Living Magazine August/September 15

days out ~ recipes ~ gardening ~ nature ~ local news

What to doWhere to shopWho to call!

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inside:stunning sarlatseaside jewels& much more...

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aug | sept 2015

Making the most of suMMer

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Editor: Kathryn dobson FEAtUrES Editor: roger Moss AdvErtiSing: Jon dobson Art Editor: nadia van den rym ProdUction MAnAgEr: Justin Silvester

rEgUlAr contribUtorS: Trevor Bridge, Ron Cousins, Sandie George, Emma-Jane Lee, Nikki Legon, Chris Luck and Stig Tomas.

WitH tHAnKS to: John and Gill Bowler, Julia Moss PHotogrAPHy: Shutterstock or Roger Moss unless indicated. covEr iMAgE: Summer’s evening in Sarlat © Roger Moss PUbliSHEd by: SARL AMM, 2 Rue Buffefeu, 86400 Linazay FRANCE. Poitiers: 533 624 128. PrintEd by: Rotimpres S.A., Pla De L’estany S/N,17181 Aiguaviva, Espagne. dépôt légal: A parution. iSSn: 0753-3454. Living Magazine is free. Living Magazine est disponible gratuitement. All material may not be reproduced without the written permission of SARL AMM. Toute reproduction même partielle du contenu est interdit sans l’accord écrit du magazine. Please ensure you verify that the company you are dealing with is a registered trading company in France and/or else-where around the world. Articles in this issue do not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine.

August/September 2015

Wow, what a start to summer we have had! Sunshine and more sunshine - it’s been ideal for getting out and about and making the most of living here. Don’t forget that you can still pick up a free copy of our Ultimate Summer Guide to help you find new corners to explore in the weeks ahead. But it’s not all been partying this summer.

While seeking respite from the heat, we’ve relaunched our website at www.livingmagazine.fr. Here you can read the latest magazines online, search for interesting articles and keep up- to-date with our new blog. We had an amazing 30,000 visitors in the first weekend alone so we hope you will come along and join us online.

As always, we bring Living Magazine to you absolutely free so we hope you use the services advertised in return. Don’t forget that happy advertisers are behind every edition of Living Magazine!

À bientôt

56-63MArKEt PlAcEThe best services & suppliers across the region

64WHAt’S on around the region

For All EditoriAl & SUbScriPtion EnqUiriES: [email protected] or telephone + 33 (0)5 49 87 29 71 For All AdvErtiSing: [email protected] or telephone Jon on +33 (0)5 49 87 29 71 SUbScriPtionS StArt At only €32 For Six EditionS see www.livingmagazine.fr for more information

4SnippetsNews from around the region

16So SarlatDiscover the medieval town of Sarlat-le-Canéda at the heart of the Périgord Noir with Roger Moss

22quay SightFor a fascinating day out, visit the recently enlarged Musée Maritime de La Rochelle

26Pardon! More language musings with Emma-Jane Lee

28Pond lifeOnce the focus of daily rituals, Chris Luck explores the importance of ponds in today’s countryside

31Free SpiritWe chart l’Hermione’s triumphant voyage to America and look forward to her return to Rochefort 34 bay WatchStylish Arcachon is only a short drive away - we ask why it is such a popular holiday destination

38 nikki legon’s cuisine Gourmet burger recipes to inspire the BBQ season

42Hook, line and Sinker Popular with diners and fishermen alike, Ron Cousins finds the best spots for fishing for sea bass

43the Wheelbarow gardener Trevor Bridge suggests ways to add late summer colour to your garden

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PrActicAl living

49Useful informationand expert advice

52living Property Pages We visit Luçon in Vendée

65UpbeatOur regular look at live music

66 book review with Sandie George

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WelcomeGreat days out! FESTIVALS • ACTIVITIES • FAMILY ATTRACTIONS • FOOD & DRINKFoLLoW tHe suN! bEACHES • GARDENS • CHATEAUX • MARKETS & LOTS MORE

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Little Greene

Somewhat Grey, La Rochefoucauld is now stocking the complete range of Little Greene paints and wallpapers. Known for their specialist paint quality and finishes, heritage paint colours and stunning wallpapers based on historic designs, Little Greene extends the range of decorative paints and products in the SG boutique, which already stocks the Autentico range of chalk paints. Manufactured since 1773, Little Greene paints can be used on walls, ceilings, woodwork, floors, brickwork, front doors,

shutters and radiators too. Colours are created using up to 40% more pigment than ordinary paints to give real character - Little Greene is used within historic buildings throughout the UK. Deborah from SG adds: “Little Greene is ideal for the type of buildings we find in France, which need specialist paint adapted for older buildings. The paints are environmentally-friendly, child friendly and certified to the highest European regulations.” The complete Little Greene range is available in the SG boutique – trade and retail enquiries welcomed. See www.somewhatgrey.com FB: Somewhat Grey

Festi-classiqueIf you love classical music in marvellous surroundings then Festi-Classique is a must for you. From 30 August, seven concerts featuring renowned musicians will take place in the heart of some of the most famous cognac houses. Starting at Meukow with the Compass Trio performing Schubert and Mozart, you can follow the music to Domaine ABKD, Maison Jean Fillioux, Thomas Hine, Distillerie Pautier, Maison Baron Otard and the series culminates at Courvoisier with Soprano Chrystelle di Marco singing a Maria Callas themed programme on 15 September. Tickets cost 25€ and are available on www.festi-classique.com or at the Cognac Tourist Office.

Tucked away in the tiny Rouillacais village of Auge-Saint-Medard, Something Moore-ish is the vintage-style tea room recently opened by January Moore, famous for her jams, chutneys and award-winning lemon curd. “I supply my products to local shops and restaurants and have always wanted to open my own tea room,” explains January. “For health reasons, my diet is gluten-free and I find it hard to find cakes locally so this spurred me on.” As well as delicious cakes, all gluten-free, January serves cream teas with real Cornish clotted cream and organic, Fairtrade teas and coffees. “All my china is sourced from charity shops and nothing is supposed to match. If it does I will happily change it immediately!” Local chalk paint suppliers Couleurs de Vie have hand painted the furniture and you can

choose to sit inside or out. Currently open from Thursday to Saturday 10am-noon and 2-5pm, Something Moore-ish is also open on the 27th of each month to coincide with the market at Rouillac. Facebook: SomethingMooreish; tel 06 42 12 03 95. (Closed for holidays 23 July - Aug 12)

Forces Féminines en CharenteAfter a second successful event at Château du Maumont in April, Forces Féminines are moving to Cognac to host their third event in September. This time the Musée des Arts du Cognac (MACO) has invited the organisation to a private opening on Friday 25 September. As with the previous events, the exhibition will showcase female entrepreneurs of all nationalities living in Charente and neighbouring départements, as well as

host conferences (including one by the tax office). Starting at 3pm and finishing at 8pm, there will be refreshments throughout the event as well as the opportunity to visit this fascinating museum. Living Magazine is delighted to support Forces Féminines en Charente as they help women from all nationalities grow their network locally as well as meet their peers. Entry is open to both women and men and costs 11€ before the day and 15€ on the day. English and French will both be spoken. For full details see Facebook: FFenCharente or visit www.livingmagazine.fr.

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Art EXPOOver forty professional artists will be exhibiting and selling their works in the beautiful Cloisters at Chalais this summer. A wide selection of skills and objects will be on show including pottery, carvings, clothing and fashion accessories, tableware, lighting, metalwork, jewellery, knives, furniture and paintings so it will be the perfect place to shop for gifts and that special something for your home. As well as admiring the artworks, visitors are invited to join in the many demonstrations scheduled throughout the exhibition (from 2-6pm); felt making (26 Jul), clay modelling (2 Aug), lost wax casting of

bronze (9 Aug), leather (15 Aug), engraving and printing (16 Aug), and glass beads (23 Aug). running until 23 August, the Centre des Métiers d’Art de Charente exhibition is open daily from 10.30am-1pm and 2-7pm. the Château de Chalais is nearby and open for visits and meals at its gastronomic restaurant. For more information see www.centre metiersdart.fr or telephone 06 81 58 61 03.

DIARY DATEs!

The third Fête des Plantes de l’abbatiale will be held in the Priory grounds at Marcillac Lanville near Aigre on 13 September. 10am to 6pm, entry is 1€ for adults / children free. For information email [email protected].

Hennessy are celebrating their 250-year anniversary with a renovated visitor centre which they expect to re-open in September. Watch our website for more details.

Pass DecouvertePick up your Pass Découverte to get free entry to up to twelve different sites for the under-18s as well as reduced prices for the accompanying adult. Simply pay for the first site, get the Pass stamped, and the remaining sites will be at the special price. Each adult can take a maximum of two free children. The thirteen sites in the scheme include L’Eglise Souterraine at Aubeterre, La Maison du Patrimoine at Tusson and the chateaux at Balzac, Bayers, Etagnac, La Rochefoucauld and Villebois Lavalette. For full details see www.cg16.fr.


Translation ConnexionGetting to grips with French bureaucracy and procedures can be trying but Kate Sevoz, a French native who has spent many years living in the UK, can help. Moving back to France, she experienced life as an expat which highlighted just how stressful and frustrating it can be. Realising that she could help English speakers enjoy la belle vie, Kate founded ‘The Translation Connexion’, a one-stop shop that takes care of everything from chasing up French healthcare paperwork to getting a phone line connected. Kate explains: “As I am French, I understand the systems, know who to turn to and how to get problems resolved at minimal cost - this can be as important as the language.” Kate is based in La Rochelle and can help house-buyers and residents across France via

phone, email and Skype. Contact Kate on www.thetranslationconnexion.com or find her on Facebook, thetranslationconnexion, or Twitter,@KateSevoz_TTC.

Welcome Home!Returning from her successful maiden voyage to America (see page 31), the frigate Hermione will be setting sail from Brest for her base at Rochefort at the end of August. The celebrations begin on 26 August when sailing boats start to gather at Ré, la Rochelle, oléron, Fouras and the l’Île d’Aix for the ‘Semaine des Pertuis’ before they accompany Hermione as she sails up the charente estuary to Rochefort on Saturday, 29 August. The town will be celebrating all weekend with events, parades and, of course, fireworks and concerts all planned for the Saturday. There will be historical re-enactments including a period ball and a picnic at the corderie Royale on Sunday. For full details see www.rochefort–ocean.com.

Vertig’O PlageA new fun space has opened for families on the beach at Châtellailon Plage. A 1000m2 park has been installed which welcomes children over 5 years old. Including a 4x8m pool with water at 29°C for practicing sea kayaking and learning to swim, a 100m zip wire starting at a height of 4m and a Quickjump (where you leap off a platform 9m high), there’s plenty to get the adrenalin racing. Open until the 15 September, prices and times depend upon the activities you choose with all the details available on www.chatelaillon-plage-tourisme.fr.

Sites en Scènethe 2015 edition of Sites en Scène is underway across Charente-Maritime with several events still to come before the finale at Puy-du-lac on 23 august. Here, every summer, 220 volunteer villagers perform the story of a young Saintongaise couple as they travel from the past to the present day. For full details of all the Sites en Scène events, see charente-maritime.fr where you can search by date and location or download the app.

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For all your banking and insurance needs our English-speaking advisors are just a phone call away.Contact us on 0033 (0)545 204 960 Local call rate from a landline depending on the operator.

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Summer InSpIratIonIf you are wondering what to do with your summer visitors in poitou-Charentes then look no further than our full colour, 64-page ultimate Summer Guide. available from all regular Living magazine stockists, the Guide is free and contains hundreds of ideas for days out across the region. We pick our favourite festivals, places to visit, things to do and much more, all illustrated with fabulous photographs. make sure you don’t miss out!

Summer SoundMika is heading to Rochefort’s newest festival, Summer Sound, taking place

from 6-8 August. Fourteen concerts over 3 days are being held in the unique

surroundings of the Corderie Royale. Tickets cost from 50€ per day with

a three day pass costing 110€. www.summersound.fr.

Blue Flags17 beaches and 4 marinas on the Charente-Maritime coastline have been awarded the Blue Flag, meeting strict criteria dealing with water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management, and safety. Seven beaches are on the Île d’Oléron, and two on the Île de Ré – for a full listing see www.blueflag.org.

Great days out! FESTIVALS • ACTIVITIES

• FAMILY ATTRACTIONS • FOOD & DRINK

FoLLoW tHe suN! bEACHES • GARDENS

• CHATEAUX • MARKETS & LOTS MORE

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GardeninG ClubLaunched in 2004, the Interesting Gardening Club was set up to support and encourage gardeners around the Riberac area. Meetings are organised throughout the year and are held at members’ homes or local salles de fêtes. There are talks by local or guest speakers and time afterwards to exchange views, plus the committee arranges an occasional home grown Gardeners’ Question Time. As well as organising visits to gardens of interest, arboretums and nurseries, the club hosts several special interest groups and a seed and plant exchange. Membership costs 20€ per year. To find out more, visit www.theinterestinggardeningclub.org.

Tree-top & water funSet in 100 hectares in the north of Dordogne, the département-owned leisure park at Rouffiac has recently added a new accrobranche course to its list of activities. With over 400 metres of zip wires, at heights up to 13 metres above ground, they hope the 150,000 euro investment will welcome five thousand visitors this year. The course is open daily to children (and adults) over the age of 6 and taller than 1 metre but remember to pack your trainers. Prices start at 10€. Cable-skiing and wakeboarding are also available on the park’s lake. See rouffiac.pagesperso-orange.fr.

Perfect PresentsIf you are looking for a gift with difference, take a look at the Coffret Cadeau Dordogne being offered by the Hotels Collection in Périgord Noir. Choose from their selection of 2-5 star hotels and combine with an activity from playing golf at a local course to flying over the nearby countryside. The coffrets begin at 181€ for two people, see www.coffret-cadeau-dordogne.com

We found Tony!When Dordogne-based reader Ros Petherick wanted to thank a good Samaritan for helping her 85-year-old father on a flight from Limoges airport recently, Living Magazine lent a hand. Her father hadn’t flown since he was air-lifted from Berlin in 1949, having been driven down to Dordogne for a holiday, so Ros asked a stranger to help him through the security checks. But fellow passenger Tony went much further than that and ensured that her father was safely handed over to her brother at Stansted. “I had to say thank you. But how could we thank someone when we only knew their first name?” The hunt was on. Within 24 hours of posting the request for help on the Living Magazine Facebook page, the post had been shared 6,000 times and seen by nearly 450,000 poeple and Tony Webster, who had been holidaying in the area, was found. Ros was finally able to thank her ‘knight in shining armour’ personally.Facebook: LivingMagazine.fr

Medieval FestivalSeven sites are joining in this summer’s Itinérance Médiévale en Vallée du Dropt starting at Eymet on 8 August. Entertainment from the Middle Ages will be performed by twenty specialised troupes ensuring that the seven days and evenings will be packed with fun for all the family. There will also be workshops, games, a jousting tournament and fireworks in historic settings along the Dropt Valley. Issigeac, Cadouin, Sauveterre-de-Guyenne, Duras and Monteton will all host the festival for a day before the finale on Sunday, 23 August at St-Félix-de-Foncaude. See www.medieval.dropt.org for full details. EN 2015, HENNESSY CÉLÈBRE 250 ANNÉES DE SUCCÈS DANS LE MONDE

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Journées de PatrimoineEach year, many listed and interesting buildings are opened to the public as part of the 2015 European Heritage Days. The dates in 2015 are the 19 and 20 September and the national theme is ‘The heritage of the 20st century, the history of the future’. Details of specific events were not available as we went to press, but watch local newspapers and tourism sites for information nearer the time.

Family Fun Day The North Dordogne Fundraising Group has been busy raising funds for cancer research for the last four years during which time they have raised over 25,000€. This has bought two bedside shower units (for Francheville Clinic in Périgueux and for Soyaux Clinic, Angoulême), a computer and trolley for cancer treatment admissions at Soyaux Clinic, and a microDiamond Detector for the Department of Radiology at the Centre Hospitalier, Angoulême. Come and support their next fundraiser at La Charrue in Vieux Mareuil (24) on Sunday, 9 August where there will be stands, side shows and amusements, and activities for children. Food and drinks will be available on the day. Gates open from 11am to 4pm and entry is free.

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Contemporary art in melleEarthly Gardeners Heavenly Gardeners is the theme of the 7th International Biennial of Contemporary Art this year in Melle (79). Taking place until 27 September, thirty international artists are exhibiting works in many of the historic buildings across the town, among them the Romanesque churches, the Hôtel de Ménoc and the Silver Mines. Artists include Julien Blaine, Manuela Marques and Yurigo Takagi. There are also nine permanent installations to view in the gardens and town centre from the 2003 to 2013 biennials. The exhibition is open daily from 1.15 - 7pm except Monday. For a map of the art installations and full details see www.2015.biennale-melle.fr.

Tiger mosquitoesOnce only found in southern France, the spread of the Tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) has now been documented as far north as Deux-Sèvres and Vendée. Recognisable by the black and white rings around its thorax, this mosquito is originally from Asia and carries with it the threat of tropical diseases such as dengue and chikungunya fevers. The Agence Régional de Santé for Poitou-Charentes is now asking for help in identifying the spread of the mosquito. If you see one, please record it via www.signalement-moustique.fr. Alternatively, you can download iMoustique, an app for your iPhone that allows you to identify and notify the presence of mosquitoes. There is more information on the prevention of mosquitoes on www.ars.poitou-charentes.sante.fr.

Niort Plagemore than thirty sporting and leisure activities are on offer as part of the 9th niort plage which runs until 23 august. ranging from pony rides, basketball and boxing to archery, kayaking and sandball, many of them free. the activities take place at three points across the city: le parc de pré leroy, les jardins de la Brèche and la place Joseph-Cugnot (quartier du Clou-Bouchet). they can be booked up to 7pm the night before and the full programme is available on www.vivre-a-niort.com or at the tourist office. two hundred tonnes of sand have been brought in to create the beach in the parc de pré leroy, where there is also a café open serving lunches and snacks.

Le NombriL du moNdeAfter a few turbulent years, it’s good to see this unique association battling back. This summer, Sundays are family days with story-telling and guided visits. Bring your own picnic and join in the entertainment that starts at 3.03pm at Pougne-Hérisson (79). For full details of all events see www.nombril.com.

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Full steam ahead...To see the heart of the Bocage from a new perspective, take the steam train from Mortagne-sur-Sèvre to Les Herbiers run by the Chemin de Fer de la Vendée. The 44km return journey, which runs three times a week over summer, takes 2½ hours and travels over three magnificent viaducts. Travelling at 30km/h, the whole family will have plenty of time to enjoy the views. And for that special occasion, book onto the ‘Voiture Orient Express’ where you can enjoy a gastronomic meal served as you travel in an authentic restaurant car from the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits pulled by a diesel locomotive. For full details of departures and prices see www.vendee-vapeur.fr.

Vendée Rando Guide

The 2015 guide to some of the 1000km of walking routes across Vendée is now available. Costing 12€, the Guide Vendée Rando Edition 2015 (in French) is available from Tourist Offices and bookshops. 104 walks of varying difficulty are detailed in the guide which also includes details of local fauna and flora. The walks are divided into 6 different regions: the Marais Breton, the Coast, the Marais Poitevin, de la Plaine à la Forêt, the Bocage and the Haut-Bocage.

