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LA BELLE ĂPOQUE revealed Discover CHĂTEAU DâOIRON Franceâs LOVE of TRAINS RECIPES, NATURE, NEWS and much, much more...
to our February / March issue
W
hile it may not feel like it, we are assured the days are getting longer and spring is just around the corner. The snowdrops are out and the daffodils will soon be blooming. After the rains, which we so badly needed, we will all welcome a period of drying-out and I know that our kitchen floor will benefit from a few mud-free days! To brighten what can be a grey time of year, weâve filled our pages with thoughts of the spring and summer to come. Train travel is enjoying a revival as we search for cleaner alternatives, so we look at Franceâs long love affair with this mode of transport. We also take a trip to Château dâOiron, exploring its astounding contemporary art collection within walls dating back centuriesâitâs definitely one to add to the âmust visitâ list. Continuing along the cultural theme, La Belle Ăpoque was an era like no other whose treasures are still visible across so much of the country, as we discover. For the British nationals among our readership, we have an important feature on how to register to vote in upcoming UK elections. After the referendum and subsequent ballots, many of us will be delighted to, at last, have an opportunity to have our say. This is a project close to my heart and one that I will continue to work on alongside the ongoing effort to ensure that our citizensâ rights are upheld as Brexit fades into the rear-view mirror. And, of course, we have our regular features covering nature, recipes, local news, wine, language and so much more. So, all that remains is for Jon and I to thank you for your support over the years. Every advertiser, subscriber, contributor and distributor has helped make this magazine what it is today, something that is enjoyed by so many members of the English-speaking community here in France and further afield. The sale of the magazine is slowly moving forward through the bureaucratic maze and our fingers are crossed that the next issue will be published under new ownership. We are sure you will support them as they settle into their new role. And, if it all falls through, we will be back!
A bientĂ´t!
EDITOR
PS
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Spring is
FEB | MARCH 2024
Coming
Business Directory Featuring the best local companies
LA BELLE ĂPOQUE revealed Discover CHĂTEAU DâOIRON Franceâs LOVE of TRAINS RECIPES, NATURE, NEWS and much, much more...
EDITOR: Kathryn Dobson SALES: Jon Dobson LAYOUT & GRAPHICS: DM Design REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Caro Feely, Gillian Harvey, Jessica Knipe, Emma-Jane Lee, Nikki Legon, Mike Morris,
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Roger Moss and Rosie Neave PHOTOGRAPHY: Roger Moss or Shutterstock unless indicated COVER IMAGE: Spring snowdrop flowers in a garden Š Petr Jilek/Shutterstock PUBLISHED BY: ANGLO MEDIA & MARKETING, 2 rue Buffefeu, 86400 Linazay, FRANCE
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Local news from around the region
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The Love of Trains
You can read Living Magazine and our Summer Guides online and subscribe at www.livingmagazine.fr
As more of us look for alternatives to flying, Roger Moss examines the enduring French love affair with trains
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Material may not be reproduced without the written permission of Anglo Media & Marketing. Toute reproduction mĂŞme partielle du contenu est interdit sans lâaccord ĂŠcrit de Anglo Media & Marketing. Please ensure you verify that any company you are dealing with is registered in France and/or elsewhere around the world. Veuillez vous assurer que toute sociĂŠtĂŠ avec laquelle vous traitez est enregistrĂŠe en France et/ou ailleurs dans le monde. Articles and adverts in this issue do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Les articles et publicitĂŠs de ce numĂŠro ne reflètent pas nĂŠcessairement les opinions de lâĂŠditeur.
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Curiouser & Curiouser Jessica Knipe explores the Château dâOiron where you should expect the unexpected, prepare to be surprised
28
La Belle Ăpoque We revisit a time when anything was possible â or so it seemed
34
Itâs time to have your say! An update on voting rights
37
Natureâs Diversity on our Doorstep Rosie Neave encourages us to plan our outdoor adventures
40
Practical Advice Your questions answered by our experts
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37
44 42
50
Caro Feely explains how you can train your sense of smell
We visit Chaniers in Charente-Maritime
43
52
Our unique crossword by Mike Morris
Gillian Harvey talks to Haute-Vienne residents who have taken the plunge
44
66
British classics for cold winter evenings
Emma-Jane Leeâs regular foray into French
How to Develop your âAroma Brainâ
Puzzle Break
Nikki Legonâs Cuisine
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REGIONAL
NEWS ROUND UP UK Family Visas
Population Growth
The release of the 2021 census figures was delayed due to the pandemic and they were finally revealed at the beginning of January 2024. These are the official figures upon which budgetary decisions and more for the next few years will be based. Nouvelle-Aquitaine remains the third most populated region with 6,069,352 residents (behind Ile-de-France and Auvergne-RhĂ´ne-Alpes). Pays de la Loire has 3,853,999 residents and mainland France has 68.6 million residents in total. When compared with the 2015 census, many communes along the Atlantic coast show strong population growth, especially below the Gironde estuary, with rural communities remaining stagnant or decreasing. If you would like to see the figures for your commune and surroundings, INSEE have developed a detailed interactive map which you can consult at bit.ly/LM2024stats.
There was an outcry in December as the UK Government revealed plans to more than double the income levels required to bring foreign family members of British citizens to live in the UK. The Free Movement organisation in the UK hailed the revision as âa very dark day for many familiesâ who would no longer be able to meet the Minimum Income Requirements (MIR). Changes come into force from April and with only 27% of the UK population earning over this amount, the move was called an âeffective banâ on bringing foreign spouses to the UK, particularly damaging for stay-at-home parents or low-income spouses looking to bring families back to the UK. In a move to placate voters, it was announced that the threshold will be increased in stages, from ÂŁ18,600 to ÂŁ29,000 in April and then later in the year the threshold will move to ÂŁ34,500 before reaching ÂŁ38,700 in early 2025. Alternatively, if the returning UK national cannot meet the MIR, savings can be used but this amount has also doubled from ÂŁ62,500 to ÂŁ112,750. There will, however, no longer be a separate child element. Given that a significant portion of the British diaspora have a nonBritish spouse, many will welcome to opportunity to vote now the 15-year rule has been revoked (see our feature on page 35).
New Natural Parks
The Nouvelle-Aquitaine council has announced it will create three new regional parks to protect local biodiversity which will be added to the five existing regional parks. Alongside a park in the Basque mountains on the border with Spain, the âMarais du littoral charentaisâ and the âGâtine Poitevineâ (marked with green and yellow shading on the map) will be added to the regionâs protected spaces. A key element of recent agreements to unlock important funding is the creation of links between protecting the environment and using the spaces for sports such as canoeing, orienteering and cycling as well as hiking and other rural activities.
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2024 CALENDAR
! There are Donât forget, this year is a leap year weekends y 3-da for ities rtun also plenty of oppo and 4-day âpontsâ: Lundi de Pâques: Mon 1 April FĂŞte du Travail: Wed 1 May Victoire 1945: Wed 8 May Ascension: Thu 9 May Lundi de PentecĂ´te: Mon 20 May FĂŞte Nationale: Sun 14 July Assomption: Thu 15 August Toussaint: Fri 1 November Armistice 1918: Mon 11 November NoĂŤl: Wed 25 December Jour de lâan 2025: Wed 1 January k up on Children at school in Zone A will brea return and ay holid er wint the for Fri 17 February they break B e Zon In ch. Mar 4 Mon on ol to scho up on Fri 24 February and return on Mon 11 March.
The pick of the news that will affect you wherever you live in south west FranceâŚ
VISAS FOR Second-Home OwnerS
The right for British nationals to visit second homes in France without having to apply for a long-stay visa was included in the controversial immigration law voted in at the end of 2023. Part of article 1er K, the provision changes French border law, but details of exactly how and when this could come into practice are not yet available. First the law needs to go to the Conseil constitutionnel, the body which assesses new laws for compliance with the French Constitution and, if it passes scrutiny, it will be published in the Journal Officiel. There is still resistance to the measure and so it should not be taken for granted. Only after this can the process of drafting the decree begin for which there is no set timescale. The hope is that British nationals will only need to show proof of home ownership at the border in order to benefit from this new rule but for the foreseeable future you are advised to apply for a visa as before.
School Trips
October 2021 saw the introduction of a new requirement for everyone entering the UK to have a passport, not simply national identity cards. This had an immediate impact on school trips from EU countries to the UK as many children do not have passports, relying on on their European identity card to travel. These new rules caused a huge drop in study trips from the EU to the UK; a survey by the UK Tourism Alliance showed an 84% reduction between 2019 and 2022 with schools choosing English-speaking countries such as Ireland and Malta instead. The updated rules apply only to organised school trips from France with groups from other EU/EEA countries still requiring passports. EU children at school in France can travel with their national ID although children who are citizens of other countries will still require a passport. If there is a need for a visa, this will be waived.
Gun Possession
The new weapons information system established in 2022 ( système dâinformation sur les armes or SIA) comes into force on 1 February to make it easier to trace legal guns and ensure the correct permits are held. Since the end of 2023 all hunters have been obliged to create an online account and declare their rifles, and now all other weapons held privately must be listed. For details of the weapons which must be declared and the procedure to do so, see sia.detenteurs.interieur.gouv.fr.
Garden Visits
Inaugurated in 2014, Open Gardens, the association which coordinates the opening of private gardens to the public for the benefit of charities, is celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2024. The calendar begins with a visit to the snowdrop garden of Sheila and Ian Cole on 3 and 10 February and if you purchase an annual membership card (âŹ15) you can visit as many gardens as you like. Find out more at opengarden.eu.
Smoking Ban
As part of its ambitious drive for âthe first tobacco-free generationâ in France by 2032, smoking is being banned in more places. Some beaches do already implement a smoking ban under local laws and this is now being extended to all beaches as well as public parks, forests and around public buildings such as schools. In 2025, cigarettes will increase to âŹ12 per packet and ways to ban single-use vapes known as puffs are being investigated. The smoking rate for 17-year-olds has already dropped to 16% in 2022 from 25% in 2017, although almost 25% of adults in France still smoke daily. Tobacco causes 75,000 avoidable deaths each year.
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...
LES CHARENTES Water Tables
Le Pâtit Train
The popular Saint-Trojan (17) tourist train has been a regular fixture on the Ăle dâOlĂŠron since it was first launched in 1963. However, the violent storms in November left their mark on the island and its coastline along which the train runs. Erosion threatened to undercut the train tracks leaving the rails unstable and so, to ensure that the train was able to run this summer, the manager of the attraction, François Bargain began remedial work. After only two days, though, the prĂŠfecture ordered him to stop as no authorisation had been given without which he faced up to two years in prison and a âŹ75,000 fine. The train route runs through the forests and along Gatseau beach where the erosion by the Atlantic waves and winds is thought to be the most severe seen in Europe. Each year, the ocean erodes between 10-20m of the coastline which is protected by a Natura 2000 classification. Discussions are underway to find a solution as the team still hopes the train can begin its season on 17 February for the islandâs FĂŞte du Mimosa.
It will not come as any surprise to those living in the region that the underground water tables have been replenished this winter after years of drought. Indeed, the recent flooding of the Charente river in Cognac and Saintes showed the extent to which the underground watercourses were unable to take any more and this is confirmed with the recent report published by the geological service BRGM. Deep blue areas show where the subterranean water levels are very high, with green average and yellow through to red showing low to very low. The arrows represent the water table level compared to the last 15 years which confirms this winter the water table has been replenished more than normal. The forecast is for a wet start to the year and so it is likely that flooding will continue across the region. The report can be found on www.brgm.fr.
Boisbuchet Forest Trail
Famous for its design workshops and innovative buildings, the Domaine de Boisbuchet at Lessac (16) has opened a new activity open until 5 May. âThe World of Forestsâ is a forest trail designed as part of the âCultures ConnectĂŠes 2021â initiative, a programme to foster the integration of digital technology into cultural experiences. In partnership with regional organisations, the trail through the domaineâs 60-hectare forest took two years to develop. The 2km route passes varied topography and flora and is lined with buildings and installations created in Boisbuchetâs renowned design workshops. A website, accessible via smartphone at the start of the walk, explains the scientific, cultural, historical, economic, and ecological aspects of the forest in general, and its local and regional significance in particular. Entry is free, the trail begins at the oil mill and comprises 12 stations, each of which invites visitors to explore different aspects of the forest. Over the coming year a further 12 stations will be added.
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...
Electric Fleet
La Rochelle has made a significant investment in its aim to become a zerocarbon city and has been awarded the â5-starâ Engaged Territories ClimateAir-Energy label, the highest level of distinction awarded by ADEME (the French agency for ecologal transition). Only ten cities in France have achieved this accolade. Anyone visiting the city will have seen the YĂŠlo bicycle rental stands as well as the autonomous mini-buses which have been rolled out in the city centre. Now, after a number of trials, the YĂŠlo fleet has added 11 fully electric buses, made in Deux-Sèvres by the IVECO-Heuliez group. 171,000 fewer litres of diesel will be used each year (resulting in savings of âŹ110,000), while 440 tonnes of CO2 emissions will be avoided.
Motherâs Day
Š PIERRE MĂUNIE - AGGLO LA ROCHELLE
Donât miss this yearâs celebration wherever you are! The dates are: UK: Sunday 10 March USA: Sunday 12 May France: Sunday 26 May
Bumper Harvest
COURVOISIER SALE
Italian drinks group Campari has entered into exclusive negotiations to acquire the Jarnac-based cognac house Courvoisier for US$1.2 billion from its current owners, American/Japanese Beam Suntory. Founded in 1828 it is the youngest of the âbig fourâ historical houses, but it has changed hands five times over the past 60 years. It is hoped that moving to a smaller group will give stability to the brand which, like many other cognacs, has seen its sales falling recently. The Campari group is already well established in the area, owning Grand Marnier and Bisquit cognac. It is expected that the purchase will be completed this year.
Despite erratic weather, the 2023 Charentais grape harvest was so abundant that winegrowers and distillers worry that they will not be able to distil all their crop in time to meet the 31 March deadline to finish the distillation process as stipulated in the cognac appellationâs specifications. In an exceptional move, BNIC (the representatives of the cognac industry) supported by UGVC (the union of cognac producers) have requested an extension of the distillation period by an additional ten days. Affecting 1,200 Charentais winegrowers who own their own stills and a further 120 professional distillers, this dilemma follows the challenge of harvesting and storing the bumper crops after the high temperatures at the end of a wet season meant picking started early. Many distillers fired up their stills up to a month earlier than usual, but finding enough vats in which to store the eauxde-vie has posed the next challenge. While the American market is struggling so much that trading teams have revised their sales volume expectations downwards by nearly a fifth, this may give the industry an opportunity to rebuild reserves depleted by recent bad harvests. Initial estimates have suggested that the harvest is up to 18% over the 2022 figures.
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...
LE PARC SAUVAGE
Forests SOS
Forests in France cover nearly a third of the land, absorbing 63 million tonnes of carbon dioxide each year as well as being central to the hexagonâs biodiversity. It is estimated that 5,213 species and subspeices of trees can be found in French forests (both mainland and overseas) making France the fifth most-forested country. Ancient deciduous forests are an essential part of the landscape that makes Dordogne so unique but there is battle to maintain their diversity in the face of the profitibility of maritime and Scots pine plantations. Softwoods grow faster and are easier to manage, harvest and use for fabrication, so traditional forests where oak, beech and chestnut trees grow alongside other species are being replaced by a pine monoculture. Not only is this harmful to biodiversity but the pines fuel catastrophic fires like the ones seen in recent years through Dordogne and Charente-Maritime. To fight against the power of forestry groups focused on financial gain, a resistance movement is developing driven by associations, both national and local. âLe collectif SOS forĂŞt Franceâ and âLe RĂŠseau pour des Alternatives Forestièresâ lead the national campaign but locally associations such as âSOS ForĂŞt Dordogneâ and more recently âTroncs Communsâ are taking up the battle. As well as informing and lobbying, the associations use donations to buy and manage local woodlands. 30 local residents came together to form the forestry group âTroncs Communsâ with the aim of acquiring forests around Bourdeilles, BrantĂ´me, Paussac and Leguillac-de-Cercles. Now with nearly 60 members, they have purchased their first parcels which will be managed sustainably. Meanwhile, other organisations such as âCrĂŠateur de ForĂŞtâ raise the funding required to plant new woodlands mirroring the biodiversity that has been lost locally. They have several sites under development around the region where a donation of âŹ6 funds 1m2 of woodland which will then be managed to be enjoyed by future generations.
