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Issue 99
November 2014
Haute-Vienne (87), Charente (16), South Deux-Sevres (79) & South Vienne (86)
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Hello everyone and
welcome to the
November edition. At
the time of writing it
doesn’t really feel like
it’s almost the end of
the year, having had
some beautiful October weather.
The weather was certainly on our side for
a planned night away in La Rochelle with
our neighbours to visit some French
friends who had moved there the previous
year. It was absolute bliss to sit along the
harbour front soaking up the glorious
sunshine, enjoying a glass or two of
something refreshing! With an organised
protest concerning trade with the USA, a
street entertainer juggling and climbing
ladders, and an escaped patient from the
local hospital, it was a far cry from the
usual activities of our quiet little hamlet
and certainly made for an entertaining
afternoon! In the evening our friends
32000 sq ft
of bargains!
introduced us to some of their favourite
bars and of course our French got better
the more bars we visited J. Then not
knowing the back streets, we got lost trying
to locate our hotel and was escorted for 15
minutes on foot by a very helpful French
lady who was fascinated to be chatting to
an English person. She now knows just
about everything about me barring my
favourite member of One Direction! We
hadn’t been to La Rochelle for a few years
and it reminded me what a fantastic place
it is to visit when you are in need of a bit
of ‘city life’.
@etceterafrance
love Gayle’s Who’s Who this month on
page 12 … the Haute-Vienne is going to be
home to Europe’s first Elephant
Retirement Sanctuary! They need loads of
support so it would be great to all get
behind this project.
Clive gives some advice on page 50 about
why it is wise to avoid bringing over
electric showers from the UK. And we
welcome our newest contributor, Steve
Richards, on page 29 who kicks off this
month with an article about working with
tradesmen.
There’s more of course and I wish you
This month we have some great pieces for happy reading and a very enjoyable
you including some details about wealth November.
tax on page 10 - you may laugh and think Take care,
‘I wish’ but I think some people may be
surprised at how easy it would be to reach
the threshold when you take all assets into
account.
On page 11 Lindsey walks you through
setting up your online declarations. You’ll
BRITISH PAINT
Toys • Furniture • Clothing • Groceries
… plus everything you need for
your DIY project & more …
Cement • Plaster • Sand & Gravel
Timbers • Worktops • Paints
Finished off with your favourite beer!
DELIVERED TO YOUR
DOOR IN FRANCE
www.kis-uk.com
See ad page 25
1
Kis
See advert
- page 38
05 55 68 15 77
7 La Gervaudie
87190, Magnac Laval
etcetera.editor@neuf.fr
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Useful Numbers
15 SAMU (Medical)
17 Gendarmes (Police)
18 Pompiers (Fire)
119 Child abuse
115 Homeless
113 Drugs and alcohol
112 European emergency not always English
1616 Emergency- Sea & Lake
3131 Last incoming call, key ‘5’ to connect
France Telecom
English speaking helpline 0033 (0)9 69 36 39 00
Website in English: www.francetelecom.com
Report a fault, online, in English www.1013.fr (click UK flag)
Orange English speaking line 09 69 36 39 00
EDF
0810 333087
EDF breakdown 24 hours
05 62 16 49 08
EDF Helpline in English
0033 562164908 (From UK)
05 62 16 49 32
Fax
E-mail: simpleenergywithedf@edf.fr
CPAM - 08 11 36 36 46 English Helpline
Veolia Water Emergency No: 24h/24 et 7j/7
05 61 80 09 02 (press 1 for urgent problems or
2 for a technician)
S.E.P Du Confolens (Water)
05 87 23 10 08 Emergency 24/7
Aéroport Int’l Limoges 05 55 43 30 30
SNCF (train times, buying tickets etc) 36 35
Alcoholics anonymous
For contact details of meetings in your area
including those conducted in English, visit
www.aafrancesud-ouest.com
Hospitals
05 55 05 55 55 Limoges (CHU)
05 55 43 50 00 St Junien
05 55 47 20 20 Bellac
05 49 44 44 44 Poitiers
05 45 24 40 40 Angouleme
05 49 32 79 79 Niort
Counselling In France
Counsellors, psychotherapists, NLP, CBT etc
offering therapy in English to expatriates all
over France on www.counsellinginfrance.com
SSAFA France 05 53 01 64 54
email france@ssafa.org.uk
No Panic France Helpline: 02 51 28 80 25.
Open Mon, Wed & Fri 8pm - 11pm
Outside these times call No Panic UK helpline:
0044 1 952 590 545 11h - 23h (French time) 7/7
www.nopanic.org.uk /nopanicfrance@orange.fr
English-speaking Crisis Line
SOS- HELP 01 46 21 46 46 3pm-11pm 7/7
British Consulate in Paris 01 44 51 31 00
British Consulate in Bordeaux 05 57 22 21 10
http://ukinfrance.fco.gov.uk/en/
Credit Agricole English Speaking Helplines
Charente 05 45 20 49 60
Charente Maritime/Deux Sevres 05 45 20 01 31
Anglofile - Radio for British in Charente www.rcf.fr Tues 20h (repeated Sun 11h30).
Angouleme 96.8, Chalais 96.9, Confolens 95.4,
Ruffec 95.4, Char. Limousine 104.1, Cognac 89.9
The Advice Service (service may be charged for)
Financial, employment, health, bereavement etc.
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Statut 5814Z Edition de Revues et Periodiques Siret: 513 683 425 00013 Directeur et rédacteur en chef - L Wallace Registered, La Gervaudie, 87190, Magnac Laval
Impression: gds imprimeurs, Limoges. etcetera est disponible gratuitement, tirage 10,000 exemplaires Assurances AXA,
2
Fast help with French
Ware’s Language Notes
Richard Ware
In October 2006 Richard Ware commenced a series of self learning language notes, the
purpose of these was to introduce us to the French language and promote formal lessons.
Services Linguistiques et Pratiques
French Lessons
Translation Interpretation
Help with formalities etc
Tel 05 55 00 31 15
Email: richard@frangle.fr
I want to tell you something.
I don’t want you to hear it from someone else.
First of all, I stand corrected! There was an error in my article last month when I
suggested that the “s” was put back onto the “tu” imperative of –er verbs when they
No. Siret 453 669 624 000 26
were followed by a vowel. You do indeed, as I was told, say Vas-y because Va-y is
difficult to say, but you do not say “Manges un sandwich” with a zed sound between
the first and second word. That was my mistake. But the rule holds true when the word after the imperative is either “y” or “en,”
something of which the French lady who corrected me did not appear to appreciate. Either way, the point I was making in the
article was that words beginning with a vowel can have unexpected effects on what comes before, and that certainly holds
good.
www.frangle.fr
In English, grammar is very flexible. One does not need all the connecting words that are needed in a romance language to
show how all the different elements of what one is saying are linked. We all know that if you think something is difficult, you
have to say in French that you think that something is difficult. Like the man you saw yesterday in French is the man whom
you saw yesterday. In the first title sentence above, for instance, the word order makes the meaning clear. What I want is to
tell you something. In the second, there is a degree of ambiguity until you get well past the apparent subject verb object. “I
don’t want you” makes perfect sense by itself. Somehow in English we don’t need so many clues to realise that it is the following
bit that the speaker doesn’t want to happen, not you that he doesn’t want about the place.
Yes, there is a rule of thumb! If you have two interdependent things going on in a sentence, and it is the same person or thing
doing both, then you can nearly always find a simpler way of expressing it using the infinitive, or the –ant form of one of the
verbs. In the first sentence, I am wanting and the person telling is me too. Je veux vous dire quelque chose. But in the second
one I am wanting, but it is not me that is going to hear it from someone else. So you have to go through the complicated “I
don’t want that you hear it from someone else,” and because you are loading your wishes on someone else, it will be in the
subjunctive – Je ne veux pas que vous l’entendiez d’un tiers.
The same sort of thing applies to other combinations of ideas. I like washing my hair– J’aime me laver les cheveux, but I don’t
like you washing your hair in the wash basin – Je n’aime pas que vous vous laviez les cheveux dans le lavabo. My brother
prefers to take his holidays in England – Mon frère préfère prendre ses vacances en Angleterre, but He prefers me to go with
him – Il préfère que je l’accompagne. I would like to have a sandwich – je voudrais prendre un sandwich but I wouldn’t like us
to eat all of them – Je ne voudrais pas que nous les mangions tous.
Doing things before and after other things is rather similar. Before he left the house Fred closed all the windows – Avant de
quitter la maison, Fred a fermé toutes les fenêtres. But Fred closed the windows before I left the house – Fred a fermé toutes
les fenêtres avant que j’aie quitté la maison. After we had an apéritif at home, we went to the restaurant to eat – Après avoir
pris un apéritif à la maison, nous sommes partis manger au restaurant. But After we had eaten my daughter was very ill. Après
que nous avions mangé, ma fille a été très malade.
Even when things are happening at the same time, the same rule applies. As I came out of the metro I bought a paper. J’ai
acheté un journal en sortant du métro. He went into the shop as I drove past. Il est entré dans le magasin au moment ou je
suis passé.
So although French sometimes appears rather clunky and unnecessarily complicated, there are nearly always ways of getting
round at least some of the complexities. For more ways of avoiding difficulties of this kind, look at the article “Happy verbal
families” on my website
Richard offers French lessons at his home base on Mondays and travels out to informal groups or individual
learners on most other days of the week. If you can form a group around your table to share the hourly
rate, lessons do not have to be expensive.
For more details contact Richard on: 05 55 00 31 15 or visit his website www.frangle.fr
These language notes are well read, very successful, highly popular and imitated…
Richard brings the French language to life in easy to understand steps.
Back articles are available for download for personal use from his website www.frangle.fr
Children’s Birthday Parties at Noah’s
Celebrate your childs birthday in style with a fun-filled afternoon!
Ÿ Pony rides
Ÿ Meet all the animals
Ÿ Feed the baby animals (when available)
Ÿ Give treats to a pig
Ÿ Cuddle a goat
Ÿ Party games with prizes for all
Ÿ Birthday cake, picnic food & drinks
Ÿ Keepsake photos sent home via email
In short - a fun time down at the farm! Simply a day to remember! Telephone for more information and prices, parties for all budgets.
La Ferme, Les Dognons, 87440 Maisonnais sur Tardoire 05 55 70 64 76
All in aid to help us help the animals who can’t ask for help themselves.
3
Church & Other Notices
English speaking church
in the Poitou-Charentes
Come and join us for one
of our weekly Sunday services across
The Poitou-Charentes.
For more information about us, please visit:
www.church-in-france.com / 05 49 97 04 21
RUFFEC-CONFOLENS-MONTBRON
MEET TO MEDITATE (RuCoMo-M2M)
Not-for-profit meditation & reading group for
Christians, Buddhists, other faiths & atheists
in NE Charente (16).
lucy.harrisunun@btinternet.com /
06.14.40.75.25 or 0044 7899 730181
The English speaking Church
of the Valley of the Loire
La Chapelle Notre Dame 86200 Ranton
Services 3rd Sun of month 11h30.
Communion service followed by
refreshments and bring & share lunch in
hall next to the church. www.escoval.org
Eglise Protestant Unie de France
The 'Paroisse Protestante de la Basse Marche'
hold the following Sunday worships;
Temple Thiat; 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th Sun 11h (Fr.)
3rd Sun 15h (Eng.)
Temple Villefavard; 1st , 3rd Sun 10h45 (Fr.)
