white beans 2 tbs Olive oil Pinch of salt and pepper Juice of half a lemon Handful of flat leaved parsley, chopped 4 Slices of sourdough bread, toasted 12 Cooked king prawns 150g Chorizo, sliced and cooked Chopped chives Chive Flowers (optional) Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat and gently cook the onion and garlic until it’s soft

but not coloured. Add ¾ of the beans and salt and pepper. Cook for 4 mins.

Place in a blender, pulse to a rough purée, move to a bowl and add the rest of the beans. Mix in the lemon juice and parsley. Divide the purée equally between the sliced sourdough toast and spread in an even layer.

Top each tartine with the chorizo and prawns, alternatively.

Finally, sprinkle the chopped chives and flowers.

Serve and enjoy!

Tarte Soleil/Sun Tart

Tarte Soleil is a Frenchinspired pull-apart puff pastry dish. Making a great centrepiece, you can make it with various fillings.

Here is my version.

2 Circles Puff Pastry or Pizza dough, 12 inch (shop bought is fine) 200g Cooked spinach (fresh or frozen) 2 White onions, finely diced 2 Large garlic cloves, finely chopped 150g Cream cheese 30g Parmesan or Pecorino, grated Pinch of grated nutmeg (optional) Salt and Pepper 1 Egg beaten with a little cold water for egg wash Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Heat the olive oil and butter in a non-stick sauté pan.

Add the onion and garlic, salt and pepper, cook until soft.

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FOOD + DRINK

Support your local vineyard For any lunch, dinner, outside eating or apéro party your first stop really should be your local vineyard for that lovely local wine they produce for us, at very reasonable prices, year after year. This year it‘s even more important that we stay very local and choose the wines on our doorstep.

They need to sell their wine to keep going and they need the space for storing the new vintages.

If wine is not your thing, here are three super-easy cocktails for the summer. They have the same two core ingredients; fresh lime juice and simple syrup or syrup de canne, every cocktail bar essential. To make the syrup, boil equal parts sugar and water together until it’s clear. Cool before use.

All the cocktails use the same method: Fill a shaker with ice and add ingredients. Shake well and strain into four chilled martini glasses. Or, if you don’t have a shaker, add ice to a large jug, add the ingredients, stir and divide into glasses.

You can add lemonade, soda or sparkling wine and turn all three cocktails into long cooling drinks. Perfect for outside in the sunshine.

Stir the spinach into the onion mix (make sure the spinach is dry). Take off the heat and cool in a mixing bowl. When cool, stir in the cream cheese, Parmesan/Pecorino, salt, pepper and nutmeg.

Taste to check seasoning.

Sub head: To Assemble Spread the filling on one of the pastry circles, leaving 1/2-inch (1.5 cm) gap around the edge.

Brush the edges with the egg wash and place the second dough circle on top.

To create the sundial effect place a glass in the middle of the circle and, using a sharp knife from the edge of the glass to the edge of the pastry, cut the pastry into quarters. Cut each quarter into three equal parts, and each of them into two parts.

In the end, you will have 6 “rays” in each quarter and 24 rays in the entire circle.

Remove the glass. To support the pastry place your finger

near the centre of each ray (where it is most likely to break off) and gently twist each strand two or three times.

Brush each ray with beaten egg wash, sprinkle with sesame seeds and bake for 30 to 35 mins, until golden brown all over. Cool on the baking sheet for 10 mins, and then transfer to a serving platter. Tear off rays of sun, and enjoy!

Gin Gimlet 200ml Gin 50ml Lime juice 25ml Simple syrup (Add soda water to make a classic Tom Collins) l

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Watermelon Fizz 200ml Gin or vodka 50ml Lime juice 25ml Simple syrup 200g Whizzed up watermelon (Add lemonade and you have vodka/gin and watermelon lemonade)

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Apple Daiquiri 150ml Light rum 50ml Clear apple Juice 50ml Lime juice 25ml Simple syrup (We add pink sparkling wine to make our Les Caulins Cocktail) l

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Emma and John Gilchrist have been running their gîte and cookery school, Les Caulins, in Lot-etGaronne since March 2016. Emma has worked with great chefs in some of the best restaurants around the world and John, a former UK Sommelier of the Year and winner of the Mondavi award for the best wine list in the world, is an enthusiast for the smaller wine producers. www.lescaulins.com

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

37

GUEST CHEF

Stunningly Beautiful, Modern, Delicious

French Cuisine Thierry Pszonka

STUFFED ZUCCHINI FLOWERS These beautiful zucchini flowers are stuffed with a poultry mousse, dried Porcini mushrooms and truffle. They are served with a sweet potato mousseline with ginger and grated lime, peas with mint, a vegetable and red wine jus, and topped with a poached Caussade black chicken egg.

For one serving (2 flowers per person): 2 Zucchini flowers 1 Caussade black chicken egg 1tbs Olive oil

FOR THE STUFFING:

80g Cubed poultry 1 Egg yolk 50g Heavy cream 3g Dried Porcini powder Salt and pepper Pinch of nutmeg 2tbs Truffle juice 5g Black truffle brunoise* Mix the poultry, gradually incorporating the cream and, finally, add the egg yolk. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg and add the truffle juice and the truffle brunoise. *To brunoise, julienne the truffle, turn through a quarter, slice again for cubes of 3mm or less.

Remove the flower stem a nd carefully fill the flower with the stuffing, close it up.

Cook the flowers in a roasting dish with olive oil, butter, salt and pepper, roast them well on all sides.