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Faced with going into receivership and needing to rehome or euthanise its 200 animals, the animal park at La Tour-Blanche-Cercles asked for help from the public. As well as receiving âŹ102,000 of donations, a benefactor stepped forward to contribute âŹ100,000 over three years. The park needs to find another âŹ100,000 to clear its debts, incurred when keeping the animals fed through the pandemic lockdowns. Inaugurated in 2019, the 28-hectare park had little idea of what it was to face in its first few years. It now runs with the help of eight volunteers and owner Alexandre Duguetis is hoping that the money raised will allow the courts to keep the park open while the remaining funds needed are found.
Pet Cemetary
The loss of a loved pet can be a traumatic time. In response to owners who wish to give their companion a permanent resting place, Le Sanctuaire des 4 Pattes in Saint-Astier has opened a cemetary for pets weighing under 40kg. Set in a wooded area, pets can be interred or their ashes scattered in a remembrance garden, with or without a simple ceremony. The sanctuary also have a workshop on site manufacturing pet urns and coffins. This is the first of its kind in Dordogne. Prices start from âŹ40, see lesanctuairedes4pattes.fr.
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Pick up a bargain from our wonderful donations of clothing, crockery, glassware, books, CDs, furniture and more. Enjoy a tea or coffee with a slice of something nice at the cafĂŠ and a treat at the Brit Shop - helping animals in need.
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VENDĂE (85)
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...
DEUX-SĂVRES & VENDĂE
Nutritional Scores
Otters Return
Signs of otters in and around Niort (79) have delighted local environmentalists after the small mammals were last seen in the area in the 1970s when they were still hunted. This is particularly good news as Niort has applied for a 152-hectare site, beginning at the Marais de Galuchet, to become a nature reserve, a first in mainland France. This urban site follows the Sèvre-Niortaise and includes land owned by several different individuals. Rather than purchase the land, the city council has worked with the landowners to bring the project to fruition. Not all landowners agreed to participate, but many more support the creation of the nature reserve; a local angelica farmer has even changed their business practices to become certified as organic to be involved. The project has been approved at a local level and now enters a period of consultation before a final decision from the Conseil RÊgional Nouvelle-Aquitaine which is expected by the end of the year. If approved, the newly arrived otters will have their future in the city centre protected along with many other species already inhabiting the site.
Everyone who has shopped in a supermarket will be familiar with Franceâs nutri-score system which grades the nutritional ratings of foods from A (most nutritious) to E (least nutritious). This traffic-light system is a quick way to evaluate foods that you pick up with regards to fibre, fat, sugar and salt. This year, the grading is changing with more emphasis on the salt and sugar values which will see some popular foods, such as sugary breakfast cereals, being downgraded. It is also expected that red meat will fall below poultry while certain vegetable oils and fish will increase their score. As the label remains optional, there is the possibility that some producers will remove the label from their goods although there are discussions underway as to whether it should become mandatory.
Speeding Fines
Following an announcement by the Minister of the Interior last year, speeding below 5km/h above the limit is no longer punishable by the loss of a point on your driving license (in France you begin with 12 points and points are deducted for various offences). However, a fine of between âŹ45 and âŹ135 will still be payable. In 2020, more than 7.2 million fine notices were sent out for speeding violations of between 1 and 5km/h; in 2022 this rose to 7.9 million. The relaxation of this rule has not been well received by road safety campaigners who believe it sends out the wrong message to drivers. It does, however, benefit drivers on foreign licenses as they will no longer need to exchange their license for minor speed infractions.
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Composting at Home
Organic waste recycling became mandatory in France from the beginning of the year under the the anti-waste Loi AGEC. Both households and businesses are required to dispose of organic matter either in a dedicated small bin for home collection or at a municipal collection point. Local authorities are also obliged to provide an easy method for households to compost or separate organic waste. It has become clear that many councils are behind with plans, for example, the La Roche-sur-Yon (85) council has only supplied one-third of homes with an individual composter despite the availability of a Green Fund from the State to help.
NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION...
Too Many Tourists
Les Sables-dâOlonne (85) has become a victim of its own success and after years of welcoming tourists, the town has finally said it is too busy. With 55,000 residents and up to 280,000 visitors per day in high season, the town council has announced that it is now quality over quantity that is important to safeguard the local heritage and environment. However, tourism is worth nearly âŹ400 million to the town and accounts for almost a fifth of jobs and so to not jeopardise the economy, the aim is to smooth the arrival of visitors and promote higher-value out-of-season visits. Investment in cycle routes and public transport is also being evaluated while the development of high-end accommodation such as a large capacity 5-star hotel is being considered.
Marais Worries
The past few months of flooding in and around the Marais Poitevin has led to concerns over the future of the marshland. The wet marshland features channels which take the water to the sea allowing the dry marshland on either side to be farmed. Dykes stop the dry marsh flooding but these are expensive to maintain. Some areas are protected and so are maintained by the State but many areas rely on local farmers to mend the dykes, something that is becoming more difficult and costly especially as tourism takes over from agriculture. Dating back to the Middle Ages, this fragile ecosystem is a haven for wildlife and one that needs protecting in the face of the climate crisis.
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HAUTE-VIENNE (87)
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Fun & Games
Driving at 17
The lowering of the legal driving age was announced last June by Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne and came into force at the beginning of 2024. The aim of the reform is to increase the mobility of young people, particularly those who are working. For rural families, driving is an essential skill and being able to get your license one year earlier will make a significant difference. However, exam places are still in short supply, often with a waiting time of up to 3 months, so the additional demand will be challenging to meet. In Vienne there are only six examiners for the whole department - at least two more are needed to meet short term demand. Once a learner has passed their exam, they will still need to complete the probationary period as before.
Egyptian Season
La Vienne has launched its new tourist destination brand after extensive consultation with tourism professionals. Department president Alain Pichon announced: âWe are going to breathe new life into the tourism development of the department! This translates in particular into strong and coherent LE LOGOTYPE communication, with a fun, colourful and inventive approach.â With attractions such as Futuroscope, VallĂŠe des Singes and Center Parcs, the department sees itself as a family destination so, along with a new typography, a family of playful creatures, Les LUDiKS, has been introduced. These mischievious beings will welcome and guide visitors through fun and friendly experiences throughout the department, enhancing the tourism offerings. They will feature on posters LA SIGNATURE and online, inviting visitors to enter a universe full of discoveries. After a decade of being branded as âLa Vienne, pays du Futuroscopeâ, the aim is for the new branding to reflect the SKiDUL SEL wealth of different experiences available rather than focus only on the leisure park. A new tagline has been unveiledâĂ vous de jouer !âwhich translates as âover to youâ or âyour turnâ to continue the playful theme. The branding will next be reviewed in 2028.
Limoges Beaux-Arts Museum is hosting an exhibition featuring the collection of Jean-AndrĂŠ PĂŠrichon-Bey (18601929). Born in Bessines-sur-Gartempe (87) he travelled to Egypt as a railway engineer before becoming director of a sugar factory. Abbas Helmy II, the last Khedive of Egypt and the Sudan, gave him the title âBeyâ which is similar to a Lordship. He returned to France shortly before the First World War with over 4,000 pieces of Egyptian art. On his death, he bequeathed his collection to Limoges where it was housed in several museums. Two specialist curators have worked with the MusĂŠe des Beaux-Arts to develop âUn vie en Egypteâ which takes visitors back to Egypt at the end of the 19th century to the home of PĂŠrichon-Bey. The exhibition runs until 4 March.
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Saving Energy
In an effort to save money on sky-rocketing heating costs, the Poitiers city council has taken drastic action. Alongside closing many sports halls and swimming pools over the winter break at the end of 2022, they also reduced the temperature in all public buildings to 19°C. The temperature of water in swimming pools was reduced and the total saving for the city was just under âŹ1 million.
NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION... ÂŠď¸ ANNE CHOPIN | DRAC NOUVELLE-AQUITAINE , CRMH POITIERS
POOL CREATION IN THE VIENNE RENOVATION OF ALL BRANDS SPAS
La Forteresse de Berrye
The latest recipient of a grant from the loto du patrimoine or heritage lottery is located in the north of Vienne. Awarded âŹ300,000, the maximum grant available, the funding will help restore the 12th-century fort. Built from soft tuffeau, a local limestone, the walls are falling into disrepair and several roofs need attention. The overall budget required to renovate the privately owned fort is reported to be around âŹ4 million with the work planned to be completed by 2026.
Centre Stage
When RTL Matin, the morning programme of the French commercial radio network RTL, mocked Limoges, the city took it in good spirits and invited the hosts to come and see for themselves. It began when American actress Eva Longoria declared in an interview on Canal+ âI love Limogesâ after she had visited with her ex-husband, basketball player Tony Parker. The RTL hosts joked that this was rarely heard, even from a Limougeaud, and the scene was set for an invitiation to be sent. With an average of 1.5 million listeners each morning, this was too good an opportunity for the city to miss and the programme accepted the offer to broadcast the show from Les Halles. The broadcast was declared a great success for all, so much so that other cities are now picking up the phone to try to arrange their own morning shows.
WATER ANALYSIS DECORATION
16 | LIVING TRANSPORT Below and Far Right: Preserved express locomotive 141 R 1126 leaves Cahors. Centre: Le Petit Train Jaune, PyrĂŠnĂŠes Catalanes.
The Love of Trains As more of us look for alternatives to flying, we examine the enduring French love affair with trains.
A
WORDS & PHOTOS: ROGER MOSS
fter decades of quietly âgetting on with the jobâ, rail systems everywhere are now enjoying a sizeable revival, fuelled by their increasingly important contributions to efforts for cutting carbon emissions. Transport is a major polluter, so arguments for encouraging us to make fewer car journeys (and abandon altogether internal flights) and take the train instead are compelling, as the results of climate change impact on our everyday lives. On the other hand, we might not need too much persuading to make the switch, for
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the romantic image of rail travel has somehow survived the passage of time, despite (or perhaps because of) the string of upgrades which have transformed the French rail network over the years. It seems we just love trains â but why, exactly? Today itâs hard to grasp the extent to which the arrival of the railways transformed life in France, or the rapidity with which the changes occurred. Back in 1828 France possessed just 18 km of railway track, laid to transport coal in horse-drawn wagons from mines around Saint-Ătienne to
the port of AndrĂŠzieux on the banks of the Loire, to be loaded onto barges. Four years later the line inaugurated Franceâs first passenger services and by 1888 the country had constructed around 25,000 km of railway track. Rather less surprising is the fact that most of the routes radiated from the capital, and by the mid-1850s Parisians were able to discover for themselves the pleasures of tourism, previously the preserve of wealthy travellers on their grand tours. Among the south westâs beneficiaries from early rail tourism and freight
LIVING TRANSPORT | 17 Sarlat (24)
services were Poitiers, Niort, Rochefort, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Arcachon and Bayonne, along with Limoges and PĂŠrigueux, further inland. For anyone escaping from the daily pressures of city life the lure of destinations like these would have been irresistible, while the succession of unfamiliar landscapes through which their journeys had passed en-route must have been a revelation. Making all this possible was the power of the steam locomotive and the skills of those who drove them. Today we travel by TGV with barely a second thought for the crews, but in the age of steam, travellers disembarking at their journeyâs end would walk past the mighty locomotive which had brought them there and glance up at the driver and fireman with a respect bordering on hero worship. While postwar Britain continued to invest in steam power for many years (constructing new locomotives until 1960), the sheer scale of wartime destruction sustained by the French
rail network and the work needed to rebuild things prompted a very different approach. In 1938 France possessed 15,000 steam locomotives, playing a vital role in sustaining not only passenger services but also much of the French economy. Most were modern, highly efficient designs, but between them they were consuming nine million tons of coal annually, mostly mined beneath French soil, with imports from Belgium, Germany and the UK. The supplies were stocked at twenty-five main sites across France, then distributed to around 250 engine sheds, a costly process which itself consumed valuable coal. Add to this the onerous costs of scheduled overhauls and the time-consuming daily routine to prepare steam locomotives for use and itâs no surprise that as early as 1920 France had already begun electrifying parts of the rail network. The story of SNCFâs postwar rebuilding and modernisation and how it continues to the present day, to replace environmentally unacceptable
diesel-hauled traffic, is one weâll tell in another issue of LIVING. Here weâll look instead at the growing interest in preserved steam and early electric railways. Once widely regarded as a slightly ânerdyâ minority pursuit, interest in classic trains has blossomed in recent years, as the sanitised efficiency of modern day rail travel has awakened memories â real or imagined â of what we now think of as lâage dâor of the train. In fact, the wave of nostalgia for all bygone forms of transport has been growing steadily throughout France. In the north of our region, for example, the Chemin de Fer de la VendĂŠe operates between Mortagne-sur-Sèvre (85) and Les Herbiers, using steam and diesel locomotives, and takes in some impressive multi-arched viaducts. The Association CCVâs historic rolling stock includes painstakingly restored Pullman and Grandes Express restaurant carriages. Also rating high among the most scenic settings is the Chemin de Fer
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18 | LIVING TRANSPORT
Above: Le Chemin de Fer de la VendĂŠe Right: British-built survivors of SNCFâs 140 C steam locomotives Below: The summer tourist train between la Pointe de Grave le Verdon & Soulac (33)
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PHOTO LEFT: A. LAMOUREUX/VENDĂE EXPANSION
Touristique du Haut-Quercy, whose Train Ă Vapeur de Martel makes 13km return journeys between Martel (46) and St-Denis-Les-Martel, sections of the line having been cut into cliffs high above the Dordogne during the 1880s, and which once transported local truffles on a route which linked Aurillac with Bordeaux. Around 20km north of Liborne (33) is the Train Touristique GuĂŽtres-Marcenais, which has been operating steam and diesel-hauled passenger services between the two towns since 1973. Whatâs more, most of the carriages date from the 1900s, making for an atmospheric experience. Meanwhile, near the Atlantic coast the Train des Mouettes operates summer services between Saujon (17) and La Tremblade (21kms), with stops at Fontbedeau, Mornac-sur-Seudre, Chaillevette, Etaules and Arvert. Its oldest steam locomotive dates from 1891 and is listed as a Monument Historique. Just across the Gironde you can ride in open carriages through pine forests between Pointe de Grave and Le Verdon (33) as well as Soulac and Les Arros on a line inaugurated during the 1920s to transport stone to construct coastal defences. During WWII it was commandeered by German forces for the construction of the Fort dâArros and now delights summer visitors.
LIVING TRANSPORT | 19
Find Out More... As you would expect, these âChemins de Fer Touristiquesâ operate most of their services during the summer months, with some seasonal specials (including Christmas and New Year), so check their respective websites for dates and timetables when planning a visit. Some lines also offer more hands-on experiences, in the form of instruction in driving a steam locomotive (âstage vapeurâ). Youâll find further details of dates, timetables, booking details, etc. below: Le Chemin de Fer de la VendĂŠe www.en.vendeetrain.fr Le Chemin de Fer Charente Limousine: www.cf-charentelimousine.fr Autorail Limousin www.autorail-limousin.fr Chemin de Fer Touristique du Haut-Quercy trainduhautquercy.info Train Touristique GuĂŽtres-Marcenais www.trainguitres.fr Le Train des Mouettes www.traindesmouettes.fr Le Petit Train Touristique www.medoc-atlantique.co.uk/fiches/ le-petit-train-touristique-p-g-v-s/ Le Petit Train de La Rhune www.rhune.com Le Train Rouge www.letrainrouge.fr
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20 | LIVING TRANSPORT
Find Out More...