For many years the Grande Plage at Saint Gilles Croix de Vie (85) has been cared for over the summer season using a tractor from mid-June to mid-September. Now a Natura 2000 site, the town has been looking for a more environmentally friendly, and quieter, alternative. So, from Monday to Saturday, the ‘Attelages de la Vie’ from

neighbouring Saint Hilaire de Riez will be keeping the beach clean this summer as well as harrowing the beach three times a week using specially developed equipment. Not only does this method reduce noise and emissions but it is also slightly less expensive and, of course, the horses are a tourist attraction in their own right.

Horse power

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Join in the Mad Hatter’s Festival this year from 14-16 August. With an eclectic mix of live bands plus great food and a bar, it’s one not to miss. Tickets start at 28€. See www.madhattersfrance.eu.

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Futuroscope successThe 2015 season has started well for the region’s top theme park with a strong growth in visitor numbers, up 11% against the same period last year. The mischievous Raving Rabbids in their Time Machine continue to draw the crowds after the ride was voted the Best Attraction in the World at the THEA awards presented in Los Angeles earlier this year. Previously Arthur, the 4D Adventure, won the same award in 2012 making Futuroscope the only park in Europe to have won the honour twice. The latest additions to the park’s long list of attractions mark a move away from the ‘image-centric’ content towards a balance of thrills, live performances and discovery. The new Fun Xperiences Arena, a 1000m2 sporting attraction including free-fall slides is proving very popular under the hallmark Futuroscope ball.

TICKETGIVEAWAYAnd, if you are quick, you can take part in our free ticket giveaway. We have a pair of adult entries to the park for the first five names out of the hat on 3 August. Just see our blog at www.livingmagazine.fr or visit our Facebook page (LivingMagazine.fr) for full details of how to enter. Good luck!

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Booking / Information at Limoges airportwww.airportlimoges.co.uk

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Cuivres en Fête celebrates brass and percussion instruments and musicians from16-21 August in and around Saint Junien (87).

See www.cuivresenfete.com.

Discover arts from the second half of the 18th century in the beautiful surroundings of La Maison Dieu at Montmorillon (86) with the Festival des Lumières. 20-23 August, see festival-des-lumieres.com

DIARY DATEs!

Literary FestivaL If you love reading then don’t miss the opportunity to meet international bestselling authors, Kate Mosse (above) - Labyrinth, The Taxidermist’s Daughter - and Sarah Harrison - The Flowers of the Field, The Wildflower Path - who head up a impressive selection of writers and poets at the first bi-lingual literary festival

in Charroux (86) on the 27-29

August. Others attending include crime writer Elizabeth Haynes, poets Katharine Gallagher and Adeline Pavageau, and BBC ‘Dancing on wheel’s’ finalist, Diana-Morgan- Hill. Poitou-Charentes based historical novelists Alison Morton and James Vance will talk about their work, and Occitan troubadour André Teilhet will demonstrate the old language of the Languedoc in song and poetry. The festival, who’s Patron is travel writer Susie Kelly, will include author talks, themed discussions, coaching sessions, poetry readings, children’s events, theatre skills and much more. There will be a festival bookshop and opportunities for author book signings. For further information

go to charrouxlitfest on

Facebook, or book tickets at

www.charrouxlitfest.com.

Roméo & JulietteOpera troupe Figaro Si, Figaro La! have chosen to perform Romeo & Juliette for their 2015 season led by international soloists Laurence Guillod as Juliette and Antonel Boldan as Romeo. Performances are all held in a big top beginning at Montmorillon (86) on 24 July and culminating at Civray (86) on 6 August. The association also runs the Ecole Figaro which encourages local school children to participate in choirs. As well as forming the children’s chorus in the opera, they will perform in a series of free concerts ‘Au Fil du Notes’. For more information see www.figaro sifigarola.com.

Join in!Every third Tuesday of

the month, a Franco-British group meet at

the Médiathèque de la Vallée de la Gorre (87) at 3.30pm. Why not join in and practice your French conversation in friendly surroundings. Find out

more at mediavallee gorre.over-blog.com.

Green Man Groceriesa haven of British grocery products, arkwrights in charroux (86) has been taken over by charlie and nat at The Green Man inn next door under the new name of Green Man Groceries. charlie says: “The two businesses work really well together. Customers can find all their home comforts from english tea-bags to sliced bread and bacon in the shop and then enjoy a cup of coffee or a beer in the courtyard or bar.” The pub is open 10am-10pm daily except noon- 6pm on sun. The shop is open 10am-5pm daily except Weds and sun. For more information, call 05 49 87 58 27.

Poitiers l’étéWith more than 2,000 years of history and 80 listed buildings, Poitiers is a great place to explore this summer. Follow the marked pedestrian routes from the Tourist Office and discover the city as Aliénor d’Aquitaine knew it during her frequent stays in her palais Poitevin. Stroll through the pedestrianised streets, enjoying a drink on a terrace before being entertained by one of the many performances that are part of Poitiers l’été. Over three hundred events are planned over the summer months, many of them free. Choose from guided visits, town walks, concerts in Place Leclerc, treasure hunts through the city, Les Polychromies and more. Every Thursday is ‘Les Jeudis du Square’ from 6.30pm onwards at the Square de la République where you can choose to dance to, amongst others, blues, lindy hop, and jazz. Pick up a free copy of ‘Sortir à Poitiers’ from the Tourist Office to see the full programme or visit poitiers.fr.

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16 | living places to see

www.livingmagazine.fr Lunchtime in Rue des Consuls

“The buildings follow a tightly

packed medieval street plan...”

www.livingmagazine.fr | 32

living places to see | 17


You never quite get over your first encounter with the area popularly referred to as the Dordogne, a place whose hauntingly beautiful

landscapes evoke images of an idyllic, bygone England which probably never existed. But here they do. Locally, of course, you’re far more likely to hear the former French province referred to as ‘Périgord’, usually with a colourful suffix denoting one of four geographical areas: Noir, Blanc, Vert and Pourpre.

Arguably the most beautiful of all is le Périgord Noir, through which the rivers Dordogne and Vézère flow beguilingly to their liaison at Limeuil, and at whose leafy heart lies the dazzling architectural showcase of Sarlat-le-Canéda. Even if you’ve never been here before, chances are that when you do you’ll recognise it instantly, since Sarlat has featured in countless film productions, and you can see why. For centuries this was a heav-ily fortified town, and while the walls themselves have mostly gone, those

sections which remain are nevertheless impressive, and the area which they protected for centuries still looks and feels much as it did when it was con-structed in medieval times.

To really make sense of it you need to see it from above. When I first came here many years ago I had to climb to the bell chamber of the Cathédral Saint-Sacerdos to photograph bird’s-eye views of the skyline, but now it’s much sim-pler, as the nearby Eglise Sainte-Marie contains an ‘ascenseur panoramique’ – a sensational glass walled lift installed within the belltower of the redundant church. Step in and seconds later you’ll emerge from the 35m summit of the now-hollow tower built in 1365, to gaze in awe upon the rooftops of the town spread far below you. From up here a lot of things suddenly make sense, including the distinctive steeply-pitched roofs of the tall, elegant merchants’ houses which line the streets. Instead of slates or tiles, they were covered in ‘lauzes’ – pale limestone slabs whose

Sarlat

so The lovingly preserved medieval town of Sarlat is a world-class destination, particularly in high summer

words & photos : roger moss

Le manoir de gisson

medieval rooftops, from ascenseur panoramique

maison de La Boétie

evening diners in rue Albéric Cahuet

www.livingmagazine.fr www.livingmagazine.frwww.livingmagazine.fr | 32



formidable combined weight (around 500kg/m2) needed to be directed safely down onto the sturdy stone walls.

Another feature you notice is that the buildings are not aligned, but instead follow a more fluid, tightly packed medieval street-plan, which simply evolved within the protective embrace of the town’s fortifications. Had Sarlat’s defences done their job less well, then we could be looking at something laid out on the rigid geometrical plan of nearby bastide towns like Domme and Lalinde, which were purpose-built dur-ing the 13th century – turbulent times for southern France. Once safely back to street level you’ll discover that the nave of the church has found a new role as an indoor market hall (whose giant 15m-high steel doors were fabricated in Rochefort by a company which normal-ly specialises in producing lock-gates). Like the ascenseur, it’s the result of a vi-sionary transformation by internation-ally-renowned architect Jean Nouvel, who spent his childhood in Sarlat, and who managed to preserve something of the building’s inner serenity.

Come here on a summer Saturday morning, however, and you’ll find the adjoining Place de la Liberté packed with traditional market stalls laden with local produce, among a sea of both lo-cals and visitors here to buy, browse or

merely soak up the atmosphere. Their incomparable setting has made Sarlat’s markets world famous, and there’s no better vantage point from which to watch it all unfold than over the rim of a coffee cup on the terrace of the Hotel de la Mairie Brasserie. That said, there’s still considerably more to discover,

since the market outgrew the square long ago and now spills over into the neighbouring streets (if you’re looking for more than local specialities then you’ll find a whole new world of pos-sibilities among the stalls which line the entire length of Rue de la République).

As lunchtime approaches it all starts to wind down, the restaurant terraces fill with eager diners and the town reverts to its principal role as a quite extraordinary place to explore. The Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos, dedicated to a former Bishop of Limoges, looks and feels older than 16th/17th century, and if you come during a service or while

“Place des Oies was for centuries the

scene of a live goose market..”

Place du Marché aux Oies

Place de la Liberté, on market day

www.livingmagazine.frwww.livingmagazine.fr | 32



History LessonThe site is thought to have been inhab-ited since Gallo-Roman times, and rose to prosperity after the establishment of a Benedictine monastery at the end of the 8th century, in the reign of Charlemagne and Pepin le Bref. In 937 the monastery came under the control of the Abbaye de Cluny (founded in 910 by William I Duc d’Aquitaine) and in 1147, according to legend, was visited by Bernard de Clairvaux (Saint Bernard) on his return from the cru-sades. While in Sarlat he blessed loaves and gave the bread to assembled sick townspeople, who were suddenly healed – a miraculous event said to have inspired the building of the Tour Saint-Bernard, better known as the Lanterne des Morts.

During the 11th century Sarlat suf-fered Norman invasions and during the Hundred Years War found itself in an uncomfortable buffer zone between the ambitions of France and England. The heavily fortified town withstood all attacks but nevertheless became English in 1360 after the signing of the Treaty of Brétigny, when Edward III of England renounced his claim to the sovereignty of France in exchange for her southwestern territories. Ten years later, the English were ousted from France and Sarlat once more became French.

In 1453 the Treaty of Castillon ended the Hundred Years War, but the Wars of Religion ravaged the countryside and the town until peace returned under the reign of Henry IV in 1598. At this time Sarlat, which had been an

episcopal see (or diocese) since 1317, finally began a campaign of construc-tion which produced the Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos, the Eglise Sainte-Marie and numerous elegant townhouses. The town’s prosperity continued throughout the 16th-18th centuries, after which its geographical isola-tion saw it fall into a steady economic decline which would not be reversed until river and rail networks were finally eclipsed by road transport.

Paradoxically, Sarlat owes most of its present-day prosperity (not least from tourism revenue) to those same years of lying dormant, during which the town’s medieval heart escaped the kind of redevelopment which would claim countless architectural period pieces elsewhere. The other factor was legislation introduced in August 1962 by Minister for Cultural Affairs André Malraux to provide financial aid to restore and preserve the nation’s heritage for future generations. Sarlat was a major beneficiary.

an organist is rehearsing you’ll be able to experience for yourself the celebrated tonal qualities of the Monument-Historique-listed Lépine organ, inaugurated in 1752. Behind the cathedral is the late 12th century Tour Saint-Bernard (or ‘lanterne

des morts’) built to commemorate a visit by Saint Bernard, and which might have served as a funerary chapel for the origi-nal cemetery area (le Jardin de Enfeus) which it overlooks. Rising steeply beside it is Rue Montaigne, off which you ’ll find an atmospheric route leading back down to the market square via Rue de la Sala-mandre (emblem of François I, and now widely adopted by the town).

Other places have interesting stories. Place des Oies was for centuries the scene of a live goose market, which lives on in

FACTfiLe

Behind the cathedral lies rue Montaigne

Lanterne des Morts



find out moreThe official site of Sarlat Périgord Noir Office de Tourisme is multi-lingual, but the French pages are more detailed than their English counterparts: www.sarlat-tourisme.comVisit the Office de Tourisme in person for guided tours, street plans, iPod audio-guides and more.You’ll find market details here: www.sarlat-tourisme.com/en/marketsThe town centre is pedestrianised, but there are free car parks off Ave Général de Gaulle, Chemin de Demouret, in Place de la Libération and in Place des Cordeliers.

the Fest’Oies weekends in early March. In Rue des Consuls you’ll find elegant 14th-17th century Gothic and Renais-sance hôtels particuliers of counsellors, magistrates and clergy, plus the huge, grotto-like 12th century Fontaine Sainte-Marie which provided the town’s water supply until it became undrinkable. Sarlat’s most celebrated architectural treasure is the Maison de La Boétie, built in 1525 and birthplace of humanist philosopher and poet Eti-enne La Boétie. There are many more features to be discovered, but no visit is complete without seeing surviving por-tions of the town walls which ensured their survival – the SW end of Rue du Siège contains one of the best sections.

In sunlight the town’s stonework glows vibrant gold, but dusk brings a subtler alchemy, as the centuries’-old masonry is lit by the soft glow of gas-lamps. If you haven’t already fallen in love with this place then dining out beneath the stars in this truly magical setting will finally tip the balance.

the Saturday market spills out into Place Boissarie

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La Rochelle has become one of France’s most attractive short-break destinations, the travel media having gone so far as to describe it as ‘the St

Tropez of the Atlantic Coast’. Like its Mediterranean counterpart, the elegant town started life as a fishing port, and in a quiet corner of the celebrated Vieux Port the Musée Maritime de La Rochelle

recently reopened to visitors after a lengthy period of redevelopment. Now the quayside of the former Bassin des Chalutiers is home to a line of brand new, purpose built display halls set beneath vividly coloured canvas panels, an assertive nautical reference to wind filled spinnakers. It’s a striking contrast with the museum’s former life, when its land based exhibits were displayed in

the less than ideal setting of a concrete former fish market building.

Step inside today and beyond the welcoming reception area you’ll discover just how far museum design has progressed in recent years (not least to reach visitors who have grown accustomed to browsing multimedia web sites). Muted colours and sensitive lighting ensure that the setting never

Ever feel the call of the sea, yet somehow the prospect of simply lying on a hot beach doesn’t appeal? Tucked away in La Rochelle

you’ll find just the thing to satisfy your nautical cravings...

Quay SightS

Some of the museum‘s historic flotilla




upstages the exhibits, which include traditional touches like glass display cases with large and lovingly hand-crafted scale models of assorted ships and boats. Some are creations of consider-able beauty, but their collective role is to help to tell the story of the ports, the lives of the people who worked in them and the crews who routinely braved the storm-tossed Atlantic. Over the years the importance of La Rochelle’s fishing industry meant that it attracted great media attention, providing the museum with a rich legacy of archive material to draw upon. The large information panels are currently in French only but visual imagery including remarkable and often moving documentary film footage is largely self-explanatory, and reveals a long-lost way of life in and around the Vieux Port. With no windows to distract

you, the experience becomes increasingly removed from the world outside, and as you move among the exhibits from one hall to the next you’ll find yourself gradually being drawn back in time.

By the time you finally emerge into dazzling daylight beside the Bassin’s his-toric slipway you’ll be armed with a good grounding in La Rochelle’s long nautical history, along with some worthwhile practical insight into local activities linked to the sea. It’s a perfect prepara-

tion for what comes next.The museum’s main attraction is an

opportunity to step aboard its unique collection of historic vessels, several of which have Monument Historique status. These include the collection’s cen-trepiece, the very last ocean-going me-teorological frigate. Launched in 1958, France 1 provided vital weather obser-vations and scientific research until her retirement almost 30 years later, when satellites took over. In 1988 she was ac-quired by the Mairie de La Rochelle and gifted to Les Amis du Musée Maritime de La Rochelle (AAMMLR), who have since restored her faithfully down to the very last detail to give visitors a taste of life aboard during her working days. In fact the only subsequent addition is a bar/restaurant added to the upper deck.

Other historic vessels preserved in the

The foredeck of France 1

Fine timber has more soul than glass-fibre

“The main attraction is an opportunity to step aboard a uniquecollection of historic

vessels...”




Bassin include the Manuel-Joël, a trawler built here in 1954, the Angoumois, a 38m ocean-going stern-trawler from 1969, the Saint-Gilles, a powerful La Rochelle built tugboat from 1958 plus the Capitaine de Frégate Leverger, a Normandy built life-boat based at Cap Ferret from 1955-1991. One truly unique vessel which isn’t yet on display is the last surviving steam-pow-ered bucket dredger, which worked in the Vieux Port until 1988. Dating from 1906,

the 28.5m monster is currently awaiting restoration in the former WWII sub-marine complex in the nearby port of La Pallice but in the museum there’s a display area dedicated to its work.

The impressive scale of these survivors makes quite an impact when you’re able to get this close, but equally fascinating for their very different qualities are the 40 or so graceful classic sailing vessels lining the opposite quay. Among them are ocean

The bridge of France 1

Classic sailing craft

The former fishing port has been reborn

The new galleries

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Origins: the Port(s) of La RochelleEarly documents mention the port of ‘Rupella’ (961), which by 1023 had become ‘Roscella’. This mutated to ‘Rochella’ before finally being referred to as ‘La Rochelle’ around 1199 by Henri II Planta-genêt and Aliénor d’Aquitaine, who resolved to reverse a steady decline caused by silting up of the harbour. At that time it enjoyed the protection of the town’s formidable defensive ramparts, most of which would later be demolished by order of Louis XIII. Those on the more vulnerable seaward side were spared, how-ever, including the 14th century Tour Saint-Nicolas and the Tour de la Chaîne sited strategically on opposite sides of the harbour en-trance. Charged with maintaining a constant vigil over water-borne traffic movements, the fortress-like towers could at any moment pre-vent vessels entering or leaving the harbour by raising from the seabed a heavy forged iron chain strung between them. It was simple but highly effective, and on the quay-side beside the Tour de la Chaîne you’ll find a time-worn section of the original chain.

In 1862 a second harbour known as le Bassin des Chalutiers was cre-ated beside the Vieux Port specifi-cally to accommodate the fishing fleet. Things moved a significant stage further in 1890 when French President Sadi Carnot inaugurated the Port de la Pallice, on a largely undeveloped spur of land facing the Ile de Ré. The new port established extensive trading routes (including importing timber from Africa) and played an important military role during WWII. In 1939 it witnessed around 6,000 exiled Polish troops being shipped to safety in the UK by the Royal Navy immediately be-fore the fall of France. Under Ger-man occupation, La Pallice became a U-boat base and constructed a colossal submarine pen complex (which was used by Steven Spiel-berg to shoot scenes for Raiders of The Lost Ark in 1980) and which still survives, although with no sense of purpose.In 1994 La Rochelle’s fishing fleet was transferred to La Pallice (now known as le Grand Port Maritime de La Rochelle) from le Bassin des Chalutiers, which has been rescued from abandonment as the home of the Musée Maritime de La Rochelle.