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FOR THE MOUSSELLINE: 1 Sweet potato 1tbs Butter Half a lime, grated 30g Ginger, finely grated Salt and pepper Prick the potato and bake it, skin on, in a 165°C oven for 1 h 45 mins. Remove the skin and mix with the softened butter, salt and pepper, lime and ginger. Reserve.

FOR THE ACCOMPANIMENTS:

100g Celery stick, brunoise 1 Red onion, brunoise 1 Clove garlic, brunoise Olive oil, drizzle Knob of butter Chicken stock 60g Fresh peas, blanched and cooled 5 Mint leaves, chopped In a saucepan, sweat the onion, celery and garlic with the olive oil and butter. Cover with the

Thierry Pszonka, MaĂŽtre Cuisinier de France, has 30 years experience working with the finest chefs and food in France. Today, he is head chef and owner at Les Sens Restaurant in Puylaroque, Tarn et Garonne. He prides himself on creating exquisite fusion food that combines local ingredients with an imaginative approach to both flavours and plate appeal.

chicken stock and cook until completely evaporated, add the peas and mint, season.

FOR THE JUS:

1 Onion, diced 1 Carrot, diced 100g Celeriac, diced 2 Garlic cloves, diced 1/2L Red wine 1 Tomato, diced 2 Juniper berries 3 Black peppercorns Sweat the diced vegetables in a saucepan until lightly coloured. Add the tomato, juniper berries and peppercorns. Deglaze with the red wine and reduce to obtain a sweet juice, season.

TO SERVE:

Edible flowers Place the jus on a bevelled plate. Add the vegetable accompaniments, top with the two zucchini flowers and place the poached egg on the side.

Decorate with the flowers.

FOR THE POACHED EGG: Add water and a little vinegar to a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and poach the eggs before cooling them in iced water.

www.restaurantlessens.com

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Cooling down

BUZZING CONTENT

stressful French issues with a dedicated Hotline It’s not always easy to know who to turn to for help with French issues but one company has taken a fresh approach to providing just that.

Yannick Laboisse

Yannick Laboisse, co-Director at French Connections Gers, tells us how the idea of a dedicated Hotline came about and what it means to those who want immediate help on any subject.

“Our experienced team includes people who have not only lived and worked here in France for years and are bi-lingual but, also, people who were born here”, he explains. “That means we understand the culture, working practices, the system and, equally importantly, the psyche of French artisans and professionals. We know the correct way to do things in France in order to make things happen and our clients benefit from that.

“Starting out as a property development company with a range of skilled, insured

and willing artisans, we were amazed at how many requests we received from our own clients with regard to other aspects of their lives. We were pleased to help and word spread about our capabilities.

Soon, we had French banks and, amongst others, insurance companies, asking if we could help their customers.

“This wasn’t just translation, it transformed into making sure that the people we helped were able to achieve their objectives, and were given options born out of our knowledgeable, alternative viewpoint. It often meant that they saved money too.

“Growing up in France and with a network of rugby playing friends from all walks of life, we had already built a network of trusted artisans, experts and organisations that we could call on for expert, reliable products and services.

That network is still growing and, with in-house experience of call centre operation, it wasn’t long before our Hotline idea became reality.

“Despite our name, the service is available throughout SW France and can help those who are planning a move or have recently moved to

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

This isn’t “translation”, it’s much more of a “transform your life and start enjoying France” service.

France, as well as French speakers who might struggle with the more technical aspects of certain tasks”.

With Ryan Wilson, a Gers local, at the helm and available 09:00 to 17:00, seven days a week, the Hotline is manned by experienced personnel, ensuring that registered clients can request help on any issue, safe in the knowledge that they will receive a correct and appropriate solution to their particular problem.

Yannick adds, “Sometimes this may be a quick chat on the phone to explain a point or ask a question, or it may mean making contact with an artisan or organisation to talk through an issue.

“We offer various packages from an annual service whereby we act as intermediaries and provide a concierge service, through to complete project management where we act for our clients who are billed by the artisans direct. We take a small commission from the artisan which is usually more than covered by the savings we have been able to negotiate on our client’s behalf. www.frenchconnectionsgers.com

39

ADVICE

DO YOU Léna Eaton

have it covered?

Whether you live or work here or are considering a move to France, French insurance is one of those must haves in terms of contract and knowledge.

We asked Léna Eaton of Agence Generali for a straightforward overview.

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HABITATION

Property insurance covers your building, content, and public liability whether you are an owner, tenant or co-propriétaire. Options include valuables, musical instruments, sports equipment, etc. Clauses can be added if you let your property (annually or seasonally), exchange home, or if you work from home (téletravail). Tenant’s insurance is a legal obligation in France.

TONDEUSE AUTO PORTÉE

If you have a sit-on mower check that it’s included within your household policy, you will need to insure it for fire, theft and damage in a separate policy.

VOITURE/MOTOS/ CAMPING-CAR

Covering cars, motorcycles and camper vans, you have a choice of cover: Third Party, Third Party Fire and Theft, Fully Comprehensive.

An annual green card is normally provided, and some insurers can insure your foreign registered vehicle whilst you are in the process of re-registering it in France. Options include assistance, recovery home start, replacement vehicle, content, and driver’s life/ disability insurance.

SANTÉ : COMPLÉMENTAIRE, MUTUELLE

Around 88% of people in France have a top up medical insurance policy providing full

cover or cover for hospital treatments only. The insurer usually liaises directly with l’assurance maladie to reimburse you. If you are not registered in the French system, private plans are available for a few months or for a longer term basis.

SCOLAIRE:

Whilst this can be taken out separately, school insurance can be an option within your property insurance and covers the damage a child can cause to others, as well as corporal accidents at school, on the way to school, and during extra activities.