Further south, an electrically powered rack railway has been carrying passengers since 1924 up to the 905m summit of La Rhune for panoramic views of the Basque Coastline below Biarritz (64). Remarkably, the vintage locomotives and lovingly restored carriages are still in service. If youâre in or near northern Charente youâll no doubt be aware of the Chemin de Fer Charente Limousine, whose volunteers reinstated a long-abandoned section of a route inaugurated in 1887 between Confolens (16) and Roumazières via Ansac-sur-Vienne and Manot. The diverse rolling stock includes several classic railcars which were once a common sight on nonelectrified routes throughout France. Over in neighbouring Limousin there are some more interesting summer specials employing preserved vintage rolling stock. As its name suggests, Autorail Limousin runs excursions in classic railcars from Limoges â 2023 destinations included Cahors and OrlĂŠans. There are also railcar runs between GuĂŠret and Felletin. Limoges has become a centre of great interest for steam fans, being the home of the impressively titled Association Conservatoire Ferroviaire Territoires
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Limousin PĂŠrigord, which operates steam-hauled summer journeys between the Gare de Limoges BĂŠnĂŠdictins and Eymoutiers. 2023 also saw specials running between PĂŠrigueux and Les Eyzies, with an optional extension to Le Buisson. The trains comprise up to five faithfully restored period coaches hauled by a choice of two Monument Historique-listed locomotives, one constructed in France in 1932, while its companion was built in the UK in 1919. Whatâs more, currently undergoing restoration is the very last of 79 powerful locomotives built between 1912 and 1921 to haul crack express services. In fact, 2131 K82 was at the head of the very last Flèche dâOr (Golden Arrow) run between Amiens and Calais in 1969. Here in the south west our preserved railways attract countless summer visitors, generating welcome economic benefits for villages sited along them. They also reward the work of dedicated teams of volunteers who have rescued them and their rolling stock after years of dereliction, and whose efforts make them viable. If youâd like to join them then youâll be warmly welcomed â their respective websites tell you how to get involved.
Top L & R: Le Train de La Rhune (64); Above & Below: Vintage railcars, Manot and Confolens (16)
LIVING TRANSPORT | 21
Le Grand Tour If you thought that the glamour of rail travel was gone forever, and wish that somehow you could relive it, youâre in good company. The same thought occurred to the team behind Le Puy du Fou, a world-renowned family attraction in VendĂŠe whose speciality is allowing visitors to feel that theyâve been transported miraculously to witness seminal events unfolding from 2,000 years of French history. Having amassed a wealth of expertise, the team decided to recreate the golden age of luxury travel by train. The result is Le Grand Tour, which promises an immersive retrochic experience during an unforgettable 4,000 kilometre circular tour, taking in some of the most celebrated wonders of France. The journey begins in Paris, and during the next six days and five nights its passengers will disembark to discover the rich history, traditions, architecture, skills and gastronomy of locations including Reims, Beaune, Avignon, Tarascon, Carcassonne, Pau, Arcachon, La Rochelle, Chenonceau and, of course, Le Puy du Fou. âTravelling in styleâ has real meaning, too, with spacious, luxuriously appointed en-suite cabins and suites decorated in authentic period style, with modern-day comforts including air conditioning, wifi and butler-style room service. Voyagers will also enjoy fine dining in considerable style in a sumptuously decorated restaurant car, whose menus are prepared by a 3-star chef from fresh locally sourced produce. Full details: www.legrandtour.com
Programme et itinĂŠraire donnĂŠs Ă titre indicatif et susceptibles dâĂŞtre modifiĂŠs sans prĂŠavis.
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22 | LIVING ART & CULTURE
The Château dâOiron has one of Franceâs best remaining examples of a Renaissance âgalerie des peinturesâ
Curiouser & Curiouser A trip to this imposing castle in the middle of the countryside will get your eyes opening wider than you ever thought they could. Expect the unexpected... WORDS & PHOTOS: Jessica Knipe www.livingmagazine.fr
LIVING ART & CULTURE | 23
In every room,ornate walls and ceilings are paired with striking pieces of contemporary art
T
ucked between the rolling fields of the Deux-Sèvres, half way between Angers and Poitiers and about an hour away from Niort, stands a real-life time machine. Venture inside and allow it to take you on a journey from its medieval origins, through the captivating years of the Renaissance, all the way to the striking contributions of contemporary artists of today. To walk through its halls is a transformative experience, one which will make you reappraise what it actually means to be curious. The construction of the Château dâOiron dates back to the 15th century, when it was commissioned by members of one of the most important families in French nobility, the Gouffiers. As a fortress, built in a strategic location,
it played a crucial role during the tumultuous period of the Hundred Yearsâ War, but over the centuries, the Château has undergone several renovations which have transformed it from a defensive stronghold into a gorgeous residence that echoed the evolving architectural styles of its time. In the 16th century, and under the command of Claude Gouffier, the Château dâOiron became a vibrant centre for intellectual and artistic exchange; influential figures of the Renaissance, including poets, philosophers, and artists, were drawn to the castle, contributing to its reputation as a beacon of cultural enlightenment. Claude had the prestigious title of Grand Ăcuyer de France, otherwise known as the person who takes care of the Kingâs horses,
but this humanist, Renaissance man was also one of the most active art collectors in Franceâs history, and managed to add several paintings to his walls that now hang in the MusĂŠe du Louvre. Although the Châteauâs imposing stone walls, towers and turrets still showcase its medieval origins, as soon as you walk through the impressive red front door (and visitors are encouraged to move around as if they owned the castle themselves, turning handles and walking through doors with confidence), the atmosphere transforms into a showcase of Renaissance opulence: delicate arcades, ornate decorations, intricate detailing with sculpted friezes all add up to a visual feast that couldnât possibly leave you indifferent. And thanks to the
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24 | LIVING ART & CULTURE
âFast forward a few years to the 1980s, and the Centre des Monuments Nationaux gave the castle its second Renaissanceâ
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LIVING ART & CULTURE | 25
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A doorway at the top of a tiny spiral staircase opens onto an entire room draped in Sol LeWittâs Wall Drawing #752; colourful modern tapestries play off the geometry of the original Arlequin ceiling; Tom Shannonâs Decentre-Acentre seems to levitate in the Tour des Ondes; in the old kitchens, shapes are reflected and transformed in Markus Raetzâs Silhouette and Piotr Kowalskiâs IdentitĂŠ 4; the Châteauâs imposing façade translates how important its owner was at the time it was built
staggering stained glass windows, the subtle interplay of light and shadow creates a mysterious atmosphere that makes it easy to feel like youâve stepped far back in time. One of the most important artistic contributions Claude Gouffier made to the castle was the Galerie des Peintures. Running at 55 metres along an entire wing of the Château, it is, along with its counterpart at Fontainebleau, the best preserved examples of its kind today and showcases along its painted walls the ancient history of Troy. As provoking as the incredibly ornate ceilings, walls and floors may be, they are made even more intriguing by their juxtaposition with the striking, modern art commissioned especially to be hung next to them.But that didnât happen until much later.
As time went by, and despite architectural contributions by people such as Madame de Montespan (Louis XIVâs mistress), the castle was gradually abandoned and forgotten. When, in 1923, the castle was found in a state of almost ruin, it was swiftly listed as a historical monument that needed protection, and bought by the State in 1943. Fast forward a few years to the 1980s, and the Centre des Monuments Nationaux gave the castle its second Renaissance, with a massive restauration project that would make it into the place of artistic expression that it is today. In a nod to the âCabinet de CuriositĂŠsâ that Claude Gouffier had created in his time, the contemporary art collection started 30 years ago at the Château dâOiron has been named âCurios &
Mirabiliaâ. The works of art nestle within the walls that are works of art themselves, and give the visitor the chance to re-examine what art actually means. Just think, the Galerie des Peintures would have been just as radical to its 16th century viewers as Marina AbramoviÄâs âRoom for Departureâ at the top of the Tour des Ondes is to us today... Other big names of the art world that have been invited to contribute are Raoul Marek, who drew the profile of 150 inhabitants of the nearby town onto the plates hung in the library, as well as giving them a glass carved with their initials and a serviette that follows the lines of their hands; each year they are invited to the castle to dine using their own dedicated artwork, in an event that has become a comment
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26 | LIVING ART & CULTURE Living crèches and nativity stories are popular across the region
ABOVE: Raoul Marek imagined a set of plates, glasses and serviettes unique to 150 locals, who are invited to use them at dinner each year at the Château; BELOW: Bill Culbertâs Small Glass Pouring Light has a playful link with the name of the room itâs set in (Salle des Ampoules); BOTTOM RIGHT: Charles Rossâ BrĂťlures solaires and Double Spirale show 365 pieces of wood burned by the sun through a lens in New Mexico
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Find Out More OPENING TIMES 1 June - 30 September: 10h30 - 18h30 1 October - 31 May: 10h30 - 17h30 See: www.chateau-oiron.fr
on the passage of time â each year fewer and fewer plates come down from the display as the inhabitants gradually pass away⌠Further on, one of the old servantâs rooms has been renamed Salle des Ampoules to house Bill Culbertâs âSmall Glass Pouring Lightâ, in which 25 glasses of red wine cast shadows in the shape of lightbulbs. In Charles Rossâ room, a scientific experiment to concentrate the sunâs rays through a magnifying glass has created a poetic vision of what happens over a whole year â the sun has burnt 365 panels in a pattern that changes as the seasons progress. Itâs an eclectic collection (that includes a unicorn and music written for flies) but one which sparks curiosity at each turn. Although seeing contemporary art within ancient walls isnât a new idea today, when the Château dâOiron took on its new incarnation in 1993, its was virtually unheard of. Standing as a testament to the enduring legacy of Franceâs rich cultural and historical heritage, the castle has seamlessly adapted to the changing tides of time, transcending centuries to celebrate the continuity of creativity and human expression. Whether you like old stones or new ideas, this is one trip that couldnât possibly leave you unmoved.
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28 | LIVING ARCHITECTURE La Tour LU, Nantes
-
La Belle Epoque ooking back, was there really ever a Golden Age? Well, for at least one sector of French society there certainly was a time when life was good and filled with possibilities. The period we now refer to as âla Belle Ăpoqueâ began in late 1871, a turbulent year whose events had scarred the French psyche deeply. In the wake of a humiliating defeat in the Franco-Prussian War, the once-proud nation then found itself compelled to quash by force the uprising of the Paris Commune which had threatened to escalate into full-blown civil war. After having lived through events like these itâs little wonder that as the country began to return to peace and stability, those who were able to benefit from the resulting prosperity viewed the future with renewed optimism. Soon the upbeat mood of privileged city dwellers was being expressed and celebrated in exuberant forms of fashion and entertainment. Itâs not by chance that haute couture originated
L
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We revisit a time when anything was possible â or so it seemed. WORDS & PHOTOS: ROGER MOSS
in Paris, which each year revealed eagerly awaited new fashions, or that restaurants such as Maximâs rose to prominence as chic night spots in which wealthy socialites would gather, dine and simply be seen. Of course, large public buildings throughout Europe already provided similarly glamorous settings for theatre, concert and opera performances â opulent Baroque or neo-Renaissance style creations, whose interiors employed a wealth of extravagant gilded and trompe lâĹil decoration designed to impress. All were upstaged, however, when le Nouvel OpĂŠra de Paris opened in 1875, at the very height of the Belle Ăpoque. Constructed for Emperor Napoleon III and Empress EugĂŠnie, it soon became
known popularly as âle Palais Garnierâ, after its architect Charles Garnier (who also designed le Casino OpĂŠra de Monte-Carlo). Wealthy Parisians, overawed by its dazzling splendour from the moment they entered the Versailles-like grand foyer, fell instantly in love with what had effectively given them a palatial setting of their very own. Not surprisingly, la Ville-Lumièreâs plentiful financial rewards and growing sense of joie de vivre somehow failed to filter down to brighten the lives of those who continued to toil for a pittance on the land or down in the mines. However, before long many of those who were poised between the two extremes in the provinces found themselves able to embrace at least
LIVING ARCHITECTURE | 29
Le Palais Garnier, Paris
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30 | LIVING ARCHITECTURE Examples can be found in towns and cities across France. Clockwise: Rochefort; Nantes (external and internal); OrlÊans; Arcachon; Châtellerault.
some of the upbeat mood and gaiety of the Belle Ăpoque. Soon neglected, down-at-heel bars, cafĂŠs and restaurants were enjoying a new lease of life by being redecorated in the bright, fashionable taste of the period. Then as now, the heady cocktail of alcohol and merriment got people in the mood to dance, so the tavern-style guinguettes which had sprung up in and around Paris to provide cheap drinks, lively music and a dance floor soon began to appear elsewhere. As we reported in a previous issue of LIVING, les guinguettes of Paris were responsible for spawning a whole new genre of popular music. âBalmusetteâ took its name from the la musette, a bagpipe-style wind instrument which had been popular in the Auvergne, and which really took off in the capital during the 1890s in the hands of accomplished Auvergnat musicians recruited to play in the bars and restaurants opened by their enterprising compatriots. For the next forty years or so la musette would remain unchallenged as the instrument of choice for social gatherings, but began to fall rapidly out of favour when another previously little-known import from the Auvergne
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put in an appearance. This time it was the turn of the accordion, whose already big sound was more than capable of holding its own in the company of guitars, a double-bass and drums, creating an infectious wall of sound which dancers found irresistible. However, not everyone was quite so ready to abandon their allegiance to la musette. As dissent between rival aficionados became increasingly heated things eventually moved from merely vocal to physical, and violent fights began to break out. To maintain public order, the Parisian chief of police therefore outlawed all bals populaires throughout the city, with the result that many of the guinguettes decided to relocate, notably to the riverbanks of the Seine and Marne. Happily, their faithful clientèle continued to support them and attend events, their numbers boosted by newcomers from Spain, Poland, Argentina, the USA and elsewhere, along with their respective musical influences. Before long those on the dance floors were embracing imported genres like the polka, the mazurka, the fox-trot, the tango, the cha-cha, the paso-doble, the rumba and eventually the java (a slightly risquÊ fast waltz
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32 | LIVING ARCHITECTURE Boulevard Montmartre, Effet de Nuit (Camille Pissarro, 1897)
LâIntĂŠrieur de Chez Bruant Le Mirliton (Louis Anquetin, 1886/7)
"Montmartre became a focus for just about anyone looking for escapist entertainment" variant). In what was clearly something of a social and ethnic melting pot, a good time was nevertheless, by all accounts, had by all. Meanwhile, those with more Bohemian lifestyles were finding their own entertainment in cabarets of Montmartre, in those days a cheap and distinctly louche hilltop shanty community but one which attracted and inspired great artists including Picasso, Degas, Matisse, Renoir and Toulouse-Lautrec. Among the most popular night spots were Le Chat Noir and Le Moulin de la Galette, a working class dance hall celebrated on canvas by Renoir, Picasso and others. Soon the areaâs reputation for lively, often raucous cabarets and cafĂŠ-concerts spread, social boundaries became blurred and Montmartre became a focus for just about anyone looking for escapist entertainment. Catering for those slightly higher up the social scale was the Moulin Rouge, which opened in 1889 and staged all manner of increasingly exotic shows, many of which were observed and portrayed in the now familiar graphic imagery of regulars such as Seurat and particularly Toulouse-Lautrec. By the time the 19th century was drawing to a close Montmartre boasted around forty nightspots, although
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its very popularity had inevitably shifted the areaâs original appeal as an alternative, even subversive haunt to merely a popular centre for more mainstream entertainment â something freely available to almost anyone living in a city or large town. As the good times continued their effects were expressed in the swirling imagery of Art Nouveau, which was employed to sensational effect both in France and elsewhere by a host of creative artists, architects, furniture designers, glass makers, illustrators, jewellers and sculptors. Before long the style had become omnipresent in everyday life, appearing on colourful painted publicity murals, in printed media and even Hector Guimardâs fantastic entrances to the Paris MĂŠtropolitaine, whose distinctive typefaces he also styled. While traditionalists criticised them as being ânon-Frenchâ, others including Salvador DalĂ (who considered them âdivineâ) were more enthusiastic, and the 80+ surviving examples now enjoy Monument Historique protection. Guimard had actually received his commission as part of preparations for the capitalâs vast Exposition Universelle, which was due to open in 1900, and whose main attraction would be the Tour Eiffel, retained from
its sensational debut at the previous yearâs event. Visitors to the 1900 Paris Exhibition would have been awe-struck by such wonders as pavilions and whole villages showcasing the colonies and other nations, a 110-metre big wheel, moving walkways, electric tramways and trolleybuses, motion pictures, theatre and of course music halls. It was a fitting climax to an era filled with upbeat optimism and creative expression, and which would continue to flourish until ending abruptly with the outbreak of the First World War in 1914. The world would never be quite the same, but the legacy has since become known as âLa Belle Ăpoqueâ and continues to infuse the romantic global image of âLa Belle Franceâ.