The official website has opening times, entry prices, etc., plus details of classic yachts currently berthed in the Bassin: www.museemaritimelarochelle.fr

Immerse yourself in the world of classic yacht racing: www.yachtclubclassique.com

Visit between 16-21 Sept to see La Rochelle’s international boat show: www.grand-pavois.comYou can enjoy a sailing experience aboard the Sainte Anne III, an el-egant 15.3m yawl built in the Bassin d’Arcachon in 1933 and now a listed Monument Historique: www.sainteanne3.wix.com/enpleindanslemille.

racers sailed by world famous yachtsmen plus one or two classic motor cruisers, all of which have been lovingly restored to impeccable levels of presentation and sea-worthiness. Ensuring that they remain that way takes constant attention, so visitors are likely to see lots of activity taking place in the Bassin, which has become an im-portant centre for the restoration of classic vessels from a bygone era. In every sense, then, this really is a living museum.

FINd OUT MORE

A quayside filled with nautical celebrities

QUAY FACTS


26 | living Language

Emma is a jack-of-all-language-trades, writing

English textbooks, translating, marking exam

scripts and teaching languages. She lives near

La Rochefoucauld with her growing menagerie.

See www.english-tuition.weebly.com

G

iven that so many of the fairy tales we tell our children come from the continent, it’s hardly a surprise that the language of

bedtime stories have made their way into every-day French, sprinkling a little magic and fairy dust wherever they go. If you’re away with the fairies, there’s no magic formula for improving your French; un-fortunately, you can’t wave a wand or cast a magic spell.

So many expressions from fairy stories have made it into daily conversation, from ‘Prince Charming’ and ‘a fairy godmother’ to expressions such as ‘You have to kiss a lot of frogs to find a prince’ and referring to ‘streets paved with gold’. Given that the fairy stories of Charles Perrault were translated from French into English, there are many details that are easy and direct translations. La bonne fée and la fée marraine are straightforward: a good fairy and a fairy godmother. Just as in English, they are both used to mean a woman who is a sponsor, benefactor or role-model rather than some-one who is truly magical.

Having fairy fingers, or les doigts de fée depends very much on context as it can be a biscuit, a thief or a skilled craftsperson. Les doigts de fée can refer to a finger-shaped biscuit made with powdered almonds and honey, but it can also be someone who is very neat and meticulous when completing a practical task. If you were good at sewing, you might have les doigts de fée. It can also mean ‘light-fingered’ though!

There are two expressions that might be a little confusing to the British ear, however. Far from being a rather wonderful stick of bread, a baguette magique is a fairy wand. No

matter how stale it gets, you probably won’t get to Hogwarts with it. The other involves something we may consider more akin to washing up liquid than something alcoholic, but the green fairy - la fée verte - is absinthe rather than mild green Fairy Liquid.

Fairies are not the only story creatures who appear in everyday speech. You’ll cer-tainly find a fair few frogs as well. Manger

la grenouille or ‘eating the frog’ might bring to mind the famous French delicacy of frogs’ legs, but this rather old-fashioned expression has little to do with eating and everything to do with stealing the profits. If you’ve been left in charge of the finances and you’re a little light-fingered with the contents of the cash box, you may stand accused of ‘eating the frog’. Before its fairy-tale friend the pig gave its form to the piggy bank, a frog was a well-known shape of money box. It’s also a way of referring to a charitable ‘kitty’. Il a mangé la grenouille can mean that ‘he has robbed the cash box’ rath-er than he’s literally eaten a frog!

As in English, there are plenty of French

expressions with wolves, not least ‘crying wolf’ and ‘keeping the wolf from the door’. In French, to say someone has the habit of crying wolf, you would say à force de crier

au loup. Where we might ‘wolf something down’ in English, you ‘have a wolf’s hunger’ in French - avoir une faim de loup. If English has many expressions with wolves, there are far more in French. If you’re as well known as a white wolf, connu comme le loup blanc, you’re a household name. Where we speak of the devil and he shall appear, the French speak of a wolf and see his tail: quand on

parle du loup on en voit la queue. In English, we put the cat among the pigeons and in French, you let the wolf into the sheep-fold: faire entrer le loup dans la bergerie.

Our friends the fairytale pigs are much less of a problem although you might not want to read their handwriting. Pigs are just as dirty as we think of them in English, comme

un cochon or ‘like a pig’ is just as dirty as its English counterpart. If you write like a pig, écrire comme un cochon, your writing is terri-bly untidy. But if you are as thick as thieves in French, you are friends like pigs: copains

comme cochons. Although you might feel pigs are more

likely to fly than you are to master French, hopefully with a few of these fairy-tale expressions mastered, you might just go on to live happily ever after. If you get stuck and you are having problems remembering une fin heureuse, the anglicism of un happy end is probably much easier.

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Pardon?

Emma Lee, our language expert,

explores expressions that have their

roots in stories handed down through

the generations...

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NEWsitE!

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28 | living WILDLIFE


L iving in this part of France with water on demand at the turn of a tap, it’s easy

to forget that as little as 20 to 25 years ago there were many people in small hamlets that only had the well to supply their needs. Pumped domestic water is a relatively recent phenomenon in rural France. The further we go back, the more people depended on other means to provide and store water for themselves and their livestock which included different types of ponds, troughs and containers depending on the purposes they would be required for. In turn, these often provided an important habitat for a range of species, amphibians, reptiles, insects and plants. Sadly, many have been lost for one reason or another or have been altered to satisfy our desire for ornamentation.

Ponds have always played an important role in human social and economic activity. The vast majority are of human origin although the end product in mind was not always a pond and in this region we can identify a number of different types. As livestock played a pivotal role in every farm, hamlet, village and town, ponds were created for animals to drink from. These can be close to a habitation and are often constructed with stone walls, one end having a gentle slope for the animals to approach the water, and are commonly part of the heart of a farm. Many of these exist today and you will know of one or more in your locality.

Other farm ponds were simply scooped out in an open field or they made use of existing hollows. Where the soil was clay and naturally impervious, it could be

puddled in the same manner as for the construction of canals. Although quite shallow these ponds, when well made, could provide water for a substantial number of cattle or sheep. Occasionally larger ponds, not lakes, were created in close proximity to a chateau or abbey where they were used to provide fresh fish for the inhabitants’ table.

Domestic water was also important and several types of ponds were created close to habitations which were used to provide water for cooking, general cleaning and personal washing. These ponds and troughs were frequently the source of epidemics of both typhoid and cholera even though they were regularly disinfected with the addition of quicklime, the same product being used to dispose of infected corpses as and when the need arose.

Ponds were also created for what could loosely be termed manufacturing purposes. These were usually used to fill some of the large stone troughs that

Chris Luck discovers the history of our local ponds andthe important role they play in the countryside today

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Pond Life

stone-lined village ponds provided communities with drinking water,

not always safely.


www.livingmagazine.frwww.livingmagazine.fr | 32www.livingmagazine.fr

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can still be seen near old houses. Some would have been used to soak flax, cane or hemp to separate the fibres, others to soak willow to make it flexible enough to work with, making baskets etc. This water would be rendered useless for any other purpose after being used as would be the water that would have been used by the smithy.

Following on from these purpose built ponds we have unintentional ponds that were created as a result of different human activities and although not immediately obvious, there were a large number dotted around that resulted from stray bombs. Other good examples are places where open quarrying has taken place to extract sand, gravel and stone although many of these end up more the size of lakes. More interesting are the various sites where mill stones were extracted having been hewn from the solid rock. A classic case is La Moulière, Pinail, in the commune of

Vouneuil-sur-Vienne (86) which is now the only nature reserve for the Vienne département (see Living Magazine, October 2013). Originally with some 13,000 or more ponds, it was probably the largest millstone extraction in the world. Besides Pinail there are other places throughout the region where the stone was suitable for extraction and, although most have been lost, some of them still exist as ponds.

Over the years, all of these ponds have provided an important habitat for a range of species some of which are rare or endangered. Sadly more than fifty per cent of ponds have already disappeared for one reason or another; they have been filled in or have been allowed to grow over. Others have suffered from pollution rendering them useless. I suspect that many readers will be thinking that there are plenty of dragonflies, frogs and toads where they live and this may be true, but what

are they? Mostly they will be Common toads and the “Green frogs” (Marsh frog, Pool frog and Edible frog) and possibly a few other common species of dragonfly, perhaps palmate newts. Although it’s important to maintain these species, we also need to remember the rarer and often more fragile species of the region and their specific requirements. Many such as Great crested newts and Parsley frogs will struggle at best if there are fish present.

Unfortunately, the removal of ponds continues especially in gardens. Many people are worried about children or pets getting into difficulty, and a substantial number of people simply consider them to be a nuisance, especially if they find the noise of frogs to be intrusive. Given the overall decline in species this is a cause for concern.

So what, if anything, can be done to help the more fragile species and halt the decline? It’s a complex issue. When

living WILDLIFE | 29

Pond LifeGreat crested newt

Female Broad-bodied Chaser dragonfly (Libellula depressa)

Red fox

a farm pond with gently sloping sides to allow animals to enter and exit easily

Original stone water troughs feature in many gardens



Chris Luck runs two websites, www.wildlifeinfrance.com and www.planetepassion.eu, packed with information about animal and plant species in France, plus a blog about wildlife and bee-keeping in a natural, non-intrusive manner.

an amphibian species has been lost to an area it is unlikely to return even if and when conditions are made more favourable such as with the installation of a new pond. This is due to the fact that they very rarely travel far from the place they were born and return there as a place to breed and release their own eggs. Unless the distance between the new pond and an existing one is quite small, maybe as little as a few hundred metres, there will be no chance for the new pond to be populated. Dragonflies and other more mobile aquatic and semi-aquatic species will arrive but even here distance is a factor as well as the pH of the water. However, creating a new pond or restoring and sensitively managing an existing one is still of great importance even if we don’t get

those rare species immediately. A good water source is extremely important and, since water is a basic requirement of life, it can be a life-saver for a huge number of species. Honey bees alone take vast quantities back to their colony throughout the season to mix the pollen and nectar as well as being used in regulating the colony’s air temperature. Small mammals such as hedgehogs, squirrels, pine and stone martens, genets, foxes and so on need water as well as birds and other insects.

If you do create a pond and want to have fish, or if you have an existing pond with fish, there are some simple things that can be done to improve the situation for our wild species. Creatures need to be able to approach and to leave the water in safety so a gentle slope on at least one side is important, particularly for amphibians and for any other creatures that fall in. Consider blocking part of the pond off to create a fish free zone – this can be made really attractive using old stone. Don’t over clear any aquatic plants that provide cover for the tiny tadpoles and other larvae. Plenty

of plant life both aquatic, bank side and marginal provides a huge boost for diversity as does a woodpile/log pile for salamanders, toads and newts.

NATUREThe spiriT of advenTure

outdoor activity centre near ruffec on the Charente river

Open 7/7

in the summer

from 10am to 7pm

Canoeing, Stand-up Paddling, Spider nets, Accrobranche, Tree climbing Picnic site, ice creams & drinks available, toilets

Feel Nature Moulin des Forges, Taize-aizie, 16700 ruFFec GPS +46° 3’ 32.4066” - +0° 14’ 47.346”

Info & reservations 06 81 15 65 20 [email protected] ~ www.feelnature.fr

HOUSE BOATS FOR HIRE No driving licence required

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Affiliated toPont de Sireuil, 16440 SIREUIL +33 (0)5 45 90 58 18 / [email protected]

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For 2-10 peopleMin 2 days, mid-weeks or weeks1 hour from Bordeaux, Poitiers & LimogesBrochure free on request

Grass snake (Natrix natrix)

Green marsh frog

Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum Salicaria)

Sedge warbler (Aacrocephalus schoenobaenus)

Yellow Loosestrife (Lysimachia punctate)

Ponds support native flora and fauna



living HERMIONE | 27


Free SpiritOn 4th June Rochefort’s pride and joy, the replica sailing frigate Hermione reached the coast of Virginia. Exactly one month later she was in New York Harbour, celebrating the independence which her predecessor helped America to achieve

New york1-4 july

Ile d’AIx18 April

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Clockwise from Top L: © Stephane Marc / Marine Nationale; © Valérie Toebat / Association Hermione-La Fayette; © Francis Latreille / Association Hermione; © Francis Latreille / Association Hermione; © Valérie Toebat / Association Hermione-La Fayette


philadelphia25-28 june

mount vernon9 june

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S he’s done it. After 18 years of hard work by everyone who contrib-uted to her construction, Hermione has completed her long-awaited voyage

across the Atlantic. Not that there was ever any doubt in the minds of those of us who were fortunate enough to be in Fouras-les-Bains on 18th April to witness the stirring sight of her departure. Despite far from ideal weather conditions, it turned out to be an unforgettable day.

As expected, it included a visit, amid conspicuously tight security, from French President François Hollande and Sustainable Development & Energy Minister Ségolène Royal. Also present were VIP guests from the USA, here to celebrate a longstanding relationship between the two nations which began in 1780 when Lafayette sailed across the Atlantic in Hermione’s predecessor to help the struggle for independence. Underlining the impor-tance of this continuing alliance, US Consul Joël Maybury read a moving message (reproduced opposite) from

President Barack Obama to America’s oldest ally. At nightfall, after a monu-mental synchronised firework display from seven historic sites recalling the Arsenal de Rochefort’s coastal defences, Hermione slipped from her moorings off the Île d’Aix and began her voyage.

On 2nd June, after an epic 8500 or so kilometres, with a re-provisioning stop in the Canary Islands, she was greeted by the destroyer USS Mitscher and escorted up the coast of Virginia to the port of Yorktown. Once the necessary administrative procedures relating to her visit were accomplished, Hermione and her crew began their packed itinerary of high-profile public engagements. At the time of going to press she had visited Yorktown, Mount Vernon, Alexandria, Annapolis, Balti-more, Philadelphia, New York (for 4th July Independance Day celebrations) and was sailing into Greenport.

Ahead still lie Newport, Boston, Castine and Lunenburg, followed by the long return voyage to Brest, then back to her home port of Rochefort. She’s due in late August, amid a fresh round of celebrations.

Poney Club de la Côte

Tel: 05 45 22 55 44 Portable: 06 83 29 08 52email: [email protected] www.poneyclubdelacote.fr

Centre équestre de la Côte, Chenommet 16460

Poney Club de la Cote - AAE

Whether you are on holiday or a resident, this friendly riding school offers fun for all ages and abilities.

From Shetlands to thoroughbreds; there’s lots of choice.• Initiation/school • Jumping • Dressage • Voltige • Ride outs

Call, email, facebook us, or just pop in to make a reservation. Only 10km south of Ruffec just off the N10.

Impasse Brisson, Le Souterrain, 16200, Courbillac Tel: 05 45 67 70 62

www.couleursdevie.eu

Couleurs de VieBE INSPIRED

Official stockists of Chalk Paint™, a decorative paint by Annie Sloan.

* IT’S HERE * Annie Sloan Wall Paint in 2.5 litre tins as well as tester

pots available to order soon in ten fabulous colours.Your source for Annie Sloan Products, Chalk Paint™

decorative paint, soft waxes & more.Workshop courses and commissions undertaken. Siret: 802 327 635 00016


living travel | 21

yorktown5-7 june

The White House, April 16, 2015: a message from President Obama ‘‘I am honored to join in commemorating the journey of the Hermione, and in celebrating the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity that bind our nations together.For more than two centuries, the united States and France have stood united in the freedom we owe to one another. From the battlefields where a revolution was won to the beaches where the liberation of a continent began, generations of our peoples have defended the ideals that guide us-overcoming the darkness

of oppression and injustice with the light of liberty and equality, time and again.As we pay tribute to the extraordinary efforts made by General Lafayette and the French people to advance the Revolutionary cause, we reflect on the partnership that has made France our nation’s oldest ally. By continuing to renew and deepen our alliance in our time, we ensure generations to come can carry it forward proudly.As you gather on this special occasion, I wish you all the best. And to the crew of the Hermione, I wish you fair winds and following seas. Bon voyage!’’

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26 | living travel


Bay WatchOver the years Arcachon has been appreciated by seabirds,

fishermen and later, by comfortably-off villa owners. Recently the town has undergone a radical transformation,

but the style remains as distinctive as ever.

WORDS & phOtOS: RogeR Moss

34 | living travel

The Plage de la Corniche is accessible via Pyla-sur-Mer’s new escaliers.


living travel | 27


Until the early 19th century Arcachon was merely one more small fishing port among those dotted anonymously around the shores of a vast triangular-

shaped natural lagoon southwest of Bordeaux. With its narrow, sheltered entry from the Atlantic, the Bassin d’Arcachon would doubtless have become a world-class seaport were it not for one major disadvan-tage: at low tide roughly eighty per cent of its 25,000ha surface area is left high and dry. On the plus side, though, the clean waters are just about perfect for oyster farming and a host of leisure activities.

Prior to 1841 few people apart from local fishermen and their families spent much time here, but everything looked set to change dramatically with the creation of a railway line from Bordeaux to La Teste, an ambitious project designed to introduce city dwellers to the newly-fashionable pleasures and health benefits of bathing. Initially, however, the scheme failed to achieve its hoped-for commercial success, and in 1852 the ailing line was purchased by Emile and Isaac Pereire, whose family owned large areas of the pine-forested land around the Bassin. The talented brothers had achieved great success with their residential develop-ment of Parc Monceau in Paris and were now hungry for a new challenge. Their company, the impressive-sounding Cie des Chemin de Fer du Midi, extended the line

from La Teste into Arcachon, an area which had caught their eye a few years earlier when it added a deep-water landing stage. New visitors travelling by boat had fallen in love with Arcachon, which within the space of a few years had established a modest reputation as a summer resort. The brothers were convinced that if they could operate their railway all year round, it might finally become profitable. But how, exactly?

The answer to their conundrum came from an unexpected source. Before the discovery of Penicillin, tuberculosis was potentially lethal and endemic, the only hope for sufferers being good nutrition and fresh air. For those who could afford them, large treatment centres appeared in the Alps and beside the Mediterranean, but the Atlantic coast was considered too exposed by sanatorium developers, who conse-quently ignored it. However, a local doctor (a cousin of the brothers) noted that local fishermen and teams of workers exploiting the pine forests appeared untouched by the disease. As it turned out, the coastal planta-tions afforded an effective barrier from prevailing winds, giving Arcachon what seemed to be the perfect microclimate for tuberculosis treatment and convalescence.

The implications of this discovery were not lost on Emile Pereire, who immedi-ately purchased a huge pine-covered dune immediately behind the resort. Rather than simply constructing a single sanatorium, however, he decided instead to divide the woodland up into individual building plots and market the resulting prestige develop-ment site as ‘la Ville d’Hiver’. Progress on what amounted to a collective sanatorium

“Prior to 1841 few people apart from local fisher-men and their families spent much time here...”