GARANTIE DES ACCIDENTS DE LA VIE (GAV) Even if you are registered in the health system, certain

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ADVICE

accidents are not covered by the State. GAV looks after the financial consequences of a domestic accident such as falling off a ladder, crossing the road, medical accidents, gardening, sport activities, etc.

PROTECTION URIDIQUE

Legal protection insurance covers your interests in France, representation in court, when solving disputes with, for example, an artisan, defending you with daily nuisance, purchase on internet, car repairs/ purchase and neighbourhood, problems etc.

ASSURANCES PROFESSIONNELS

Depending on your type of business, this can cover

building, stock and loss of income. Public liability/ Responsabilité civile can also be included or contracted separately.

DÉCÉNNALE

This liability Insurance is obligatory for all builders and covers building repairs when fault is attributed to the insured artisan.

WHEN CAN YOU CANCEL?

An insurance policy is initially taken out for one year and is automatically renewed thereafter. Prior to cancelling, check your policy as they can differ, but these are the general rules.

• By registered letter, postmarked at least two (2) months prior to the

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

scheduled date (article L.11312), the policy will be cancelled at the anniversary date (renewal date).

• Under Loi Châtel (art L11315-1 code des assurances), which is usually used for house and car insurance and does not apply to medical insurance or professional risks, you can cancel by registered letter, within 20 days from the date the renewal invoice is sent to you.

• Loi Hamon (art L11315-2 code des assurances) does not apply to medical insurance or professional risks. Once you have held the policy for at least a year, you can cancel by registered letter, at any time.

The new insurer will usually organise the cancellation of your house and car insurance and give 30-day’s notice to the existing insurer.

However, you need to send proof. If you sell/leave your home, send the ‘attestation de vente’ provided by the notaire on the day of the final signature, or end of tenancy contract (fin de bail). If you have sold your vehicle, send the ‘certificate de cession’, and if you close your business, send the ‘certificat de radiation’. www.french-insurance.com

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Nathalie MANAS Assurances

Your best option

Your insurance health check ‌ from A to Z in English !

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Are all your insurances in order ?

Do you know exactly what cover you have?

Your insurance health check - from A to Z in English!

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Are all your insurances in order?

Do• you have enough? Do you have too much? • Do you know exactly what cover you have? • Not certain? Why not get in touch?

Are you sure you’re not paying more than you need to?

Call me today for a completely FREE andlike no-obligation discussion.

Not certain?

If you’d some reassurance about your insurance, why not get in touch?

I help English-speaking clients all over the South West of France get the best deals for their insurances.

Call me today for a completely FREE and no-obligation discussion.

NATHALIE MANAS ASSURANCES – Insurance Broker Tel: +33 (0)7 72 12 17 00 Email: nathalie@nathaliemanas.fr www.nathaliemanas.fr RCS Auch 840 135 164 Siège social : Lieu-dit Lamoussette, 32400 Tarsac.ORIAS N°18 004 559 Entreprise individuelle de courtage en assurances.

RCS Auch 840 135 164.

ImmatriculÊe à l’ORIAS dans la catÊgorie courtier d’assurances N°18 004 559 (www.orias.fr)

SIRET 48003796900015

I’m Nathalie, a French bilingual insurance broker based in the western part of the Gers.

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www.skyinfrance.co.uk

NEWS

NOTEW

ORTHY

BUZZ BITS

A few news snippets of interest to our region

APPLY ONLINE Originally scheduled for 1 July, the French site for UK residents applying for residency will now open on 1 October.

Meanwhile, it’s worth gathering the paperwork together which, although yet to be confirmed, will include a valid passport, Birth certificate, proof of living in France permanently, proof of income and proof

Domestic Flight Ban

of healthcare. For more information on Brexit, in English, go to www.brexit. gouv.fr/sites/brexit/accueil/ vous-etes-britannique-en

CLIMATE CONVENTION At a speech on 29 June, President Macron outlined his reaction to proposals from the citizens’ Climate Convention.

Out of the 149 suggestions, he said that he would not be considering three. These include a reduction in

the motorway speed limit to 100kph, changing the Constitution to include the environment, and placing a tax on dividends. He felt that these three simply wouldn’t work. The other 146 proposals are under consideration.

The French government plans to ban domestic flights in France if the same journey can be taken by TGV in under 2.5 hours. Affecting French as well as low-cost airlines, the decision is being taken for environmental reasons.

In practice, very few routes are likely to be affected as the train journey would be longer but it will stop new, shorter routes from opening.

And the winner is…

Congratulations to Paul Ray, who has won our March/ April competition for a fab night and dinner at Hotel La Terrasse in Meyronne.

“What fantastic news and a wonderful surprise!” he wrote, “We’re really looking forward to this relaxing break in such a lovely historic venue.

I’m very impressed with your ability to produce such an interesting magazine and excellent competition prizes, well done.”

Thank you Paul and have a great time.

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

43

R E N O VA T I O N

Maintaining the

Renovation Dream Adrian Lithgow of Agence Eleonor gives us an overview of what to expect

The prices are low, the houses are beautiful: what’s not to like about the idea of doing up an old French farmhouse and making it the home of your dreams?

Many have trod this path. Most end up with the dream intact. For some it quickly turns into a terrifying nightmare.

So what do you need to know so that after a hard day’s labour you can turn in for a night of undisturbed sleep?

HOW M U C H , H O W LO N G ?

First, be realistic about the cost.

If you are having someone in to do all the work for you this is about 1,500 euros a square meter of habitable space for a quality finish. No matter how long you stare at it this figure won’t shrink.

Then you need to be realistic about the time. This means you should take the number you first thought of and double it.