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Discover a Warm, Welcoming Community at Kingâs Community Church Poitou-Charentes
We are all called to follow Jesus and be faithful to His Word and the Gospel message. âI will make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.â (Isaiah 49:6b) Welcome to Kingâs Community Church Poitou-Charentes, a vibrant hub of faith and fellowship in the heart of France. Our journey, rooted in the Anglican tradition, is dedicated to creating a nurturing and inclusive spiritual home for all.
WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL?
A Team of Committed Leaders: Our church is guided by experienced leaders, including Roy Carter, our Senior Minister, and Carolyn Carter, a fully licensed Lay Minister. They, along with our dedicated team, ensure a spiritually enriching experience for every member. We are part of AMiE which stands for Anglican Mission in England and Europe.
Unique Worship Venues: Embrace spirituality in our diverse worship settings - the rustic charm of The Barn in Chaunay (86) and the cozy ambience of the Parish Room in Champagne Mouton (16). We hope to add Nontron (24) soon with Worship Leader Chris Benson. Safety and Well-being: Our commitment to being a âSafe Churchâ is unwavering, with Vanessa Whyte leading our safeguarding efforts to ensure a secure environment for our congregation.
SPECIAL SERVICES AND COMMUNITY EVENTS
From Zoom services on special Sundays to traditional gatherings for Remembrance Day and Easter, our church is always buzzing with activities.
Carolyn
Chris
Roy
Vanessa
A COMMUNITY OF INCLUSIVITY AND WARMTH
Join us for our services of Morning Worship and Holy Communion, where everyone is greeted with open arms. Our services are followed by a Prayer Ministry, led by Marylyn Dolan, and a âBring and Shareâ lunch, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
CELEBRATING LIFEâS MILESTONES
We are here to support you through all of lifeâs signiďŹcant moments, offering Funeral Ministry, Wedding Blessings, and Baptisms.
JOIN US FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
We invite you to be a part of our growing family. Visit our website or Facebook page for details on our upcoming Good Friday and Easter Day Services 2024, and more. Your journey with us at Kingâs Community Church PoitouCharentes is just a visit away. A warm welcome awaits you!
kingschurchcharente.com | Tel: 0612 13 70 07 | Facebook: kingsactivities
34 | LIVING VOTING RIGHTS
British citizens living abroad â you can now vote in UK Parliament elections, even if youâve lived away for over 15 years. Find out more and how to register at electoralcommission.org.uk/overseasvoters
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LIVING VOTING RIGHTS | 35
It's time to have your say!
T
After over a decade of campaigning, British nationals living abroad have regained the right to vote, however long they have been away.
he Statutory Instrument (SI) detailing the processes by which overseas voters will be able to vote (see the previous issue of LIVING for a fuller explanation) was signed by the Minister on 18 December 2023. This was the final hurdle in a long campaign to overcome the 15-year rule and ensure that all the estimated 3.4 million UK nationals living abroad are able to vote. From 16 January, British citizens living abroad for more than 15 years have been able to register to vote in UK national elections, particularly important now Rishi Sunak has announced that a General Election will be held later this year. It marks a pivotal moment in ensuring the democratic participation of British citizens globally and brings the UK in line with other countries around the world, including France. Why, you may ask, should you engage in the voting process if you no longer live in the UK? Voting is not merely a right but a quintessential element of citizenship. For those living abroad, this right is a critical means of influencing matters that directly affect our lives, whether related to healthcare, immigration, education, or pensions. You may have elderly parents needing care, youngsters at university or claim your state or private pensions from the UK. You may be planning to retire back in the UK or have investments there, all of these are reasons for you to have your say as a citizen of the UK.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE? British citizens, which includes eligible Irish citizens and citizens of Crown Dependencies, may register as overseas voters if they are now living abroad, providing they: ⢠were previously registered to vote in the UK, either before they left the
UK or as an overseas voter, or ⢠were previously resident in the UK. Overseas British citizens must apply to register as a voter using the address where they were last registered to vote in the UK or, if they have never been registered, the last address at which they were resident in the UK.
HOW DO VOTERS REGISTER? Overseas voters apply to register in the same way as any other voter: ⢠online on the government website: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote, ⢠by sending a paper form to the relevant local authority, or ⢠by telephone if the relevant local authority provides that service. Contact details of local authorities across the UK are available to search on the Electoral Commission website. Those who were previously registered will have to provide details about the address and time they were last registered. Those who previously lived in the UK, but were not registered, will need to provide details about the address and time where they were last resident. WHAT PROOF IS REQUIRED? Local authorities, which are responsible for the electoral roll in their area, must be satisfied that the applicant was registered or lived in the area
previously, and must be able to verify an applicantâs identity. They have a number of resources for verifying this information, including checking previous registers, other locally-held records, or evidence provided by the applicant.
HOW OFTEN DO OVERSEAS VOTERS NEED TO REGISTER? Under the new rules, overseas voters need to provide a renewal declaration every three years. Previously, it was every 12 months. A renewal declaration confirms that the details held on the electoral register are accurate and provides an opportunity to update correspondence details if necessary. Registration will need to be renewed before 1 November, three years after the voter registered as an overseas voter, unless the voter has successfully renewed their voter registration in the meantime. It is recommend that, if possible, voters arrange a proxy in the UK to send in their ballot as postal delays have previously caused issues given the limited time available. With so many British nationals living abroad, our votes can make a difference to the future of the UK. Finally, all UK nationals can have their say.
Support British in Europe
British in Europe relies upon donations to continue campaigning for the rights of UK nationals living abroad. Their work has protected many rights through Brexit and the organisation guided the voting legislation through its final stages. By donating, you can help British in Europe protect your rights for years to come.
britishineurope.org Do you
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Contact us, we can: ⎠Provide you with support which is confidential and free of charge ⎠Offer telephone support to you, your family and your carers ⎠Offer support through visits at home and in hospital ⎠Help you to ask the right questions ⎠Guide you to other sources of appropriate advice ⎠Provide access to written information about cancer and its treatment
TO GET IN TOUCH: Helpline: 0800 240 200 Local Dordogne Sud helpline: 05 53 57 43 30 Mobile: 06 77 97 11 36 E mail : helpline@cancersupportfrance.org
LIVING NATURE | 37
Genets originate from Africa but are now commonly found across the region
Natureâs Diversity on our Doorstep Rosie Neave encourages us to start planning our outdoor adventures now the days are beginning to get longer again...
W
ith the worst of the rainsoaked winter hopefully behind us and the days starting to draw out with lighter evenings, itâs a good time of year to start planning some nature activities for the months ahead. South west France is a wonderfully diverse area nature-wise and thereâs lots to discover both on your doorstep and further afield. I love coming across new places and there are a variety of different landscapes to explore across the region, giving plenty of scope for days out or longer weekends away. There are many reasons why spending
Douglas firs can have a diameter of up to 2m
time in nature is a good idea. Even gentle exercise, such as leisurely walks, is good for your physical health and studies have shown that spending time in nature can increase vitamin D levels, which is important for healthy blood cells, bones and immune systems. Nature can be really beneficial to our mental health too - regular access to green spaces has been linked to lower risks of depression and a decrease in anxiety levels. On top of that, daily exposure to natural light helps to regulate sleep and wake cycles, meaning that fresh air really does help you sleep better at night.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is particularly well known for its remarkable woodlands and forests and there is a rich diversity waiting to be unearthed. The most prominent forested areas are made up of traditional deciduous woodlands of hornbeam, chestnut, oak and beech but there are also some stunning stands of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) growing in La Creuse (29). While itâs not native to France, having been originally imported from North America in the 1800s, these impressive trees thrive here and can grow to over 55m tall. They also provide perfect homes for red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) and pine martens (Martes martes) and many insects. Running down the length of the west coast are some stunning coastal habitats and there is a generous supply of trails and tracks that run through
Do you
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38 | LIVING NATURE
In 2024, Iâm
Cuckoos are often heard before they are seen
looking out for... Genet (Genetta genetta) La Genette is an incredibly shy, nocturnal mammal which is rarely seen. That said, my daughter saw one a kilometre from our house early one morning from the window of her school bus so I know they are in the area! Fire Salamanders (Salamandra salamandra) These look like they should be a character in a childrenâs animated movie with bright yellow markings contrasting along a dark black body. Like the genet, theyâre nocturnal and whilst Iâve seen many that have been unfortunately run over by cars Iâm on a mission to see a live one this year. They spend the day under rocks or logs in damp, wet woodland. Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) The cuckoo arrives towards the end of March or in early April. Despite hearing their distinctive call every year I have yet to see one properly. I almost managed it last year so Iâm determined this year will be the year I observe one close up.
Looking for old DEUTZ tractors
F1M 414 & F1L 514 1936-1956
sand dunes, along beaches and rock pools and around salt marshes. Areas such as the Bassin dâArcachon are rich havens for wildlife and the important RĂŠserve Ornithologique du Teich nearby is especially important for migrating birds. Created in 1972, it is a humid wetland where wildlife flourishes in the heady mix of salt and freshwater and it attracts tens of thousands of birds every year. Inland are rivers and further wetlands which are home to a lot of the incredible flora and fauna of the region. The Marais Poitevin, nicknamed âGreen Veniceâ, is a wonderful place
to relax, recharge and soak up natureâs beauty. With over 50 species of aquatic and land mammals, 250 species of birds and almost 40 species of fish, you are sure to encounter something special in the area. Taking a traditional flatbottomed boat or plate down canals lined with gently weeping willows is a wonderful way to get up close to nature without exerting too much energy while replenishing your soul at the same time. The rolling farmland of Vienne (86) is home to a surprising variety of wildlife. My local area of Civray has 30 signposted walks, comprising 750km,
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LIVING NATURE | 39
Dune du Pilat
Hen harriers soar above swathes of the region
Marais Poitevin
and I love spying out new routes or even just sections of tracks to explore. When I first moved here, I was delighted to realise that the large, elegant birds I saw methodically scouring for prey at a low height were hen harriers or Busard SaintMartin (Circus cyaneus). These birds are incredibly rare in the UK and Iâve been known to occasionally pull the car over to watch them, even now when I see them regularly.
One of the things which I love most about spending quality time outside, surrounded by the natural world, is that you never know what surprises will be in store. Iâve seen so many exciting, awe-inspiring, puzzling and magical things while Iâve been discovering the outdoors and I canât wait to see what new experiences the months ahead, with spring just around the corner, will bring.
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40 | PRACTICAL LIVING
HELP&MONEY << OUR EXPERTS ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS...
Fosse Septique Regulations
Q
The fosse septique at the house I wish to buy has been declared as 'non-conforming' but it has not be repaired or replaced. What are the implications for me if I proceed?
A
Major announcements were made at a recent conference in St Malo, relating to changes in the laws governing the requirements to upgrade non-conforming systems. At the same time, there will be an increase in fines for property owners who do not comply with regulations. The conference, hosted by the worldâs leading manufacturer of treatment systems, brought together national representatives of SPANC (Le Service Public dâAssainissement Non Collectif, the government organisation responsible for septic tanks or fosses septiques), industry leaders and government officials. Significant tightening of the laws were announced which will affect all property owners who have a non-conforming fosse. The government is to enforce the law that states a nonconforming fosse must be updated to conform within one
year of a house purchase. This is already within all of SPANC's pre-sale controls that are legally part of the contract of sale, the enforcement of this law will see notaires obliged to withhold an undetermined sum to cover the cost of the works. There are already reports of notaires blocking the sale of properties because the vendor has not carried out the work and they are, therefore, in breach of the sales contract that was signed when the house was purchased. Most property owners are unaware that this can happen but as it has been explained to us, the original sales contract includes a provision to make any fosse conform and is a legally binding document which is already enforceable by law. The other key change will see substantial increases in fines for any owner not completing the work required to make their system conform. These will be levied each year until the work is done and will increase annually. In addition to this the inspections by SPANC will become annual and the cost for this, where there is a nonconforming system, will increase by 300%. Indeed, there are already some SPANC authorities
Do you want to improve your French but find you canât get to lessons? Would you prefer to learn in the privacy of your own home? Try Frantastique, the online course with fun, daily lessons, FREE for one month, and see your French improve. Simply sign up on our website www.livingmagazine.fr www.livingmagazine.fr
who have begun fining owners at these substantially increased rates - one authority is charging more than âŹ800 per year for non-compliance. It was the consensus that these changes, when they become law, will result in an increase to the cost of new equipment, as demand outstrips supply and so the recommendation is to take these changes seriously and try to resolve any non-conforming operations quickly. As regards your purchase, the ball is in the vendor's court. They need to resolve the situation before you purchase the house otherwise you will have to pay the fines and ensure the system conforms.
David Nunn owns Southwest France Fosse and has been installing fosses septiques across the region for over 15 years. They are one of the few English speaking companies included on many SPANC's approved installer list and adherent study office list. Find out more at: www.southwestfrancefosse.com
PRACTICAL LIVING | 41
Financial Advisers
Q
What are the differences between a financial adviser regulated in the UK and one regulated in France?
A
One important consideration to keep in mind following Brexit is that any advice given by a UK-regulated financial adviser to a non-UK resident may not be covered by the UK Financial Conduct Authorityâs regulatory jurisdiction (which primarily covers activities within the UK). This means that if you are a non-UK resident receiving financial advice from a UK regulated adviser, you may not
receive the same level of regulatory protection as UK residents. Additionally, since Brexit, most UK advisers are not authorised to give advice to EU residents. If you are a French resident seeking financial advice, it is prudent to consult a financial adviser based in and regulated in France. A French licensed adviser is subject to the supervision and protections provided by the national regulatory authority. Note too that French regulated advisers also undergo continuous professional development to ensure they
are providing reliable and fully compliant advice. An adviser in France will know about the most tax efficient investments to hold, how investments are taxed in France and how best to plan for transferring wealth to your chosen beneficiaries. It is sensible to carefully consider the regulatory framework, qualifications, experience and expertise of the adviser, as well as the financial planning services on offer, before making a decision. Whenever you first contact a French regulated adviser, you should be provided with information on their regulatory
status, professional indemnity insurance and how they are remunerated. If you are worried about your French language capability, refer to a specialist expatriate adviser who speaks English and provides all documentation in English so that you can fully understand product details and regular valuations.