2nd, 4th Sun 10h30, catechism for children (Fr.),
Culte commun 5th Sun (joint worship in Fr.)
held alternately at Thiat and Villefavard
For further info:Zoë Horlock 05 55 68 59 95
or Rev'd Stephen Sawyer 05 49 84 33 86
Jacques Chezeaud - Catholic Deacon
Church service each Sunday 10am including
gospel read in English & children's activities.
http://lavieduclocher.free.fr
The parishes of St Pierre aux Fontaines,
St.Mathieu & St Sauver, Rochechouart (87)
offer a warm welcome to all who attend their
church services. Paris Le Lean, an English
speaker, is available to help regarding,
christenings, confirmation, marriages & funerals.
leleanp@yahoo.com / 05 55 78 77 36
Having lived in Scotland for 34 years, Jacques
has returned to the Limousin and has the
specific responsibility of assisting and
supporting the English speaking community.
Jacques welcomes your contact:
Jacques.chezeaud@gmail.com 06 78 71 69 56
CHARITY SHOP
Place de l'Eglise, 87150 CUSSAC
Open Tues & Fri 14h-17h30
Clothes for all the family, bedding, curtains
etc. Prices from 2-10€. An English speaker is
usually there on Fridays. All welcome.
Christians together in the Limousin?
Come and meet our friendly Christian Home
Group which meets in the Rochechouart area
every Wednesday. Tel : 05 55 48 98 04
THE FILLING STATION ~ Poitou-Charentes
An informal way of expressing the Christian faith
www.christiansindordogne.com
derekcook3@sky.com
France 05 53 57 83 30 / UK 01892 520882
Mike& Eva Willis 05 49 87 89 16
michael.willis@sfr.fr
www.thefillingstationfrance.com
Monthly Worship in English
If your journey of life has brought you here to
France, why neglect your journey of faith? We
welcome everyone from whatever Christian
tradition (or none) on the 3rd SUNDAY of the
month, 3pm, at the temple in Thiat (NE HauteVienne). We are part of the Parish of the
Basse-Marche of the Eglise Protestante Unie
de France. The temple is on the main road
close to the Mairie. After worship, there is
tea/coffee and cake - and a chance to chat.
For info,: Rev Derek Lawson 05 55 68 53 03
or Rev Stephen Sawyer 05 49 84 33 86
Eglise Protestante Evangélique
5 rue Nouvelle, 86500 Montmorillon
Sunday Worship 10.30am
Bible Study (English) Thursday 7pm
Tel: 05 49 48 73 31
Bible Study (French) Thursday 8.30pm
Tel: 05 49 91 06 33
Christian Fellowship and Bible Study
Every Wednesday evening 19h30 - 21h30
Le Lindois area 16310 ~ Tel: 0545 66 13 81
Madeleine is still missing.
The picture on the right shows what Madeleine
may look like today. Please do not forget her.
0044 845 838 4699 www.findmadeleine.com
www.orphanagefund.org.uk | info@orphanagefund.co.uk
We welcome donations of items that can be sold at
vide greniers to raise money.
Collection points:
Petticoat Lane British Shop, Chabanais or
contact griffeepeter@hotmail.com / 05 49 97 11 76
Cards are re-cycled, re-designed and sold.
Deposit unwanted bras & help support
ABC! For info contact Sue Stagg below.
VARIOUS LOCATIONS
'Slimmercise' Slimming Clubs
Lynne Stephens - 05 45 84 21 94
Email: slimmercise@gmail.com
CELLFROUIN
Tracey Brown - 05 45 31 6728
Email: tracemalc@hotmail.com
JAVERLHAC
Sue Stagg - 05 53 56 36 02
Email: sue.stagg@yahoo.co.uk
We help & support those who serve in our
Armed Forces and those who used to serve.
LINAZAY POITOU-CHARENTES
BRANCH
Mission of The Royal British Legion
To safeguard the welfare, interests and memory of
those who are serving or have served in the Armed
Forces and their dependants.
Fundraising Through its annual Poppy Appeal raises
funds to provide financial, emotional & social support.
Social Meetings and active social events are held
throughout the year.
Membership of the Legion Membership is open to
men and women over 17 who accept the objects of
the Legion and commit themselves to take an active
part in promoting them. It is not necessary to have
served in the Armed Forces.
Details of Membership and membership forms can be
obtained via www.rblpoitou-charentes.fr
05 53 01 64 54 / france@ssafa.org.uk
Jours Fériés - 2014
1 January
20 April
21 April
1 May
8 May
29 May
8 June
9 June
14 July
15 August
1 November
11 November
25 December
New Year
Easter Sunday
Easter Monday
Labour Day
Victory in Europe
Ascension
Pentecost Sunday
Pentecost Monday
Bastille Day
Assumption
All Saints
Armistice 1918
Christmas
4
COLLECTION POINT
Used postage stamps - In aid of the Royal
National Institute for the Blind in the UK.
Unwanted spectacles in support of Vision Aid,
a charity serving African countries.
Christie’s ~ Gençay
T-Anne and Andrew 05.49.50.61.94
Christies.gencay@hotmail.com
www.cancersupportfrance.info
Our main reason for existing is to be there to
offer support to those affected by cancer.
We help by providing access to information about
cancer & treatment, by attending Hospital /Doctors
appts when possible, home visits or a supporting tel
call. We help you ask the questions you need answers
to. We try our very best to support you in the way that
is best for you. We organise social meetings for
relaxation and fun, bring and share lunches & take
time to catch up with each other. For further information:
CSF Charente Plus
Joan Hogan - President
06 45 35 32 30 (24h answer service)
Email: csf.charenteplus@gmail.com
CSF Deux Sevres
June Searchfield President 05 49 64 59 96
junesearchfield@gmail.com
CSF Haute-Vienne (& Creuse)
Sue Ware - President
06 04 43 39 87 (24hr answering service)
email: csfhv@frangle.fr
Clubs, Meetings & Associations
SLIMMERCISE
Do you need help to lose those excess pounds?
Difficult to do on your own? Come join me at
Slimmercise and be encouraged by the many
success stories and the support within the group.
Sauzé Vaussais (79) Mon 9h30 | Exideuil (16)
Tues 11h15 | Alloue (16) Weds 9h45
Optional zumba classes:
Zumba Gold: Sauzé Vaussais, Mon 11h
Zumba Toning: Exideuil, Tues 10h
You too can be a success! For info: Lynne Stephens
05 45 84 21 94 / E: slimmercise@gmail.com
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
If you or someone you know has a drinking
problem, there are now a number of Englishspeaking meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous in
the South West of France.
Alcoholics Anonymous is a Fellowship of men
and women who share experience, strength and
hope with each other that they may solve their
common problem and help others to recover from
alcoholism. The only requirement for membership
is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or
fees for A.A. membership and A.A. is not allied
with any sect, denomination, politics, organization
or institution. Our primary purpose is to stay sober
and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.
Tel: Ewen 05 53 05 76 62,
Roger 05 55 76 22 65 or Nancy 02 54 24 09 74
E-mail: Publicinfo.swfrance@aa-europe.net
or visit www.aafrancesud-ouest.com
for details of English-speaking meetings.
GYM BIEN ETRE
Would you like to be more supple? Come to our gym
class on Thursdays from 10h30 to 11h30, where we
do gentle exercises to help all our muscles and
joints. The classes are held in Rochehouart in the
Capitole building, upstairs. Our group is part of a
National federation of Gymnastics.
For info contact Pauline pauline.maskell@sfr.fr
THEATRE CHABANOIS is a bi lingual
community theatre group formed in 2009 with
about 30 members so far. A cast and crew of all
ages (10yrs to over 80), abilities and talents. We
are always looking for new members, not only
CUSSAC (87150) - BOWLS CLUB
those with thespian tendencies but those that
Lawn/Short-mat,Crown-green&Flat-green Bowling
are willing to help back stage and front of house.
If you have never played before or don't have
Everyone is welcome to join us, whatever you
your own bowls, don't worry. The club has a
bring to the group you will be sure of a warm
supply of bowls for your use and most of our
welcome and much fun on a Monday evening at
now-competitive bowlers had never played
the Salle des Fetes in Chabanais at 7pm.
before joining. New session times as follows:
THE PHOENIX CHORALE
Mon am - outside (synthetic lawn)
Weds eve - in gym - short-mat bowling (4 mats) LEARNING TOGETHER / APPRENONS ENSEMBLE Small choir of English speakers, under direction
of Gareth Williams & Nikki Ingram. They perform
Language Classes and Events
Thurs am - in gym - short-mat bowling
concerts and make guest appearances at other
Mon am: Beginners & Intermediate
Fri am - outside (synthetic lawn)
functions. Their repertoire includes many popular
6km Dordogne/Charente borders. Gym next to Weds am: Advanced/Conversation
Thur: Conversation, Café des Megissiers, St Junien classics as well as some well known Church
school near town centre. Roger Hammond:
music. Weekly practices & occasional social
05 55 50 40 89 / cussac-bowls-club@live.co.uk Games Night - Rochechouart: 1st Thurs
functions. New members always welcome.
Monthly lunches & social/cultural events
ROMAGNE (86700) - ANGLO-FRENCH ASSOC.
Tel: 05 45 89 14 84 for details
www.learningtogether.me or
We organise events, trips, social evenings etc
Contact Sue Ratcliffe 05 45 31 50 86
CLUB STOKE DE LIMOGES (FRENCHCONVERSATION)
throughout the year for any nationality that has
email: sratcliffe46@gmail.com
Our aim is to assist British residents with integrating
decided to make France their home. We hold at
into the area, in a friendly welcoming atmosphere. We
least one event per month, the aim to bring all the BRIDGE CLUB - MELLE (79)
speak 1 hour in French and 1 hour in English. Every
community together, help newcomers settle in, Join us to play every Tuesday, 20h15, Salle St. Weds, 18h-20h, Caféteria de Toquenelle, Limoges
meet new friends and have good fun along the Joseph. Plus bridge lessons offered for free.
(2 rue du Mas Loubier - Gare des Charentes 87100).
way. For more info on what's planned for this Tel: 05 49 27 11 21 (Non profit organization)
Free of charge. We look forward to seeing you.
year, membership forms etc. Please contact us: MG ENTHUSIASTS
LANGUAGE LESSONS & TAI CHI - CONFOLENS
05 49 87 69 75 / 05 49 97 13 78
If you own an MG, or are passionate about The social/culturel centre offers various levels of
email: romagneinternational@gmail.com
preserving the marque, then why not contact language instruction, both technical & informal. For
Charente MG Owners.
those who work in France, technical course 30 x
PERIGORD LAWN BOWLS CLUB
Graham Brunt Tel: 05 45 22 99 07
2hr sessions Weds, 300€ with a specialist teacher.
La Charrue on the D939 near Vieux Mareuil.
Email: the.brunts@wanadoo.fr
Info: Natalie 05 45 84 00 43
Outdoor from May & short Mat Bowls in winter.
www.charentemgowners.weebly.com
Informal conversation to learn language + French
Martyn Hayhow (President)
lifestyle & customs, Fri 10h-12h.
T: 05 45 96 82 54 / E: ann.hayhow@sfr.fr
DRAMA GROUP ~ MONTMORILLON
Info: celia.lougher@gmail.com
Sue Carr (Secretary) T: 05 53 56 72 94
BRAVO! English/French drama group based in
www.bowlsfrance.com
Montmorillon are looking for new members. English course for French nationals:
Mon eve. Info 05 45 84 00 43
Enthusiasm more important than experience.