T HE T EA M

Once you know where you stand with money and time, there are crucial decisions you can now take. The main one is are you going to do the work yourself, use professionals, or jog along with a mix of the two?

If you are going to do it alone then you are probably a professional. If you aren’t you will need to bring in some builders. So the first choice to make is do you go with expats or French?

Obviously this also depends on how well you speak the language. Working methods differ too and, at the risk of a very broad generalisation, expats are not only easy to communicate with but they are used to being more flexible, whilst the French professionals are trained to French standards and regulations and work to a more strict regime.

S AVI N G M O N E Y

If you are restoring a property as a second home, whoever you go with must be properly registered. This is so that you can claim back your expenses against the Capital Gains Tax due on second homes when you come to sell, and you will need proper receipts from registered artisans in order to do so.

Whenever you can, be on site when not just major but also often seemingly minor decisions need to be made.

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R E N O VA T I O N

A builder might have a very different idea about what height light switches should be for instance, or exactly where your power sockets are located.

Unless you have specified the positions beforehand, making changes once they are installed will involve an additional cost.

Apart from having an architect to oversee operations, one way to manage the different aspects and, perhaps, even save cash is by working alongside your tradesmen. This is a sure fire way of learning new skills and means you can see what is going on at every step of the way, and intervene if necessary.

It is also wise to buy materials yourself, or at least avoid handing over thousands of euros in notes to a builder who says he is just going to pop down to the brico and fetch it all back in his lorry. You may not see him again for months, if at all – sadly it can happen.

Don’t overinvest in your property.

A farmhouse is always going to be a farmhouse and not a manor, no matter how much travertine you put on the floors. There is an upper threshold of what houses of different types can fetch on the market so you could be disappointed when it comes time to resell.

If you are restoring a place to sell on, remember that you want your buyer

to feel there is still something in it for them. Like you, they want to make some money out of the deal, so leave some potential for them to realise.

However if it is for you, or for gites, then feel justified in giving it a high-quality finish. Your guests need a bit of luxury, and after all the work you’ve done you deserve to be pampered too! www.agence-eleonor.com

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

45

WELL BEING

The heat’s the only thing that should be

SCORCHING To have a glowing tan is fabulous, as long as you acquire it slowly with the proper levels of protection on your skin and hair.

have a temperature of more than 40°C, experience a fit, lose consciousness, are short of breath, or are non-responsive, call 15 straight away.

Sun is a great provider of essential vitamin D but, too much at one time, can lead to sunstroke, heat exhaustion and too many UV (ultraviolet) rays, even on days when the sky is overcast.

S K I N WATC H

PR OT ECTIO N

Babies and children, people with fair skin and hair, and anyone working outside are at particular risk, as is anyone with a family history of skin cancer. With the best intentions, applying sunscreen once a day just isn’t going to offer the right level of protection. Instead there are a number of measures that should be used in combination to avoid long-term skin damage.

• Keep out of the sun when it’s at its strongest (usually 11:00 to 15:00).

• Cover up with a T-shirt, especially if swimming for long periods.

• Wear well fitted sunglasses conforming to UV400.

• Sun cream should be a minimum of SPF (sun protection factor) 15 against UVB and four stars against UVA. Apply it every two hours at least.

• Wearing a hat, keeping the skin cool and staying well hydrated will help to avoid sunstroke or heat exhaustion.

OVERHEATIN G

A lack of water, excess alcohol, extreme exercise, tight clothing and hot sun simply don’t mix. Children, those with long-term health conditions like diabetes

46

and heart trouble, and the elderly must take particular care with hydration, ensuring they drink enough to help their body to keep itself cool. If not, they could develop heat exhaustion which, whilst usually not serious can, if left longer, turn into heatstroke and need emergency treatment.

If you are with someone who is experiencing a headache, feeling dizzy, confused, nauseous, has clammy skin, cramps, a fast pulse rate and/or a high temperature they could be suffering from heat exhaustion. Move them to a cool place, lie them down with their feet slightly raised and ensure they drink lots of water, hydration or sports drinks. Fanning them and spraying their skin with cool water will soon have them feeling better. However, if they still feel unwell after half an hour, are still very hot but no longer sweating,

Keep an eye on your skin and note anything new, unusual or which may be changing. A sore which keeps coming back or doesn’t heal, a mole which changes in size, shape or colour, or a mole that itches or bleeds easily should send you straight off for a check-up at the doctors.

The Skin Cancer Organisation (www.skincancer.org) provides images and information on the ABCDE acronym and the Ugly Duckling system for checking moles. It also explains basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer, and its rival, Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Assymetry: Moles are usually symmetrical Border: Common moles have smooth borders Colour: Benign moles are usually one shade of brown Diameter or Dark: Most moles are about 6mm in diameter. If it’s larger than this or darker than the norm, have it checked. Although rare, some amelanotic melanomas are colourless.

Evolving: Has a mole changed in any of these aspects, is it crusting or bleeding?

In addition, look out for the odd one out with:

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WELL BEING

Reader’s True Story

Ugly Duckling: imagine your moles as a family. They will all look like each other.

If one stands out because of its colour, size and shape, that ugly duckling needs to be looked at.

It’s important to remember that melanomas can appear anywhere, even in places where the sun has definitely not shone! Check yourself over when in the shower or applying body lotion and perhaps even have an annual appointment with your dermatologist to ensure early detection.

With this knowledge at hand, keep safe and enjoy your time in the sun!

I have never tanned easily. I just went red which faded to nothing.

I tried sun beds in my early 20s and gained a slight colour but not much.

In my early 40s a mole appeared on my shin and grew quickly. It was an irregular shape with a black dot. Pathology confirmed it was a malignant melanoma. Surgery followed when they also removed five other moles, one of which turned out to be a basal cell carcinoma.