La Dune du Pilat

Blvd de la Mer, from Cap Pereire

Place des Marquises

Early evening, Port Arcachon

www.livingmagazine.fr www.livingmagazine.fr

36 | living travel

advanced rapidly, as a profusion of villas designed to accommodate the sick, their wealthy families and domestic staff suddenly appeared among the pine trees. The rapid rate of construction was achieved by the innovative use of a degree of prefabrication, the villas’ apparent architectural diversity actually concealing an underlying uniformity of basic dimensions and even floor-plans. The results were often spectacular – the develop-ment coincided with the height of the Belle Epoque period, wealthy families commis-sioning prominent architects to style their villas for maximum impact on local society.

Soon a showpiece ornamental garden appeared and was christened ‘Le Parc Pereire’ at an extravagant launch in the presence of Napoléon III and his family. This finally established Arcachon as a genteel and highly desirable retreat for the wealthy, and before long the social benefits had eclipsed its initial raison d’être as a health resort. The good times continued until the economic depression in the 1930s, which eventually found many of the villas either being sold or falling into disrepair.

Today, however, Arcachon’s fortunes have turned again. The Ville d’Hiver is once again calmly aloof and looking mercifully unchanged. Most of the elegant villas lining the steep, curving allées have been lovingly restored to their full former glory, the vibrant colours and stylistic vitality ensuring that they are as hard to ignore today as when they were constructed. From the outset the plots were never generously sized, but the setting and the villas’ highly individual appearances (accentuated by their deliberately varied orientation) once again attract wealthy prop-erty buyers, both from France and overseas.

Now mature pines still cover much of the landscape, so enjoying a bigger view means getting above them. The definitive viewpoint for the upwardly inclined is the Observa-toire de Sainte-Cécile (a.k.a. ‘le Belvedère’) constructed in 1863 by architect and engineer Paul Régnauld. Wind your way up a narrow cast-iron spiral staircase suspended within a skeletal, railway track-style iron framework and you’ll feel it sway disconcertingly on its supporting cables. It’s something of a vertigo test (particularly when meeting other visitors on their way back down) but the panoramic views from a circular platform at the 32m summit repay the necessary determination with glimpses of the villas, the nearby Passer-elle de Saint-Paul (an antique iron footbridge by Régnauld and Gustave Eiffel), the town below and the Bassin.

If that adventure doesn’t appeal, then there’s an elevated view of the town from the nearby Parc Mauresque – 8ha of botanical gardens whose exotic Moorish casino (designed by

Beach cafe, Plage de la Corniche

Morning, Blvd Promenade Marcel

Gounouilhou

19th century villa, Ville d’Hiver

“Visitors are still drawn inexorably to Arcachon’s celebrated beaches.”


living travel | 21

Régnauld) was destroyed by fire in 1977. The park was later re-landscaped as an arboretum and offers welcome shade on a hot day. In 1913 a cable-car began bringing passengers from the town below, but today the journey is via the Ascenseur Public (beside whose upper entrance is displayed a scale model of the Casino) which replaced it in 1949.

Below, between the Ville d’Hiver and the beach-side boulevards, the seasonal theme continues in the adjoining Ville de Prin-temps and Ville d’Eté, while behind the old fishing port lies the Ville d’Automne. Also developed were prestige residential areas like Parc Pereire, Le Moulleau and Les Abatilles, all served by a road network which can feel considerably more complex on the ground than the tourist map would suggest.

Visitors are still drawn inexorably to Arca-chon’s celebrated beaches. Five are named, but everything is linked seamlessly, creating one glorious, impeccably-maintained stretch of pale golden sand. If sunbathing is your thing, look no further. On the other hand, if you prefer to walk, cycle, roller-blade or simply sit on a bench and enjoy the view from the shade of a tree-lined promenade

you’ll be in good company, particularly at either end of the day. There’s always plenty to see, from traditional flat-bottomed oyster boats to water-skiers, cheerful sailing dinghies and packed passenger boats ferrying visitors to and from super-chic Cap Ferret, at the tip of a slender, sandy peninsula on the seaward side of the Bassin. Add upmarket boutiques, bars and restaurants and it’s clear that Arcachon has become adept at deliv-ering exactly the kind of quality experience which people come here hoping to find.

What many of them won’t have been expecting, however, is the town centre’s bold new face, the result of an audacious redevelopment programme. If you think that sounds like history repeating itself then you’d be right – at least in terms of the architectural theme chosen by the plan-ners. This is regeneration on a monumental scale, but somehow it works, not least since the detailing draws upon features from the original 19th century Belle Epoque villas. Much of the area is pedestrianised, so there’s time to explore and contemplate changes which when you’re standing among them are much more than mere pastiche. I’d call it

a timely celebration of Arcachon’s defining style, but don’t take my word for it – go and see it for yourself.

As it turned out, the Ville d’Hiver was just the beginning. Once available space on the elevated site had been snapped up villa territory began to spread westwards towards Moulleau, Pyla-sur-Mer and Pyla Plage. Drive through them today and you have to say that, social considerations aside, their locations are anything but second-choice, many properties combining leafy seclusion with hypnotic beach views. Press onward and soon you’ll reach the world-famous Dune du Pilat. Currently around 114m high and 2700m in length, the Atlantic sees to it that Europe’s highest and longest sand dune is still growing. In clear conditions the awe-inspiring views from the top reveal virtually the whole of the Côte d’Argent, an area to which we’ll certainly be returning in future.

“There’s always plenty to see, from traditional flat-bottomed oyster boats to water-skiers...”

FIND OUT MOREVisitor information, event listings, accommodation and more: www.arcachon.comWe stayed at a small, friendly hotel in the Ville d’Hiver: www.hotel-marinette.com

La Plage d’Arcachon

The spirit of Belle Epoqueis alive and well

With a large selection of home fabrics, made to measure curtains, bedlinen, wallpaper & paint.

Friendly English-speaking staff in a cosy atmosphere!

Zac de la Sacristinerie, 17400 St-Jean D’Angély (zone Leclerc supermarket & opposite Leader Price)

Phone: 09-83-72-34-90

Opening hours: Monday 14h -18h30Tuesday to Friday 9h - 12h30 and 14h - 18h30

Saturday 9h -12h30 and 14h - 18h

Your new interior decoration store in St-Jean D’Angély

A TASTE OF SUMMERInfluenced by years of travel, our daily-changing menu offers guests a playfully eclectic mix of freshly prepared, seasonally inspired dishes from our very own kitchen garden. This summer, we’re excited to invite you to savour the colourful textures, aro-mas and flavours of the south west and beyond with simple, light dishes and refreshing drinks to match.

Weekly BBQ Every Sunday we showcase the joys of al fresco di-ning with grilled meats, fish and vegetables on our garden Plancha.

Cognac Inspired Cocktails Re-visit local blends with exciting new twists of the taste of summer.

Sunday Brunch A taste of home and abroad with the cosy feel of a lazy Sunday.

RESTO - BISTROw w w. l e m e r l e b l a n c - r e s t o - b i s t r o . f r

06 21 16 87 421 0 r u e d u L o g i s - F r e s n e a u - 1 7 1 6 0 H a i m p s


38 | living nikki legon’s cuisine

cuisineAre you running out of ideas for the BBQ? Nikki comes to the rescue with her delicious gourmet burger recipes. There’s something to suit everyone along with some refreshing desserts, all perfect for summer entertaining.

Classic Burger1kg minced beef2 garlic cloves, crushed1 onion, finely chopped1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped 2 tbsp good mayonnaisesalt and freshly ground black pepper

METHODMix all the ingredients in a bowl. Divide the mixture into 6 and shape into 10 cm flat discs. Place in the fridge to set and when ready to cook, brush with oil. Place onto a hot barbecue and cook 5 minutes on each side to serve medium. Serve on a toasted bun, a layer of salad and top with a slice of bacon before

adding the sauce of your choice for a classic burger.

Nikki sAys: To make a good burger i use sirloin (faux filet) as it comes with a layer of fat. This is essential when cooking burgers. if using minced beef, you will need 20% fat content.

Spiced Turkey Burger with Guacamole1 tbsp sunflower oil1 large white onion, chopped finely2 large garlic cloves, crushed1kg turkey, minced2 tbsp parsley or coriander

NikkiLegon’s

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living nikki legon’s cuisine | 39

cuisine

Classic

burger

Spicy Mexican

bean burger

2 tsp of chilli powder hot or mildsalt and pepper2 large ripe avocados, sliced

for the Guacamole cream2 large ripe avocados, mashed to a creamjuice of 1 lime2 garlic cloves, crushed1 tbsp crème fraîche

METHODMix the guacamole ingredients and set aside in the fridge. Heat the oil in a pan and fry the onion and the crushed garlic for 2 minutes. Allow to cool. Tip into a large bowl and add the parsley or coriander, turkey mince and chilli powder. Mix well and season with salt and pepper. Mould into 6 burgers and chill.To cook, brush the burgers with oil and cook for 5 minutes each side or until cooked through. Place onto a toasted bun and top with the guacamole cream and slices of avocado.

Spicy Mexican Bean Burger2 tbsp of olive oil1 red onion, finely chopped1 carrot, finely grated1 tsp ground cumin50g chopped coriander or parsley

2 x 400g tins of red kidney beans, drainedpinch of dried red chillies1 tsp salt and freshly ground black pepper1 heaped tbsp of plain flour

METHODIn a frying pan, cook the onion and carrot in a little oil. Add the garlic and cumin and cook for 5 minutes. Add the drained beans and chilli flakes and mash the beans with the back of a fork. Add 50ml of water and stir. Cook for 4 minutes, stirring until thick.Rinse and drain the beans in the second tin. Place into a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil then simmer for 10 minutes to really soften. Add to the refried beans and mash, adding flour to stiffen.With floured hands, shape into burgers and put in the fridge to firm up. Take care as the burgers need to be handled gently as they can be quite fragile. Heat a little oil in the frying pan and cook each side until golden. As all the ingredients are cooked, it’s just a matter of crisping the outside. Place in the oven after browning to heat through. Serve in a toasted bun and garnish. These are delicious topped with slices of red onion, sliced tomato, a spoonful of Greek yoghurt mixed with a pinch of cumin, salt and pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Thai Chicken Burger with Cucumber and Sweet Chilli Sauce6 large, skinless, fresh chicken breasts or 16 large, fresh chicken thighs, minced200g fresh breadcrumbs2 red chillies, seeded and chopped finely6 spring onions or 3 shallots, very finely choppedgrated zest and juice of 2 small limes6 tbsp light soy sauce1 tsp fish sauce2 tsp lemon grass paste2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped1 large egg, whisked

for the cucumber toppinG1 cucumberjuice of ½ lime1 tsp sugar½ tsp fish sauce1 tsp soy sauce½ tsp lemon grass paste1 red chilli, finely diced

METHODPlace the minced chicken into a large bowl with the breadcrumbs. Add all of the ingredients except the egg and mix well. Add enough egg to bring it all together. Shape into 6 burgers and chill.


40 | living nikki legon’s cuisine

Slice the cucumber into thin strips. In a bowl, mix the cucumber marinade ingredients, pour over the cucumber and set aside.Brush the burgers with oil and cook for 5 minutes each side. Check to make sure the inside is cooked. Serve in a toasted bun and top with the cucumber. Accompany with little bowls of sweet chilli sauce.

Quinoa and White Bean Burger1 cup of quinoa2 tbsp of fresh or 1 tsp of dried thyme2 cups watersalt and pepper250g mushrooms3 shallots, peeled2 garlic cloves, crushed2 tbsp cumin powder2 tsp chilli powder (optional)4 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped400g butter or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed3 to 4 tbsp Panko breadcrumbs2 tbsp mayonnaise

METHODCombine the water and quinoa in a medium saucepan, bring to the boil, reduce to simmer, cover and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and add the thyme before leaving to go cold.

In a food processor, add the mushrooms, shallots, garlic, cumin and chilli. Pulse until it looks like breadcrumbs. Add a little oil to the frying pan and cook the pulsed mix for two minutes, add the fresh coriander, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place into a large bowl leave to cool.In the food processor, pulse the beans to just break them up. Add the beans, cooked quinoa and breadcrumbs to the bowl and mix with the mayonnaise.Form this mixture into patties and chill for 2 hours minimum. The best way to cook these is in a frying pan with a little oil, fry around 4 minutes each side on a medium heat.

Nikki says: These also taste delicious on a bed of crisp sliced apple.

Red Chilli Burger with blue cheese1kg Classic burger ingredients2 red chillies, seeded and finely chopped, or 1 tsp dried chilli flakes100g blue cheese300g mushrooms, sliced and fried

METHODPlace the Classic burger mix into a bowl and add the chilli. Divide the mixture into 6 and place some of the cheese in the middle. Shape into 10 cm flat

discs, chill. Cook as before, 5 minutes each side, place onto the toasted burger bun and top with the mushrooms.

Grilled pineapple with coconut ice cream 400ml coconut milk300ml cream250ml milk1 tsp vanilla essence6 egg yolks165g caster sugar60g desiccated coconut2 large fresh pineapplessoft brown sugar to sprinkle150g unsalted butter150g demerara sugarjuice of 2 limes1 tsp vanilla extract4 tbsp dark rum

METHODCombine the coconut cream, cream and milk in a saucepan, add the vanilla. Slowly bring to the boil. Whisk the egg yolks and caster sugar until pale and creamy. Gradually add the coconut cream to the egg yolks, return to the pan and cook over gentle heat, stirring, until the mixture coats the back of a spoon. Add the desiccated coconut, stir, and pour into a dish. Cover and freeze until almost set.Chop the ice cream roughly, place into a food processor and blitz until smooth. Return the ice cream to the dish and

Quinoa and white

bean burger

Red chilli burger

with blue cheese


living nikki legon’s cuisine | 41

freeze again. Repeat this one more time.Remove from the freezer 30 minutes before serving to allow it time to soften.Prepare the pineapples - slice the top and bottom off, sit upright on the board and cut off the skin. Slice each pineapple crossways into 6 rings. Sprinkle both sides of each piece of pineapple with the caster sugar and barbecue over medium-hot coals for 5 minutes, turning once, until lightly caramelized.Melt the butter in a small pan, add the demerara sugar, lime juice and vanilla extract. Add the rum and set it alight. Stir until it has melted and formed a smooth glaze. Set it to one side.

Once the pineapple is cooked, remove it to the plate, spoon over the glaze and serve at once with a scoop of ice cream. Pour over the rum glaze.

Strawberry and Kiwi Parfait 200g Greek yoghurt or fromage blanc200g cream cheese6 tbsp icing sugar2 tsp vanilla extract500g strawberries6 kiwi

Strawberry compote500g strawberries4 tbsp cointreau2 tbsp lemon juicezest of one orange4 tbsp icing sugarmint leaves and a little icing sugar to decorate

METHODIn a large bowl, whisk the yoghurt, cream cheese, vanilla extract and icing sugar. Place in the fridge for one hour.Hull all the strawberries, picking out the largest ones to slice thinly. Peel the kiwi and slice into small chunks.To make the strawberry compote, chop the remaining strawberries into small chunks and place into a bowl. Add the Cointreau, lemon juice, orange zest and sift in the icing sugar. Stir it all together and leave for one hour to soak up the alcohol.This dish can be served as individual portions or you can assemble one large dessert. Using your preferred size ring, start by adding some compote to the base. Next add the kiwi and top with more cream. Add the sliced strawberries pointed side out, overlapping slightly. Remove the ring and decorate with mint leaves and dust with icing sugar.

Nikki Legon is the chef and owner of the Hotel Restaurant Karina in Les Métairies, just outside Jarnac in Charente. She and her husband Austin have transformed an old cognac distillery into a luxury 10-bedroom hotel and restaurant. For more information: www.hotelkarina.net

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42 | living Angling

USEFUL CONTACTSwww.sensas.comThe firm’s guide to bait and tackle along with competition news and resultswww.carpe-meymac.frCarp news and venues from the Haute-Vienne and Corrèzewww.federation-peche-vendee.frNews on carp waters in the Vendéewww.madfred-angling.comInformation on carp venues and methodswww.carpetoy.frNews on carp competitions

www.atoutpecheur.frGuide to fisheries

Ron Cousins takes a closer look at sea bass, a favourite with anglers and diners alike

Hook, line & sinker…

Left: A selection of flies and lures for bass Below: A typical sized bass caught on our Atlantic coastline

Low in calories, an excellent source of protein, selenium and essential omega-3 fatty acids, delicious, nutritious and high on angling’s list

of favourite fish - that’s Dicentrarchus

labrax, the European sea bass or bar as it is written on the poissonnier’s display.

The big mouthed, silver bodied fish with two impressive spiked dorsal fins is one of the most significant, in economic terms, for the French fishing industry. Each year 5,000 tons, worth over 45 million euros, is taken from the seas around France. The bass also has a huge rod-and-line following here with over one million anglers dedicating their fishing time to catching them from beach and boat. The most famous among them is Patrick Sebile who is rated as one of the world’s top bass anglers and has designed many of the best-selling fish-imitating lures.

The high culinary and sporting status of the species is, however, putting huge pressure on fish stocks and threatening its long term future. As a result, some areas where the fish are known to gather in large numbers for spawning in early spring have been designated ‘nursery zones’ where all commercial and recreational fishing is completely banned. Also, from 1 April, there has been a 3 fish daily limit on rod-caught bass that covers all the Netherlands and UK as well as north-west France. This will be extended to cover other areas as data on fish movements is collected. France is at the forefront of this thanks to the work of IFREMER, the French Ocean Research Institute.

Scientists are checking growth, behaviour, movement and migratory routes in an on-going fish tagging programme. Orange coloured electronic tags in the fish’s abdominal cavity

(indicated by blue markings on the body in front of the pectoral fins), or externally attached to the back of the dorsal fin, have an IFREMER identity number together with contact details. There is a 50€ reward for returning the tag and 100€ if the researchers can also receive the fish. Trawler men, fish wholesalers and retailers, and sport fishermen alike are sending in the tags. If the fish dies naturally, an in-built float allows the tags to eventually drift ashore and hopefully be found so it’s worth watching for them on the beach.

So, safe in the knowledge that the welfare of the bass is under constant review, how can we set out to catch one?

The waters off the entire 600km of shoreline from the Gironde estuary to the northern tip of the Vendée are their home at this time of year. Fishing for them is completely free of charge but a fish has to be over 40cm long before it can be taken away and it is illegal to sell any fish caught. Bass aficionados rate the waters around La Rochelle and Île d’Oléron best; the farthest point on Île de Ré is a noted bass hotspot - but dangerous in high seas - while a Vendée favourite is Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie where bass roam the estuary and rocky breakwater. Most places are worth a try, with the two hours before and after high water generally the most productive as bass hunt in small groups and stay in deeper pools and rocky areas at low tide. On long, open beaches expect bass in gullies and odd rocky areas - as a general rule the bigger the surf the better the chances of catching.

Feeding fish come close inshore seeking worms and crabs displaced by the rising tide so there is no need for long casting, a freshwater carp or spinning rod will do the job. The number one bait for this job is peeler crab - the soft-bodied ones that

have shed their shells and hide out in rock pools until the new one grows. These can be collected at low water and then attached to a size 1 to 2/0 hook using elasticated cotton, and fished with a simple running leger rig. Lugworm can be dug or bought from tackle shops and fished the same way.