PENSOL CARPET BOWLING CLUB (87440)
Tai Chi - Wed am.
Ingrid 06 65 08 88 07 / ruthyz@orange.fr
Each Weds 14h30-17h, Pensol Salle Polyvalente.
Info: 05 45 84 00 43
All equipment provided and carpets (33` long x THE LIGLET ART GROUP
6` wide) are laid in readiness and removed We meet at the smaller Salle de Fêtes in Liglet, ASSOCIATION DE L’I.S.L.E.
(Intégration, Social, Langues, Echanges)
afterwards. The balls are slightly smaller and every Monday, 1pm-3pm. Donation of
Language classes held weekly: 1½ hours for 10€
lighter than Lawn or Short mat bowls. Our 5€/person. All mediums used (watercolour, oil,
6 groups of French (F.L.E.) from beginners to
members are full of fun and will help you learn acrylic, pastel) All levels welcome.
advanced and English course for French
the game in no time at all. We take a short break Call Jo Holmans 05 49 84 11 84
members. Conversation workshops.
at each meeting for refreshments. Fancy a
Drop-in advice surgery every Friday 9h30 - 12h30
MURDER MYSTERY GROUP (PENSOL)
game? Come and have a free trial.
(Pensol is located between Marval & Dournazac) We are looking for new members. Pensol, dept in L’Isle Jourdain. Plus events, activities & library.
87 is just near the Dordogne border. If you are See ‘What’s On ‘ for events.
Tel: Hilary on 09 72 23 13 20 or just turn up.
from 16, 24, or 87 and would like to know more, www.livingin86.com / Isabelle 05 49 84 17 73
CALLING ALL WOMEN (CONFOLENS AREA) please email Roger at r.h.brayshaw@gmx.com ASSOCIATION MERIDIEN GREEN
We are a group of like-minded women who got
Learn the French culture together to form a group based loosely on the REBEL’S COUNTRY CLUB
Mon 8-9.30pm & Tues 2.30-4pm
principles of the NWR organisation in the UK. Interested in Country Line Dancing?
Salle de Associations at Saint Coutant (DeuxOur members come from a wide area around Salle du Minage, Piegut-Pluviers every Weds, 19h30 Sevres). Annual fee 16€. For info:
Beginers
and
intermediate
dances
taught.
Confolens. We meet in each other's houses on
Maureen Dalby 05 49 29 94 50 or in French
alternate Wednesday afternoons to discuss English and French spoken. First 2 weeks free.
Brigitte Minault 05 49 29 48 98
issues that we consider interesting enough to For further info or if you want to come along CIVRAY (86400) - CHARITY BOOKSHOP
research, as well as occasional visits to gardens please contact: debbie_newhouse@hotmail.com Open every Tues 9-12h or by appt.
Debbie (English) 05 53 56 49 92 /
and places of interest, walks & meals.
The Barn Bookshop, Rue du Moulin Neuf, Civray
Francette (French) 06 30 96 15 36
To join us please contact:
Association Rêves d'enfants donate all proceeds
Sheila 05 45 84 18 70 /
PAIZAY FOLK CLUB
to Arad in Romania to help support a street
michael.wilton@orange.fr
1st Weds of every month 8pm. Free admission. outreach for children and gypsy families.
Salle de Cure (opp. church), Paizay Naudouin.
Tel: Malcolm 06 02 32 68 94
BOOK CLUB - MASSIGNAC
COUNTRY & WESTERN LINE DANCING
A small book club of women & men, meeting For info: Les Hall 05 45 71 43 22
Salle de Fete Ladignac le Long.
monthly to read and discuss a variety of books THE HARMONICS
while enjoying a glass of wine. An ideal Friendly choral group are looking for new Every other Tues
Beginners 7.30-8.30 / Advanced 8.35-10.00
opportunity to read books that you might never members in all sections. We meet each Weds
Tel: 05 55 48 99 32 (Eng) / 05 55 08 27 31 (Fr)
have read. Members take turns to host meetings. 14h-16h, Salle d'Annexe behind Mairie, Civray.
Based, Chabanais, St Christophe & Les Salles Dolly Ait Boualou 05 45 22 89 32 /
LADIES CHAT & CRAFT - CHARROUX (86)
e mail: sylvia.murray@wanadoo.fr
Lavauguyon. Contact Laura or Lynette:
We meet at Bar de la Tour every Thursday
laura.gillard@orange.fr / lynettesa@aol.com David Lee 05 49 87 53 93 / dave.lee@cegetel.net 14h30 - 16h30. Tel. 05 49 97 00 75
5
What's On
TOP HAT QUIZZES
Limalonges
3 Nov & 1 Dec
Chef Boutonne
6 Nov & 5 Dec (Fri)
Aigre
12 Nov & 10 Dec
Champniers
13 Nov & 11 Dec
Theil Rabier
10 Nov & 8 Dec
www.tophatquizzes.com 05 45 71 70 91
ASSOCATION DE L’I.S.L.E. EVENTS
4 Nov: Halloween/Guy Fawkes Party Le Lion d’Or
7 Nov: Fish & Chip Night Restaurant Le Barrage, Le Vigeant
15 Nov: Charity Jumble Salle de la Gare, L’Isle Jourdain
20 Nov: Club Midi (lunch)
Thurs: 10h30-12h, Conversation w/shop and
Fri: 9h30-12h30 , Café/Library Le Lion d'Or, L'Isle Jourdain
+ Patchwork workshops
www.livingin86.com / Isabelle 05 49 84 17 73
GENÇAY (86160) - Marché de Noël
14 Dec
AIGRE (16140) - Christmas Fair
6 & 7 Dec
BOUSSAC (23600) - 5th AIPB Battle of the Bands
22 Nov, 19h, Salle Polyvalente
Charity music night. See page 22
CIVRAY (86400) - Phoenix Chorale
11 Nov, 18h, La Barroniere
Words & Music to Commemorate 100 years after
the outbreak of World War One. Followed by a
buffet supper, tel 05 49 87 45 48 to book
CHARROUX (86250) - Phoenix Chorale
14 Dec, 16h, Charroux Church
Christmas Concert of Music and Readings
Followed by a Vin d'Honneur
LESSAC (16500) - Charity Autumn Fair
2 Nov, Salle des Fêtes
Crafts, art, jewellery, gifts, homeware, garden,
fashion, food etc., including exhibit from the
Charente Limousine Exchange.
BUSSIERE POITEVINE (87320) - Hope Charity
Shop Christmas Fayre
6 & 7 Nov, 10h-17h, ‘Route 66’, Ave de la Liberation
Books, cards, Xmas goodies, refreshments etc.
www.hopeassoc.org. See page 19
LIGLET (86290) - Christmas Fair
9 Nov, 10h-17h, Salle Polyvalent. Fundraiser for
the commune children’s Christmas party.
SAINTES (17100) - 8th ‘Journée Country’
29 Nov, from 14h, Hall Mendes France, Parc des
Expositions
05 46 74 41 84 / countrysaintes@wanadoo.fr
www.countrysaintesbuffalodancers17.com
LUSSAC LES EGLISES (87360) - 4th Charity
Christmas Fayre
30 Nov, 14h. At the barn of Tina and Jane, 5 La
Trigalle. Admission free, come along and enjoy
mulled wine with mince pies. Anyone wanting a
table, to reserve, please contact 05 55 60 69 23.
Profits to be shared between Twilight old dogs
home and Cancer Support France Haute-Vienne.
MELLE (79500) - Photographic Art Exhibition by
Alan Law: ‘‘Where’s my Camera?’’ Page 20
3-28 Nov, Tourist Office, 3 rue Emilien Travers
Mon: 14h-17h30/Tue-Fri: 9h30-12h30 & 14h-17h30
ST GEORGES LES LANDES (87160) - Concert
with Nat and her sweet guys : A sublime voice,
harmonica, guitar and hot strings
10 Nov, 10h-17h, The Bantard Salle des Fêtes
Tickets €6 pp. Dance floor / drinks available
Early bookings by phone (05 55 76 70 15) or by
e-mail cazalibus@orange.fr
ST LEGER MAGNAZEIX (87190) - Xmas Fayre
7 Nov, all day, Salle des Fêtes
Fish et Frites serving from 11h
CIVRAY (86400) - Civray Footlights Production
‘All Balls and Ashes’
14 & 15 Nov. See page 22
VARS (16330) - Foire au Vin et Gastronomie
8 & 9 Nov, Salle Municipale
ANGERS (49100) - Poetry Reading by John
Eliot, author of Ssh, regularly featured in etcetera
13 Nov, 20h, Musée des Beaux Arts
www.facebook.com/JohnEliotPoetry1953
‘Ssh’ is priced around 5€99 and available at
online outlets and good bookshops.
MAISONNAIS SUR TRADOIRE (87440) - Noah’s
MELLERAN (79190) - Open House Xmas Sale
Ark Christmas Dance
22 & 23 Nov. With The Craft Cabin, Bespoke &
December - See page 32 for details
Aura Boutique. See The Craft Cabin ad page 19
CHABANAIS (16150) - Theatre Chabanois’
SALLES DE VILLEFAGNAN (16700) -Xmas Market
Pantomime ‘Cinderella’ - A modern Tale
Organise par Festiv'salles,
12 Dec, 20h / Sat 13 Dec, 15h. Bar opens 19h30
30 Nov, 10h-18h.
Salle des Fêtes. Adults 6€, -16 yrs 4€, -5’s free
If you would like a stand at the Xmas indoor market,
Reserve now for a chance to win 2 free tickets
the cost is 20€. Please contact Eileen Pearce 05 45
T: 05 45 94 10 71 or facebook.com/
31 50 50 or eileenpearce@hotmail.com
theatrechabanois (Book table early)
CONFOLENS (16500) - Soirée Folk et country
ST MATHIEU (87440) - Christmas Market
15 Nov, 20h30, Ferme Saint Michel. Organised
6 Dec, 10h-18h30
Stalls with local products including duck, wine, by Le Comité de jumelage Confolens - Pitlochry
cheese, home made cakes, local beer. Plus Live music with ‘The Endless Trail’.
Christmas gifts: jewellery, clothes, fashion Entry: 5€, free under 12. Bar & cakes on site.
accessories, pottery, books, toys, decorations. Info: 05 45 84 04 05 / 05 45 84 24 11
We will be serving soup, mulled wine, hot food, SALLES DE VILLEFAGNAN (16700) - Lotto
and offering activities for all: pony and cart rides, Organise par Festiv'salles
stories in the library, fashion parade, rock choir 9 Nov, 15h, La Salmdre (Salles de Fêtes)
and concert in the church. Some spaces left for Prizes include jambons, electrical and many
stalls. Please call Sue 05 55 00 72 59 or more. For further information please contact
Vanessa 05 55 48 83 54 at the Comité des Fêtes. Eileen Pearce / eileenpearce@hotmail.com
CIVRAY (86400) - Marché de Noël
2 Dec, 10h-16h, Salle d'animation next to Mairie.
All profits from rental of tables to Secours
Populaire & Collectif Alimentaire, Civray.
For info and subscription forms:
05 49 87 34 02 /attitudecivray@gmail.com
LA SOUTERRAINE (23300) - Castaways
Production - ‘The Alternative Snow White’
11-13 Dec, 19h for 19h30
Matinée on 13th 14h for 14h30
Bar & refreshments. See page 22
www.castawaysdrama.org / T:05 55 63 00 15
E: tickets@castawaysdrama.org
MONTBRON (16220) - Centenary Act of
Remembrance
9 Nov, 18h, Montbron Church
Join Voces Concordiae to commemorate 100 years
passing since the opening of hostilities in the Great
War 1914-1918, and sacrifices made through
successive wars. Our contribution will include
readings, poems and songs in French and English.