Interestingly the specialist said that many women develop melanomas on the lower leg. It’s often the part on show, especially when sitting down, even if the rest of the body is in the shade.

Several years later a carcinoma was removed from my shoulder, and then a spot became annoying between my nose and top lip.

It would appear, itch, bleed and disappear. The dermatologist said it was skin cancer and referred me to a plastic surgeon who used the natural line of my upper lip to gain access and remove it. Since then I have had another two carcinomas removed.

Now I avoid the sun, particularly between 12 and 2pm, cover up my arms and legs and use SPF 20 on my face every day. I also have annual checks with a dermatologist.

The moral of the story: if you spot anything different or unusual with your skin, see your doctor or dermatologist straight away. Yes it’s scary but when caught early, skin cancer can be removed before it causes more serious problems.

The reader’s details can be provided on written request.

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

47

Driving SPORT

the Ball

There’s always something that golfers think they need. A new putter, new driver, etc., but there’s only one thing that all golfers want and that’s to play the game better.

John continues his “whole in one” series on improving your golf with these great insights.

“If you think it’s hard meeting new people, try picking up the wrong golf ball.” Jack Lemon 48

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SPORT

John Cook is Managing Director of finiteapps.com • English Amateur Champion • European Tour Winner • Level 5 and European Tour Coach • Past Under 18 England Boys Coach • National Coach to Thailand

A F I R ST T E E T I P

More width in the swing

Put an identifying mark on your golf ball!

CONS ISTEN T D R IVI NG

There’s a saying that you drive for show and putt for dough. Well, if you drive the ball into the lake or the trees you won’t be putting for much dough! We seem to have a mental thing about hitting the ball harder with our driver than we do with any other club. A wild slash at the ball and so on.

The best tip I heard, relating to consistency with the driver, is to make the best and most balanced swing you have ever made. Keeping this thought in mind will encourage you to swing with more rhythm, it will also stop any kind of a slash at the ball. Try it this weekend, it will work.

Even though they use a ball with a different number to their opponent you may have seen the tour professionals mark their ball with a permanent marker pen. Some put dots above or below the number, some will put their initials, others draw a smiley face etc.

You may wonder why and there is a very good reason.

If, when reaching your ball, you were to find another ball of the same make and number lying nearby, one that had been hit by another player, not in your match, both balls would be deemed lost unless you were unable to identify your ball.

That would mean a two stroke penalty!

The same could happen if your ball ended up in the rough, near a similar ball that had been lost earlier, making it impossible to identify.

90° Shoulder turn

D R IVIN G FU RTH ER

As a golf coach, the most common question I am asked is “how do I hit the ball further with my driver?” Well it’s not by having a wild slash at the ball, that’s for sure. There are a few ingredients which you can add one at a time, then see the increased distance you hit the ball with your driver.

• Stand with your feet apart at the width of your shoulders.

• Stand tall, this will help you to create width in your swing.

• Make a complete 90 degree shoulder turn during your backswing. This is when your left shoulder points at the ball.

• At the top of your backswing, the knuckle on the thumb of your right hand should be well away from your right shoulder.

This will create a wide arc.

• Start the downswing with an uncoiling motion from the left hip. This will lead to

the club being pulled down and creating leverage, a must for long drives.

• Don’t be frightened to release the club head through impact with the ball, also a must for creating more distance with your driver.

• Turn right through, onto your left foot, your belt buckle should now be facing the target.

• Hold onto a balanced follow through.

• Maintain your height throughout the swing.

You cannot possibly think of all these things in one swing, so perfect one move at a time, and hit the ball further.

Create leverage

You can read more of John’s excellent golf tips in our 2018 July/August and September/October issues at www. thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online, or in the sports articles section on our website.

Achieve more distance

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

49

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ASK

KATIE!

FINANCE ADVICE

Katie Gardner is a fully-qualified CBT Counsellor and 11-year expat based on the border of 47/24.

She’s here to answer your questions. www.kgcounselling.com

Q

June P writes: I have grown so used to being on my own during selfisolation that I think I have become a bit agoraphobic and don’t really want to go out.

I find it all a bit scary if I am honest. I need a bit of a push.

A

Hello June You are not alone!

Many of my clients have voiced similar concerns

recently. Any change can be challenging – I’m sure most of us found the beginning of this lockdown very difficult to start with but slowly began to get used to it (not necessarily happily of course). So, as we begin to regain a little more of our previously taken-forgranted ‘freedom’, we need to be aware that it is, again, a change from the norm and one that is physiological as well as

LEGAL

ADVICE Sarah Bright Thomas is an Avocat Associé and Partner at Bright Avocats. www.brightavocats.com

Who is liable after a sale?

Q

Nervous about going out?

emotional. Specifically, once we are out and about again, the stimuli coming at us is highly elevated from that we have recently become used to: people, noise, lights, traffic, etc. This might not seem to be a challenge at first sight but it is an adjustment and should be done gradually and consciously. For instance, your first trip out should probably not be to a huge supermarket!

For those of us who are naturally introverted these past few weeks have actually been a bit of a relief, this also applies to anyone who might be prone to a certain level of social-phobia; the

Martin P writes: I sold my car to an individual and a week later, the engine broke down. Am I responsible?

Hi Martin The short answer is yes, you are but, like everything else in life, it’s not as simple as that.