Amanda Johnson works as an International Financial Adviser with The Spectrum IFA Group. T: 05 49 98 97 46 or 06 73 27 25 43; amanda.johnson@spectrum-ifa.com; www.spectrum-ifa.com/amanda-johnson. To register for their newsletter, attend a roadshow event or speak directly to Amanda, call or email her. There is no charge for their financial planning reviews, reports or recommendations. ÂŤ The Spectrum IFA Group Âť is a registered trademark, exclusive rights to use in France granted to TSG Insurance Services S.A.R.L. Siège Social: 34 Bd des Italiens, 75009 ÂŤ SociĂŠtĂŠ de Courtage dâassurances Âť R.C.S. Paris B 447 609 108 (2003B04384) NumĂŠro dâimmatriculation 07 025 332 - www.orias.fr ÂŤ Conseiller en investissements financiers, rĂŠfĂŠrence sous le numĂŠro E002440 par ANACOFI-CIF, association agrĂŠĂŠe par lâAutoritĂŠ des MarchĂŠs Financiers Âť
42 | LIVING WINE
W I N E La Maison dâEstournel
How to Develop your âAroma Brainâ by Caro Feely
T
he ability to differentiate between aromas is an ancient human skill, much older than speech. Our sense of smell helps us connect to memories, emotions and more, and aromatherapists believe certain scents have healing properties. As the world wakes up and the first blossoms uncurl in early spring, it is a the perfect time to start to develop your olfactory senses. Wine tasting is about using all of your senses, but particularly your sense of smell. Taking time to smell things is in itself a good mindfulness practice, encouraging us to slow down and focus. But when you begin wine tasting, it is often difficult to identify what the different aromas are. This is where taking time to develop your âaroma brainâ pays dividends. Our brain wants to see what we are smelling and relies on our eyes to help us assess the aroma. The eyes see wine and the brain says: âI smell wineâ. To develop your aroma brain, train yourself to recognise aromas without seeing what they are. Close your eyes and take a sniff when you are in the kitchen peeling a banana, cutting an
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apple, using the cinnamon, ginger, honey or butter. Be curious beyond the kitchen or the table. Stop to sniff with your eyes closed when you pass jasmine, dig your garden, sharpen a pencil. Train your brain to recognise aromas without needing to see them. After a few months of doing this take an aromatic wine and see what you find. You may find you appreciate everything a little more, being mindful with aromas offers innate joy, even if you may look a little strange to passersby as you stop to smell the flowers with your eyes closed. A student at our wine school that I taught this technique to joked âyou have turned me into a dog!â after leaning in to sniff someoneâs leather bag that was hanging on the chair beside her. In France we talk of three noses: the first before you swirl, the second after you swirl and the third on the empty glass. When the glass is empty, you can pick up some evolution of the wineâs aromas from the coating of liquid which remains on the glass. This can make be easier to pick up minor faults if there are any. When you take a sniff let the aromas
go right up to the back of your nose. Close your eyes, really focus your attention on the aromas and put all your brain power on what is being sensed by your nose. Close off the influence of people around you, any noises and be totally with the liquid in your glass. There is usually some âevolutionâ between the first nose (before you have swirled) and the second nose (after you have swirled). Sometimes it is easier to identify a single aroma on the first nose and the second nose becomes complex, perhaps a little more confusing with some alcohol aromas. When we taste professionally, we note what we pick up on both and also look for whether the aroma is: ⢠Weak, standard, or pronounced: if it leaps out of the glass at you before you even lean in to sniff, it is pronounced. ⢠Fruity, floral, spicy, vegetal (vegetable or leaf aromas), nutty, mineral, animal and/or earthy? Try to break down the category to something more specific e.g. fresh raspberry. ⢠Youthful (e.g. fresh fruit) or mature (e.g. cooked fruit)?
LIVING WINE | 43
Caroâs book series; âGrape Expectationsâ, âSaving our Skinsâ, âVineyard Confessionsâ and âCultivating Changeâ are great winelover gifts. Château Feely also offers âadopt a rowâ vine shares, gift certificates for courses and tours and Feely organic wines (which can be purchased online or via email). Find out more about Château Feely at www.chateaufeely.com and follow Caro Feely on Instagram.
Château Haut-Bages LibÊral
As you learn more about wine and practice with more wine-tasting you will find that the characteristics you pick up set off indicators that help you identify the wine. For instance, fresh fruit aromas tend to indicate a young wine whereas cooked fruit would be
an older wine. Grape varietal signature aromas will suggest the grape type. You can even form an idea of the winemaking process too. For example, barrel-ageing can offer woody, toasty, vanilla, or coconut aromas. Dairy aromas (e.g. cream, butter) can be a 1
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sign that the wine has undergone the malolactic transformation. So take your time as you smell the roses this year and stop to enjoy some âwine aromatherapyâ as the seasons change. It will make your wine-tasting even more enjoyable!
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Settle down to enjoy the challenge of our unique crossword clues set by Mike Morris. If you need a helping hand, take a peek at the answers on page 45. CLUES ACROSS 1. Copper placed at first in vessel. (3) 3. Very nice message, but no time for sending initially. (5) 6. Drop back to get some energy. (3) 8. Toughen any top players who do this on the pitch? (3, 2, 3, 5) 9. Speaks about conditions? (6) 13. Moles in the works? (6) 16. Cabinet role seen in personal assistant. (4, 9) 17. Download for group of students. (6) 20. Pour out into borders to evacuate whole continent. (6) 24. Want a split? Sod off! Drastic end to dispute? (7, 2, 4) 26. Third after new starts getting bronze. (3) 27. Heading off for sealer of deal is non-starter. (5) 28. Urge to get money in Japan. (3)
CLUES DOWN 1. Company presidentâs first to be in the force. (3) 2. Bread provided by mine volunteers. (5) 3. Transgression by church from that time. (5) 4. Sound coming back from city centre Home Office. (4) 5. Introduce the real action in legend. (5) 6. Old family member covering nothing in complaint. (5) 7. Animal home being rusty after game is off? (3) 10. One selling tickets includes Simply Red and Rainbow perhaps. (5) 11. Thread those on end of needle. (5) 12. Restrain article used to open correspondence? (5) 13. Prize money from innocent carrier of last of funds. (5) 14. Croat going for a Burton perhaps? (5) 15. Leaders of those having remained in place biting insect. (5) 18. Plant product in mire since making an enclosure. (5)
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19. Island apparently charging a fee to pass by? (5) 21. Take top off, spread to make a statement. (5) 22. Nothing to change in egg producer. (5)
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23. Requests music style mixed with key to synthesiser? (4) 24. Function for time underground. (3) 25. Superior mother perhaps, whichever way you look at it? (3)
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44 | LIVING CUISINE There's nothing better than the aroma of a delicious meal wafting through the kitchen. Here Nikki picks some timeless British classics to warm your winter evenings ...
Nikki Legon's
cuisine Chicken Cobbler Delicious served with roasted vegetables SERVES 4-6
1 tbsp oil 1 onion, finely chopped 1 leek, sliced and washed 2 garlic cloves, crushed 6 mushrooms, sliced 6 boneless chicken thighs, skins removed and chopped 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves 1 tbsp plain flour 300ml chicken stock 300g frozen peas 75ml cream FOR THE COBBLER 125g plain flour 1 tsp baking powder 1 egg, beaten 75ml buttermilk METHOD Preheat the oven to 220°C. Heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat. Add the onions and leek and gently fry for 5 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for a further minute. Add the mushrooms, chicken and thyme, and brown the chicken all over. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute before adding the stock. Stir in the peas and cream and season well. Place into a large casserole dish. In a bowl, mix together the cobbler ingredients and season. Divide into balls and place around the edges of dish. Brush with a little milk. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked and the cobblers have risen and are golden brown.
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LIVING CUISINE | 45 small bunch coriander, stalks finely chopped and leaves roughly chopped (keep separately) 2 tsp ground coriander 2 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp smoked paprika 2 tsp chipotle paste 1 heaped tsp vegan-friendly yeast extract 2 x 400g cans chopped tomato 400g can black beans
Lancashire Hotpot A hearty, slow-cooked classic, this is a meal in itself SERVES 4-6
2 tbsp oil 1kg neck fillet of lamb, trimmed and diced 1 tbsp plain flour 1l stock made from the trimmings 3 large onions, peeled and thinly sliced 4 carrots, peeled and sliced 3 garlic cloves, crushed 2 sticks of celery diced 4 sprigs of fresh thyme leaves or 1 tsp dried salt and black pepper 4 potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 25g unsalted butter, diced METHOD Heat a large casserole dish over a high heat, when itâs smoking add the oil and fry the lamb to seal all over. Add the flour and stir for 2 minutes Slowly add the stock, bring to the boil then simmer gently for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, add the remaining oil
to a pan and cook the onions gently for another 15 to 20 minutes until the onions are lightly coloured and slightly sticky. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Add the carrots, garlic and celery to the lamb, and cook for a further 10 minutes. Turn off the heat, then stir in the onions and thyme, season with salt and pepper. Arrange the potatoes over the top, pressing each layer lightly to submerge them in the juices, scatter the butter over the top, cover and bake in the oven for 40 minutes.
METHOD Heat the oven to 180°C. Toss the potatoes with half the oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 30 minutes until tender, tossing after 15 minutes. Add the remaining oil to a pan and cook the onions until soft. Add the garlic, chilli and coriander stalks. Cook everything for a further 2 minutes. Sprinkle the spices over, stirring for 1 minute more. Stir in the chipotle paste, yeast extract, tomatoes and half a can of water. Simmer the sauce uncovered, adding a splash of water if it looks too dry. Add the sweet potato, black beans and seasoning to the chilli. Cook for 5 minutes, taste and adjust seasoning, sprinkle with coriander leaves and serve with boiled rice.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chilli Packed wtih flavour, this chilli will keep everyone happy! SERVES 2
1 tbsp oil 3 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 onion, chopped 2 large garlic cloves, crushed 1 red chilli, finely chopped
Do you
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46 | LIVING CUISINE
Irish Stew Just remove from the oven and enjoy with crusty bread SERVES 4-6
1kg diced stewing lamb 2 tbsp seasoned flour 1 tbsp oil (for frying) 3 tbsp unsalted butter 2 tbsp plain flour 2 onions, chopped 2 carrots, chopped 2 medium leeks, washed and sliced 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped 3 large potatoes, diced 3 tbsp chopped parsley I bay leaf 1 tbsp pearl barley 750ml lamb stock salt and pepper METHOD Wipe the meat dry and remove excess fat. Dip in the seasoned flour. Heat some oil in a pan and brown the meat all over, set aside. In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp of butter and add the flour, whisking to combine. Continue whisking for a few minutes on the heat until golden brown. Add the broth, whisking continuously, and simmer until slightly thickened. Scrape into a dish. Melt the remaining butter
and add the vegetables except for the potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, Add the lamb, potatoes, parsley, bay leaf, pearl barley and the stock, and season well with salt and pepper. Bring to simmering point, spooning off any scum. Transfer to an ovenproof dish with a tight fitting lid and place on the middle rack of the oven heated to 160°C and cook for 2½ hours until sizzling.
Pie & Mash MAKES 4 PIES
500g minced beef 1 onion, chopped finely 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tsp English mustard 2 tsp tomato purÊe 1½ tbsp plain flour 500ml beef stock 1 tsp white pepper 1 egg, lightly beaten for brushing over the pies SUET PASTRY FOR THE PIE BASE 350g plain flour 200g suet ½ tsp salt water (at least 400ml) SHORTCRUST PASTRY FOR THE PIE LID 150g plain flour 75g cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes pinch of salt 3 tbsp water LIQUOR 500ml fish stock or chicken stock handful of fresh parsley, chopped 1 tbsp plain flour 1 tbsp water METHOD For the filling, heat the oil in a large
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LIVING CUISINE | 47 pan over a medium heat and fry the onions, minced beef and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and tomato purÊe and cook for a further 3 minutes. Stir in the mustard and stock before covering with a lid and simmering for 20 minutes on a medium heat. Drain the excess juice and allow to cool. To make the suet pastry base for the pies, combine the flour, suet and water with a pinch of salt adding more water if needed to form a rollable dough. Roll out the pastry to a thickness of 2mm and place into 4 buttered pie dishes. For the shortcrust pastry top, gently rub together the flour, salt and butter in a bowl, using the tips of your fingers, until it looks like breadcrumbs. Add the water and kneed into a ball. Roll out on a floured-dusted counter and cut to fit the tops of the pies. Fill the pie dishes with the mince mixture and top with the shortcrust pastry, crimp the edges and cut off excess pastry. Brush with beaten egg. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the pie dishes into a deep baking tray, carefully fill to half-way with boiling water. Place into the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, until the pastry tops are golden brown. For the liquor, place the stock in a blender and add the parsley, salt and pepper blend until smooth and mix in the cornflour. Serve the pies and mash with the liquor.
Lentil Stew This hearty stew is a real warmer for those cold evenings 2 tbsp olive oil 150g celery, chopped finely 450g potatoes, peeled and cubed 3 carrots, cubed 1 leek, cut into fine slices 1l vegetable stock 5 onions, thinly sliced 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 250g dried brown, green or red lentils, rinsed and drained 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp red wine vinegar pinch of sugar 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Golden Syrup Steamed Pudding 175g soft unsalted butter 175g self-raising flour 175g golden caster sugar 3 large eggs zest of 1 lemon and juice of half 3 tbsp milk TOPPING 250g golden syrup juice of the other half lemon METHOD Generously butter a 1.2-litre pudding basin or individual pudding basins. Put the kettle on. Lay out a large sheet of foil and top with a sheet of baking parchment, butter the paper. Then fold both layers to make a pleat in the centre. For the topping, mix the lemon juice and 250g golden syrup together and
spoon into the basin. Cream the butter and the sugar together in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, then sift in the flour and salt and mix again. Add the lemon juice and enough milk to give a soft dropping consistency. Scrape the sponge mix on top of the syrup topping. Cover with the baking paper and foil, buttered paper side down. Tie securely with string making a handle to easily remove the basin. Trim the paper and foil to prevent water getting into the pudding as it steams Place in a large, deep pan with about 5cm depth of boiling water, steam for 1½- 2 hours checking occasionally that the pan isnât boiling dry. It is ready when a skewer pushed into the centre through the coverings comes out dry. Remove the coverings and put a large plate on top of the basin, turn out carefully and serve.
METHOD Heat the oil in a large saucepan, then add the celery, potatoes, carrots, leek, garlic and onions. Cook gently for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables have softened slightly. Add the stock, then stir in the lentils and bring to a boil. Reduce to a medium heat and simmer for 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender. Taste and season with the red wine vinegar, salt, pepper and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle over the parsley to serve on a bed of mashed potato or, my favourite, with crusty bread.
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48 | LIVING CUISINE
Sticky Toffee Pudding Puddings dont get any better than this! 225g dates 175ml boiling water 1 tsp vanilla extract 175g self-raising flour 1 tsp bicarbonate de soda 2 eggs 65g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 140g demerara sugar 2 tbsp black treacle 100ml milk SAUCE 175g light muscovado sugar 50g butter diced 225ml thick cream 1 tbsp black treacle creamy. Add the beaten eggs a little at a time, beating well between additions. Beat in the black treacle and then, using a large metal spoon, gently fold in one third of the flour mix, then half of the milk. Do not over beat. Repeat until all the flour and milk are used. Stir the soaked dates into the pudding batter. The mix may look a little curdled at this point, and will be like a soft, thick batter. Spoon into the dish or moulds and bake for 20-25 minutes until risen and firm. For the sauce, put the light muscovado sugar and diced butter in a medium saucepan with half of the cream. Bring to the boil over a medium heat, stirring all the time, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Stir in 1 tbsp black treacle, turn up the heat slightly and let the mixture
METHOD Butter and flour a 23cm square baking dish or 6 individual moulds. Stone and chop the dates into small dice. Put them into a bowl and pour over the boiling water. Leave to cool for 30 minutes, then mash with a fork. Stir in the vanilla extract. Mix the self-raising flour with the bicarbonate of soda. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Beat the butter and demerara sugar together in a large bowl for a few minutes until slightly Nikki Legon is the chef and owner of the Hotel Restaurant Karina in Les MĂŠtairies, just outside Jarnac in Charente, which has been transformed from an old cognac distillery into a luxury 10-bedroom hotel and restaurant. For more information: www.hotelkarina.net
CROSSWORD ANSWERS
ACROSS 1. Cup 3. Sweet 6. Gas 8. Put on the agony 9. States 13. Plants 16. Home Secretary 17. Stream 20. Europe 24. Pistols at dawn 26. Tan 27. Loser 28. Yen
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bubble away for 2-3 minutes until it is a rich toffee colour, stirring occasionally to make sure it doesnât burn. Take off the heat and beat in the rest of the cream. For the single pudding, remove the it from the oven and run a knife around the sides to loosen. Pour the sauce over and leave to soak in. For the smaller puddings, in an ovenproof baking dish pour half the sauce into the base and sit the upturned individual puddings on the sauce. Then pour the rest of the sauce over, cover the puddings with a loose tent of foil. When ready to serve, heat the oven to 160°C, warm the puddings, keeping the cover over for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce is bubbling. Serve on their own, or with cream or custard.