The Act of Remembrance will end with Silence, The
Last Post with Standards from Les Anciens
Combattants and The Royal British Legion.
SAVIGNE (86400) - Christmas Bazaar
29 Nov, 10h30-15h, Salle Polyvalente
Gifts, toys, jewellery etc & Santa! See page 18
ABJAT SUR BANDIAT (24300) - Marché de Noel
14 Dec, 10h-18h at the Capitolet
Great variety of stands, BBQ, cakes, sandwiches,
bar, tombola plus Père Noel will visit in the morning
and after lunch.
All proceeds to Bansang Hospital Gambia www.bangsanghospitalappeal.org
We would like to invite any newcomers who would
like to book a table in order to sell their handmade
or unusual items. It is a very successful event which
has been going for many years. We are always
looking for new vendors and would like anyone
interested to contact me, Linda Nicholson :
05 53 56 73 86 / lindanicholson51@yahoo.co.uk
Look forward to seeing all of you in December!
ST JUNIEN (87200) - Golf de St Junien Events
Pilates every Wednesday 4pm-5pm
ZUMBA every Friday 10h30-11h30
14 Nov: The Rhum Runners (Exotic Rock n' Roll),
20h. Free entry. Dinner available
23 Nov: Indoor Christmas Market, 11h-17h. Stalls,
live choir, pony rides, hot food & drink all day.
25 Nov: Buy 1 Meal, Get 1 Half Price. Lunch for
2 for only 22,50€. Reservation only.
26 Nov: Bennetti's Jazz Blues Club, 20h. Free
entry. Dinner available. (see page 22)
ANGOULEME (16000) Organic farmers market
Every Weds 16h-19h30
1st & 3rd Weds - Champniers
2nd Weds - Ma Campagne
4th Weds - Puymoyen
LES HEROLLES (86290) - Market
29th of month (am), unless Sun: moved to Mon.
LIMOGES - Flea Market
Every 2nd Sunday of the month.
LE DORAT (87210) - Cinema
http://cinemadudorat.free.fr/
BELLAC (87300) - Theatre du Cloitre
For events/shows visit www.theatre-du-cloitre.fr
CENTENARY ACT OF REMEMBRANCE
An evening of music, readings and poems to commemorate the 1918 armistice with Voces Concordiae, Anglo-French choir of Montbron
Sunday 9th November, 18h at the Church of St Maurice, Montbron
This year we will gather in Montbron Church to commemorate the 100 years passing since the beginning of the hostilities of the Great War 1914-1918
and the sacrifices made through successive wars. Under the expert musical direction of Faye Caley, our contribution will include songs and hymns,
readings and poems in English and French synonymous with Armistice Day. Standards from both Les Anciens Combattants and the Royal British
Legion will be present and the Act of Remembrance marked by the Last Post and a minutes silence.
Admission is free although there will be an opportunity to make donations to the Royal British Legion and Les Anciens Combattants.
For further information about this event or if you might be interested in joining our choir visit www.vocesconcordiae.com.
6
Domestic & Keyholding
Services
Professional, Language & Financial Services
HELPING HANDS
Home Help / Care & Support
u
u
u
u
u
Housekeeping
Daily/Live-In Care
Respite Care
Personal Care
Alzheimer’s & Stroke Support
For further enquiries:
Email: asbay@hotmail.co.uk
Tel: Sian 0545 71 34 18
Siret: 79900716600017 Based Dept 16, but can travel.
Helping Hands
Faced with the prospect of finding care for
yourself, a relative or friend, when daily tasks
can
become
difficult.
Whether
it's
bereavement, convalescing, or help due to
illness. I am a qualified and experienced carer
able to offer home help, care and support to
enable you to stay independently in your own
home. Giving advanced and personal care for
clients due to terminal illness, stroke or
Alzheimer's disease, through a range of
services including respite for friends and
relatives. For assistance on your requirements,
hourly, daily or live in contact me as above with
complete confidentiality and discretion.
Translation-Advice-Support
In Champagnac la Rivière (87150)
Every Monday & Tuesday
With Sandrine Durand
05 55 78 16 21 / 06 83 07 66 98
r.sandrine.durand@orange.fr
Siret: 488 296 450 00015
French Lessons at Dino’s: Champagnac la Rivière
We have 3 different levels : Conversation,
Intermediate and Beginner. The lessons take
place every Mon & Tues. If you would like
more information, we can meet and have a
cup of coffee at Dino’s. Furthermore, if you
need common administrative help, you can
ask me. Please, contact me as above.
All Translations/Interpreting
into French & English,
(incl. CERTIFIED into French or English)
Legal (& other) Advice, Disputes,
Red Tape, Health, Paperwork
… and much more
Professional, Friendly, Efficient
05 49 07 27 14 / 06 86 98 85 44
Translation-Advice-Support Services
30 years of translating/interpreting in France,
in all sectors, including legal, health and
more, while establishing close working
relations with lawyers, hospital specialists,
notaires, bailiffs, etc. and working with and
for the public at large has given me a rich and
practical knowledge base. These invaluable
assets that I share with my clients, combined
with a real empathy towards people can make
things far less costly and so much easier..
Henriette Faye
Language School
Secretarial and Administration Services
Certified Legal Interpreting & Translating
Coaching
15 Place d’Armes 86150 L’Isle Jourdain
Tél. 05 49 84 17 73
Email: isabelle@continental-horizons.com
FRENCH • ENGLISH • SPANISH
Judicial Expert
Near the Court of Appeal of Limoges
Certified Translations
Tel: 05 55 00 96 25
Email: henriette.faye@wanadoo.fr
www.continental-horizons.com
siret 483 146 353 00014
05 45 21 61 57
06 06 42 96 12
Email: jbovencleaning@yahoo.com
www.jbovencleaning.com
JB Oven Cleaning Specialists
No fumes, no odours, no harmful chemicals.
JB Oven Cleaning Specialists provide a
professional and affordable oven cleaning
service. We clean all parts of an oven leaving
it like new. The process uses specifically
designed cleaning tanks and bio-degradable
and environmentally friendly materials to
remove all traces of carbon and grease. We
clean ovens, traditional stoves, agas, ranges,
hobs, extractors and microwaves.
Looking for a business opportunity we offer
oven cleaning training and start-up packages
for you to run your own business. It is not a
franchise. Please call Justine for details.
Continental Horizons is pleased to welcome
two new team members: June GEORGE, English
Teacher, and Sylvie DECHATRE, Secretary and
Administrative Assistant. Thanks to our growing
team, Isabelle VOISIN SEAGRAVE stays at your
disposal and ensures your queries are dealt with,
with professionalism and confidentiality. Our team
is qualified and experienced in several sectors:
teaching, training, coaching, translating,
interpreting, admin, legal, taxation, accountancy,
insurance, banking, to offer you a quality service,
to cover all areas of living in France, e. g. personal,
social, business, health etc. Please give us a call
or email us, our prices are good value for money.
www.gov.uk/government/consultations
And select ‘Restricting non-residents’
entitlement to the UK personal
allowance’.
s
s
s
s
French/English Translations
Gardening Services
Labouring Services (to support builders etc)
Service à la Personne
(window cleaning, ironing, shopping, cleaning etc)
Payment via cheque emploi accepted
jourdanstefanie@outlook.com
06 42 65 83 44 / 05 55 60 84 69
siret no : 801.926.957.00011 Based 87190 Magnac Laval
PAYPAL SCAM
Thank you to one of our readers
who has reported this month’s
scam concerning Paypal. If you receive an email
claiming that there has been “unusual activity
on your Paypal account” and requests you to
click a link for further details, please beware. If
you have concerns about your account, always
log in to your account via the website directly…
never through a provided link.
TAX ALLOWANCES
The UK government has put
forward plans to remove the
right of some expats receiving personal
tax allowances of £10,000.
Please visit their website for full details:
No SIRET 384 055 65300016
House for sale? Wishing to Go Back to the UK?
Want to return "home"?
Many have taken the leap to move to France
but now want to return for numerous reasons.
Speak with like-minded people and share
informative posts on GOING BACK.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/
GoingBackToTheUK/
7
HMRC
Incidentally, the same reader received a
legitimate letter from HMRC (UK tax office), in
which they stated that they would “never send
notifications of a tax rebate / refund by email, or
ask you to disclose personal or payment
information by email”. So should you ever
receive such an email, you will know it is a scam!
Professional, Language & Financial Services
A L L I N S U R A N C E S … CABINET Pierre-Charles MOREAU
HOUSE & CONTENTS
Main & secondary residences
VEHICLE
Temporary cover on British registered vehicles
HEALTH
A range of guarantees available
PROFESSIONAL
All insurances
Please contact our unique bilingual interlocutor Donna CHARLESWORTH : 05.55.68.10.41 | email: bellac@agence.generali.fr
ST YRIEIX LA PERCHE
BELLAC
20 Ave de Coussac, B.P 36
1 Ave Jean Jaurès, B.P 39
87500 ST YRIEIX LA PERCHE
87300 BELLAC
LIMOGES
Ester Technopôle, 4 rue Atlantis
87068 LIMOGES CEDEX
NEXON
9 Rue Gambetta
87800 NEXON
POMPADOUR
6 Ave du Midi, B.P 22
19231 ARNAC POMPADOUR
Generali Assurances
Donna CHARLESWORTH, our bilingual customer advisor, moved to France in 1997, so has all general knowledge of difficulties encountered
by new/existing English speaking clients in France. Please do not hesitate in contacting any of our offices for your different Insurance quotations.
THE ADVICE SERVICE
MARIE VOISINNE
Insurance, Banking & Investment
Car – House – Health – Retirement…
réinventons / notre métier
9 Avenue Denfert Rochereau B.P. 10 - 87300 BELLAC
N° Orias 14-000-482
TEL : 05 55 68 04 90
FAX : 05 55 68 01 15
Email : agence.voisinne@axa.fr
Insurer to etcetera
(English spoken)
Karen Rogers
09 72 29 49 31 / 05 55 68 76 46
karenrogerstheadviceservice@gmail.com
siret 795 250 505 00018
AXA - ‘Holidays : Burglars paradise’
Holidays are synonymous with long absences and empty houses. Two out of three burglaries
happen between the months of June and August, with an increase of 11,2% since 2010 (one theft
every 3 minutes!). To allow peace of mind during your holiday, we have solutions for you. Indeed,
we work with PROTECTION 24, an enterprise specialising in electronic surveillance.
Furthermore, whilst renovating at your home, in case of accident, we have also interesting and
affordable insurance solutions. Please ask for further information. We are of course also available
for all your other needs. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Sandrine TUYERAS
Insurance Agent
All Insurances
Finance & Investment
The Advice Service
Do you have problems here or in the U.K.? I
am a fully trained counsellor who has worked
for many years within the Citizens Advice
Bureau & Age Concern. I am qualified to a very
high standard to assist in all social situations,
debt, mortgage, rent, employment, health,
separation, divorce, bereavement, wills, benefit
entitlement, pensions etc. I have represented
many clients in court/tribunal in the U.K and
have knowledge, experience of French legal
system/tribunal. For confidential, reliable advice
please give me a call. I am sure to find a solution
to problems large or small.