Under French law, as a vendor you are responsible for hidden defects, i.e. any defect that existed at the time of the sale. It doesn’t matter if you knew nothing about it, the liability is on the existence of the defect, not on the fault of Speaking French with the vendor. friends builds If the buyer can prove confidence

A

The Local Buzz • July & August 2020

bombardment of our senses (aka sensory overload) brings on a feeling of anxiety and fight-or-flight! Take it gently, plan your first few outings to somewhere calm and quiet, don’t expect to be able to go from 0 to 100 in one day, try not to be too hard on yourself whilst you are rebuilding a new routine, and gradually build from that.

If you have a life concern that you would like to share, please write to Katie c/o buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com.

that you knew about the issue and hid it, the consequences would be more severe.

In fact, the matter of hidden defect is either resolved with a reduction in the price, or purchase cancellation but, if you knew of the defect and hid it, you would also be liable for damages.

The good news is that, unless there are special circumstances, you are required to have the car inspected by a garage (contrôle technique), at least six months prior to selling the vehicle.

This could mean that your liability may be reduced as a result.

Indeed, under French law, a professional has a more extensive liability so, as a lay person, your liability might be reduced due to the fact that the defect should have been seen and signalled by the professional.

Sadly, disputes involving car sales are far from rare and it is always best to seek legal advice to resolve the issue.

51

PUZZLES

Crossword

Why not make the most of our new found “freedom” and, perhaps, go for a hike.

The words in this randonnée themed crossword could make the path a bit easier. The questions are in English but the answers are in French.

ACROSS 1. A viewpoint 2. A backpack 5. A compass 7. A shelter 9. A waterfall 12. Steep

13. A river 15. Drinking water 16. A mountain 17. A trail

DOWN 1. A Swiss knife 3. Binoculars

4. A slope 5. A sign 6. A map 8. A trail marker 10. A ridge 11. To hike 13. A lake 14. A forest

With special thanks to Puzzles to Print. www.puzzles-to-print.com.

For the crossword solution go to page 59.

Wordsearch

Have a rest whilst on that randonnée or simply take five minutes to relax. Some of the words are in the articles, some are things we come across in life. You will find them running from side to side, top to bottom, bottom to top and, just for fun, diagonally.

BACKSWING FIREWORK CLOUSEAU SCORPION SING BEAUTIFUL ALICE MASH YELLOW POOL EVENING WEEKEND AREA CAPES GUMBO DRIVING

52

LEMONADE BEEF KITCHEN GOLFERS KAPOW OSCAR ICING BOUTIQUE DRIVING WONDERLAND GRAB GASTRONOMIC MASK CRUSADER AQUA STRETCH

SUMPTUOUS WIZARD RICE QUEEN WOWSER FRENCH CLAY GARDENS POP READERS SAND DENSE SPIDER MONDAY DOODLE DRIED TIERS

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

FRENCH LESSON

Buzz Words...

Here are some useful words and phrases that are specifically relevant to the features in this issue. Allons-y!

Food and Drink

/ agrandissement / démolition et Is this sourdough bread?

Est-ce du pain au levain ? reconstruction I need a fixed quote, I am looking for soda with additions agreed water upon Je cherche de J’ai besoin d’un devis l’eau gazeuse ? fixe, avec des ajouts Do you stock porcini convenus powder?

Do you have the required Vendez-vous de la poudre insurance to cover de cèpes ? your work?

How much is that truffle?

Avez-vous l’assurance Combien coûte nécessaire pour couvrir cette truffe ? votre travail ?

When are you open for How do you expect to be wine tastings? paid (in advance/monthly/ Quand êtes-vous ouvert weekly/against invoice)? pour des dégustations Comment vous voulezde vins ? vous être payé (à Do you have Caussade l’avance / mensuellement black chicken eggs? / hebdomadairement / Avez-vous des œufs de contre facture) ? poule noirs Caussade ?

How long do you anticipate for the Gardening planning permission?

My roses have blackspot/ Combien de temps powdery mildew/aphids/ prévoyez-vous pour le spider mites/slugs permis de construire ?

Mes roses ont des taches noires / de Golf l’oïdium / des pucerons / How much are your golf des acariens des rosiers/ membership/course fees? des limaces Combien sont vos frais Does this rose thrive here d’adhésion / with repeat blooms? parcours de golf ?

Cette rose pousse-t-elle Am I able to hire a bien ici avec des fleurs set of golf clubs? remontantes ?

Puis-je louer un Watering can/trowel/ ensemble de clubs secateurs/hose reel/plant de golf ? supports/hoe When is your Arrosoir / truelle / driving range open? sécateur / enrouleur / Quand votre practice tuteurs / houe est-il ouvert ?

Renovation Attic/kitchen/bathroom/ garage/extend/demolish and reconstruct Grenier / cuisine / salle de bain / garage

Do you stock a range of golf clothing and equipment?

Avez-vous en stock une gamme de vêtements et d’équipements de golf ?

TheLocal LocalBuzz Buzz••March July &&August 2020 The April 2020

Well Being Can you please check this mole/lump/mark?

Pouvez-vous s’il vous plaît vérifier ce grain de beauté / cette grosseur / cette marque ?

My arm/leg/back/shin/ thigh/neck/chest/face Mon bras / ma jambe / mon dos / mon tibia / ma cuisse / mon cou / ma poitrine / mon visage

Does it look suspicious or need checking again in the future?

Semble-t-il suspect ou doit-il être vérifié à nouveau à l’avenir ?

How often does a spray tan last and what does it cost?

Combien de temps dure un spray tan et combien cela coûte-t-il ?

Hi, I’m Béa!

Learn French with me!

(You pronounce my name Bey-ya.)

Every effort is made to ensure the correct translation of these phrases which are based on the subjects found in our articles.