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LIVING CUISINE | 49
Character Properties in France
We specialise in the sale of châteaux and prestige country homes with stone character. You can entrust us with your valuation, the professional presentation of your home, targetted communications, qualification of buyers, proper feedback, and sale management.
Andrew Portsmouth Sue Lake Nathalie Hoefnagels 06 43 95 15 52 www.agence-hamilton.com
*agency fees charged to the seller
E XC
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Confolens, Charente âŹ985,000* Fabulous 16th/18th century 4-bed fullyrenovated château plus 3-bed cottage, 200m2 barn, garages, stables, 4.3 hectares. DPE: E
LâIsle Jourdain, Vienne âŹ120,000* 3-bed/2-bath town-centre renovated and insulated stone house, logburner, double-glazed, attached garden, mains. DPE: D
Availles-Limouzine, Vienne âŹ79,000* Renovated 2-bed, close to centre, logburner, insulated, off-street parking for 3 cars + attached garden, mains drains. DPE: E
NĂŠrĂŠ, Charente Maritime âŹ795,000* Charm and comfort, renovated 4-bed house, original features, five quality gites (3, 3, 2, 2, 1-bed), heated pool, 8 mins to town. DPE: D
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Tel: 05 65 70 10 49 Email: info@selectionhabitat.com Visit our new agency: 20, rue du Maquis Foch, 16500 Confolens Please contact us if you have a character property to sell, we have a devoted team located throughout the area. Information on the risks to which these properties are exposed is available on the Geohazards website: www.georisques.gouv.fr
WANTED! Properties around SauzĂŠ Vaussais, Ruffec, Civray
English and French spoken Available 7 days, working with expat and French buyers Email: karin.malpass@optimhome.com Call, Whatsapp or SMS on: 06 88 29 37 27
PLEUVILLE, VIENNE â 259 000âŹ
If you are looking to acquire a little bit of French history, this is definitely the house for you. Originally one wing and the barn of the neighbouring Logis built in 1640, this beautifully and carefully renovated 5-bedroom property of 305m2 will make an ideal family home or business B&B/gite. This remarkable house has views over the tranquil Vienne countryside and is set in a small hamlet close to a larger village. DPE: F
GENOUILLAC, CHARENTE - 155 849âŹ
Rare property situated in a quiet village ideal for a family home, someone who owns horses or wants a small-holding. Currently divided into 2 houses (one renovated, one to finish), with 5 bedrooms and a total living space of 181m2, it could be easily made into one property. This house overlooks 4.03 hectares (11 acres) of exceptionally pretty fully enclosed pasture with several natural springs. DPE: E
Karin Malpass RSAC N°492 336 334 Niort
www.optimhome.com/conseillers/malpass
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L i ving
PROPERTY CHANIERS (17)
CHANGING PLACES A LEAFY RIVERSIDE SETTING tucked away in the heart of the Saintonge sounds like somewhere well worth a visit. Happily doing so wonât involve a major detour, for Chaniers and the communeâs companion villages lie on the RD24, which was bypassed years ago by the SaintesâCognac section of the busy RN141, from which the VallĂŠe de la Charente is clearly signed. As youâll discover, the TER Nouvelle-Aquitaine SaintesâAngoulĂŞme rail line also passes through the valley (the nearby Gare SNCF de Beillant has some weekday services), so access to the old town is via a level crossing just behind the elegant Mairie. Once across youâll discover that Chaniers has an air of prosperity, reflecting its desirable location within easy commuting distance of Saintes and Cognac. Itâs also quite compact, and drops noticeably towards the river, so more recent expansion has largely focused on the higher ground on the northern side of the valley, away from any potential flood zones. Given that the river is navigable, itâs hardly surprising that such a promising halt attracted the attention of the Romans, the Saracens, the Normans and English, before being returned to France in 1375.
Even today âle bourgâ retains clear signs of the areaâs long history. The 11th century Ăglise Saint-Pierre, for example, was constructed on the site of a previous gallo-Roman temple, and was heavily fortified during the Wars of Religion. Elsewhere, both in le bourg and its surroundings, are numerous elegant 17th-19th century residences which testify to the prosperity generated by the cognac trade, while the geometrical street plan echoes those of the bastide villages established in Aquitaine under English rule. Meanwhile, in a beautiful setting down on the riverbank are two welcoming campsites, the larger of which (La Belle Rivière) offers serviced static accommodation whose themed structures include a carrelet sur pilotis. In summer months youâll also find la Guinguette de Chaniers â a large brasserie-style restaurant popular with campers and those navigating the Charente in selfdrive river cruisers. Increasing numbers of summer visitors will be taking a pause from following the local section of the epic 350km Flow-VĂŠlo cycle route to enjoy a free trip across the river aboard the historic Bac de Chaniers chain ferry (see the previous issue of LIVING).
We visit a remarkable village on the banks of the Charente While youâre here, just upstream lies the Moulin de la Baine, a huge sevenarched water mill reconstructed around 1670 by Louis XIVâs Commissaire GĂŠnĂŠral Colbert du Terron to receive cereals transported up the Charente on flat-bottomed gabares (barges). They would then return laden with freshly milled flour to supply the naval dockyards at Rochefort.
MAKING CONNECTIONS DISTANCES/DRIVE-TIMES BY ROAD FROM 17610 CHANIERS Saintes: Cognac: Saint-Jean dâAngĂŠly: Royan: AngoulĂŞme: La Rochelle: Niort: Bordeaux:
7.7 km/11 min 21 km/21 min 28 km/28 min 43 km/39 min 67 km/58 min 82 km/59 min 85 km/59 min 119 km/1 hr 26 min
TGV & TER RAIL & BUS SERVICES: The Gare SNCF de Saintes is served by TER Nouvelle-Aquitaine Ligne RĂŠgionale 15, 16 & 17 services to Cognac, AngoulĂŞme, Poitiers, Niort, La Rochelle, Royan and Bordeaux, with onward connections (including TGV) to Limoges, Tours, Paris, Biarritz, etc. In addition, the nearby Gare SNCF de Beillant (3.3km) has twice-daily weekday services to and from Saintes.
La Foncière Charentaise THE FRIENDLY FACE OF PROPERTIES IN S/W FRANCE
EXCLUSIVE
29 000⏠HAI
(23 000⏠+ âŹ6000 fee payable by buyer)
Prix 152,000 ⏠(Fees paid by buyer incl.) Charming 4-bed stone house, 130m² living space. Office, potential indoor pool/jacuzzi, cellar, workshop, barn, garage, enclosed garden. Ref: 9758 Energie: D Climat: A
Prix 155,500 ⏠(Fees paid by buyer incl.) Nea rAigre: Beautifully Renovated stone property ready to move into, 3 bedrooms+one on ground floor, south facing garden with open barn.
Ref. 34548
66 000⏠HAI
(60 000⏠+ ⏠6% fee payable by buyer)
Ref. 34561
BRILLAC (16): Semi detached house in hamlet to renovate. 3-bed + attic, barn, courtyard. Separate land and sheds on 422m2.
LESTERPS (16): 3-bed semi-detached house. Electrical heating, mains drains, 410m2 garden. Separate plot of 955m2.
Classe Energie n/a Classe Climate n/a
Classe Energie n/a Classe Climate n/a
Ref: 9759 Energie: D Climat: B
83 600⏠HAI
79 000⏠+ 10% fee payable by buyer)
Ref. 34560
LA PĂRUSE (16): Lots of potential for this 2-bed 1972 bungalow with basement. Oil heating, septic tank, garage, well with pump, set on 2055m2. Classe Energie G Classe Climate G
138 800⏠HAI
(100 000⏠+ 10% fee payable by buyer)
Ref. 34524
CONFOLENS (16): 3-bed 1982 bungalow with basement & beautiful stone dovecote. Close to centre. Oil heating, garage. Set on 2098m2. Classe Energie E Classe Climate E
25 000⏠HAI Ref. 34574
Prix 160,500 ⏠(Fees paid by buyer incl.) Prix 160,500 ⏠(Fees paid by buyer incl.) Cosy character house with 210m2 of livPerfect condition 3-bed detached house on the outskirts of AIGRE. Fitted ing space, 4 ensuite beds, double living room, lounge, large kitchen. Enclosed kitchen, lounge and large veranda, front and back with barn/garage. garage, enclosed garden of 1252m2. Ref: 9755 Energie: D Climat: C
RĂŠf: 9750 Energie: D Climat: C
(22 000⏠+ 3 000⏠fee payable by buyer)
237 600⏠HAI
(23 000⏠+ âŹ6000 fee payable by buyer)
+ 33 (0)6 82 85 36 32 Cecile
OFFICE + 33 (0)5 45 21 78 38
CONFOLENS (16): ideal for holiday home, 2-bed semi detached house. Mains drain, adjoining courtyard with small shed.
Ref. 34562
SAINT-MAURICE-DES-LIONS (16): 3-bed wellmaintained 2007 property. Veranda, basement, Elec heating, mains, 2 garages. 2052m2.
Classe Energie n/a Classe Climate n/a
Classe Energie D Classe Climate A
............ www.foncierecharentaise.com ............ email: aigre@foncierecharentaise.fr
3, place de la LibertĂŠ, 16500 Confolens Tel: 05 45 85 45 65 contact@sovimo.com
www.sovimo-immobilier-confolens.fr
AGENCE ELEONOR ESTATE
AGENCY
www.agence-eleonor.fr VILLEREAL - Ref : 10992-VI - Price: 434 600⏠Beautiful house offering spacious and light living with 4 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. There is a swimming pool that has stunning views over the surrounding countryside, meadows and a lake. Taux dâhonoraires 24 600⏠(6%) inclus Ă la charge de lâacquĂŠreur. Classe Energie: B Classe Climat: A
CALES - Ref : 10348-LA - Price: 997 975⏠Magnificent stone property comprising 5 separate fully furnished houses, each with access to the outdoor space including 2 heated swimming pools and a spa. Taux dâhonoraires 42 975⏠(4.5%) inclus Ă la charge de lâacquĂŠreur. Classe Energie: D Classe Climat: A
FAUILLET - Ref : 11007-EY - Price: 783 750⏠EXCLUSIVE: An exciting opportunity to buy this impressive Maison de Maitre. The house offers 7 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. Outside there is a pool, an enclosed garden, two stone barns, a storage barn, a workshop, and a hanger. Taux dâhonoraires 33 750⏠(4.5%) inclus Ă la charge de lâacquĂŠreur. Classe Energie: F Classe Climat: F
Contact our head office today : 36-38 rue du Temple, 24500 EYMET 05 53 27 83 45 info@agence-eleonor.com
Looking for a career in property sales? Want to be part of a team of motivated, independent property consultants? Good news, due to expansion Agence Eleonor are recruiting! Youâll be joining a great team, with free training and ongoing support through all stages of your development, as well as excellent commission rates. Contact Terrie Simpson at info@agence-eleonor.com to find out more or arrange an informal chat.
We are looking for properties to sell! Agence Eleonor is an independently owned business with an experienced team of property specialists, based in the South-west of France, with offices across the region. Our offices all have overseas and local buyers ready to buy. If you are considering selling your property please contact us for a free valuation at info@ agence-eleonor.com
Visit us in Eymet, VillerĂŠal, Saint-Cyprien, Monpazier, Miramont-de-Guyenne, Lalinde, Bergerac and Issigeac.
52 | LIVING COMMUNITY
JOIN OUR
Club
Gillian Harvey talks to three Haute-Vienne residents who have taken the plunge... Ah Spring. With days getting longer, energy levels increasing, itâs a great time to try something new. Whether itâs taking up a new sport, starting a hobby, learning a skill or simply mixing with new people, what better way to embrace new season energy than joining a local club? Many French communes have a great selection of social and sporting clubs to choose from, and joining up may benefit you in more ways than one.
According to science, being part of a club is a great mood booster â and has been shown to reduce depression and anxiety. Participating in a shared activity can also help self-confidence, reduce loneliness and even improve your concentration. For anglophones, joining a local club or association is also a fabulous way to finesse that French, as well as make inroads into the local community.
Benefits of joining in
If youâre interested in finding out the range of clubs and associations in your area, a great place to start is your local Mairie â which should be able to provide information and contact details for local associations. You may also find
As well as helping you to develop new skills, get fit and make new friends, joining a local group or club could have a positive impact on both your mental and physical wellbeing.
Finding out
Cordial Choristers
Having moved to Eymoutiers in 2018, Deborah Sheath wanted to get involved in the local community and make new connections. Having sung in several choirs in the past, she was delighted to find a local singing group. âSomeone Iâd met told me of a small group of people singing together in a local town,â she says. âThe group of - mainly British â singers used to get together once a week, and join with others to perform at Christmas. Then in 2022 the lady who led the group was asked to become a chef de chĹur of a wellestablished French choir âChorale de Sainte-Claireâ in Châteauneufla-FĂ´ret. She accepted and we all went with her!â The choir rehearses once a week and performs a few times a year. And joining has had a number of benefits. âObviously, I get a buzz out of singing, so thatâs a given! But as well as that, I feel part of a community. My fellow French choristers have been incredibly welcoming, and not only have my French linguistic skills improved, but also my understanding of rural French culture. I have made both French and English friends, brought together by our shared love of singing, and this helped me at a time that could have been quite lonely,â says Deborah.
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club details on local notice boards, or on your communeâs Facebook page.
Trying out
If youâre torn between two clubs, or arenât sure whether a particular activity will suit you, itâs worth making contact with an association to find out whether you can pop along informally for a trial session or two. While some associations will have joining criteria and you may need to pay a fee, most clubs are happy to allow prospective members to pop along and get a feel for a club before joining in. With so much to gain and so much fun to be had, itâs well worth finding out whatâs happening locally to you.
Make a Racket
On moving to Châteauneuf-la-FĂ´ret in 2013, Linda and husband Paul, an osteopath, knew they wanted to make local connections and decided to see what sporting clubs were active in the area. âI asked for a list of clubs at the Mairie, and ended up joining both the tennis club and badminton club,â she says. âIâve always liked playing and keeping fit â as a practitioner of Chinese medicine I take all aspects of health very seriously,â she says. âItâs also been a great opportunity to integrate with both French locals and anglophones. At the tennis club, we have around 180 members, and membership includes a weekly session by an excellent coach, as well as access to the courts whenever we wish to play. As for badminton, you can play three evenings a week and itâs a great opportunity to meet people and get out in those dark winter months. Being in the clubs has helped both myself and my husband stay fit, as well as meet likeminded people.â
LIVING COMMUNITY | 53
The Bellac Belles When a group of women in Bellac decided theyâd like to play netball, there was no local club to cater for them. However, they didnât let that stop them. Claudia Ryan-Jones â who is well used to negotiating French admin in her role in a hand-holding service â along with friends Sue Jones and Vikki Nash applied to the Sous-PrĂŠfecture and set up their own association. âWe discovered we needed to get the Maire on board and find a venue to train,â says Claudia. âSo we set up a meeting to explain the game, as itâs not a well-known sport in France. He gave us the green light.â After next organising a venue with the director of sports for the local area, the women took on the roles of President and Treasurers, required roles for
an association. âThere was no cost involved â we had to provide signed statutes from the club setting out our aims, then go through a Process verbal, which was our first meeting as a club to set up the association, signed by all members. Insurance was taken out with the bank, and costs around âŹ110 per year for the club.â The team have also been sponsored by a local Estate Agent, Chris Summers at Beaux Villages, and raised funds to buy equipment. As well as the pleasure of playing a much loved sport, Claudia has discovered many benefits to being in the âBellac Belles Netball Clubâ. âWe meet once a week on a Monday evening and thereâs a great community mix of ages, abilities and both men and women,â says Claudia. âWe are proud of the club weâve created â people travel from up to an hour away to train once a week. The club is going from strength to strength.â Find out more on FB: Bellac Belles Netball Club or email: bellacbelles@gmail.com
Gillian Harvey is a freelance writer and author living in the Limousin. Her latest novel âThe Bordeaux Book Clubâ has just been released with Boldwood Books.