Email : H987041@agents.allianz.fr
5 rue Lamartine
87300 BELLAC
4 Place de l’Hôtel de Ville
87140 NANTIAT
Tél. 05 55 68 11 80
Fax. 05 55 68 73 91
N°ORIAS 14001253
Allianz - ‘Rentrée pur Tous
Until 31st December 2014, Allianz is promoting special offers for any new subscription on
car insurance, house insurance, medical insurance and legal assistance insurance contracts.
With this special operation called “Rentrée pour Tous”, you can benefit from 2 free months
on the premium of your new contract, or free file fees on funeral insurance, death insurance
and accident insurance. We also propose special offers on professional insurances until the
end of the year. So, do not hesitate to contact us or visit the office to receive a free quotation.
TONY FARRELL
INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISOR
The Spectrum IFA Group with over 20 years
experience advising expatriates throughout
Europe on all aspects of financial planning.
Tel: 05 55 89 57 94
Email: tony.farrell@spectrum-ifa.com
TSG Insurance Services S.A.R.L. Siège Social:
34 Bd des Italiens, 75009 Paris
Societé de Courtage d’assurances - R.C.S Paris B 447 609
108 (2003B04384) Numèro d’immatriculation 07 025 332 www.orias.fr Siret No: 500 604 183 00014
Let’s Talk Pensions …
If you have a UK private pension you may benefit from transferring it into a QROPS - Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme
Why consider a QROPS?
Ÿ You take control of your UK pension - after all it’s your pension fund
Ÿ No UK income tax liability - income paid to you gross in your chosen currency.
Ÿ If you have been resident outside the UK for 5 years or more, you can, at age 55 take a tax free lump sum of up to 30%
Ÿ 80% of UK Company Schemes are in serious deficit; several FTSE 100 listed companies have pension liabilities exceding their market capital value.
Ÿ Ability to leave assets to beneficiaries free of UK inheritance tax
Ÿ Greater investment freedom - specialist products available that cannot be accessed in the UK.
Ÿ No compulsion to purchase an annuity especially now when rates are at a historical low.
Ÿ No 55% tax charge payable by your beneficiaries upon death if in drawdown in a UK personal pension arrangement.
Ÿ Lower charges - charges are generally lower than in the UK and the fee structure is transparent.
Ÿ More opportunities to meet your advisor face-to-face to be able to control and modify your investments on an ongoing basis.
If you would like further information, please get in touch and we will pass your contact details to a specialist advisor. He has more than 30 years
experience and works for a major international financial consultancy group.
Lorraine & Stuart Wallace 05 55 68 15 77 etcetera.editor@neuf.fr
8
Professional & Financial Services
Another month of slow decay took the
euro to a two-year low against the US
dollar and to within a millimetre of a
six-year low against sterling. In September as a whole, the euro lost two cents to sterling
and fell nearly five US cents. Among the major currencies the euro is the biggest loser in
the year to date, down by 11 1/2 US cents and by eight cents against sterling.
Sending money overseas?
Contact Carole Jaskarzec,
Account Manager at Moneycorp
After its policy meeting on 2 October the European Central Bank offered no new stimulus
despite persistent low inflation - 0.3% at the last count - and a stagnating Euroland economy
with unemployment stuck at 11.5%. The ECB president did confirm that the bank would be
buying mortgage bonds and asset-backed securities but would not commit on amounts or
dates. It all smacked of up-to-this and a-maximum-of-that.
Call: +44 (0)20 7589 3000
Email:etcetera@moneycorp.com
please quote etcetera
But as long as the ECB holds back from fully-fledged money-printing - and there is little sign
that Germany will allow it to happen - investors will pull their punches because the currency
is not being diluted. The bank's president, Mario Draghi, is still speaking bold words about
the ECB's "full determination" to bring inflation back up to 2% but he is increasingly seen
as being prevented by politics from turning those words into deeds.
www.moneycorp.com
The euro was not the only currency with problems in September. Sterling had a torrid time
ahead of the Scottish referendum when the opinion polls appeared to indicate the possibility
of victory for the secessionists. The pound found itself under the cosh for a fortnight until it
dawned on investors that the bookmakers had a better handle on the probable outcome
than the pollsters. The bookies were fairly consistent with their estimate that there was only
a one in three chance of a Yes vote, so sterling began to recover ahead of the ballot and
moved higher again when the result became known.
At the beginning of October the pound came tantalisingly close to a six year high against
the euro but failed to break through. There is no shortage of people and companies out
there happy to sell sterling against the euro at its best level in six years. Whilst there is every
chance that the pound will test that level again, it is unlikely to happen soon. And if there is
no attempt before the end of the year the political risk of the looming general election in
May could mean a six-month postponement.
Let’s talk currency
Sue Cook
Regional Coordinator Centre Ouest
87600 Rochechouart
+33 (0)555 036 669 +33 (0)689 992 899
E: sue.c@currenciesdirect.com
www.currenciesdirect.com
Siret: 444 729 008 00011
Tired of tackling the foreign exchange market?
Hang up your gloves and speak to the currency experts!
Fast, low cost, secure and easy foreign exchange services
For free information, market news or any quote, please contact us!
Call Virginie Marin at PDQFX!
Phone: +44 (0) 207 220 1746
Email: vm@pdqfx.com
Web: www.pdqfx.com
9
Professional & Financial Services
WEALTH TAX- IMPOTS DE SOLIDARITE SUR LA FORTUNE - I.S.F
OK! Most of you will be laughing and wished they had this problem (and so do I), but you will be surprised how easy it can become to be subjected to
ISF depending on where your property is! Indeed, the opponents of this tax often use the example of the resident of Isle de Ré (an island on the Atlantic
coast) whose main residence (typical 3 bed bungalow) are valued at 1.5€ million! And therefore subjected to wealth tax! But they are not actually rich!
In the same way, for British people, having a secondary house or flat in London might cause the same problem! In fact, it would not surprise me to find
that some of you did not realize that you had to declare your assets and pay tax for it!
In 2013, 312 046 households have been taxed on ISF, earning 4.39€ billion to the French government.
So why not look closer to see if you should be part of it!
1) WHO IS SUBJECT TO WEALTH TAX (ISF):
Basically, people who assets are worth more than 1.3€ million. If you are French resident, it is your assets worldwide. But savings and properties outside
France are exempt for 5 years after you officially becomes a French resident. If you are nonresident, only the house in France is subject to wealth tax
(if valued at more than 1.3€ million).
2) WHAT ASSETS DO YOU DECLARE AND WHICH ARE EXEMPT?
For the value of your main residence, you apply a 20% discount. Also, if you have a loan or a mortgage, you can deduct them from the values of your
assets. You can also deduct the taxes you pay (ISF itself, income tax, taxe fonciere and d’habitation). And note that the income tax and ISF together
cannot be more than 85% of your income.
Assets exempted from ISF are: Antique objects, art objects, collection cars, professional assets, forest and money received as compensation for an
injury or a disease.
And don’t forget that assets outside France are exempted for 5 years.
It is now declared at the same time as the income tax (form 2042C) and you don’t have to join any proof with it. If your assets are worth more than 2.57€
million, you have to fill in the ISF tax form (N°2725) and you have to fill it before mid-June each year and join proofs and payment with it. Yes, you actually
have to calculate the wealth tax yourself!
3) HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Although you only pay ISF when your assets are worth more than 1.3€ million, you start paying from 800,000€!
Up to
Between
Between
Between
Between
Superior to
800,000€
800,000€ and 1,300,000€
1,300,000€ and 2,570,000€
2,570,000€ and 5,000,000€
5,000,000€ and 10,000,000€
10,000,000€
0%
0.25%
0.8%
1%
1.25%
1.5%
Example: Your main residence is worth 500,000€ (so 400,000€ after the 20% discount), you own a flat in London worth 1.3€ million (you now have lived
in France for 6 years), you have savings worth 600,000€, you cars are worth 60,000€ and your furniture worth 50,000€. No mortgage or loan but you
pay 5,000€ income tax, 3,000€ taxe fonciere and 2 000€ taxe d’habitation so total assets to declare to ISF is 2 310 000€ so total to pay would be 10,075€.
Next year, you can offset ISF tax as well as the other tax!
4) SOLUTIONS:
a) Contrat Capitalisation: This saving account benefits from an allowance in regards to wealth tax. Indeed, for all saving accounts you have to declare their value on the 1st of January each year (interest included). With the contrat Capitalisation, you only have to declare the nominal amount
which means the amount you invested without declaring the compounded interests so if you have invested 500,000€ and earned 50,000€ on it
(10%), you still only have to declare 500,000€ instead of 550,000€! A good solution if you just moved to France and know that in 5 years you will
be subject to ISF. You can invest now knowing that all the interest you will be earning in the next 5 years will be exempt from wealth tax! Your
capital stays available at any time by partial or total withdrawal and you benefit from the same advantages as the assurance vie in terms of tax as
the withdrawals are constituted by a part capital (nontaxable) and a part interest (taxable).
b) FCPI ISF: This is an investment that is blocked for 7 to 9 years. You invest 10,000€ for example and it gives you a discount equivalent to 40% of
the amount you invested so 4,000€ off your wealth tax! So if you pay 10,000€ ISF, you only now pay 6,000€.
This is an investment on innovative companies so the discount is made to energize the French economy by helping new companies. It is a risky
investment, but then again, your return would have to be worse than -40% to make it a bad one!
c) Nue-propriete: You can buy a property with a mortgage on “nue-propriete”. Nue-propriete is having a property without having the use of it. Imagine
an apple tree, the nue-propriete is the trunk and the apple is the usufruit. So you can buy the tree without being able to eat the apples! Under ISF
rules, it is the person who has the usufruit of the property who declare the value of the property to ISF. In this case, the owner is a real estate property
(companies don’t pay ISF). So you buy the property without the use (you recuperate the use of it after 15 to 18 years). In the meantime, your mortgage
for this property is deducted from your total assets so it reduces your wealth tax.
CONCLUSION: As usual, and especially for the wealth tax as it can be complicated, do not hesitate to contact me as advice is FREE! And yes, Allianz
offers all the above solutions. Don’t hesitate either to contact me for any other subjects such as inheritance law, tax, savings, funeral cover or quote on
insurances. And check out our web site www.bh-assurances.fr for my previous articles on “practical pages”.
Isabelle Want Mob : 06 17 30 39 11 Email : isabelle.want@bh-assurances.fr
HEALTH CARE REFORMS - Patients will no longer have to pay their GP directly as part of around 50 healthcare reforms that also will introduce
heavy fines or jail for inciting binge drinking. Health Minister Marisol Touraine said she was making “structural” and “durable” reforms to ease access
to healthcare and protect young people. The system, already used by people with a “carte vitale” in pharmacies, will be opened to those on the
Aide à la Complémentaire Santé benefit in 2015 and then will be rolled out across the board in 2017. The doctor will be paid the €23 fee directly by the
Assurance Maladie. Under 16s will get their own GP who will follow them through their early lives, to better control obesity, learning disorders and possible
addictive behaviour. Patients will also get their own digital medical records, a move dating back 10 years but which has been widely ignored by practitioners.
10
Small Business Issues with CAST
Online Declarations for Businesses
The French government for a number of years has been pushing
towards online declarations and payments. These procedures
obviously allow them to gain time and make economies in terms
of processing. Up until the 1st October of the year, small
businesses were not really affected by the obligation to make on
line declarations.
AUTO ENTREPRENEURS
There has always been the opportunity to opt for online payment and declaration, every month or every
quarter, to declare and pay social contributions. It has however now become compulsory for those
businesses whose turnover is more than half the maximum turnover limit within its businesses category to
do so.