In the estuaries the same baits can be float fished using a coarse fishing rod while triangular-shaped pieces of mackerel on the hook also work well when the float is allowed to flow with the current.

Fly fishermen can also go down to the sea again because the bass compares favourably with any trout when it comes snatching a fly so fiercely that the rod is almost taken out of your hand. A 2kg bass on a fly rod certainly sets the adrenalin flowing. Flies tied for sea fishing are available but sea trout patterns and large, bright wet flies like Butcher and Alexandra work well.

Casting a lure is by far the most popular way of fishing for bass in France and this is reflected in the vast selection available in the tackle shops. Many plug baits and spinners in a pike fisherman’s tackle box will prove equally effective with the saltwater predator but, if you are buying for the sea, then slim, jointed lures that mimic the movement of sand eels are first choice.

Whether a regular or occasional angler, now is the time to give bass fishing a try. Whatever tackle you have can fit the bill and maybe put one of the most prized fish on the table. You could even pocket some tagged fish euros and perhaps enjoy the whole beach experience so much that you want to do it again and say, as Charles Trenet did in his classic song “La mer, a berce mon cœur pour la vie” - the sea, it has claimed my heart.

LATE SUMMER COLOURWe all know how a splash of

fresh spring colour is vital to see out winter, and we are

accustomed to the profusion of vibrant flowers in mid-summer. It is just as important though to provide interest during late summer and autumn when gardens can become a little tired and when blossoms are fewer in number.

There are an abundance of exquisite herbaceous perennials, many being daisy shaped, to provide a zing of colour late

in the year. It’s worthwhile providing prominent spaces in your garden where they can be appreciated. Many are also useful for pollinating insects which is important at this time of year.

Helenium (Hélénie), with their showy daisy flowers in brilliant yellows and oranges with brown central cones, light up the late season. They are an easy-to-grow mainstay, tolerant of difficult conditions and loved by bees and butterflies. Excellent for cutting,

Trevor Bridge shows us how

to make the most of our gardens in summer by extending the

season with herbaceous perennials

living gardening | 43The

Wheelbarrow Gardener

44 | living gardening


their seed heads are attractive well into autumn too. Helenium ‘Moerheim Beauty’ bears a succession of exquisite dark copper-red flowers and Helenium ‘Wesergold’ has masses of bright golden flowers. Both are ideal towards the back of a sunny border, as are Helenium ‘Riverton Gem’ with its deep orange petals and the intensely yellow Helenium ‘Riverton Beauty’.

Rudbeckia (Rudbeckia) produce daisy-like yellow and golden flowers with black or purple centres and are very effective when mass planted. Easy to grow, they are drought tolerant, disease resistant, attractive to butter-flies and bees and make good cut flowers. Rudbeckia hirta ‘Marmalade’

has very weather-tolerant, shimmering golden flowers. It attains 45cm in height. Rudbeckia hirta ‘Cappucino’ is hot and rich with its vibrant 10cm wide gold and mahogany flowers reaching 45cm high. Rudbeckia ‘Spotlight’, bred in France by Suttons, is a low variety reaching 25cm. It has golden-yellow flowers with dark centres and each petal has a chocolate spot.

Echinacea purpurea (Echinacée

pourpre), or coneflowers, feature long-lasting, large daisy-shaped flowers from mid-summer to early autumn. They attract bees and butterflies and are excellent for cutting. They look well growing with Rudbeckia, Achillea and ornamental grasses. Echinacea purpurea

‘Fatal Attraction’ is a sturdy cultivar with 70cm high, almost black stems and intense pink-purple flowers around an orange disc. Echinacea purpurea ‘White Swan’, a compact upright plant up to 75cm, produces distinctive white flowers with yellow centres. Echinacea purpurea ‘Ruby Giant’ is tall, 90cm high, with branched stems with fabulous deep-pink flower-heads.

Aster (Aster) are also known as Michaelmas daisies (Marguerite de la Saint-Michel) due to their flowering time coinciding with the Feast of St Michael (St Michel in France) on 29 September. They are therefore associ-ated with the start of autumn. Their flowers are daisy-like, starry-shaped in lavender, purple, pink, red or white. Aster novi-belgii ‘Winston Churchill’ produces spectacular large bouquets of rich ruby-red double blooms with yellow centres and grows up to 100cm. Aster lateriflorus ’Horizontalis’ is a lovely low, spreading plant up to 60cm high with masses of small white, rose-tinted flowers contrasting perfectly with a central brown disc. Aster x

dumosis ‘Prof Anton Kippenberg’ has profuse lavender-blue flowers with yellow centres formed on attractive globe shaped 45cm high mounds. It is excellent for cutting.

Dahlia (Dahlia) are easy to grow. In colder areas on well-drained soils they will need winter protection of a 10-15cm layer of compost. In heavy soils or where there is heavy frost lift and store them then replant in spring. They are superb for cutting, will bloom until frost and are attractive to bees and butterflies. Dahlia ‘Lavender Perfec-tion’ has striking, lavender-rose flowers 20cm wide and is very bold plant attaining 100cm. Dahlia ‘Préférence’ is popular due to its spectacular salmon coloured double blooms with long, tapering petals. It grows up to 150cm. Dahlia ‘Kennemerland’ produces showy yellow flowers on plants 100cm high and Dahlia ‘Snowflake’ sports 150cm wide pure-white blooms on 150cm high plants. It is exquisite as a long

Anemone x hybrida ‘Serenade’

Helenium ‘Moerheim Beauty’

Rudbeckia ‘‘THERE ARE An ABundAnCE oF ExquISITE HERBACEouS PEREnnIALS’’

living gardening | 45


lasting cut flower. It is also possible to purchase mixed dahlias. For instance Jardiland produce a ‘Dahlia Pompon en Mélange’ which has a wide variety of rich colours.

Penstemon (Penstemon) are a ‘must-have’ plant. Easy, reliable and drought tolerant, they are valuable late-summer perennials attaining around 80cm. They produce masses of short stems bearing tubular purple, pink and blue flowers. Penstemon ‘Violet’ has spectacular spikes of deep purple-violet flowers and Penstemon ‘Rose Blanc’ is covered in rose and white blooms. Penstemon ‘Sensation’ is a mixture of crimson, red, rose, purple and cream shades in self and bicolours. This mix is available in France as well as the UK. So popular is it that I have even seen it for sale in Australia.

Phlox paniculata (Phlox paniculé)

is a classic late summer perennial in a wide range of colours and some have variegated leaves. With their fragrant flowers, the scent becomes more notice-able at night. They are reliable, trouble free, upright plants attaining 80cm and are attractive to pollinating insects, including hummingbird moths and butterflies. Phlox ‘Judy’ produces a mass of pink flowers and the colour of Phlox ‘Orange Reflection’ and Phlox ‘Blanc’

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46 | living gardening


need no explanation.Achillea filipendulina (Achillée

filipendulina) or fern-leafed yarrow is an easy drought-resistant perennial forming a 120cm tall bushy mound of fragrant ferny foliage with huge clusters of golden-yellow flowers on tall stems which are attractive to butterflies. Whilst it starts flowering in early summer, it continues to bloom through to September, particularly if faded flowers are removed. There are many vari-eties such as ‘Cloth of Gold’, ‘Inca Gold’ and the old favourite ‘Parker’ which is popular in France as well as the UK.

Crocosmia (Crocosmia) are also known in France and the UK as Montbretia. These familiar plants with lush green sword-like foliage produce arching spikes of freesia-like red, orange or yellow blooms from July to September. They will spread to form good-sized

60cm high clumps and provide intense late summer colour. A neighbour gave us two small bundles of these a couple of years ago and they have established into lovely clusters. The best known, Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’, has bright green leaves topped with vermillion-flame flowers that blaze across the garden. Also popular is Crocosmia ‘Masoniorum’ with bright orange-red blooms that hover just above the leaves. They make excel-lent cut flowers. Crocosmia ‘Star of the East’ has large light orange flowers with beautiful pale centres which continue through until October.

Anemone x hybrida (Anémone), or Japanese anemones, are ideal for no-fuss gardeners wanting a touch of class in the border. They are highly coveted for their large, long-lasting poppy-like flowers in white, yellow, pink, blue or violet, held on sturdy

Late summer is a relaxing time in the garden. We can enjoy the benefits of the season’s labour, taking time to sit outside listening to the birds singing and the insects buzzing. The potager is at its peak, as everything ripens in the sunshine and we gather in our main harvest. Onions are ready and you could be harvesting lovely fresh potatoes alongside salad crops such as lettuce, radish, rocket, fennel and spinach. In fact, there is just enough time to sow more of these quick crops for eating later. French beans, runner beans and peas will still be being picked if you have sown succession-ally through the summer. Chillies are a must in our diet! They should be ready by now. They freeze well - wash them whole, dry, place in freezer bags and tie up. This is your last chance to sow beetroot for an autumn harvest. Any tomatoes that haven’t ripened should be picked by the end of September - cut the whole vine to allow the fruits to ripen under a cloche or on a windowsill and use green tomatoes in chutneys.

In the ornamental garden dead-head flowers daily to encourage new flower production. Remember not to remove flower heads from plants you wish to collect seeds from. Water hanging baskets and pots and do not allow flowers and vegetables to dry out, bearing in mind water restrictions of course.

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August &September

Dahlias attract bees

Phlox Chillies are ready to harvest

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As young landscape architectural students back in 1971 we were taken on a grand European tour of gardens and landscapes. The highlight was a visit to Vaux-le-Vicomte, which our tutors assured us was of far more interest than the more famous Versailles. The legendary André Le Notre designed the grounds at both châteaux, and whilst the 40 hect-ares at Vaux-le-Vicomte is unques-tionably more modest than the 800 hectares at Versailles, it is consid-ered his masterpiece. Although extensive, it is easily explored on foot and the incredible parterres, canal, water basins, grottoes and statues have all been restored meticulously. The Great Water Mirror which reflects the entire façade of the stunning chateau is perhaps its most striking feature.

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stems that need no support. Fast growing, they mostly reach around 120cm high and are perfect for lighting up a dark corner of the garden or the back of the border. The white-flowered Anemone x hybrida ‘Honorine Jobert’ occurred in France over 150 years ago and is a stunning plant for late summer. It has masses of pure white flowers from August to October and vine-like, dark green, semi-evergreen leaves. Anemone x hybrida ‘Serenade’ has glorious semi-double, deep pink blooms contrasting with a central cluster of bright yellow stamens. Anemone x

hybrida ‘Pamina’ is lower growing, reaching about 75cm, and ideal for smaller gardens. It produces semi-double, carmine pink flowers on deep red stems above mid-green leaves.

Sedum (Sédum d’automne / Orpin

d’automne), or ice plants, with their thick, succulent leaves, fleshy stems and clusters of star-shaped flowers they are easy to grow and reliable in hot, dry positions. They combine well with Salvias and ornamental grasses; they are good as cut flowers and excellent for bees. Leave their flowers after they have died as they look attractive in winter. Sedum spectabile reaches 45cm high with grey-green leaves and has outstanding large clusters of starry pink flowers. Sedum telephium ‘Autumn Joy’ is a garden favourite, bursting into bloom in late summer with its large rose-coral flower heads 45cm high.

Salvia (Sauge) or sage is an easy, fast growing plant that blooms abundantly and is attractive to pollinating insects. Salvia uliginosa is a moisture loving perennial with beautiful clear blue flowers in late summer to mid-autumn. It forms 150cm high shade tolerant clumps and is suited to the back of the border. Salvia farinacea ‘Victoria’ is a vigorous 60cm high border plant producing dense spikes of attractive violet-blue flowers until September. It is excellent in drifts or as a specimen plant in large beds. Salvia nemerosa is a lovely drought tolerant perennial that grows up to 90cm high with flowers in shades of violet, purple, white and pink from summer to autumn.

Trevor is a landscape architect who ran a busy practice in the UK for 20 years. He and his wife Jocelyn moved to an ancient fermette in Poitou-Charentes in 2004 where they garden organically and keep bees and hens.

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rights from the UK to France via an S1 health form, which will be converted via the French social security healthcare system rights and you will receive a new social security number. You would then be invited to register with a French doctor who will no doubt do his own tests to see if he is agreement with the type of medicines you need. He/she will then be officially responsible for your care path.

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Healthy livingliving PRACTICAL | 49

PRACTICAL living

<<

Q: How many solar panels do I need?A: This is a tricky one…The size of a solar system is determined by the amount of power your household needs. Let’s say your family uses 3,500 Kilowatt hours (KWh) of electricity per year. To offset that usage by 100%, you would need a PV system large enough to produce 3,500 KWhs of power in a year. Sounds simple? Factor in when you use the power against when the solar panels are generating, your location, the power rating of the panels and a whole host of other variables - you see it gets trickier.

A KWh is the energy consumed or supplied by an appliance/source with a rating (puissance) of 1KW during one hr of time. So, 1KWh is equal to the energy used by an electric radiator of 1KW puissance in one hour. Or, 1KWh is equal to 35 hours of functioning for a fridge class A+ or 8 hours of an ‘American’ style fridge. Still not that helpful!

A household will have differing electrical needs throughout the day and night. However, there is a base level of around 500W to 1KW depending on what’s plugged in most of the time, for instance fridges, freezers, computer, VMC, internet, clocks, toothbrush etc. The spikes occur when we turn on the kettle, oven, coffee

machine, washing machine, hot water etc. and will depend on the rating of the appliance but are generally up to 3KW. A 1KW array of 4 panels will start producing electricity as the sun comes up covering the base load. 2KW array will cover a higher % but you may lose some back to the grid and so on. In autoconsommation, or self use, the balance recommended is to cover the most while losing the least. In practice, you should not worry too much about the losses as there are devices that help you capture that energy and ways to help you manage it.

So a light user of energy e.g. someone who is out all day with no pool could simply cover the base load with, say, a 1KW 4-panel PV array. If on the other hand you have a pool, lots of electrical appliances, work from home, have electrical heating etc. it will need a larger array to cover the same percentage. Systems can be sized to your needs, budget or to cover a specific piece of equipment e.g. a pool pump, but whatever you decide it is a good feeling to know you are generating your own electricity and reducing your energy bills.

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ENERGY advicE By Paul Elliott from Ecopower

50 | lIvIng PROMOTION

APS2403 – 4 Bed Stone Farmhouse with Pigeonnier, 2 Bed Gite and stun-ning barn, with 2 pools, in a gorgeous

location just outside of Eymet€434,600 FAI (DPE 301/96)

APS2760 - Rare Art Deco villa with lovely garden and pool, offering 3 bed-rooms, just a few minutes walk from

the heart of Eymet.€214,000 FAI (DPE Awaiting)

APS2762 – Pretty double fronted Eymet townhouse for renovation,

with up to 4 bedrooms and a courtyard.

€81,000 FAI (DPE n/a)

APS2763 - Idyllic stone house with charm and character offering 4 bed-

rooms, a stunning garden and a heated pool near Monsegur.

€371,000 FAI (DPE 167/37)

7 rue du Temple 24500 Eymet T: 05 53 63 22 2713 rue du Temple 47800 Miramont de Guyenne T: 05 53 89 28 65

www.guyenneimmobilier.co.uk

immobilierLiving

MAZAGRAN IMMOBILIER VLLEBOISProperties in Angoulême and South Charente

Charming cottage used as a summer house with a top location 1km from Villebois Lavalette. 4 main rooms, 2 beds, central heat-ing, separate garage and nice garden. Requires renovation to turn into the ideal family home.

REF. VL 006 128 400 EUROS FAI

2 rue de l’église, 16320 Villebois Lavalette00 33 545 230 101

[email protected]

One of the best 19th century houses on the market at the moment. Quality renovation, 5 beds, baths, 2 reception rooms, 1 dining room, 2 kitch-ens, open plan lounge onto courtyard for BBQ and apéritifs. Good garden, in the village centre. The price is justified for this one, ask for more photos...


An historic, unique house as we like them. Built in the Middle Ages and reputed to have been a Templars house. Quality renovation to a high standard. 7 main rooms with 4 beds, terrace, car shed, workshop. The medieval tunnel passing by is used as a wine cellar...For history lovers...


Close to a château, this 18th century house has a sound structure. It’s in need of renovation, but part can be habitable quickly. Currently 2 flats but can be easily reconnected. 500m2 garden and perfect 110m2 barn included. Located in small village only 6kms from shops and amenities. Good potential.


Please contact us if you are searching for a specific property in Charente or Angoulême

PRACTICAL livingimmobilierLiving

We build bespoke, very affordable wooden houses, extensions and outbuildingsFull service: design, planning, foundations, con-struction, roofing, electrics, plumbing, heating, etc.10-year décennale insuranceCall us for free advice and quotes (English spoken)

Tel: 05 87 77 95 57Email: [email protected] & show site:Zone Artisanale Sirvenon, 87190 Magnac Laval

ABRIS BOIS LV - yOuR TIMBER BuILdIng SpECIALIST

www.abrisboislv.fr


Now optimised for all screen sizes - keep in touch on the go!

NEWsitE!

Private Property Sellers LtdThe Best Way to Buy & Sell French Property

www.privatepropertysellers.com

www.privatepropertysellers.comEmail: [email protected]

We provide a proactive approach to marketing your property.HOUSEHUNTERS - Buy direct from owner.

Our website is exactly what it says it is ‘Private Property Sellers’No Agent Fees and No Expensive Contracts

We advertise on a range of high profile portals and in established publications.

Wide exposure maximises your ability to achieve a sale!Our advertising starts from £50 for 12 months

NOTAIRE - SAINTE HERMINE5 Place Clémenceau, 85210 SAINTE HERMINETel: 02 51 27 34 22 E: [email protected]

www.thabard-dechauffour-oneill-veillon.notaires.fr

Near MoNtourNais - 253,720€ Luminous 3-bed house (190m2) plus 1-bed gite (110m2) with attic. Garage and attached land.

Additional land includes wooded area - total 2820m2. DPE: C

Ref: SH 473 Frais de négociation inclus (3,56%)

La reortHe - 145,570€ Large home with character to renovate. 3 levels

with convertible attic. Outbuildings and wooded, enclosed grounds, all set on 2500m2.

DPE: n/aRef: SH 238 Frais de négociation inclus (3,56%)

The friendly face of properTies in s/W france

66 000€ FAI - Lovely renovated stone cottage plus a large barn. With 2 comfortable bedrooms;

spacious lounge, fitted kitchen/diner, and shower room with wc, set on a

total plot of 2500m² Réf: 7047 DPE: G

99 000€ FAI - Pretty authentic fermette in good structural condition but needs some work to modernise

inside. Barn at the back can be converted if needed. On a hectare of land with large hangar ideal for storage,

workshop, or animals! 15 mns from AIGRE Réf: 7109 DPE: N/A

153 000€ FAI - A rare find! Lovely property with beautiful garden and countryside views. Habitablebut in need of modernisation. Offering kitchen/

diner, lounge, 2 beds and utility room downstairs with potential for 3/4 beds upstairs. 2 adjoining barns. Lots of potential but can be lived in as it is & improved later

Réf: 7092 DPE: N/A

130 000€ FAI - Very attractive bungalow offering an entrance hall, fitted kitchen, living room,

3 bedrooms, large bathroom. Terrace at the back and a large garage, shed, and a very nice garden

all around the property. 10 minutes from the market towns of AIGRE and MANSLE

Réf: 7106 DPE: E

127 000€ FAI - A beautiful cottage in perfect condition and retaining many original features, acces to adjoining barn, nice private back garden, garage and workshop. Upstairs there is a mezzanine with 2 single beds and

master bedroom with bathroom and Wc ONE TO VIEW !! Réf: 7098 DPE: D

254 000€ FAI - Large confortable 4 bed family home with a gîte, situated in pretty village 10 min.

from the market town of Mansle. There is the possibility of creating extra accommodation for use as gites or B&B. Beautiful garden, terrace, well, old stone oven, many original features...