53 51

F IONMAPNECTEI T I O N C

How does a night at a luxury 4-star boutique hotel sound? eakfast

Win a night with dinner & br .

at the Château les Merles

T

he historic, charming Château les Merles is offering the winner of this prize competition a relaxing night to remember in an ensuite, deluxe double room, with breakfast, for two.

Not only that, but they can also enjoy a sumptuous dinner and a bottle of Château les Merles wine in its outstanding gastronomic restaurant!

Combining the elegance of the 17th-century château with stylish, contemporary design, this delightful hotel prides itself on its high levels of comfort, service and hospitality.

Chef de Cuisine, Bas Holten strives for the perfect balance, on and off the plate, with innovative creations using local products and pure flavours.

If you are a golfer, you could even take your clubs and enjoy a round at the hotels’ challenging 9-hole, par 35 golf course complete with driving range and putting green.

Situated on the edge of the beautiful Loirac forest and Bergerac vineyards at Mouleydier, Dordogne, the prize has a value of around EUR 300 and can be enjoyed any time between 10 September and 15 December, 2020. Closing date for entries is 3 September, 2020.

54

No refunds or exchange allowed.

This is a competition without obligation to buy. The rules of the competition are deposited with S.C.P. Laurent Rodriguez and Gaël Peyssi Bailiffs Associates, 25 rue Louis Mie, 24007, Périgueux, Cedex. These rules can also be seen online at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/win For a chance to win, all you have to do is answer the following questions correctly. Answers can be found in this magazine at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online www.lesmerles.com

Enter online at

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/win 1. W here was d’Artagnan born? a) Marciac b) Lupiac c) Vic Fezensac 2. A Syrup de Canne is made with a) Salt and water b) Whisky and water c) Sugar and water 3. I f your golf ball is deemed lost you receive a? a) 2-stroke penalty b) 4-stroke penalty c) 1-stroke penalty 4. How far did Clervoy’s space suit travel? a) Over 9 million km b) Over 7 million km c) Less than 3 million km

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

NEW BUILD & RENOVATION 07 80 58 39 60 or 06 75 51 89 13 laquercyoak@gmail.com greyrobert4.wixsite.com/ quercy-oak

Business Directory

A family run business specialising in removals, storage and shipping throughout Europe.

Fully registered and insured.

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

Artisans & Services Euroinstallations.com

Please contact us for advice and quotations: www.safehandshaulage.com Email: info@safehandshaulage.com In France: 05 53 79 26 48

Stressed? Backache? Stiff joints?

Posture need improving?

Pilates or yoga may be the answer.

I’m a teacher with 14 years of experience in France.

TV WIFI Rural Broadband CCTV Cameras Audio Systems Depts 32, 47, 82 & neighbouring areas

Tel:06 80 55 06 09 Mail@euroinstallations.com

Kate Sanders

www.katesandersfitness.com 06 08 06 80 01

www.mandmblasting.com

new, exciting

Blasting away years of dirt, grime and shoddy paintwork to bring your project back to life. We undertake personal and Commercial blasting Tel: 0642233857/0555635885 Email: mandmblastinglimousin@gmail.com

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

55

Business Directory

Artisans & Services

email@ jonthecarpetman@gmail.com www.jon-thecarpetman.com

The best place to get carpets and flooring for your French home!

Carpets, vinyls, laminate and wood flooring, and LVT (luxury vinyl tiles) from leading manufacturers.

Home visits free and without obligation in all of France

You contact us - we come to you - job done!

Or visit our new showroom, see website for details.

www.jon-thecarpetman.com Tel: 05 55 73 63 16 or 06 42 19 82 12 Email: jonthecarpetman@gmail.com

Éco-Construction ♦ Rénovation ♦ Cabane ♦ Véranda ♦ Atelier ♦ Maison de Jardin

Charpente Traditionnelle

En Chêne

www.enchene.com 06 77 21 50 72 jez@enchene.com

SARL 839 094 0001224160 Assurance décennale

Eco Build ♦ Renovation ♦ Extension ♦ Cabin ♦ Workshop ♦ Guest Accommodation

B&B and Gite

www.hideawayfrance.com Phone: 0553 89 77 58

56

Labarthe, Baleyssagues, Duras 47120

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

hideawayfrance@gmail.com

Artisans & Services

Business Directory

The size is 44.5 x 60mms (w x h) Charity Association Beauville 47470 Sous les cornières Place de la Mairie

2020 Calendar – A4, local scenes available at shop and on website www.boncoeur47.fr

We raise money through our shop (selling clothes & accessories, brocante, books…) and events like book sale / bazaars. We then pass funds on to other good causes (human and animal).

Over €75,000 gifted by Jan 2020

Boutique open: Tues, Wed, Fri – 2 -4pm

Thurs: 3 – 5pm Fri & Sun: 10 – 12noon www.boncoeur47.fr 0689 53 24 78 boncoeur@boncoeur47.fr Bon Coeur Contact us for large donations or if coming from afar

Les Bons Voisins

property management throughout france

.

no job too small, no project too large

exceptional service at competitive prices

key holding . caretaking . maintenance . supervision changeovers . cleaning . gardening . mail forwarding

. admin help . translation

friendly people providing professional help to home owners in france www.LBVfrance.com

e:info@LBVfrance.com

t:+33 (0)5 62 29 26 62

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

57

Business Directory

Artisans & Services Family business offering removal services UK/France

Roy and Janet Byrne Tel: 05 53 36 34 75 maconfiture@aol.com

Excavation & Levelling Vegetation, Tree & Woodland Clearance www.marsdengroundworks.com

D LEVELLING OODLAND CLEARANCE

Thursday – Eymet Friday – Ste-Livrade sur Lot Saturday – Villereal Sunday – Chateau Stelsia, St Sylvestre

Established for over 30 years offering a regular and reliable service.