British citizens who have been living abroad for more than 15 years can now vote in UK Parliament general elections and by-elections. If you have lived abroad for less than 15 years, you can still vote in these elections as before. You will have to confirm your details again every three years, and re-apply for your postal or proxy vote at the same time. These changes do not apply to local, Scottish Parliament, Senedd or Northern Ireland Assembly elections.
To find out more, including how to register to vote, visit electoralcommission.org.uk/overseasvoters or scan the QR code.
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Weâre regularly at local markets: Tue/Fri: Civray Wed/Sat: Ruffec Thu: SauzĂŠ-Vaussais Sunday: Verteuil
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lapetitefermedalpagas.com 06 70 62 24 39 14 Rue RenĂŠ III Comte de Sanzay 79150
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A half hectare fenced field with dog play platforms, picnic benches, wet weather viewing cabin, changing rooms, bubble entry⌠and more! 4 play sessions per week. Behaviour, agility & hoopers training. We are a super friendly canine community.
2 Rue de lâAbbe Paul Guillon CHATAIN 86250
MR. PIANO MAN All types of pianos restored, reconditioned & repaired
Insulated bedrooms, Individual exercise areas Heat lamps & Sneeze barriers Small family-run cattery Unit sizes regulated by FAB LOOF registered www.le-cattery.com kirstyflos@gmail.com
Piano Tuning Ex-BBC London Piano Tuner with a lifetime experience in the piano trade
07 81 59 59 39
Suaux 16260
www.caniparc16.com Caniparc16
Please call by to visit the le-cattery. We look forward to meeting your feline friends Dan, Kirsty & family
16, 17, 79 and west Vienne
Tel: 05 45 21 16 13 E: mr-piano-man@hotmail.com
Hot Tubs and Saunas in France
KICK BACK and RELAX
www.hottubsinfrance.com ~ FR 07 49 19 46 84 ~ UK 07 845 754 049
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SIRET: 51031234100017
Animal Care, Pianos
LE-CATTERY PENSION POUR CHATS
Come and discover what makes our little alpaca farm so special
After summer your skin may be looking dull so give your skin a clarifying boost this winter with an Intense Light or LED Facial. Advanced treatments bespoke to your needs
Wellbeing
Siret: 509 861 902 00013
Visit Alison, Julie, Stephanie & Laura at...
56
Insurance and asset management advice in English
BH Assurances
Hello, my name is Isabelle Want. For the - INVESTMENTS - what is available, what rate, etc. past 9 years, I have been working for - LIFE INSURANCE - how to protect your loved ones Allianz as an asset manager. Being married to an Englishman and having lived - FUNERAL COVER - preparing for the inevitable, unfortuin the UK for 8 years gives me a better nately! - TOP UP HEALTH INSURANCE - why you need it and how insight into what British people are experiencing and what they need. Being French and born much it is in the Charente has enabled me to offer some answers. - INSURANCES - get a free quote to see if you can save I am, as always, available for any free advice on the follow- money ing subjects: We also have a dedicated bilingual person to deal with - INHERITANCE LAW - who inherits, how much are death claims. And, finally, we have an English website with all duties, what solutions exist sorts of useful information and tips on all of the above - TAXES - everybodyâs fear! Annual tax forms in May, etc. subjects.
HELP WITH ALL FRENCH ADMINISTRATION MATTERS Administrative Assistance & Solutions Private Individuals & Small Businesses Translator: English (cert.), French, Portuguese (cert.) & Spanish Professional Liability Insurance 3 place Gambetta 86400 CIVRAY Office: 09.50.52.27.68 M: 06.33.11.64.05 eloisa@efficientranslations.fr www.efficientranslations.fr
10 bld du 8 mai 1945 16110 La Rochefoucauld tel : 05 45 63 54 31 102 ave de la RÊpublique 16260 Chasseneuil sur Bonnieure tel : 05 45 39 51 47 N° ORIAS : 07020908
www.bh-assurances.fr
Email: isabelle.want@bh-assurances.fr
Val Assist
The Fixer
Experience you need....Results you want
Siret No 520 382 805 00049
Help & Advice
Contact Isabelle directly Mobile: 06 17 30 39 11
22 rue Jean Jaures 16700 Ruffec tel : 05 45 31 01 61
Translation Services
PROFESSIONAL ADMINISTRATIVE HELP
Fluent French speaker, professionally qualified with over 20 years âhands onâ experience assisting expats in France
Translations, Health, Tax, Legal Paperwork, Telephone Calls, Property, Banking, Business Services, Residency
Personal and Professional Taxation, Tax Regularisation, VLS Visas and Full Residency Packages Business Set Ups and much more...
Val Assist provides clear explanations about the French system, advice on the best way to sort out problems and generally acts for people on their behalf in French. ASSISTANCE ALL OVER FRANCE
Call Rick Denton now on 06 46 25 30 87 or Email: mailthefixer@gmail.com www.corporateandlegal.org
Covering All areas of France and International Siren: 818 390 916
Find out more: www.valassist.com ValĂŠrie PATARD 1, rue Basse 85370 Mouzeuil-Saint-Martin Tel: +33 (0)6 84 78 21 57 Email: contact@valassist.com Orias: 07007057
HELP & ADVICE
Help & Advice, Insurance
Established since 2004 Depts 16, 17, 79, 86 Expert in French Administration Carte de SĂŠjour CPAM & ANTS Personal Taxation Legal matters Phone calls & meetings Andrew Harrison
Tel: 05 46 96 44 11 askandrewnow@hotmail.com www.askandrewnow.com SIRET 453 520 298 00010
SOLUTIONS Comprehensive administration services for individuals and businesses
English Speaking Ask for Corinne
For all your insurance needs in France
Special discount for new owners - 50% off the first year Fully comprehensive covers at competitive prices and all explained in ENGLISH. We respond quickly to enquiries and in the case of accidents or claims, we are here to help. Offices at Champdeniers and St Pardoux (79). Come and visit us.
Agence Michallon Tel: 05.49.25.87.06 Corinne.michallon@mutpoitiers.fr
solutions-france.com M: 07 80 44 37 00 solutions16700 Chemin des Gordins, 16700 Ruffec contactsolutionsfrance@gmail.com
Karen and her team of associates are here to help you with: 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
Siret N°48825664500018
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4 4 4 4 4 4
Vehicle registration, driving licenses Access to financial aid Legal paperwork Dispute mediation All administrative services and phone calls Advice and assistance on government grants for homeowners
All areas of France covered Call us for Accountancy Recommendations Fully Insured Simplis Pro/ CNPM Mediation
These local businesses are waiting for your call!
EI / SIRET: 510046261 00010
57
FOR SALE FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION Over 60 handwoven oriental carpets Each carpet is unique in its beauty and colouring a work of art in itself A great investment for the future Save up to 40% from retail prices No reasonable offer is refused
For an appointment to visit (near Saint-JeandâAngĂŠly), contact Harry on 06 40 25 75 63
We find the best insurer for you, at competitive rates
MOTOR, HOUSE, BUSINESS, TRAVEL MEDICAL insurance: top up and for Residency Permits
For information and quotes contact Penny pennym.gsar@orange.fr G.S.A.R. 05 53 40 15 71
Kingâs Community Church Poitou-Charentes A Fellowship of faithful Worldwide Anglicans committed to Gospel Mission. We are passionate about planting, strengthening and partnering for the Salvation of many and the Glory of God. SERVICES 1st Sunday in the barn at 16 rue des Bons Enfant, 86510 Chaunay at 11am 3rd Sunday in Champagne Mouton Parish room at 10:30am You will be warmly welcomed kingschurchcharente.com
 Â
English Speaking Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd, Poitou-Charentes A warm welcome awaits you at Sunday services in our centres in: Courcelles (17400) Cognac (16100) Champagne-Mouton (16076) Chef Boutonne (79110) and online All details can be found on churchinfrance.com
If you, or someone you know, has a drinking problem, join one of the English-speaking AA meetings across the south west of France. Alcoholics Anonymous is a Fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others recover from alcoholism. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help others achieve sobriety. For help or information, telephone: 05 31 60 90 95 or visit: www.aafrance.net All enquiries are treated in the strictest conďŹdence.
Frapa
IT Service & Support
Did you know? There are Englishspeaking lodges in France. Our lodge in Saintes (17) meets 6 times a year. If you would like to find out more, email: david.brieger@neuf.fr Freemasonry in France
IT Help & Advice Problem Solving, Repair & Maintenance Website Creation & Management Data Security Guaranteed frapaconsultants@gmail.com www.frapaconsultants.com 06 29 61 47 88 Siret: 889 641 726 00019
Furniture for France Quality UK furniture direct to your door in France Furniture for your bedrooms, dining room and lounge From sofas to mattresses, wardrobes to dining tables, all just one phone call away Look at our website to see the latest ranges available 20 yearsâ experience & great customer service
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Tel: +44 7845 272 242 Email: info@furnitureforfrance.co.uk www.furnitureforfrance.co.uk
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Assos, Chimney Sweep, IT
Freemasons
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
Insurance, Churches, Assos
INDEPENDENT BROKERS
58
CARPETS AND COFFEE! Thereâs really only one way to choose a carpet - thatâs to see it and touch it! - the way it feels plays a very important part when youâre selecting what suits you. While we still make free home visits (over 200 during 2022) with plenty of samples, you can come to our showroom and see the thousands of options we offer, whether youâre looking for carpets, vinyl, LVT ...... or anything flooring! As we go into Spring, why not come and see us at our showroom in Treignac (19260) thereâs a couple of decent restaurants nearby or at the very least come in and have a coffee with us! Obviously things have changed over the past few years and since Brexit we source a large part of our ranges directly from European manufacturers, which negates
any import or customs duties. In fact many Belgian companies, for example, send half their manufacturing output to the UK so they are the type and style we are used to seeing. This doesnât mean we donât still import from the UK - some of the best carpets in the world are manufactured in Britain, especially good quality wool materials - and we still have direct accounts with many of the more important UK suppliers. So, we can offer the best that both the UK and European manufacturers offer with a huge range of samples here for you to see and feel! As we are a small family business, please let us know if you are making a special journey to see us - weâd hate to miss you!
jonthecarpetman
E: jonthecarpetman@gmail.com 09 63 56 23 10 / 06 42 19 82 12
what3words: underlay.numbing.decamp
A family business established in 1985 offering a quality, professional service
FRANGLAIS DELIVERIES Moving In France?
PM
Full & Part Loads
CARPETS & FLOORING
Relocations in France
For all your flooring needs
⢠We supply fit range a range of carpets to&suit all budgets We supply & ďŹtand a wide of carpets, vinyl luxury vinyl tiles Over yearâs in thewood trade, and 100%ceramic customertile satisfaction ⢠We40also fitexperience amtico, vinyl, â˘Contact Over 25 years experience, 100% customer satisfaction Paula selection on 06 60of07wool 54 78 or 05 45 84 27 75 ⢠Now selling and mixed fibre rugs E: paul.marshall@pmcarpetsandďŹooring.com See our FB page at PMCarpets or our website
Contact Paul on 06 60 07 54 78 or 05 45 84 27 75
www.pmcarpetsandflooring.com www.pmcarpetsandďŹooring.com
Packing & Storage Options Siret: 502 021 660 00019
Flooring, Transport
www.jon-thecarpetman.com
SHOWROOM ADDRESS
22 route de Gueret, Les Rivières, 19260 TREIGNAC
FRANGLAIS DELIVERIES
Tel: 05 49 07 24 85 E: franglaisdeliveries@gmail.com
Franglais Deliveries
FRANKLINS REMOVALS Packing services ⢠Customs clearance Full/part loads to and from the UK Vehicles transported ⢠Containerised storage Competitive prices ⢠Transit /storage insurance Call - 0044 121 353 7263 or Email - sales@franklinsremovals.co.uk
www.franklinsremovals.co.uk
lly nt ts Fu ersa xpor nv e co UK ti h Cars, Boats and Caravans a speciality w
Transport
C J Logistics
Full or part loads undertaken - a box to a full removal Full European coverage Secure storage available in France and UK UK depot available for deliveries Every item is covered by GIT and CMR insurances Full trade references available
E: cjlouch1@gmail.com Tel: 09 83 70 01 33 | Mob: 06 61 25 41 09
Transport Services, Concierge
YOUR ONE-STOP TRANSPORT SERVICE
These local businesses are waiting for your call!
The UKâs Premium Pet Transport Company Regular trips throughout Europe Services tailored to your needs DEFRA Type 2 licensed, custom built vans
www.gofetch-ltd.com gofetchltd@hotmail.co.uk T: +44 (0)7855 401 102 T: +44 (0)1932 875 227
59
Garden Services Pool Care GĂŽte Services Home Cleaning & Maintenance Check out our website for more information about all our services 05.45.25.05.37 | www.charenteassistance.fr
SMART MOVES European Transport Special rates to SW France 13.6m / 45ft trailer Full/Part loads Removals - Vehicles - Materials Owner Driver RHA member Tel: +44 (0)7768 867 360 Fax +44 (0)1773 570 090 Fr Mobile: +33 (0)6 23 03 85 59 enquiriesgwe@gmail.com www.georgewhiteeuropean.co.uk
Owner/operator cost effective transporter Hundreds of successful cross Channel deliveries Read our 5-star reviews on Trustpilot
Weekly services UK-France-UK Hassle-free customs clearance Full house - Part loads - Single items French / English speaking crew
FREE 30-day trial: www.livingmagazine.fr
âI would recommend Dave again and againâ âExcellent serviceâ
Contact David Glenn davidrexin@gmail.com
www.palmaexp.com
CALL STEPHEN ON +44 (0) 7966 287430 smartmovesremovals.com smartmovers@hotmail.co.uk | FB: smartmovesukfrance
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Learn French the fun way!
Transport, Language
George White
UK & OVERSEAS REMOVALS & STORAGE
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60
POOL PROBLEMS? CONSULT THE EXPERTS ⢠Pool renovations ⢠Hi-tech leak detection ⢠Underground pipe repairs ⢠Liner replacement and fitting ⢠Automatic dosing systems ⢠Pump/filtration/pool technical rooms ⢠Pool heating/heat pumps ⢠Maintenance/cleaning contracts ⢠Home buyer/seller diagnostic reports
F o r Po o l s ⢠Installation ⢠Leak Detection & Repair
Complete Pool Care
⢠Liner Replacement
For Building ⢠Property Renovation
rjcpoolservices.com enquiries@rjcpoolservices.com
t: +33 (0) 549 290135 t: +33 (0) 785 372144
⢠General Building Work
Full DĂŠcennale Insurance siret: 897 609 293
POOLS BY JONATHAN Agent and installer for several rectangular & shaped pools including Seablue & Astral Pools FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL SERVICE Competitive prices, try me for a quote Terracing and landscaping service also available ALL WORK GUARANTEED www.poolsbyjonathan.com phone 0549840362 mobile 0622361056
Siret: 827 978 636 00013
Gardening | Home Maintenance 05.45.25.05.37 www.charenteassistance.fr
Pools, Cherry Pickers
FOR POOLS AND PROPERTY RENOVATION
SIRET 47994761600021
Pools & Pool services
------ 20 years doing business in france -----06 3117 25 60 vendeepools@gmail.com
BECK CHERRY PICKER HIRE Nacelle Telescopique
17m tracked cherry picker with IPAF operator For all exterior works: roofing, painting, tree cutting etc. Hourly, daily or weekly rates Based in south 86, can transport as required
www.beckcherrypickerhire.com Tel: 07 84 12 44 97
E: beckcherrypickerhire@gmail.com
These local businesses are waiting for your call!
61
ARC EN CIEL Nettoyage Professionnel
F1M 414 & F1L 514 1936-1956
www.nettoyage-services-dordogne.fr PROFESSIONAL CLEANING & HYGIENE SERVICES
Siret: 813 442 860 00017
Ian Dickinson
ShinYeon Kang:
Architect DE (B.ARCH,MA)
BSc (Hons)
in any condition dans nâimporte quel ĂŠtat
Call Jon on 05 49 97 10 17 E: jon@energic.info
Trained-Approved & recommended by SPANC
ID Planning & Design
0619213608 racine16700@gmail.com
Planning and designs for permis de construire and dĂŠclaration prĂŠalables for extensions, renovations, conversions and new builds.