Réf: 7001 DPE: C

[email protected] www.foncierecharentaise.com

14 bis Grand’rue, 16140 aiGre

bureau + 33 (0)5 45 21 78 38

+ 33 (0)6 82 85 36 32 Cecile+ 33 (0)6 78 33 10 68 Justin (Agent CommerCiAl)

La Foncière Charentaise


Situated at the gates of the Marais Poitevin in the south Vendée, Luçon is best known as being the town of Richelieu who was a

bishop here for 17 years before becoming an advisor to Louis XIII. On arriving in 1606, he declared the town to be “the filthiest and most unpleasant in France”, thankfully things have since changed!

The town centre is dominated by the 85m spire of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de l’Assomption where Richelieu is said to have preached from the painted wooden pulpit still visible today. Consecrated in 1121, the then abbey became a cathedral in 1317 when the Poitiers diocese was divided into three. While the structure is Gothic, Romanesque carvings and 17th century stone garlands decorate the inside. A 16th century vaulted cloister links the cathedral to the bishops’ palace.

The town predates Richelieu by sever-al centuries having grown up around a port that played an important role in the draining of the marshes after a monastery was founded by Saint Philbert in the 7th century. Luçon was attacked by the Nor-mans in 846 before the Vikings arrived in 853 and the resulting battles ended with the town being burnt to the ground. Once rebuilt, the town again suffered at the hands of the Huguenots during the Wars of Religion and it was to this town that Richelieu arrived. As a Republican stronghold, the town avoided the worst of the Wars of the Vendée and today the charming town centre streets are lined with smart two-storey mansions built in the characteristic white stone, many retaining their slate roofs and some deco-rated with gargoyles. However, due to the complicated one-way system, the best way to explore remains on foot after parking in the large car park near the cathedral.

Don’t miss the four hectare public

park Jardin Dumaine hidden behind the Hôtel de Ville which boasts a decorative Victorian bandstand, 150-year-old yew hedging and immaculately maintained topiary animals from the fables of La Fontaine. On Bastille Day, the garden is illuminated by 3,500 paper lanterns as night falls before a parade and concert.

A surprising feature of the town’s skyline is the eccentric Modernist concrete water tower constructed in 1914 which is now a listed historical monument. 25m high, the tower brought both tap water and electricity to the town.

The town is now home to some 10,000 residents who appreciate the rural location in the heart of a popular tourist area. La Rochelle is only 45 minutes by car, the Vendée beaches are under half an hour away, the popular park Puy du Fou can be reached in under an hour and the Marais Poitevin is on the doorstep.

Markets

Every Wednesday and Saturday, there is a covered market with an excellent fish and sea-food selection.

aMenities

Schooling up to and including lycée is available, both public and private, and the Lycée Atlantique also offers post-BAC courses. The town benefits from a 475-bed hospital with an emergency department. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, a broad selection of associations and a hippodrome.

transport

Luçon is situated close to the A83 from Nantes which connects with the A10. Aéroport Nantes Atlantique is 100km away while La Rochelle airport is 45km. The town’s SNCF train has regular connections with the TGV network.

€197,6403-bed house with downstairs apartment

on a quiet estate in Luçon. Easily managed plot (450m2) with gardens

on all 4 sides and neighbour at rear only.DFE: D Ref: 43529

€805,600Exceptional contemporary 3-bed property

in chateau grounds. Hangar for private airplane, garage, pool. Direct access to runway at Atlantic Air Park, Chasnais.

DFE: C Ref: 47790

Reduced from €274,990 to €214,000Detached 4-bed longère, with barn and river frontage, in the country, 5kms to Ste Hermine and 35mins to the coast.

Garden on all sides (2670m2 plot).DFE: C Ref: 43834

Talk of The Town

is brought to you by LEGGETT IMMOBILIER

Properties near Luçon from Leggett Immobilier

CaLL 0800 900 324 (fr) 0033 (0) 553 56 62 54

[email protected]

www.frenchestateagents.com

PHo

to

S w

ikiP

EDiA

TALk of the town

In each issue we highlight a town in the region to help you get to know the area. Here we visit Luçon in Vendée…

immobilierLiving

immobilierLiving

Beaux Villages ImmobilierTel : 08 05 69 23 23 E : [email protected]

Website: www.beauxvillages.com

BVI is the fastest growing estate agency in south west France.Our success is built on hard work, a proactive customer focus, and genuine teamwork.We need self-employed commission-only property consultants.We are focused on the north Charente, Vienne and Haute-Vienne, and Deux-Sèvres. We have new shops at Charroux and Verteuil-sur-Charente.

This role will suit motivated individuals who can support themselves financially until they produce income.If you want a job (not a hobby) please call for an in-formal understanding of what is involved to make this work for you, us and our clients, and to earn just rewards.

Many of our most successful property consultants had no relevant experience prior to joining us. Our training is person-centred, local, and free.If you are already in our industry (with experience and a successful track record) call for an in-confidence discussion. We value life experience over and above qualifications or hard-sell technique. Having two (spoken) languages is a distinct advantage.Self-motivation is indispensable.Mobility and some computer skills are required.We look forward to meeting you.

Ref 0205: CouhéReNOVATeD lONGeRe in a calm

location. 225m2 habitable space with 3-beds over two floors including

large office space upstairs. Adjoining garden, field and pond of 2.36ha.

DPE: D238 500€ FAI (5.66% fees included)

Ref 0213: Couhé ATTRACTIVe TOWN HOUSe with private wooded park of 2,352m2.

4-beds over 2 floors with large living area, kitchen and dining room.

Outbuildings. DPE: D

262 880€ FAI (5.66% fees included)Ref 0620:

CivrayTOWN CeNTRe

house. Habitable with hall, lounge/diner kitchen and

wc downstairs. Two bedrooms

on first floor. Convertable

attic and private gardenDPE: E

50 000€ FAI (10% fees included)

Ref 0234: CivrayTRADITIONAl STONe HOUSe to

renovate comprising of three rooms, barn, workshop and convertable attic.

Adjoining landDPE: n/a

29 000€ FAI (13.79% fees included)

www.argusimmobilier.fr

Visit our offices in Civray and Couhé (south Vienne)Tel: 05 49 87 56 86 - English spoken

139 600€ FAI (7.38% fees included) Confolens area (16) in countryside.

2-bed stone barn, 142m2, converted using quality materials, attractive

landscaping. Outbuildings, 4x8 pool, adjoining land set on 8716m2.

207 000€ FAI (9.6% fees included)Confolens area (16). Countryside, nice

landscape, lovely renovated farmhouse (quality work): 3-bed, wood floor, terrace,

garage, veg garden & well, adjoining land + natural pond set on 8633m².

64 600€ FAI (9.5% fees included)Availles Limouzine area (86). Exposed

stone, character cottage with all comforts: 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom gite,

roof terrace, garage, 2 septic tanks. Separate land in wood & meadow

(approx 2ha) with 100m river bank.

104 100€ FAI (9.6% fees included)Confolens area (16). Pretty, renovated village house: 2 bedrooms, electrical

heating, adjoining courtyard, main drains, outbuildings, barn, all

set on 376 m2.

70 000€ FAI (9.38% fees included)Chabanais area (16), village house with a basement. All comforts: 2 bedrooms, oil heating, attic, septic tank, adjoining

land, all set on 3778m2.

30 700€ FAI (9.6% fees included)L’Isle Jourdain area (86). Ideal holiday

home. Semi-detached cottage: 1 bedroom, attic to convert, cellar,

garage, fireplace with insert, adjoining garden with shed and wells. All set on

approx. 721m2.

3, place de la Liberté, 16500 ConfolensTel: 05 45 85 45 65 [email protected]

www.sovimo.com

Sovimo immobiLier

Ref. 33509 Ref. 33519

Ref. 33527 Ref. 33540

Ref. 33534Ref. 33538

DPE: E DPE: D

DPE: D DPE: E

DPE: n/a DPE: G

www.agence-eleonor.comAgence Eleonor Estate Agency

36-38 rue du Temple, 24500 EYMETTél. : 05 53 27 83 45

[email protected]

Other offices at : Beynac, Monpazier and Villeréal

Ref: 657-EY. €750,000 FAI DPE: EA large beautifully restored country house with a separate 2/3 bedroom guest cottage. Currently run as an equestrian business and includes 57.5 acres of land, a lake, covered ménage, heated stables

(including mare and foal) and cameras for observation.

Ref: 4203-EY. €354,645 FAI DPE: E Magnificent renovated stone farmhouse with 4 beds, 3 baths, large living room and open plan kitchen. The house is divided into 2 separate

areas, one currently is a B&B. Several outbuildings and a business opportunity in the

form of kennels/cattery. Just under 2 acres.

Ref: 4199-EY. €199,995 FAI DPE: Vierge Beautifully restored stone village house with a pretty courtyard garden, large light through lounge, dining room and fitted kitchen, 4 beds and 2 bathrooms. Situated in a quiet lane, just

a short stroll to the lively village centre.

Ref: 4221-EY. €160,500 FAI DPE: N/A Nestled in the middle of vines and rolling

countryside, with 3.37 acres, this gem is private with no close neighbours. The property is ripe for renovation and the barns are attached so, subject

to permission to convert, you could create a spacious family home and guest cottages.

Ref: 4180-EY. €171,720 FAI DPE: D Attractive stone barn conversion with a swim-

ming pool situated close to the pretty village - 3 beds and a bath with a fabulous 125m² open

plan lounge/kitchen/dining room. Set in a plot of just over ½ an acre with views over countryside.

PRACTICAL living54 | living INVESTMENT

The new UK “pension freedom” provides new opportunities

for retirees, depending on the type of pension. This is a significant change, and all very new, and many UK expatriates may not re-alise how they are affected.

The new freedom is not for all pensions – it does not apply to defined benefit (final salary) schemes, public sector pensions, state pensions or

annuities. Most options only apply to defined contribution (money purchase) schemes.

You can transfer out of a defined benefit scheme, to a defined contribution scheme or QROPS, but you may lose valuable benefits so need to consider it carefully. You can only transfer if you have taken advice from a pension transfer specialist regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority.

WhaT does ‘pension freedom’ mean? You can do virtually what-ever you like with your funds. You can leave your pension as it is and continue to take income drawdown, or you could take the whole lot as cash, or make withdrawals as and when you want, or take a lump sum now and start income at a later date, or buy an annuity.

If you choose to take all or much of your fund as cash, first ensure you have a reli-able plan for your long-term financial security.

It is important to think about the tax implications, especially for larger funds.

French residents will pay French tax according to the local rules. Pension income is generally taxed at the income scale rates of tax up to 45%, except for most government service pensions which remain taxable in the UK. Lump sums from UK pensions are taxed at a fixed 7.5%, provided there is no possibility of taking another lump sum in future. Pension

income is additionally subject to 7.4% social charges, un-less you have EU Form S1.

This is just a brief, gener-alised summary. It is impor-tant to seek personalised, expert advice. Getting it wrong could be very costly. Note that your UK schemes remain regulated in the UK regardless of where you are resident. So when seeking advice about your various pensions options, including QROPS, it is vital that your advice comes from a UK regulated source. In-deed, an increasing number of pension providers will not allow a transfer to take place unless you can demonstrate you have taken advice from a regulated source.

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

The new UK pension regime

Nick Pasco, Partner, Blevins Franks, gives his advice on managing your money...

To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world, check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com

Bringing you expert advice on personal finance

<<

TOM COKERTC WILL ADVISOR(Conseiller Testamentaire)Helping English nationals

resident in Francemake their wills

Can also help with Lasting Powers of Attorney

Living Willsand their French equivalents

Former English solicitor05 55 75 08 82

[email protected] Les Petites Doumingeas

87500 Ladignac Le Longsiret 43296410400025

A� ordable UK DesignsFitted Kitchens and UPVC Double Glazing

FREE PLAN, DESIGN & COSTING THROUGHOUT POITOU-CHARENTESUPVC windows, Doors & Conservatories made to UK

Spec in French styles

Email: [email protected]

www.a� ordableukdesigns.comSIRET: 513 577 809 00017

Phone: 05 49 42 99 41 Mobile: 0663 71 09 81

Made inthe UK

Fitted inFrance

living news | 55

AdministrAtion Allocations Familiales (family allowance) - for the first time, this allowance is now means tested with high income families receiving less.Allocations Chômage (unemployment benefit) has risen by 0.3%.Aide d’une Complémentaire santé, ACS: beneficiaries will now be exempt from paying the 1€ consultation charge at their doctor’s and the franchises on medicines.It is illegal to smoke in children’s playgrounds or aires de jeux.Allergens in food products must be more clearly labelled.

roAd sAfetyAfter a 3.7% increase in road deaths in 2014, a series of new regulations around road safety have come into force. These regulations are split into two categories, those that have an automatic points deduction and fine, and those that are up to the discretion of the en-

forcing officer with a maximumfine of 75€.

mandatory fine and points deduction:

• Being under the influence of drugs: 4,500€ fine + 6 points

• Alcohol limits are 0.5g/l but have been reduced to 0.2g/l for new drivers (who passed their test less than 3 years ago):4,500€ fine + 6 points

• Watching a screen which is not a driving aid (e.g. watching a DVD): 1,500€ fine + 3 points

• Manipulating your phone (e.g. texting):135€ fine + 3 points

• Using headphones (in ear or external): 135€ fine + 3 points (This applies to all road users including cy-clists, and includes using a single earphone.)

• Not wearing your seatbelt: 135€ fine + 3 points

• Smoking with a minor on board (this

regulation still has to be finally approved by Parliament): 68€ fine

fine up to 75€:

• Eating a sandwich

• Searching in the glove box

• Listening to loud music that will interfere with you hearing the normal road noises (and, at night, with the window open)

• Applying make-up (even in a traffic-jam)

Visit our blog at www.livingmagazine.fr or join our page on Facebook (LivingMagazine.fr) to keep up to date with the latest news and information.

LegisLation Round-up<<

On 1 January and 1 July each year, new administrative rules come into force. Here’s our pick of the latest changes...

eating at the wheel could be expensive

Cod/Haddock & ChipsFried in the Traditional way

Steakhouse HamburgersEnglish Tea, Beer, Wine

Eat in or Takeaway

*Terrace* *Air con* *Free Wi� *

Rue de Ste Catherine16410 Dirac

Tel: 05 45 25 96 22Wed to Saturday lunch & Eve

10 mins south east of Angouleme

www.fransons.fr

Food shops

Takeaways Food shops

Established 2002The English Shop in

Saintes, celebrating 12 yrs of trade

Largest choice inCharente MaritimeLocally produced

sausages & bacon,cheddar, spices and much

much more...Free book exchange

11 rue Arc de Triomphe - SaintesTel: 05 46 94 24 98

Open Tuesday to Saturday9:30am-12:30

& 2:00pm-6:30pm

Regular temperature controlled deliveries

from the UK of frozen, chilled and

grocery Iceland products

Domaine de la Goujonne 17270, MONTGUYON 05 46 48 32 44

www.anglofoods.com

To advertise call Jon on 0549 872971 or email [email protected]

24,000 31,000 copies!More copies and more stockists mean that even more people will see your advert, and all for the same price!Call us today to find out how to promote your business for as little as 33€ (including tva) per month.

Why pay more for less?

HOW TO ADVERTISE:

Ring Jon on 05 49 87 29 71 or email [email protected] We can design your advert

for you free of charge. Pay monthly by

debit/credit card.

Charente-Maritime

Dordogne

Haute- Vienne

Vienne

Deux- Sèvres

Vendée

Charente

ADVERTISE WITH The leading English language magazine

The MarkeT Place SWSouTh WeST France

Living

56 | www.livingmagazine.fr www.livingmagazine.fr | 57

Open Thurs, Fri & Sat: 6pm - 10pm

Telephone Orders Welcome 05 49 87 86 62

Between Ruffec & Civray

La SiréneTraditional Fish & Chips LIZANT (86)

Frying Icelandic Cod & Haddock

PLUSPukka Pies, Markey’s Pies,

Hamburgers etcChildren’s Menu,

Homemade Specials & DessertsEnjoy a glass of wine

with your mealEAT-IN OR TAKE-AWAY

Hundreds of English products at great pricesNow stockists of Crown & Sandtex Paint Homemade food & cakes served All day

Latté - Cappuccino - Draught BeerFull English Breakfast

Fresh Battered Cod & Chips Please refer to our website for opening times

Fresh deliveries every 3 weeks

Enjoy the taste of authentic Pakistani cuisine, cooked on the spot by Ajmal with fresh and local products

[email protected] 07 51 35 28 09

TUESDAYSChef Boutonne

Parking Stock’Fouille

WEDNESDAYSSauzé-Vaussais


FRIDAYSChef-Boutonne


SATURDAYSCharrouxPlace de la

Poste

Quality takeaway meals. Main dishes start from 6€, served with basmati rice, using organic flour and dal.

5-9pm

After their sausages and bacon sold out at the Paris Air Show, Sausageland are delighted to announce that they have been asked to supply both the Farnborough and Falmouth Air Shows from their base in Dordogne, a well deserved accolade to their quality, best of British recipes.But don’t worry, there will still be plenty of delicious sausages and special BBQ packs for your summer dining. Or, if you would prefer, you can

make up your own BBQ pack from the many meats on offer.Kelvin’s Rugby World Cup special edi-tion recipes are proving very popular.Choose from Welsh Dragon, Tartan Army, English Bulldog, French Flair and Paddy’s Luck. Also new and not to be

missed is Black Magic which includes 10% black pudding. But see the website or give them a call to check availability as they sell out quickly.

DROP OFF POINTS:Brantôme, Thiviers, Chabanais, Confolens, St Junien, Ruffec, Tocane, Aubeterre, Villebois Lavalette.

Don’t miss the Sausageland stand at the monthly Aigre (16) British market.

Sausageland - the perfect meat for your BBQ

4, place Yves Massy, 24360 Piégut Tel: 05 53 60 53 47/05 45 62 29 80 www.sausageland.com Facebook: Sausageland

FEATURED BUSINESS

Caterers

Stewart HullHaving a party?

Music from rock ‘n’ roll, 60s, swing, ballads and

much more...

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Paint, decorating equipment & hardware store

Supplying quality brands at great prices.