QUOTE

• • • Specialist in Swedish and deep tissue massage DELIVERY COLLECTION •

Fully Insured Regular Service Containerised Storage Packing Services

cgrasby@gmx.co m

ENGLISH SPEAKING DEMENTIA SUPPORT SOUTH DORDOGNE

We have funding to start a new group with professional support.

If you are interested in joining us as a carer or possible volunteer please contact us.

Tel: 06 09 21 06 09 or Email: cgrasby@gmx.com

www.francealzheimer.org/dordogne

Contact us for a FREE QUOTE: Call Stephen or Ben Franklin

on 0121 353 7263 or email sales@franklinsremovals.co.uk

www.franklinsremovals.co.uk AM Cleaning & Property Services

www.myweddingflorist.fr We are an event company with a difference. Under one roof, we hire tables, chairs, tableware, props, lighting as well as styling, design and wedding coordination. And, of course, beautiful florals. We work with our couples to design a beautiful day that suits their personalities and source special items to create a bespoke look.

www.ourfabulousthings.com

• Holiday Home Maintenance & Setup • Window Cleaning • High Pressure Cleaning • Gardening & Lawn Mowing • Hard Water & Calcium Stain Removal • Labouring & Handyman Adrian & Michelle Dear +33 7800 126 05

amcleaningfr@gmail.com Based in Sarlat but willing to travel Siret: 847 797 305 000 12 Sarlat la Caneda 24200

58

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

NEXT ISSUE

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FINANCE

For those living, working or visiting Dordogne, Lot et•Garonne, Gironde, Haut Garonne, Tarn et Garonne & Gers A Lifestyle Magazine & Website for • Gironde • Dordogne Lot et Garonne • LotLot, • Gers • Tarn et Garonne • N.Haute Garonne

POOLS & Spas Going Potty in the Garden Outdoor Banquets Improving your French

MAY & JUNE 2020

REGIONAL WHAT’S ON GUIDE FREE

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It’s easy!

Visit our website

Property Update

Taking to water Boredom •2020 Prize Competition • Financial Advice The Local BuzzBusters • May & June 1

Yes the magazine is free, but you can have it delivered direct to your door for a small fee to cover post and packaging.

Annual rates are: France: EUR 35 Other countries in the EEC: EUR 45 Rest of the world: EUR 52

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/subscriptions

Next Issue Two years ago we launched our first issue, how time flies! COVID restrictions permitting, our next issue will be back in its glossy, printed format.

Here’s what it will have in store for you.

• Entertainment: Goblins and Gremlins - Halloween • Well-being: Keep fit dance and exercise • Food and Drink: Fish and seafood • Sport: The “whole in one” Golf series continues • Out and About: Seven Wonders • Special: City round up

Plus What’s On, Local Entrepreneur, Prize Competition, and much, much more.

Crossword

solution

Here is the solution to the crossword on page 52.

• Gardening: Autumn thoughts ToAugust advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com The Local Buzz • July & 2020

59

JUST DRONING

ok at...

A tongue-in-cheek lo

LOCKDOWN and our feathered friends by the editor A

s we make the first tentative steps in coming out of “lockdown” it is heartening to see that so many people are still taking the threat of COVID-19 seriously. I made my first trip to a supermarket in midJune and what a shock to my system that was. People were almost darting out of the way to stay two metres apart and those without masks were avoided altogether. The shop was strict in its controls and it felt like a safe place to be, especially when the staff administered sharp reminders to people who, like me I’m embarrassed to say, sometimes unwittingly strayed to the more natural boundaries in the checkout queue. It was good to be out though, even if it felt almost alien-like, as if I was on another planet for a while.

60

I hope you are all safe and well and have enjoyed your first moments of “freedom”.

It’s a new way of life for us all and is something that people will take at their own pace, so let’s continue to show kindness and help each other as much as we can.

In the meantime, during my “confinement” (it sounds like I’ve had a baby) I’ve become fascinated with birds!

What’s going on? I thought we were supposed to feed them through the winter months and they fed themselves in spring and summer? Not at this house, we’re going through more peanuts than a certain chocolate bar factory (rhymes with sneakers)!

Then it’s supposed to be a swarm of locusts, a swarm of bees and a flock of birds.

Again, not at my house.

A huge swarm of around 100 birds landed in my tall, straight bamboo which curled and bowed under their collective weight. They stayed there, somewhat noisily, for a month. You can imagine what happened with the peanuts! Why weren’t they going after the insects and wriggly worms in the gardens and surrounding fields? That’s their job isn’t it? What’s more, these birds specialised in DIY and, having spied the garden furniture, decided it needed a make-over which they duly carried out. 10 out of 10 for effort, 1 out of 10 for style. More Botch and Scarper than Jackson Pollock that’s for sure.

Now I’m left with a family of five Mésange Charbonnière, doesn’t that sound much better than their English name of Great Tits - I’ll leave

that one hanging, which is something these birds do very well. To be precise they hang every which way, often all together, and feed from the distributor, hammering away at their chosen peanut.

This isn’t a huge distributor which means they are proving to be particularly good at spatial awareness and jigsaw puzzles. It’s a beautiful sight and, due to the need to replenish their feast every three days, the garden centre loves me!

Meanwhile, I had an altercation with the patio and suffice to say that with one sprained wrist in a brace and the other broken and in plaster, I won’t be doing very much of anything, including cooking. That peanut distributor is beginning to look very attractive. The birds could have some competition!

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

AP_GOURMET_DE_FRANCE_210X270_FU.indd 1

28/04/2016 16:01