If your turnover for the year 2013 was greater than 50% of maximum turnover allowance within micro-fiscal
regime i.e.:
- 16,450€ for commercial or professional services
- 41,100€ for sales activities
you have to effectuate your declaration on www.lautoentrepreneur.fr. If you don’t respect this obligation,
you risk being fined.
SOLE TRADERS ON RÉEL
The tax office’s online procedures allow professionals to declare and pay the main taxes using online
accounts: online declarations or the transmission of files. This is compulsory for all businesses that are
registered on the réel system, for the declaration of income for end of year accounts or the calculation of
TVA.
If you do your own TVA returns then you should have completed the first one online this October.
You will also find that your CFE bill will not be sent to you by post this year, but to your online impôts account.
TWO TYPES OF ACCESS ACCOUNTS
1. EFI mode - yourself by internet
You can effectuate yourself certain returns and payments online by visiting the www.impots.gouv.fr website
in your personal space - Espace abonné (Professionnels > Espace abonné).
The services available through this access account include:
• to declare and pay TVA;
• to complete claims for TVA credit refunds;
• to pay impôt sur les sociétés, the taxe sur les salaires, contribution économique territoriale (CVAE et CFE),
l’imposition forfaitaire sur les entreprises de réseaux (IFER) and your taxes foncières;
• to file an application for refund of TVA in the European Union;
• to download a certificate of tax regularity (attestation de régularité fiscale) and proof of residence (attestation
de résidence).
• to consult your tax account
However this access level does not allow you to declare and deposit your end of year return. This must be
done through a restricted access account.
2. EDI mode - Higher level Access
This access account is to be created for the transmission to the fiscal services the professional income
declarations or to undertake the payment of professional taxes to be made from your bank account. The
right to have one of these access accounts is limited.
The online services available in mode EDI for these service providers to similar to those available to the
business directly; the declaration and payment of TVA etc. It is basically an access for chartered accountants
or EDI service providers. However the declaration accounts are limited and the right to have one is more
restrictive, certainly to make smaller business move over to professionals and stop doing the accounts
themselves.
To have the right to one, you have to make a further demand for an access account via Espace abonné
(Professionnels > Espace abonné).
THE OBLIGATIONS OF YOUR BUSINESS
These vary for each tax according to the turnover of the company. If your business falls within the
competence of the Direction des Grandes Entreprises (DGE), you have to declare and pay on line your
professional taxes regardless of your turnover.
1. TVA returns
2. Fiscal Declarations
3. Payment obligations for cotisation foncière des entreprises (CFE) and Imposition forfaitaire sur
les entreprises de réseaux (IFER)
Businesses not subject to the corporation tax (IS) whose turnover for the previous year exceeds the threshold
of 80,000€, as well as companies subject to IS regardless of their turnover have the choice between the
online payment and monthly direct debits or waiting for the deadline to pay the CFE-IFER. The online
payment is made via the www.impots.gouv.fr website VOS IMPOTS > Vous êtes un PROFESSIONNEL
> Payez la CFE et la TF).
New: starting in 2014, the businesses where online payment for the CFE-IFER is applicable will no longer
receive their notice of advance payment and for the tax on paper. They will need to consult them in their tax
account prior to the payment deadlines.
Those businesses not subject to IS, which do not exceed the threshold of 80,000€ can use the online
payment as well as other more traditional means of payment (cheque, monthly direct debits, punctual direct
debits, TIP, or cash).
The payment of the CFE by transfer is no longer allowed.
So if you have not done anything about this, speak to your chartered accountant or another advisor.
11
John Lewer
POINTS TO PONDER…
Remember half the people you
know are below average.
I drive too fast to worry about cholesterol.
Support bacteria - they’re the only culture some
people have.
Success always occurs in private and failure in full
view.
You never really learn to swear until you learn to
drive.
Plan to be spontaneous - tomorrow.
Two wrongs are only the beginning.
Get a new car for your spouse - it’ll be a great trade!
If you think nobody cares, try missing a couple of
payments.
No one is listening until you make a mistake.
The only substitute for good manners is fast
reflexes.
A cat dies and goes to Heaven. God
meets him at the gate and says, "You
have been a good cat all of these
years. Anything you desire is yours,
all you have to do is ask."
The cats says, "Well, I lived all my life with a poor
family on a farm and had to sleep on hardwood
floors."
God says, "Say no more." And instantly, a fluffy
pillow appears.
A few days later, 6 mice are killed in a tragic
accident and they go to Heaven. God meets them
at the gate with the same offer that He made the
cat. The mice said, "All our lives we've had to run.
Cats, dogs and even women with brooms have
chased us. If we could only have a pair of roller
skates, we wouldn't have to run anymore."
God says, "Say no more." And instantly, each
mouse is fitted with a beautiful pair of tiny roller
skates.
About a week later, God decides to check and
see how the cat is doing. The cat is sound asleep
on his new pillow. God gently wakes him and
asks, "How are you doing? Are you happy here?"
The cat yawns and stretches and says, "Oh, I've
never been happier in my life. And those Meals
on Wheels you've been sending over are the
best!"
*****
My boss called me into his office today.
“We both know you’re not the brightest spark
here, Simon,” he said, “but over the last 5 years
you’ve never been sick or late and I think you
deserve a reward. So, how does a brand new car
sound?”
“Vrooom! Vrooooom!” I replied.
*****
Sam walks into his boss’s office.
“Sir, I’ll be straight with you, I know the economy
isn’t great, but I have over three companies after
me, and I would like to respectfully ask for a
raise.”
After a few minutes of haggling the boss finally
agrees to a 5% raise, and Sam happily gets up
to leave.
“By the way”, asks the boss as Sam is getting up,
“which three companies are after you?”
“The electric company, water company, and
phone company”, Sam replied.
Who’s Who with Gayle
In April this year, I heard of
a couple who were looking
for land in France for an
elephant sanctuary! The
Limousin is known for many things, but
elephants is not one of them!
Bearing the elephants’ needs in mind, it
offers a nice balance: A mild climate, hay and
water at our disposal. There is plenty of
woodland with broad-leaved trees, and it is
easily accessible by train, plane and car.
This month I am very happy to interview
Sofie and Tony, founders of Elephant
Haven, who are taking on an amazing and
inspirational project - to provide a new
home to elephants right here in the
Limousin.
elephants need and how will you provide
this?
Iei What type of environment will the
Elephants like grassy fields and edible trees
to wander through and graze on. They like
water and mud wallows, and shade from the
sun, our site offers all this.
Iei Please tell me a bit about yourselves.
Iei How will the Limousin climate suit the
We are Sofie Goetghebeur and Tony
Verhulst from Antwerp, Belgium. We’ve
known each other for more than 20 years and Every elephant is an individual, therefore
met at Antwerp zoo, where we both worked upkeep costs will vary, some will depend
upon medical costs. We say to
from 1993.
allow 100,000€ a year per elephant.
Sofie: I have worked with a lot of different
animals such as birds, monkeys, sea lions, Included in this is the heating of the barn,
okapi and spent a long time working with keepers costs, food and medical costs. So
great apes. The last few years I gained some it’s a lot of money, and that is why we are
extra work experience with elephants. starting small…. little steps at a time!
Tony: I initially worked as a gardener in Iei How many people are involved?
Antwerp zoo, but since 2001 I started working
with the elephants and have gained We are the founders, we have a secretary
Nick Mertens and 3 workingmembers: Tina
international experience.
Plessers, Melina Sotiriou and from France
Both of us have an enormous passion for Lionel Chapelet.
animals, we feel involved in the fate of all
animals, in particular the animals that depend The working members help us in Belgium
with events, fundraising, computer & paper
upon people.
work. We also have a very good advisory
Iei Tell me about Elephant Haven - what board made up of people from all over the
is it and why are you doing it?
world who guide us with their advice. Each
Elephant Haven will be the first and only of them are a great help to us. We have
retirement home for elephants in Europe. volunteers who help us, for example with
Elephants who are at the end of their careers translating texts. Over the past 3 years we’ve
in circuses or zoos, will find a permanent met so many amazing people, who have
home at Elephant Haven. Relocating the helped (or are helping) us all with different
elephants back to their country of origin is not things, we are so grateful for that!
a realistic option, but creating a safe haven We partner with other organizations too:
for them in Europe is.
Mahouts Foundation UK (www.mahouts.org),
With a ban on elephants in circuses currently BLES (www.blesele.org) and EARS
sweeping throughout European countries, (www.earsasia.org) all help us a lot.
collaborations are being made to achieve
Elephant Haven’s goal: to offer elephants a Iei Is all the work volunteer based? How
many volunteers will you need?
peaceful place to retire.
Elephant Haven will be open to visitors, but Most of the work now is volunteer based. We
not like a zoo. There will be guided tours, will always need volunteers, for the basic
viewing platforms, schools & groups will be running of the centre, clearing the land and
able to join in activities, there will be an area planting trees, cleaning barns, painting,
for workshops and conferences, and a gift gardening, paper work, maintenance,
shop selling creations by local artisans, etc. bringing food in for the elephants, & helping
but there will be no direct contact with the to educate visitors etc.
elephants. Elephant Haven will be a place of Iei Why the Limousin?
education and enjoyment, with respect for
The Limousin region is a very beautiful place
the animals in a natural environment.
with amazing nature and wildlife, and
Iei How much money do you need to wonderful friendly people. The region has a
raise?
lot of agricultural land. We opted for a site of
Elephant Haven is a non-profit organization. 25 hectares, with lots of possibilities and the
We need to raise 400,000€ by the end of possibility to expand in the future. It is
March 2015 so that Elephant Haven can buy situated in the Haute Vienne near to Oradour
sur Vayres in a national park: Le Parc Naturel
the land.
Régional Périgord Nord.
We are busy organising campaigns and
starting the paperwork. From April onwards
we can start building the barn (1.500,000€),
then the platforms for the people and fences
for the elephants (200,000€ for 2 hectares).
When all that is ready the elephants can be
welcomed to their new home.
12
elephants?
The Limousin has a mild climate, in spring
the sun begins to shine and the summer is
beautifully warm. Sometimes it can rain for
days but this is not necessarily a problem.
Both the elephants and the crops need rain.
The grass turns lush and the elephants have
a lot of fun in water!
In the natural habitat of elephants (both Asian
and African) it can get both cold and wet. In
extreme weather conditions they will always
use their heated barn and shelters. At night
elephants are very active, they only sleep
about 4-6 hrs a night. Each elephant will have
a minimum of 2 hectares to roam free, and
the possibility to connect with each other.
Asian and African elephants will be kept
separately.
Iei How many elephants do you expect to
be caring for and will there be a limit to
numbers?
At the moment with the size of the land we
are purchasing, it will be a maximum of 10
elephants. It all depends upon the finances,
but the priority is the elephants, we have to
be able to give them good care. We hope in
the future that we may be able to expand,
which would mean more elephants!
The elephants will be transported by a
specialized Dutch company named EKIPA
(http://www.ekipa.nl/).
Iei What do you need people to do? How
can we help?
At the moment our main focus is to raise the
400,000€ to buy the land in Oradour-surVayres.
It would be nice if people would help
to spread the word to get Elephant Haven
known in this region and in France, and help
us with the campaign.
We really want Elephant Haven to be part of
the local community, and invite the members
of the community to join in and be part of it.
Your help is welcome, from small fundraisers,
donation points, raffles, to volunteers or
donations, everything helps!
We really want to offer these elephants a well
deserved peaceful retirement but we can’t do
it without your help.