Dulux, Ronseal, Harris, Polycell, TorxDulux Colour Mixing Centre

Trade Enquiries welcome - trade discounts availablewww.peindreetplus.com

[email protected]: 5 Rue des Alliés, 24360 Piégut-Pluviers

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TEL: 05 53 56 66 06

3 Route des Charrons, La Forge, 87440 St Mathieu05 55 58 99 63 / 06 88 73 41 98 www.labrocantelaforge.com

La Brocante La ForgeOpen Thur-Sat

10am-6pmSunday 2pm-6pmSiret: 519 118 55 00013

Specializing in French and English Antique & Vintage Fine and rustic furniture, lighting, pictures, linens, toys,

dolls, costume jewellery, Persian carpets and rugs. Ornamental and unusual items, postcards and collectibles.

• We buy single items to full house or barn clearances.• Please call for a no obligation quote.• Friendly, reliable and discreet service.

�Manicures � Pedicures �Waxing �Artistic Gel Polish � IBX Nail Strengthener

Siret: 80236613800013

Contact Jacqueline Taylor05 49 29 46 19

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13 Grande Rue 79190 Sauzé-Vaussais

Taylor Made Beauty

Watch RepairRobert Horan, MBHI

certified by the British Horological Institute

visit us atwww.roberthoran.eu

Siret 80955021300015 Horan EIRL

Consultant MediumDarren Leigh

For more information visit my website

www.consultantmedium.fr

Tel: 06 51 58 06 84 Email: [email protected]

New independent golf shop stocking a large selection of

golf equipment, clothing and accessories.

Competitive prices and special offers

Knowledgeable, professional staff

CHEZ GOLFat Golf de St Junien

Tina HallManual Therapist

[email protected]

05 55 06 59 12 06 71 46 79 11

ww

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recl

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.netUK trained Physio with

27 years experience.Former Physio to GB

acrobatics team.

Bussac, 87600 Cheronnac

H.P.C. PH66488siret 497 688 663 00028

Alison Barker is now at...

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Tel: 05 49 87 16 33 06 82 59 76 87

[email protected] Siret: 509 861 902 00013

RENAISSANCE hair, beauty, nails

Watch repairer

Musicians

Shops

31,000 magazines via 850 stockists, find new customers


UK Paint at UK Prices05 45 78 42 20

Le Breuil, 16360 Baignes Ste Radegonde

www.ukpaintsinfrance.com

Licensed distributor for Crown and Sandtex paintsColour matching and mixing in-store2600 colours / 10,000 litres in stock

Fast and friendly personal service with full Crown technical services support

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Fair Prices - No Fix, No FeeCall Rees Davies

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St-Gaudent (86) - covering depts 86, 79 & 16

Ask about our promotionsMotor, House and Contents,

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BikeHireDirectQuality bike hire across

16, 17, 24, 33, 79, 85, 86 & 87

FREE delivery & collection

Gite Owner? Earn money with us!

05 67 07 11 01 [email protected]

CHRIS SELWYN Dip WCFREGISTERED FARRIERMARECHAL FERRANT

Over 20 years’ experienceAll disciplines and reme-dial work undertakenReliable, honest serviceContact to discuss your requirements and areaBased in 87 but will travelReferences Available

T: 06 30 96 02 02E: [email protected]

www.englishfarrierinfrance.com799 169 479 00018

Now taking on new clients

Cachette du chatSmall friendly cattery

Condac, Ruffec.Purpose-built heated

Chambers for your catwith its own outdoor run

Each chamber is well equipped to give your cat

all the comforts.Open all year.Visits welcome.

Reg DSV – Certifi cateof capacity

Tel 0545 29 01 310615 66 38 92

[email protected]

Catteries

[email protected]

Exhibits Sculpture Paintings and Drawings

at 2 rue du Chemin Vert - 16170 - Rouillac

GALERIE STUDIOSummer Sculpture Courses

3 days, clay & stone, fun for all

Tel: 05 45 70 75 01 / 06 37 01 37 63

We can design your advert free of charge, call Jon on 0549 872971

The Market PlaCe SWSouth WeSt FranCe


Bike hirePC Support

Insurance Farrier

Jane Wherrett ACCAUK Quali� ed Chartered Accountant• Bookkeeping to Trial Balance• Bank Reconciliations and

Cash Flow Forecasts• Aged Debtors and Creditors• VAT/TVA returns• Monthly Management

Accounts • Profi t & Loss

and Balance Sheet

Accounting and Bookkeeping Services to suit your business

requirements

Contact JaneTel: 05 45 64 47 30 E: [email protected]

Profi t & Loss and Balance

BUREAUCRATIC NIGHTMARES?

Prompt and practical help with all your administrative problems:

tax returns, healthcare cover, family benefi ts, insurance claims, auto entreprises, notaires, banks, utilities, social security, mairies & more.

Call Alison on 05 49 87 17 60

alison@affi xe.comwww.affi xe.com

Web Design

help & advice Courses

PDF Created with deskPDF PDF Writer - Trial :: http://www.docudesk.com

Claude’s Cat Hotel

Our small purpose built cattery offers heated

accommodation with outdoor space in a rural setting.

Les Chaillauds 16220 MONTBRONTel: 05 45 24 01 45

E:[email protected] www.claudescathotel.com

By appointment Mon-Sat 9am-6pm

English SpeakingAsk for Corinne

For all your insurance needs in France

Special discount for new owners - 50% o� the � rst 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.O� ces at Champdeniers and St

Pardoux (79). Come and visit us.

Agence MichallonTel: 05.49.25.87.06

[email protected]

Orias: 07007057

Great Bikes Delivered DirectAccompanied MTB Rides Family Days Out on the Voie-Verte

www.dordognecyclehire.com06 06 47 29 94

R

R

R

Maydaycomputer servicesProblems or issues with any computer,

tablet, printer, network, or connectivity?Adware or malware slowing

down your system?Need help either understanding a new

computer or deciding what to buy?Want to retrieve data or transfer

files to a new system?Simply need some advice on anything

tehcnology related?Call Mayday! Here to help!

Phil Monaghan05 55 68 47 33 / 06 82 26 31 54

[email protected]

Siret: 50044353600015

Hello, my name is Isabelle Want. For the past 5 years, I have been working for Allianz as an asset manager. Being mar-ried to an Englishman and having lived in the UK for 8 years gives me a better insight into what British people are

experiencing and what they need. Being French and born in the Charente has enabled me to offer some answers.I am, as always, available for any free advice on the follow-ing subjects: - INHERITANCE LAW - who inherits, how much are death duties, what solutions exist- TAXES - everybody’s fear! Annual tax forms in May, etc.

- INVESTMENTS - what is available, what rate, etc.- LIFE INSURANCE - how to protect your loved ones- FUNERAL COVER - preparing for the inevitable, unfortu-nately!- TOP UP HEALTH INSURANCE - why you need it and how much it is- INSURANCES - get a free quote to see if you can save moneyWe also have a dedicated bilingual person to deal with claims. And, finally, we have an English website with all sorts of useful information and tips on all of the above subjects.

Insurance and asset management advice in English

BH Assurances22 rue Jean Jaures 16700 Ruffectel : 05 45 31 01 61

10 bld du 8 mai 1945 16110 La Rochefoucauld tel : 05 45 63 54 31

102 ave de la République16260 Chasseneuil sur Bonnieuretel : 05 45 39 51 47

Contact Isabelle directly Mobile: 06 17 30 39 11 Email: [email protected] www.info-bhc.comN° ORIAS : 07020908

On YourMortgagePayments


90x19090x200

140x190150x200160x200180x200

www.jandafoam.com [email protected]: +44 (0) 12 54 66 36 63

Luxury Memory Foam Mattress ManufacturerAny size, delivered within 7 days

PMCARPETS &FLOORING

For all your flooring needs • We supply and fit a range of carpets to suit all budgets • We also fit amtico, vinyl, wood and ceramic tile • Over 25 years experience, 100% customer satisfaction• Now selling a selection of wool and mixed fibre rugs Contact Paul on 06 60 07 54 78 or 05 45 84 27 75 www.pmcarpetsandflooring.com

Sarl R.S.M. Distribution

Find us on D727 Jousse 10mins from Civray

Visit our 1000m2 showrooms.In business for 10 years.

Working to a budget?We can help.

Sarl R.S.M. Distribution

B&Q Cooke & Lewis Kitchens in stock.

Flat packed orbuilt up & delivered.

Planning and Design service.Fitting if required.

No mimimum purchase eg; one cabinet, one door.

Weds - Sat 10am - 4pm. Mon & Tues by appointment.Contact Ray, Sonia 05 49 87 67 34E; [email protected]

Famous Furniture in France

A large range of fabulous high back G Plan sofas, chairs and

3-piece suites always available from stock.

Plus a range of quality pocket sprung UK mattresses.

Delivered direct to your door in France - Pay in £’s or Euros.

www.famousfurnitureinfrance.com

Call us on 05 49 83 03 71 or 06 06 86 50 07 Based near Montmorillon (86)

Mattresses Satellite TV & Installation

Furniture & KitchensPet Products

Tel: 05 55 09 15 73

STAR SATELLITEBritish TV in France

BskyB Quali� ed For All Your Satellite Needs

Regions: Dordogne & surrounding Departments

Tel: 05 53 80 63 93Email: [email protected]

Web: www.starsatellite.frSiret: 501 962 666 00019

Pay monthly for your advertising by card, call Jon on 0549 872971


Carpets & FittingSatellite TV & Installation Currency

www.canicloture.fr

Exclusive suppliers and installers of hidden fences and indoor

boundaries. Using unique patented FM radio signal

technology to keep your dog(s) contained and safe, from a small

garden, gateway to a large estate.

Tina HaTcHer8, rue des Hirondelles - 17510 CHIVES

Tel: 05 46 59 06 81 email: [email protected]

Dog getting out more than you?

FURNITURE for France is now in its thirteenth year of supplying quality furniture to properties in France. The company specialises in providing clients with a service that offers good

quality UK-sourced furniture, delivered direct to your property in France from just £99 .

Liaising with its customers from the ini-tial enquiry through to furniture instal-lation, ensures they are kept informed every step of the way. “With 12 years’ experience and thousands of deliveries under our belts throughout France, we have encountered almost everything and put that to good use when helping

customers find the right furniture for their property,” said Brian Muir, the company’s managing director.

Brian welcomes customers from all over France to the company’s showroom near Brive so they can see the large selection of furniture for themselves. They make deliveries throughout France, as well as locally to customers in the Dordogne, the Lot, Charente and Limousin.

Quality Furniture - Convenient Delivery

T: 05 55 22 31 46 or 06 46 49 73 45 E: [email protected] www.furnitureforfrance.co.uk

FEATURED BUSINESS

Weekly trips between UK and FranceEverything from part loads to full house removalsFully insured and registeredOver 25 years experience in transport and removalsUK depot available for deliveries

Phone David on 05 49 87 15 06 or 05 49 97 09 63e-mail [email protected]

WANTEDOLD MOPEDS

& MOTORCYCLESAny condition Pre 1985

I am a collectornot a dealer.

Tel Stewart on: 0549 870114

email [email protected]

LeftHandDrivePlace

We buy and sell left hand drive cars, French

& British registered.Delivery and collection across Europe - regular trips throughout France.New and used, tax paid

and tax [email protected]+44 (0) 1256 461173

Le ParqueteurSAS

Suppliers and Fitters of traditional wood flooringSanding, restoration and finishing of wood floors

and staircasesFree quotation - Devis gratuit

www.leparqueteur.fr E: [email protected] 55 89 55 12 - 06 30 66 84 51

Wood Flooring

A family business for 30 years, offering a professional service

Packing servicesFull/part loads to and

from the UKVehicles transported

Containerised storageCompetitive prices

Transit liability included

Contact; Stephen Franklin 0044 (0)1283 792838

[email protected]

www.franklinsremovals.co.uk

FRANKLINS REMOVALS LTD

REMOVALS - STORAGE - GENERAL TRANSPORT - EXPRESS SERVICESPAIN - UK - FRANCE

1 cubic metre to full trailer loads - Dedicated express loadsWarehouse drop-off service - Single box, part load specialist

Professional export packing service

REMOVALS - STORAGE - GENERAL TRANSPORT - EXPRESS SERVICE

For a free quotation, call or visit our website:+34 952 79 34 22 +34 952 80 76 92

www.murrayharper.com [email protected]

' The major stockist and distributor in south west France of parts for Land Rover, Jaguar, MG, Mini, Triumph, Rover and other classic British vehicles.

' Technical support and electronic diagnostic equipment are available.

' Buy on-line via our website.

82 rue Jean Ducongé16410 Garat

Tel: 05 17 20 34 84Email: [email protected]

www.landypoint.fr

We will collect your scrap car for freeWe sell & buy secondhand cars

R.H.D or L.H.D Spare parts for saleEnglish spoken ~ Special o� ers for 4x4s

Les Tourettes - 87440 SAINT MATHIEUTel: 05 55 48 21 33/ 06 52 80 52 62

[email protected]

CAR BREAKERSC.R.A.L

Weekly services to & from SW FranceInternal moves within France

Containerised StorageRange of Packing services available

Over 30 Years’ Experience

Full or Part Load Removals To & From France Tel: 0044 1622 690653


www.anglofrenchremovals.co.uk UK Registration 543 77 60 UK

‘Your French Connection’EURO REMOVALS

ANGLO FRENCH

www.frenchvanman.eu

Man & Van Transport

Genuine, Reliable & HonestLocal + Europe + UK runs

14m3 capacity 4.2m load length

English & French spoken“extremely professional,

reliable and very good value for money”

05 55 33 21 5987150 Oradour-sur-Vayres

Siret: 530 213 644 00012

To advertise call Jon on 0549 872971 or email [email protected]

The Market Place SWSouth WeSt France


removals and Deliveries

removals and DeliveriesMotoring

Motoring

For the past few years the majority of carpets sold in Europe have been beige or neutral in colour. Even when interior design called for a strong colour on a ‘feature wall’, the demand for beige carpets remained the norm. But, as Jon the carpet man explains, “we are now seeing a shift away fom beige into shades of grey - hence the trademark description of this colour transition as Gre (y/be)eige!” From cool silvers to sophisticated grown up slate - grey is the

new beige!So, living in France - where most flooring styles remain fixed in the 60s - how do you see what’s new and innovative in the world of carpets and flooring? Jon’s wife and business partner Andrea explains: “As a company we keep up to date with what’s available by making regular trips to meet our suppliers. We deal with most of the major manufacturers including Abing-don Flooring and Cormar Carpets in the UK and specialist carpet and rug makers

like Bronte Carpets and Jacaranda.”With 35 years experience in the industry, Jon has an extensive list of trade contacts so is able to provide and install just about anything to do with carpets and flooring. This means that Jon and Andrea also have a huge range of vinyls, laminate, engineered and solid wood flooring.So if you want to see FIFTY SHADES OF GREIGE call Jon or Andrea.PS Jon would also be pleased to bring plenty of other colours too!

FIFTY SHADES OF GREIGE - Get laid on the floor

T: 05 55 73 63 16 E: [email protected] www.jon-thecarpetman.com

FEATURED BUSINESS

MORE€€€

FOR THESAME₤₤₤

POOLS BY JONATHANAgent 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

47994761600021

ANDY MSKitchens & Bathrooms

from A-ZAll leading Brands

All associated minor works, modifications and repairs

also undertaken e.g.. replace Kitchen worktops,

taps, toilets etc.Dept. 16, 17

05 46 49 78 30 / 06 70 40 66 01

website: andyms.free.fr email: [email protected]

siret:50263448800014

Antony WherrettElectrical InstallationsGarden and Home Lighting DesignsIntegrated Security AlarmsFire Detection & Entry SystemsPlumbing and Heating

Total Project Management

With 30 years experience I will see your project through from start to fi nish

Contact Tony to discuss your requirementsTel - [email protected]

Architectural designs, planning applications & project management for extensions, renovations,

conversions and new build.

Ian DickinsonBSc (Hons)

Tel/Fax: 05.46.98.22.01e-mail: [email protected]

ArchitecturalDesigner

Departments covered 16, 17, 79, 86

Renovating your next property?

Dreaming of a new build?Let me help you.

• Dossiers prepared• Permis de construire• Déclaration préalables

Architectural Drawing Service

05 53 52 36 [email protected]

Peter Latus BA(Hons)

Siret: 49377035800015

Keith Bassett

Part or full renovationsRoo� ng

Plaster boardingAll building works

undertakenTel: 05 49 27 52 99

Mob: 06 74 95 21 00E: [email protected]

Based 79190

GENERAL BUILDING SERVICES

Siret 487 581 209 00011

L’Atelier de FerFraser W. Eade

General Engineering

Turning, Milling, Welding

Quality & Precision

Guaranteed

Forgeix, 87200 Saint Junien05 55 71 41 75

[email protected]

Siret: 512 945 874 00018

George WhiteEuropean Transport

Special rates to SW France13.6m / 45ft trailer

Full/Part loadsRemovals - Vehicles - Materials

Owner DriverRHA member

Tel: +44 (0)7768 867 360Fax +44 (0)1773 570 090

Fr Mobile: +33 (0)6 23 03 85 59

www.georgewhiteeuropean.co.uk

Pools from 12,400€ ttc - installed in 2 weeks,

free planningCelebrating 20 years of installing pools in France - genuine reas-

surance for the future. We will beat any like for like

quote - just call us.Main agents for Christal Pools

+33 (0)5 65 37 79 647, Ave Georges Pompidou 46300 Gourdon

[email protected] - www.piscine-plus.com

piscine-plus.compools - spas - security - chemicals - accessories

DOWN TO EARTH POOL DESIGN

Sarl

All work completed by us,design, excavation, construction & landscaping on completion.

All work guaranteed.Testimonials available on request.

www.DownToEarthPoolDesign.com Email: [email protected]

Prices from €17,597 for 8x4m

05 49 87 04 13Siret 4933703570011

EU validated Heritage Construction CompanyTel: 06 32 19 50 53 E: [email protected]

www.strictlyroofingfrance.com

SIRET: 789 956 125 00015

Slate specialistRoof repairs both large & small

Roof replacementRoof renovations

Roofing surveys for house purchase

Chimney Removals Insurance claims

Décennale Insurance

the roof, the whole roof and nothing but the roof

Based near Civray (86)

31,000 magazines via 850 stockists, find new customers


Building Services Currency

Engineering

Pools

Building ServicesArchitectural Design

Removals and Deliveries

GARY MOORE HEATING20 YEARS IN HEATING, 10 YEARS IN FRANCE

Ò Installation, servicing, repairs - oil, gas, solar, solid fuel Ò Fully qualified, fully registered, 10 year décennale insurance Ò Currently offering FREE supply & installation of bulk propane gas tanks

Sire

t: 49

1827

705

0002

2

Tel: 05 45 29 68 73 | Mobile: 06 30 11 86 84 | Email: [email protected]

Robert Walker PLOMBERIE

Chauffage, Climatisation, SanitaireCentral Heating Installations Boiler ServicingBathroom, Kitchen InstallationsTiling, Solar Powered Hot WaterUnderfloor Heating & Heat Pumps

ROBERT WALKER Tel: 05 49 27 36 98Based South 79All work is fully insured,references can be provided

SIRET: 502 497 365 00010

Tel: 05 49 50 09 06Mob: 06 70 97 59 56

Email: [email protected]: 45275539000013 RM8601

Ellis Electrique

EXPERIENCED QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN

REWIRES, NEW BUILD,ELECTRIC HEATING,

HOME SECURITY, LIGHTNING PROTECTION,

TV & AUDIO. WORK GUARANTEED &

INSUREDAreas: 16, 36, 37, 79, 86, 87

Jb PlumbingKitchen & Bathroom

installationTiling

Plumbing Repairs

Tel: 06 29 90 24 89E: [email protected]

Based in dept 79 near Sauzé-Vaussais

Fully insured

Siret: 804 390 862 000 14

ELECTRICIAN

Experienced,French Registered

ElectricianAvailable for all types

of electrical workrenovations, small works,

gate automations etc.Insured and guaranteed

Areas 16, 17, 24, 47

05 46 86 07 [email protected]

Siret 49376573200015

MSS CONSTRUCTIONEstablished builder covering

areas 79, 16, 85 and 86. Offering full and part

renovations and all other aspects of building work.For further information, please visit our website www.mssconstruction.fr

or contact via:Mobile: 06 61 35 22 92

E: [email protected]: 794 942 953 000147

ANDY MSMulti ServicesPlumbingElectricityPlasterboardingTilingSatellite dishes and Systems for the reception of UK and French TV No Job too Small Dept. 16,17

05 46 49 78 30 / 06 70 40 66 01 website: andyms.free.fr email: [email protected]:50263448800014

Peter AmorElectrician

Large or small projects, from new builds, total

rewires (including 3 phase) to

Having additionalsockets/lights installed

to

Conformity Inspections

Tel: 05 49 91 85 54 [email protected]

All departments covered

SIRET: 480 026 560 00012

L.D Plastering & BuildingTop quality professional

plastering & building works.All aspects of plastering and

building work undertaken to the highest standard.