Architect DPLG & Conservation
Departments: 16, 17, 24, 79, 86 & 87
House survey, historical building, renovation, interior design, New building, extension covered area 79/86/16
Louis Pacault:
Ordre des Architectes : N°072543 SIRET : 513 320 770 00059
A : 5 rue du four des pierres 16700 Ruffec
Siret: 492 277 918 00024
Mob: 06.02.33.90.58
E: iancdickinson1960@gmail.com
FOSSE AND GROUNDWORKS (79) SPECIALISTS IN FOSSE INSTALLATION
www.southwestfrancefosse.com Email: sudouestconstruction16@gmail.com
fosseandgroundworks79@hotmail.com
06 04 14 84 86 06 35 97 49 10
SIRET: 882 747 348
Installations of all types of Micro Stations / Compact filters and Fosse septiques
Complete, hassle-free package including all necessary paperwork, SPANC liason and certification Own plant & equipment Fully registered and insured
Emptying of grease traps, fosse septiques, filtre compacts & micro stations. Cleaning & maintenance of all types of sewage treatment plants.
fosseandgroundworks79.com Machine and driver hire Drainage - Driveways - Foundations Trench digging for elec/water/services Tree stump removal Ground clearance
David GABARD T: 06 71 83 16 69 / 05 49 87 27 29 E: info@vf-services.fr 2 Verrières, 86400 CHAMPNIERS Covering south 86 & 79, north 16
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Fosse Septiques & Services
Southwest France Fosse
SIRET : 922 0613 0187 00017
Cleaning
Key holding / conciergerie. Cleaning of commercial and domestic premises and window cleaning. Rugs, carpet & upholstery steam shampoo extraction. Hard floors / surfaces treatment: marble, granite, terracotta etc & wood floor parquet. Swimming pool & garden maintenance. Office: 05 53 07 52 71 (9 to 18.00) Mobile: 06 31 31 06 76 / 06 70 39 83 96 arcencielnettoyage24@gmail.com
Architect & Interior Designer
Looking for old DEUTZ tractors
62
Enershop â renewable energy heating systems for your property Enershop have been installing renewable energy systems in France since 2008. Each system designed and installed is specifically for your needs, whether your property is a new
build, extension or a renovation, whether it is a cottage, chalet or château - the flexibility of our systems means there is a solution for all. We offer a free devis, with no obligation and no hard sell. Now is the time to consider a renewable heating system. There are reduced rates of TVA available and significant incentives for systems installed by Enershop as we
Building services, Artisans
Tel: 07 67 04 07 53
Email: info@enershop.eu
hold the QualiSol and QualiBois accreditation. Our website www.enershop.eu has lots of information on our services which include : ⢠Solar thermal domestic hot water ⢠Wood gasification boilers ⢠Wood / Pellet boiler stoves ⢠Pellet boilers ⢠Accumulation tanks ⢠Air source heat pumps
⢠Central and underfloor heating systems ⢠Swimming pool / hot tub heating
Website: www.enershop.eu
Ambroise PRĂE
For Building FOR POOLS AND PROPERTY RENOVATION
⢠Property Renovation ⢠General Building Work
rjcpoolservices.com enquiries@rjcpoolservices.com
F o r Po o l s ⢠Installation ⢠Leak Detection & Repair ⢠Liner Replacement
t: +33 (0) 549 290135 t: +33 (0) 785 372144 Full DĂŠcennale Insurance siret: 897 609 293
Plumbing - Heating Chimney sweeping Full service with certificate (boiler, fuel, wood, gaz) Installation of Wood Burners Registered RGE QUALIBOIS Fully insured with over 15 yearsâ experience ambroise1204@hotmail.fr Tel: 06 58 86 55 91
Enershop
Jb Plumbing & Renovations
Kitchen & Bathroom Installations Plumbing repairs, Tiling Plaster boarding, Flooring, Decorating, Interiors, Electrical Tel: 06 29 90 24 89 E: mrbirky2@yahoo.com
English spoken
Based in dept 79 near SauzĂŠ-Vaussais Fully insured
Siret: 900 570 490 00012
Siret: 804 390 862 000 14
30km around 86400 (Saint Macoux)
WINDOWS ~ DOORS ~ GLASS STRUCTURES SHUTTERS ~ FLY SCREENS ~ BI-FOLDS Over 20 yearsâ trade experience in both the UK & France with a dedicated British team, here to help your dream project become a reality
www.upvcmaster.fr www.windowsinfrance.co.uk +33 (0)754 55 60 86 Upvcmaster.fr@gmail.com Follow us on social media @upvcmaster.fr Siret: 911 734 127 00010
Aluminium, Wood and uPVC options available in all colours, manufactured in Europe. We feature brands such as KOMMERLING, CORTIZO & VEKA
FREE DESIGN, PLANNING & COSTING SERVICE CONTACT US TODAY FULLY REGISTERED FRENCH BUSINESS DECENNAL INSURED ~ SATISFACTION GUARANTEED
These local businesses are waiting for your call!
Affordable UK Designs
UPVC & Aluminium Double Glazing, Fitted Kitchens
63
FREE PLAN, DESIGN & COSTING THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST FRANCE - OTHER AREAS BY ARRANGEMENT www.affordableukdesigns.com UPVC Windows, Doors & Conservatories in all colours & styles. Aluminium and UPVC Bifold doors Made to âAâ Grades spec in French styles! Phone: 05 49 42 99 41 Mobile: 06 63 71 09 81 E: scott.braddock1@yahoo.com SIRET: 513 577 809 00017
Excavations | Groundworks Hard landscaping Pool & patio installation Concrete works - washed, polished, brushed Mini excavator for hire Based in 17
06 08 92 28 58 05 46 24 65 20 (land line) E: richardgrzywacz@ gmail.com
Wooden shutters made, restored and spray painted Metal shutters sandblasted Exterior / Interior walls airless spray-painted Over 30 yearsâ experience All areas covered Contact Alan Tel 05 45 21 72 01 Mobile 07 80 00 51 65 amccontracts2@gmail.com
âś âś âś âś
General Engineering Turning, Milling, Welding Quality & Precision Guaranteed
Ornate interior / exterior designs Gates constructed / refurbished Industrial furniture General Welding ~ Over 25 yearâs experience ~ Mob: 07 77 83 77 10 or 0044 7917 03 02 49 jeff@jeffsmetalwork.com
Forgeix, 87200 Saint Junien
05 55 71 41 75
frasereade87@gmail.com www.latelierdefer.com Siret: 512 945 874 00018
Siret: 811 895 309 00011
ANDY MS
Kitchens & Bathrooms from A-Z All leading Brands All associated minor works, modifications and repairs also undertaken e.g.. replace Kitchen worktops, taps, toilets etc. Dept. 16, 17
Barry Baldwin Cabinet Maker & Joiner Furniture Restoration Manufacture of staircases, doors & cupboards 16240 La FĂ´ret de Tesse T: 05 45 30 39 85 becb709@gmail.com Covering depts 16, 79 & 86
05 46 49 78 30 / 06 70 40 66 01
website: andyms.free.fr email: andyms@free.fr
Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating services Flooring Plasterboarding Providing a quality service since 2005
Interior and exterior painting Paper hanging, tiling, flooring & dry lining
Kevin Smith
ADAM BLACKABY Artisan Peintre T: 05 45 98 07 25 M: 06 23 18 30 95
16100 Chateaubernard 05 45 36 46 70 / 06 72 21 80 27 lifeboatmoose@wanadoo.fr www.mmpropertymaintenance.fr
adamblackaby@aol.com
JAMES RICHARDSON
SEAN THEOBALD EI
Imajica Joinery ESTABLISHED COMPANY, CONSCIENTIOUS & RELIABLE SERVICE For a superior finish in wood, tile, plasterboard and general restoration Specialising in kitchen fitting & creative challenges
Areas 16, 17, 24, 33, 79, 86 Siret: 441 490 992 00027
Carpenter All elements of 1st and 2nd fix carpentry undertaken Over 35 years experience specialising in, but not limited to High-End Residential and Heritage Projects T: 07 80 53 54 11 E: seantheobald@outlook.com Based in 17240
05 49 87 09 63
siret:50263448800014
Drylining Ceilings / suspended flat / apex / joist infills Partition walls Hydro wet rooms
Depts 16 & 17
Siret: 804476 034 00017
âś âś âś âś
Siret: 48115588500017
Ensuites / walk in wardrobes Acoustic and thermal insulation Plastering skim and set Tape & jointing
Established in France in 2009
ALL TYPES OF DRYWALL WORK COVERED SIRET: 514 636 257 00016 ALL WORKS COVERED BY ASSURANCE DĂCENNALE
Phone: 06 38 68 72 53 www.drywall-solutions.fr info@drywall-solutions.fr
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Siret: 848 507 042 00010
Building services, Artisans
HAVE YOUR SHUTTERS SEEN BETTER DAYS?
Fraser W. Eade
PAINTER & DECORATOR
Siret 482 718 640 00022
Formed in 2019, building on 30 years in all sectors of the construction industry
M&M PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
LâAtelier de Fer
Building services, Artisans
Jeffâs Metalwork E I
www.jeffsmetalwork.com
64
Entreprise Quick SARL Zinc work ~ Guttering ~ Chimneys Repairs ~ Insurance Quotes
BLISHE TA
D
ES
The Roofing Company
07 SINCE 20 N
I
Registered artisan with DĂŠcennale & Civile ResponsabilitĂŠ Insurance Covering depts 79, 86 & 16
FRANCE
www.building-services-france.com E: andrewquick@orange.fr ~ T: 05 49 27 22 67 Siret: 979 679 248 00018
AABA ROOFING FRANCE Ecuras 16220
Assurance DĂŠcennale
Quality Roofing & Building
for you
New roofs ~ Slate and tiling Fibreglass flat roofing ~ Repairs Gutters and facias UPVC or zinc All leadwork ~ Timberwork References available
aabaroofingfrance@gmail.com 05 45 63 52 88 / 07 80 08 85 76
Siret 53210969100024
www.aabaroofingfrance.com These local businesses are waiting for your call!
65
Established reputable builder in Charente From basic changes to complete renovations, bathrooms, kitchens, floor and wall tiling, dry-lining & more Guaranteed customer satisfaction Contact me for a free no-obligation quotation Based near La Rochefoucauld, covering areas 16, 86 & 79 T: 05 45 95 44 34 or 06 98 29 76 45 E: graham.medhurst@orange.fr
A1SL COUVERTURE
(ROOFING SERVICES)
Shaun B LLOYD
A1SL COUVERTURE is a new French based company serving dept. 79, 86, 16, 17, 87, 85, 24 & 33 with well-established roofing experience previously based in the UK. We pride ourselves on top quality workmanship and excellent customer service. We have built a solid reputation over 25 years in the UK and receive most of our work from customer recommendations. WE COVER ALL ASPECTS OF ROOFING WORK FROM SMALL DOMESTIC REPAIRS, ROOF CLEANING AND LARGE NEW ROOF PROJECTS UTILIZING CLAY TILES AND SLATE; SPECIALIST IN LEAD WORK. Registered with the Repertoire des MĂŠtiers, siren: 877 636 050
Mobile: + 33.(0).6.95.49.60.89 Email: contacta1slroofing@gmail.com www.a1slroofing.com All work is fully guaranteed and we are fully insured. Our services are available 6 days a week, no-obligation free estimate and no call-out fee up to 70km.
Experienced, French Registered Electrician Available for all types of electrical work renovations, small works, gate automations etc. Insured and guaranteed Areas 16, 17, 24
05 46 86 07 61
trevor.miell@btopenworld.com Siret 49376573200015
ktaylor.renovations@gmail.com Javarzay, 79110 Chef-Boutonne Siren: 478 608 185 00011
ANDY MS Multi Services
Plumbing Electricity Plasterboarding Tiling Satellite dishes and Systems for the reception of UK and French TV Dept. 16,17 No Job too Small
05 46 49 78 30 / 06 70 40 66 01
website: andyms.free.fr email: andyms@free.fr siret:50263448800014
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Building services, Artisans
ELECTRICIAN
Tel 05 17 30 18 35 Mobile 06 33 85 65 66
Building services, Artisans
Graham Medhurst Renovations
66 | LIVING LANGUAGE
Pardon?
I
donât know about you, but 2023 seemed to be the year when AI became a part of our language. Many of us will have found ourselves using words in one language or another that simply werenât part of our vocabulary this time last year. Algorithms, artificial intelligence, chatbots, machine learning, neural networks and cognitive computing are not words that this writer ever thought sheâd find herself needing in her lifetime, thatâs for sure! If youâre a newbie, un petit nouveau or une petite nouvelle, then these may be breaking new ground for you. Maybe, though, theyâre old hat. The longer weâre embedded in a culture, the more we can find ourselves using one version rather than the other, leaving us further and further adrift from our mother tongue as our new vocabulary strengthens, deepens and advances where our maternal language stagnates. I confess there are times when I donât know the English for new stuff anymore, where the French version has been assimilated without much thought. Then I find myself trying to reverse engineer the French and anglicise it, hoping itâs the same. Harder still is the fact that some terms are very different in French and English. Even basic things like un ordi or un ordinateur for a computer are not something we can just anglicise as âun computeurâ and get away with if we forget the words. Although we find brands such as PCs or Macbooks retain their names, French isnât simply anglicising the technological words weâre so familiar with. Sure, we may find lâappli from lâapplication to be fairly sensible given Anglophones call it an app, and instagrammable works on both sides of the Channel, but le moissonnage de donnĂŠes might not be quite as easy to
ChatGPTâs interpretation of a chatbot
translate (itâs data harvesting in case you were wondering). Many terms are those we can just work out. Un algorithme is not that different from âan algorithmâ. Lâapprentissage automatique is not too far from âautomatic learningâ and thatâs a short step to âmachine learningâ. Sometimes, of course, French speakers might say lâapprentissage machine. âGenerative AIâ simply becomes IA gĂŠnĂŠrative. Like many acronyms or initialisms which involve adjectives and nouns in English, these can be reversed in French, so MRI for âmagnetic resonance imagingâ becomes IRM, imagerie par rĂŠsonance magnĂŠtique. NATO - the âNorth Atlantic Treaty Organisationâ - becomes OTAN in French, (Organisation du traitĂŠ de lâAtlantique Nord) in the same way that Artificial Intelligence becomes lâIntelligence artificielle. With a bit of chopping and changing, we can probably work out what the French or English might be for any of these new terms that have become part of our daily conversations. Even so, there are plenty of words that donât have the same form in French as they do in English. NumĂŠrique for âdigitalâ is one good example.
A brave new world with language expert Emma-Jane Lee Chatbots get a little more complicated, not least because le chat in French is clearly a furry feline rather than a friendly conversation. ChatGPT was never going to cope well in French where it so closely resembles chat, jâai pĂŠtĂŠ or âCat, I fartedâ when you pronounce it French style. As with all new words that enter the French vocabulary, there are always proper French versions, even if they arenât the words commonly in use, so you may hear Chatbots referred to as agents conversationnels or even un dialogueur. Living in the age of automated houses may feel like something out of a Ray Bradbury novel or an episode of The Jetsons, we may find ourselves talking about lâautomatisation des ĂŠquipements or la domotique. This is definitely not something most of us will have learned in school! La maison connectĂŠe or âsmart homeâ was definitely not in my Longman French textbook back in the 80s! You can of course opt for la maison intelligente if you like. Une maison domotisĂŠe doesnât just protect your home, keeping the inside and outside under surveillance, but also manages heating and helps save you time as well, apparently. This is especially true if it takes you a very long time to go around and shut your shutters or switch your lights on and off. I donât know about you, but shutting shutters is a seminal part of the French experience for me, so I wonât be opting for having a robot house via un assistant vocal do it all for me. Le pilotage Ă distance or remote management system is not just for les drones but for your radiators as well. A brave new world, indeed! Emma is a jack-of-all-language-trades, writing English textbooks, translating, marking exam scripts and teaching languages. See english-tuition.weebly.com
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