Donations are possible on the Just Giving
page: www.justgiving.com/Sarah-Blaine/
or on our website:
www.elephanthaven.com/en/help-out/donate
Thank you to anyone who is able offer
support of any kind!
Short Story …
X - Word / Sudoku
by Keith Carman
I was completely absorbed in photographing the old shack by the pond with its sad walls and
leaning angles. I had come across it a few weeks ago but wanted to wait until the light was right.
The first set of pictures I take from about forty yards away on the southern side. It is silent here
I notice, no birds, no breath of wind. Dank, I decide, this whole place is dank.
Heavy swirls coming closer create a swell over the whole lake. Something big lurks here.
With my back to some foxgloves the only splash of colour, concentrating hard on my camera, I
slowly became aware of a wide shining forehead to my right. Pale fleshy lips mouthing at the
surface, sucking water in and thoughtfully squeezing it out again. The black eyes that watched
me were flat, very cold, without any hint of good nature or charity.
I finished quickly and walked towards the hut, carefully staying well away from the edge and the
creature moving parallel to me, just a yard or two from my legs. Iridescent green and brown, from
nose to tail I thought it must be six feet or so long. Only when I reached the wider bank of the
pond where the reeds were most tangled did it break eye contact with me and slip out of sight.
With it out of sight I forgot my unease, intent on the rickety hut and the withered tree behind it.
I got back to work.
After about ten minutes the door to the hut swung open and a tall man stepped out. He was
wearing a tatty pair of filthy jeans and nothing else. His hair was matted, grey and hanging down
his back which was burned dark brown by the sun. It might have been suntan, it could also have
been that he simply never washed.
In his left hand he carried a bamboo fishing rod, polished and thick with a heavy line looping
through metal circles spaced at regular intervals along its length.
We nodded a greeting at each other. For all his appearance he was friendly, this being France
where charm on first acquaintance is the norm.
'Good morning,' I said, 'it is going to be a lovely day.'
He gestured at the sky.
'Oui, il fait très beau.'
The ragged man walked along a smoothed path to the edge of the pond and with the ease of
long practise cast the line far out over the water. Through the open door of the hut I could see
fish bones lying everywhere. A mattress on the floor and a wooden box were his only furniture.
I looked at him standing patiently with the stillness that only obsessive fisherman can achieve
and wondered how long he had been here.
The sun was too high now to be any further use to me so I wandered over to him.
'Are you hoping to catch the big one?'
His whole body jerked.
'What big one?'
'Maybe half an hour ago I saw a huge fish, almost as long as a man is high,' I gestured at the
reeds, startled by his reaction, 'it disappeared over there.'
He made no answer, clearly deciding he'd been charming enough for one day. I turned to leave.
'Forty years ago that fish took my daughter, the day before she was to be married. Every weekend
while she was growing up she used to come here and play by the water, good company for her
father. She planted those flowers over there.'
He pointed to the foxgloves where I had knelt as I took my pictures.
'That fish stole her, took her away while she read in the shade.'
He turned back to his line.
'I was charged, spent years in prison.'
He shrugged away the lost time.
'But I have not seen that damned thing once. I was beginning to doubt....what you say gives me
the strength to continue hunting her killer. I thankyou m'sieu.'
Waiting for days on a fish that may never bite as fishermen do, has always seemed like madness
to me and here it seemed was the proof of that.
Not at all sure I had been of any help I said good
bye, gathered up my bag and tripod and began
the walk back to the bamboo thicket I had
scrambled though to get here.
A naked girl in the shallows with her back to me
draws my attention. But when she turns round
I don't like the empty holes where her eyes
should be and her arms look cold, tangled in
knotty weeds.
Published by Keith Carman and available on Amazon:
‘Adventures with Monty and Very Poor French’ and ‘Devil Cat and the Legend of the Zephyrs’
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
EclipseCrossword.com
To be completed in French
6
Readers may be interested to know that the UK law regarding postal votes
for expats has changed. The voters need to have an elector number, from
their last registered voting station. You can register as an overseas voter for
up to 15 years after leaving the UK, as long as:
- you’re a British citizen
- you were registered to vote in the UK within the previous 15 years (or, in some cases,
if you were too young to have registered when you left the UK)
Further details can be found at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
13
3
5 7
8 7
1 8
5
8
9 6
4
5
7 5
8 6
9
BRITISH CITIZENS MOVING ABROAD
Down
1. Fog (10)
2. Frost (5)
4. Rake (6)
7. Coat (7)
10. Cool (5)
11. All Saints
Day (9)
Across
3. Blanket (10)
5. Rainy (8)
6. Cold (ill) (5)
8. Acorn (5)
9. Cosy (8)
10. Chilly (8)
12. Windy (7)
6
7 3
3
2
4 3
5
6 5
8 2
6
(Solutions page 54)
etcetera kids
Books 4 Kids
If you would like to recommend a
book or collection, please contact us.
How To Train Your
Dragon: Incomplete
Book of Dragons
By Cressida Cowell
Which is the favourite computer
key of an astronaut?
1. Which country gave us the words
'shampoo' and 'pyjamas'?
What did the little fish say when
2. In 'Finding Nemo’, what is Nemo's
he swam into a wall?
dad called?
What’s the last thing that goes through an 3. Which is taller? The Eiffel Tower
insect’s mind as he hits the windshield?
or The Statue of Liberty?
!
4. Ascorbic Acid is another name for
Why are pirates so mean?
which vitamin?
What do you get when you put a candle in
a suit of armour?
5. In which year did Mount Vesuvius
erupt & destroy Pompeii?
Long ago, the world was
full of dragons. But what
happened to them?
Where are they now?
These pages are taken
from the notebooks of Viking Hero Hiccup
Horrendous Haddock the Third when he
was just a boy. A keen dragonwatcher,
Hiccup paints a picture of the brilliance and
fire and spirit of that lost dragon world.
Featuring dragon profiles, dragon
anatomy, dragon riding tips and lots more
must know info e.g. how to spot the
difference between an arsenic adderwing
and a glow worm (you don't want to mix
those two up) and what to do when
confronted with a Hellsteether. This is a
must for all keen dragonwatchers out there.
Available from Amazon UK from £6.45 and
10,50€ from Amazon.fr.
App of the month
Thinkrolls are the 18
hilarious characters in this
educational app that's one
part rolling ball platformer,
one part physics puzzler
and 100% irresistible.
Players encounter and use to their
advantage
force,
acceleration,
buoyancy, heat, elasticity and gravity to
get their Thinkrolls where they need to
go.
Available on Android and iPhone/iPad
6. If an Anglo-Saxon had an 'angon'
what did they have?
A guy walks into a bar with a set of jumper
cables…the bartender says, “buddy, I’ll 7. Which singing voice is the highest
serve you as long as you don’t start
pitch?
anything.”
8. If a carnivore eats meat, what does
How does Jesus make tea?
a frugivore eat?
A man noted for telling puns was locked 9. The iron token in Monopoly has
been replaced by a what?
into a dark cupboard and told he would not
be released until he made up a pun about 10. In the periodic table, which
the situation.
chemical symbol is used for
He immediately shouted, "Oh, pun the door!"
mercury?
Why couldn't the pirate play cards?
What do you say when you lose a wii game?
Name a city where no one goes?
Where does bad light go?
11. What is Lady Gaga's real christian
name?
12. What does HTML stand for?
Answers
1. India
2. Marlin
3. Eiffel Tower
4. Vitamin C
5. AD79
6. Spear
7. Soprano
8. Fruit
9. Cat
10. Hg
11. Stefani
12. HyperText Markup Language
14
You will need:
• PVA/white glue
• Paintbrushes
• Old glass jars (baby food, jam and
coffee jars etc)
• Battery operated tea light candle
• Tissue paper in any colour
• Sequins/ plastic gems/ glitter
1. Paint the surface of the glass jar with
the white glue and layer tissue paper
directly on top
2. Add more than one layer and overlap
to make the colours look like stained
glass
3. When the layers are finished, paint
another coat of glue over the top to
harden it and make it slightly glossy.
4. When the glue is dry, place a battery
operated tea light candle inside.
Pamper Yourself & Health
Mobile Hairdresser
Mobile family hairdressing in the
comfort of your own home
Cutting for ladies & gents
Colouring
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Cutting
Highlights
Contact Salvatore for a
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Email: vanessajwhyte@yahoo.fr
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meche hi-lights • tinting
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05 55 53 37 10 / 06 15 63 70 22
debra@zanado.co.uk
www.zanado.co.uk
(Dept 16 nr. Chabanais)
Life Coach
Moving to a new country, leaving family & friends
behind? New job, work environment, retirement,
loss or bereavement? Big changes to your life
can be difficult to adjust to or accept. Not sure
which direction to go?
I can help you, together with one to one sessions,
totally confidential, we can find you new purpose,
drive & direction in your life or if necessary
closure. Contact me today, Vanessa Whyte.
Talk ~ Guide ~ Challenge
Siret: 482 420 114 00019
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Do you like a bit of pampering in your own
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perhaps a change of colour? If so, Jane will be
happy to come to your home to suggest styles
and colours which would suit you and to
transform you there and then! Or, if you prefer,
you can go to Jane’s home for your appointment.
HAIRDRESSER
ANNETTE VAN ES
Chez Martin
16150 Pressignac
For an appt please contact:
05.45.71.56.02
06.50.23.61.37
annette.vanes@orange.fr
siret: 518 364 989 00013
Nicholas SEAGRAVE M.B.P.S.
Psychologue / Psychologist
Tel: 05 45 89 60 69
Email: lorraineblack@orange.fr
Siret : 393 373 535 00011
ENGLISH
HAIRDRESSER
Debra Harvey Hairdressing
With over 20 years in the business, working in
London's West End and 10 years in one of the
home counties most successful salon chains. I
can offer a full range of hairdressing services. With
hair colouring I do meche hi-lites as this gives an
incredible variety of choices available to you.
Colour can be as subtle or as vibrant as you wish.
Why not give yourself a new or updated look?
Fully qualified therapist offers full
allergy testing, advice & treatment.
Helping people with all types of allergies
by desensitisation.
••••••••••
I also offer treatment for horses with
sweet itch - 100% successful in trials
and is very easy to administer.
Lorraine Black
Any inappropriate and uncomfortable reaction
to a stimulus, whether the stimulus is food or
drink, a chemical or something environmental
such as pollen may be termed as an ‘allergy’.
It is commonly believed that allergic reactions
such as eczema, asthma, hay fever, migraine,
digestive problems etc. have to be borne for
life with little or no relief. I conduct a simple,
thoroughly reliable food and environmental
sensitivity test and following the test, safe and
inexpensive remedies are prescribed, taken
only for a short period of time. I am fully trained
and registered with the British Institute for
Allergy and Environmental Therapy.
L’ASSOCIATION NIYAMA
pour votre bien-être
15 Place d’Armes - 86150 L’ISLE JOURDAIN
Mob. : 07 77 26 10 63 Email : psy.seagrave@free.fr
N° ADELI 86 93 0386 7
Nicholas Seagrave - Life has its ups and downs. It's realistic to expect that you may need help
when times are tough - when you don't feel confident about your direction and when it seems
impossible to deal with the daily obstacles that life poses. If you feel that you're not coping with all
that is going on in your life, it is important to seek therapy with a qualified professional who can help
you to understand your past and current situation, and to work with you to find solutions. I'm a
registered psychologist so you could claim back on you top-up insurance.
with Elly
with Lara
with Elly & Lara with Elly & Lara
For information on our classes:
association.niyama@gmail.com
09.61.61.82.58 06.71.28.12.46
Zumba Fitness - With Elly
Thank to all who supported the coffee morning on 26th September!