Specialising in all aspects of plastering, building and ground works from full renovations/

barn conversions to any small alterations or repairs etc.

Siret: 80254172200012

Call Luke or Chris: Luke: 07 83 49 49 34Chris: 07 83 96 85 85 land: 05 49 83 08 60l.dplastering-building

@outlook.com

Call for free advice or quotes.We cover 150km from Confolens (16)

Carpenter ~ JoinerRenovation

Tiling ~ Drylining

79190 Clussais La PommeraieE: [email protected]

References available Siret: 509 487 534 00018

Carpenter Specialising in

Kitchens, Bathrooms, Renovations & Building

Works

R.S.PAMPHILION05.49.29.58.22

Registered Artisan with Décennale Insurance

Andy CoopeGENERAL HANDYMAN05 49 87 20 76 / 06 95 41 78 [email protected]

Anything you cannot do, or do not wish to do, please give me a call.

Specializing in Gardening, Strimming, Hedge Trimming etc.,

Painting & Decorating, Building Works,

Fencing.

Siret: 752 604 256 00012

All work conforms to current French regulations

Fosse septiques and drainage Certi� cate of conformity guaranteed

05 45 31 19 40 - 06 26 71 45 69

BTP/SERVICES

TERRASSEMENT, CHEMIN D’ ACCES

MINI - PELLE , TRACTO PELLE

Tarifs intéressants, Travail soigné, Devis gratuit

St Laurent de Ceris - MontemboeufSiret 494 719 826 00021

We speak english

The Natural Way To Flow...

All our systems are fully approved for use in France and we will not be beaten on price

For a professional and friendly service,contact Clint: Tel: 05 45 85 47 40

[email protected] www.fossefrancesolutions.com

Independent supplier of a� ordable, reliable, high quality, environmentally friendly micro-stations and sewage

treatment systems for both new builds and properties with a non-conforming fosse.

FOSSE FRANCE SOLUTIONSFosse and Micro-station suppliers

UK registration 07 15 72 91

Pay monthly for your advertising by card, call Jon on 0549 872971


Multi services

Building Services

Electricians Carpenters

Plumbers Plasterers

+44 (0) 207 220 1746

[email protected]

Authorised by the FCA

CONTACTVIRGINIE AT

PDQFX

CurrencyHandyman

www.LBVfrance.com e:[email protected] t:+33 (0)5 45 70 20 98

Les Bons VoisinsLes Bons Voisinsproperty management throughout france . no job too small, no project too large

key holding . caretaking . maintenance . supervision . admin helpchangeovers . cleaning . gardening . mail forwarding . translation

friendly people providing professional help to home owners in france

exceptional service at competitive prices


Mad Hatter’s KitchenMad Hatters Kitchen serving freshly

made good food just for you!Thurs & Fri lunches: 3 courses, wine included €12.50

Fri & Sat evening menu €25 Traditional 3-course Sunday lunch €18

All by reservationFULLY LICENSED BAR | BED & BREAKFAST

Fri 31 July music/bistro/barFri 7 Aug Music in the garden with Alibi (rock)Fri 21 Aug Music/Bistro/Bar with Jazz à la carte

Fri 27 Aug Music/Bistro/Bar with Mambo Jambo

Please ring or e mail for more info 0549 27 67 29 [email protected] / www.madhattersfrance.eu

Le Logis, Le Breuillac, 79190 Caunay

SUMMER FESTIVAL: Fri 14, Sat 15 & Sun 16 AUGMusic, food and fun! See website for full details

Philippe & Yveline offer traditional French cuisine

using fresh local ingredients

À L’ABRI DES PINS Restaurant en Charente

T: 05 45 35 81 27 06 31 64 85 14

www.abri-des-pins.com

Fixed menu from Weekdays 14€

Weekends 21€/26€ (2/3 courses)Open lunchtimes Tues -Sun

Repas gastronomique

Café Clémence25 bis, route d’Angoulême

16150 Chabanais05 45 31 83 95

Opening hours Sun / Mon / Tue: 11h-14h

Wed / Thurs / Fri : 11h - 20h30* Sat: 11h- 14h & 17h30- 20h30*

*21h with reservation

Freshly cooked foodNew to menu - gourmet burgers

Lunch menu 12.50€ inclusive

www.alabonnevie.com05 49 95 91 60

2 rue de la Panique, 79130 Le Beugnon

Siret: 50089497700015

Opening Hours change with the seasons, please see

our websiteWe look forward to you trying our Lunches (Fri & Sat: Fish & Chips are on the menu)

Sunday Lunch, Evening Meals

Jazz Night with Abtuse Friday 28th August

Ticket only €18.50 per person including 2 course supper

The Irish BelleTea Rooms Confolens

Breakfasts & Lunches to include bacon sandwiches,

baked potato with toppings, a side salad and more.

Also selling Irish/English pro-duce & Gluten-free products.

Come and enjoy the cosy country ambience.

Mon 12h-16h Weds: 10h-14h Tues, Thurs & Fri: 10h-17h

Sat: 10h-15h21 Rue du Maquis Foch,

16500 Confolens 06 14 12 54 61 / 05 45 31 23 31FB: Mary Burke(Theirishbelle)

Address: 86400 VoulêmeTel: 05 49 87 19 20


www.ednas.eu

Regular theme nights including:Free Music nights, Quiz nights €6

Curry nights from €13Fish & chip nights 9€95

Weekday Menu du Jour 12€95 Sunday Roasts from €10

Groups & Families welcome Recommended on Tripadvisor

Booking advisable

EDNA’S BAR & RESTAURANT

Cafe Cour du MiracleVouvant

Come along for a beer, a glass of wine, a cup of

English tea and a slice of homemade cake, or a

delicious home-cooked lunch.

Open 11.00am to 6.00pm - until 10.00pm Friday evening

Tel: 02 51 00 54 93

www.cafecourdumiracle.com

Closed Monday & Tuesday

Equine Rescue FranceThe very handsome

Corran Ard is still look-ing for his forever home.

Returned to us due to guardian’s circumstances,

he’s dreadfully missing a one to one relationship. His story after racing is on

the website. He is a beautiful, easy and gentle boy, who would love to be pandered to. Can you help?

Please take a look at our websitewww.EquineRescueFrance.org

Reg: 862000830

Alcoholics AnonymousIf 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.

Tel: Angela on 05 49 87 79 09 or Ben on 06 75 70 89 31

www.aafrancesud-ouest.com

DE

LA M

AR

QU

E D

U T

ERR

ITO

IRE

GU

IDE

D’U

TILI

SATI

ON

Cancer Support FranceCharente Maritime

Member of the Cancer Support France Network

Supporting English speaking men andwomen touched by any form of cancer

Our helpline: 06 79 16 60 83e-mail: [email protected]

www.cancersupportfrance.orgRegistered Association W174002416

www.rblpoitou- charentes.fr

AUTUMN CONCERTSTaizé-Aizie Church (16)Sunday 6th September

and, together withCHANTVALLON,

Charroux Church (86)Sunday 20th September

Further details from Secretary05 49 29 97 81

The Phoenix Chorale

Freshly cooked food, Menu du jour ,Bar menu, A la carte, Sunday roasts,

& live music

La Brousse, 16700 Londignytel; 05 45 29 05 07

www.aubergedunoyer.com www.facebook.com/aubergedunoyer

Auberge du noyerBar & Restaurant

Open daily except Tues & Weds

7 Place André Bujeaud, 85210 Saint Hermine

02 51 30 23 95 [email protected]

Traditional English FoodLarge choice of beersQuizzes and Events

Lunch & Evening - 3 courses 12€

Closed Wednesdaylepubdeshalles

What’s OnWhat’s ON Page sWsOuth West FRaNce

www.livingmagazine.fr | 5764 | www.livingmagazine.fr

associations

associations

What’s On

living Music

Hotel Du Diamant Bar, Hôtel & Restaurant

Snacks, lunch and evening meals starting from 4.50€

Live music & theme nightssee website for details

Group bookings taken

www.facebook.com/hoteldudiamantfi nd us on facebook

James & Nicky 05 49 87 20 28 | 6 Rue de Diamant 86460 Mauprevoir

Mauprevoir

www.hoteldudiamant.com

Café de la Gare

Bar ~ Snacks ~ Music ~ Poolopen till midnight

Weekends 12-12, Lunch Tue-Fri

Sunday Lunch ~ ExhibitionsGourville (16170)

Between Aigre & RouillacTel: 0545 622516

FB: le bourg aka cafe de la gare

Fish & chips & fireworks: Sun 2 AugFolk club: Tues 4 Aug

Nuit Romane: Fri 21 Aug

Further up the coast, topping the bill at Rochefort’s Summer Sound Festival

(6–8 Aug) are Patrick Bruel and Mika. www.summersound.fr Not to be outdone, the nearby Jazz à Fouras Festival (11–13 Aug) responds with a great line-up headlined by Maurane, a class act who should be in fine voice after a sell-out concert at Les Francofolies 2015. www.josecandojazzfestival.com

Inland, in N Charente, the 58th international folklore and world music Festival de Confolens unfolds on 11–16 Aug. www.festivaldeconfolens.com Newer, and in a charming rural setting near Caunay (79), is the Mad Hatter’s

Festival which presents a line-up of acoustic and electric acts in varied styles from 14–16 Aug. www.madhattersfrance.

eu Finally, details of many music festivals throughout Europe are listed at www.festivalsrock.com.

So far summer 2015 has delivered, in terms of both sun and sounds. Happily, there’s a whole lot more still to come.

And there’s more...

Welcome to the second part of our annual rundown of forthcoming live

musical highlights. The peak holiday season can always be relied upon to entertain residents and visitors alike with plenty of live events, many of them completely free. Just remember the date, turn up and enjoy the magic.

If you’re in or near the Vienne département then look out for Les

Heures Vagabondes – a series of free open air concerts which take place until 14 Aug, culminating with a show by ’80s outfit Imagination at Saint-Georges-les-Baillargeaux. www.lesheuresvagabondes.fr

Something similar but on a drama-tically bigger scale is offered each year by the Région Poitou-Charentes, in the shape of Les Nuits Romanes. The name is a reference to the region’s celebrated Romanesque architectural sites, which have been carefully selected to host performances by professional performers. The packed programme has something somewhere for everyone, and it’ll be happening almost every evening until 30 Aug, with a final unique and spectacular event at Melle (79) on the 5 Sept. But don’t take my word for it; try to see at least one of these unforgettable and totally free events. www.nuits

romanes.poitou-charentes.fr/en

If classical music is more to your taste then make a note of Les Estivales

d’Artenetr, 17 concerts and 5 master

classes which take place between 21 July and 7 Aug. Now in its 9th edition, the main venue is the Abbaye-Royale de Celles-sur-Belle, with additional events in Chef-Boutonne and Verrines (79). www.artenetra.com. Further south, the Festival du Périgord Noir is Aquitaine’s largest festival, with more than 20 classical concerts presented in churches in the area including Sarlat- la-Canéda, the beautiful village of Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère and the Jardins du Manoir d’Eyrignac. It runs from 29 July–2 Oct. www.festival

musiqueperigordnoir.com/en/ Opera devotees, on the other hand,

will be familiar with Les Soirées

Lyriques de Sanxay, which this year run on 10, 12 & 14 Aug in the magical setting of a Gallo-Roman amphitheatre. The 2015 edition of this hugely ambitious event will be presenting Turandot by Puccini, with a company of international artists travelling from the stages of Orange and Aix-en-Provence to perform here. www.operasanxay.fr

On a lighter note, Jazz Transat offers free concerts at 9pm on Tues evenings throughout August at the Kiosque de

Pontaillac in Royan (17). There’s an impressive list of celebrity players, who will be performing a range of styles from gospel to swing. www.ville-royan.fr

Neighbouring Saint Georges de Didonne celebrates the good things in life with its Festival Musique et Gastronomie

du Monde (11–12 Sept) with free access to all concerts. www.

musiquesetgastronomie.org

MUpBeat


66 | living books

Former BBC books reviewer, Sandie George, takes a look at the latest French and English bestsellers.

Vouvant, Bressuire, St Aubin le Cloud, Thouars, Fenioux,

St Jouin de Marnes, L’Absie, Mouilleron en Pareds, St Maixent and Clesse.

Available each month from...

Books in English For Sale or Exchange

Call 06 08 30 73 29 or email: [email protected]

Paperback Jan is on facebook...Siret: 807 812 433 00017

NEW OWNERS - come and meet Keith and Cindy

TREGIAN’S GROUND by ANNE CUNEO publisher And Other Stories

Francis Tregian was born into

Cornish Catholic nobility in the choppy waters of the Elizabethan Age, and must rely on his surpassing skill as a musician to survive. In this ‘Prix des Libraires’ win-ning novel, Cuneo deftly recreates the musician’s journey across Renaissance Europe, which sees him befriending Shakespeare, swapping partitions with William Byrd and Monteverdi, and play-ing in the court of Henri IV of France. The result is as gripping as it is authentic.

LAST CHANCE IN THE PYRENEES by JULIA STAGG publisher Hodder & Stoughton

This is the last in the Fogas Chronicles and is the author’s finest book to date. There is laughter and empathy com-bined with wicked plots that interact so well with each other, and the char-acters are just rounded out beautifully. I can recognise some of them in our commune. I can also understand that the author would want to finish the series on a high note, but it would make a great TV series.

IN BITTER CHILL by SARAH WARD publisher Faber & Faber

An exciting debut novel which starts in January 1978 when two girls went missing: Rachel Jones returns, Sophie Jenkins is never found. Thirty years later, Sophie’s mother commits suicide. Rachel has tried to put the past behind her and move on with her life. News of the suicide re-opens old wounds and Rachel realises that the only way she can have a future is to finally discover what really happened all those years ago.

MEMORY MAN by DAVID BALDACCI publisher Macmillan

Amos Decker is a former

professional football player whose career was ended by a terrible blow. Now a police detective, Amos is still haunted by a side effect from the accident. One night Decker comes home from a stakeout to find his wife, young daughter and brother-in-law murdered. Decker has to use his skills as a detective and his unusual brain and memory capacity to try and catch the monster who killed his family.

THE DYING SEASON by MARTIN WALKER publisher Quercus

When Bruno Courreges, chef de police, is invited to the 90th birthday of a powerful local patriarch, he encounters a family with more secrets than even he had imagined. When one of the other guests is found dead and the family try to cover it up, Bruno knows it’s his duty to prevent the victim from becoming just another skeleton in their closet even if his digging reveals things Bruno himself would rather keep buried.

LivingRecommended Bestsellers:

Alert (Michael Bennett) by James Patterson, publisher Century

Taming of the Queen by Philippa Gregory, publisher Simon & Schuster

Audrey (Hepburn) at Home By Luca Dotti, publisher Harper Design

A Year of Good Eating: Kitchen Diaries by Nigel Slater, publisher Fourth Estate

Labradorable: Labradors At Home, Play, etc. by Villager John, publisher CICO Books

Book reviews

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*****

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Billeterie en ligne sur le site et O.T. COGNAC : 05.45.82.10.71 - Tarif : 25 €Renseignemens : 05.46.94.74.61 Jacques BACLET et Anne-Marie MOLINIE

Du 30 Août au 15 Septembrewww.festi-classique.com

Maison MEUKOW (Cognac)Trio à cordes COMPASS :Sarah NEMTANU (Victoire de la Musique)Marie CHILEMME, Christophe MORIN

Maison ABK6 (Claix)Piano à quatre mains et violon :Dimitri PAPADOPOULOS / Hervé N’KAOUA (piano)Marie-Claudine PAPADOPOULOS (violon)

Maison JEAN FILLIOUX (Juillac-le-Coq)Piano à quatre mains :Duo Stéphanie et Pierre SOLOT

Maison HINE (Jarnac)Récital de clavecinavec Bridget CUNNINGHAM : “L’ère de l’élégance”

Distillerie PAUTIER (Bourg/Charente)Duo SOSTENUTO “L’âme slave” : Marie-Laure BOUILLON (flûte traversière),Benoît ROULLAND (guitare)

Maison OTARD (Cognac)Trio LAHOZ : concert harpe-guitare/peinture Soirée tangos de Piazzolla et tangos Argentins.Artiste Peintre : Anne D’ARESSY

Maison COURVOISIER (Jarnac)Concert /narration “On l’appelait CALLAS” : Piano : Hervé N’KAOUA, Soprano : Chrystelle DI MARCONarrateur : Gabriel BOZ

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LONDONDAILY FLIGHTS FROM BERGERAC

INFORMATION ON www.bergerac.aeroport.fr

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Get away to one of France’s most popular amusement parks

and the only one of its kind in Europe!

Absorb the fantastic, fun and fairy-tale Futuroscopeatmosphere with over 25 original experiences waiting for

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Ideally located in the Poitou-Charentesregion, Futuroscope is only 90 minutes from London by plane and 80 minutesfrom Paris by TGV. Direct flights fromLondon, Edinburgh and Shannon to Poitiers.

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The voucher is valid for adults (aged 17 to 59), senior citizens (aged 60 and over)and children (aged 5 to 16) for 1-day dated-entry tickets (Classic Rate basis) and must be handed in at the Futuroscope ticket booths between the 7th February 2015 and the 3rd January 2016* (1 to 5 visitors per voucher). Discount does not apply to other ticket types, Smart Rate, Breaks and other packages, undated tickets, and bookings made online or by telephone. Offer cannot be applied retroactively or combined with other offers. *Please check the opening dates calendar on futuroscope.com

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Documents

Living Magazine August/September 15