We raised 238,87€ at Café 1814 in Chateauponsac for Macmillan and Cancer
Support France.
This was only possible with everyone’s support and donations so thank you.
Ronnie Cottrell
15
Yoga PourTout
Pamper Yourself & Health
Ben Scher's
'Cut Out & Keep' Guides
ANECDOTES
‘phone or e-mail Annie right now
and book a free initial assessment.
Class details are on the website.
Pilates Limousin
Starting at the beginning of November, Pilates returns to the Golf Club at St Junien on Wednesday
afternoons. These sessions will be for all comers; new, old (anyone over 82 out there and interested?),
young, English, French, women, men, for golfers and for fun. Please contact Annie because it is vital
that she gives everyone an initial introduction and assessment prior to starting. This can be by
arrangement anytime this month…probably on Wednesday afternoons. Improve your flexibility and
strength, feel good about exercise and your body, meet some new people and have fun.
Santé et Beauté
(UK trained Physio)
H.P.C PH66488
www.bodymattersbackcareclinic.net
bodymatters34@yahoo.com
05 55 06 59 12 / 06 71 46 79 11
• Full Body, Back, Neck & Shoulders,
Indian Head & Facials
• Waxing & Tinting
• Manicure & Beauté des Pieds
• Gift Vouchers available plus a range of
beauty products at reasonable prices
Siret 493 871 826
Beauty and Holistic Treatments
Tue-Fri 9h - 12h / 14h - 18h
Sat 9h - 14h
Bussac, 87600 Cheronnac
siret 497 688 663 00028
Tina Hall - Manual Therapist
I am a UK trained Physio working in France as a
manual therapist. Since qualifying in 1987, I have
been very fortunate and honoured to work all
around the world taking care of British Sports
teams. I can now offer you a wealth of experience
in the treatment and rehabilitation of your injuries.
The beautiful clinic here at BUSSAC is now open
for you to experience the professional, friendly,
efficient and informative service you have come
to expect.
Beautician
Theresa Phillips
Beauty Treatments include
Gel Nail Varnish / Extensions / Nail Art
Treatments in my Salon at Montrollet or in your home
www.lagrangeancienne.com / 09 74 76 72 02
Siret No: 51180068200011
Theresa Phillips
Theresa is a qualified beautician situated near
Montrollet and offers beauty treatments from her
salon or in the convenience of your own home.
Treatments provided include Liz Earle facials,
massaging using Neals Yard products, eye lash
tinting, waxing, pedicures/manicures and gel
varnishing, extensions and nail art using Gelish
products. Discounts are available as well as gift
vouchers. For further information visit her website
at www.lagrangeancienne.com.
Tel: 05 55 00 92 97
www.stmathieubeautysalon.com
3 Rue Principale, 87440 St Mathieu
Santé et Beauté
An established Beauty & Holistic Salon in the
centre of St Mathieu. Winston is a UK trained and
qualified Sports Therapist & Reflexologist. He
offers a wide range of treatments including, Full
Body, Sports, Back, Neck & Shoulders, Indian
Head & Reflexology. Beauty treatments include
Facials, Waxing, Manicure and Pedicure, Eyelash
& Eyebrow Tinting and Ear Piercing (lobes).
Gel Varnish for Manicure & Pedicures. A new
hybrid varnish lasting up to 4 weeks on hands, &
10 weeks on feet. Also available: Gift Vouchers in
any denomination and a great range of beauty
products for sale.
Note: We will be closed Thur 23rd Oct to Mon 3rd Nov.
A very big thank you to all who took part
in our Awareness Week events across the
department, those who arranged them and
those who came.
We raised the
awareness of Cancer Support France
Haute-Vienne and acquired some new
members. Thank you all for your time and
generosity.
On 30 November there is a Christmas
Fayre being held at Tina and Jane's barn,
5 La Tregale, 87360 Lussac-les-Eglises in
aid of CSF H-V and Twilight Old Dogs'
Home, from 2 pm.
CSF Haute-Vienne will also be at the
Christmas Market, Sat 6 December in St
Mathieu (87440) join us for mince pies and
mulled wine.
Sue Ware President CSF H-V
16
A friend and I were enjoying
the wilderness near my
writing lodge in the Massif
Central when disaster struck
and I was bitten by a snake. It was a black
mamba, one of the world’s most poisonous.
I wasn’t too concerned, however, as my
friend is a doctor.
“I have been bitten by a black mamba,” I
mumbled. “Do you have an antidote?”
“Yes, of course,” he replied. “I was on my
way to my final exam at university when I
narrowly missed my bus. I hailed down a
passing motorist who turned out to be John
Nettles! He drove me to my exam in his
burgundy 1947 Triumph Roadster.”
Such is the power of anecdote that, despite
his having misheard me, I made a full
recovery and we continued to enjoy the
wilderness near my writing lodge in the
Massif Central.
Let me share with you a few things I learnt
about anecdotes from Clint Eastwood.
The key to a good anecdote is that it must
involve someone famous. Claiming to have
rescued Angela Smith from a bear trap in
the woods behind Ikea is quite impressive,
but if instead it was Angela Rippon your
audience would be amazed. If your story
doesn’t involve someone famous either
don’t tell it or lie.
It’s very important to have the right length
anecdote. I remember when I was working
as a cameraman in Hollywood in the 1980’s
I’d often find myself alone in the studio with
Bill Murray after everyone else had gone
for lunch. It turned out Bill, or William as he
insisted I call him, was lactose-intolerant
and always brought his own lunch.
“Steve”, he once said to me (I told him I was
called Ben but I don’t think he heard me),
“always make sure your anecdotes involve
someone famous. And keep them short”.
“How short?” I asked.
He’d fallen asleep by then, so I assume he
meant very.
Don’t anecdotalise too frequently.
Regardless of whether or not your story is
true, if you recount more than two during a
dinner party people are going to think
you’re making it all up. Try one early on. If
it goes well leave a gap of about an hour
before the next. Then leave it at that.
Terence Stamp once told seventeen
anecdotes at one of my parties. Everyone
was very embarrassed.
Finally, and most importantly, leave some
silence after your anecdote. The ideal way
is to have a snack in your hand, say a
vol-au-vent or maybe a peanut. Deliver
your story, give a slight nod, then pop the
morsel into your mouth and nonchalantly
walk off as if to imply, ‘Everyone knows Burt
Reynolds, don’t they?’
website design
17
Crafts, Books, Home & Gifts
TRANSFERS
Chris mas
bazaar
Saturday 29th November 10:30 to 15:00
Email: rjwphoto17@gmail.com
Tel: 05 46 93 39 24
Transfers
The transfer of 8mm & Super 8mm films, VHS
& Vinyl’s plus other formats to DVD or CD.
Processed via computer software from analogue
to digital. You will receive a printed DVD or CD
in a plastic case, or a USB key. Care is taken
with all transfers as old films & vinyl’s are fragile.
Volume discount given. Please contact me as
above for further information.
Richard Edwards - Please note my new, autumn opening times. Details can be found on my website.
Café
1st Nov 14 - 31st March 15
Open by appointment only
(Tuesdays to Saturdays)
Somewhat Grey - Paint opens up home
decoration possibilities. Nothing changes a room
or relooks furniture like a new coat of paint.
When you step back, paintbrush in hand, you
want to see the look and the finish is right. Not
just for decorating furniture, Autentico chalk
paints have over 140 colours with products for
interior and exterior walls, exterior woodwork,
garden furniture and much more. Check out this
autumn's hot metallic trend with Autentico's Old
Gold, New Gold, Silver Pearl and Ancient
Copper colours. Come and see us in the shop
or visit our website for more information on the
extensive Autentico range.
Tel: 05 45 30 69 56
Email: enquiries@manotceramics.com
www.manotceramics.com
Siret No: 518 877 685 900 019
Manot Ceramics Café is a family run ceramic
painting studio serving Manot and the
surrounding areas. See the website for full
details. The studio is on the corner of the Rue
de Chantrezac and Ambernac roads in Manot,
near Confolens, 16500. We also offer a mobile
service for groups, parties and schools.
Even if you do not wish to paint, call in for a
coffee or English pot of tea with a home made
cake or sandwich (summer only).
18
Crafts, Books, Home & Gifts
CHARITY SHOP
CHRISTMAS FAYRE
6th & 7th December 2014
10am - 5pm
Quality Books at 1€ each
Beautiful Handcrafted Cards Christmas
Goodies
Tea, Coffee & Homemade Cakes
Mince Pies
Grand Raffle
Bar & Lunches/Snacks available
Roast Lunch available on Sunday
‘Route 66’, Avenue de la Liberation
87320 BUSSIERE POITEVINE
Bring the children along to meet Santa
with his little helper ‘Magic’, the
sweetest little pony ever!
(D942 off the N147, Bussière Poitevine to Le Dorat road)
www.hopeassoc.org
Encadrement d’Art
Picture framers to
La Galerie de Gabriel
Come and join my weekly courses in
watercolour and ceramic painting.
Friendly relaxed atmosphere.
Taster and individual courses by
arrangement
Tel Diana on 05 55 78 21 98
e: diana.dabinett@club-internet.fr
www.galeriedegabriel.com
6 rue du General de Gaulle, 87150 Oradour Sur Vayres
Siret 498 681 741 00019
La Galerie de Gabriel
Thank you to all visitors who called to see Nigel
Fletcher and I’s exhibition. We were really pleased
with your reactions and positive comments, the
greatest compliment of course being from those
who liked them enough to purchase and take one
home. Thank you. Now it’s all change and from
11th November when the Galerie reopens I will
have an exhibition of all my own pictures, also for
sale. A great mix of sizes and prices. Pop in and
have a look. Painting classes also resume on 11th
November and if you would like to come for a
‘taster’ class, contact me for details. Thanks. Diana
Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd Nov
10am - 4pm
1 route des Pres Guillon (D109) 79190 Melleran
• Boxed & Handmade Xmas Cards
• Xmas Crackers
• Handmade Gifts
• Xmas Decorations
• Crystal Angels & Healing Stones
• Semi-Precious Jewellery
• Neal’s Yard Products
A date for your Diary: Open House Xmas Sale
This year’s annual event will be held on 22 & 23
Nov at my house in Melleran, The Craft Cabin
will have all the usual goodies Xmas Crackers,
boxed Xmas cards (from 3,50€/box), handmade
cards and gift ideas. Also attending this year is
Bespoke with handmade gifts & Xmas
decorations and Aura Boutique with Crystal
Angels, healing stones, semi-precious jewellery
and Neil’s Yard products. For more information
please email me: denise.eyre@wanadoo.fr or
tel: 06 75 89 95 55 Hope to see you there, Denise
1 Rue du 19 Mars 1962
87150
Oradour sur Vayres
Siret: 493 623 00016
FRAMING
Nick Wiggins - 05 87 41 65 78
email: nicktesswigg@yahoo.co.uk
Picture Framing
· We have an exciting new selection of mouldings
and mount boards in varying colours and textures.
· Friendly advice on how to show your art at its best.
· Minor repairs and glass replacement done while
you wait.
· Stretcher bars built for rolled oils.
· All work carried out to a professional standard at
very reasonable rates.
· Our philosophy is to treat every piece individually
and with respect, from a small repair to large
canvases.
· Oradour-sur-Vayres is located 10 minutes from
Rochechouart on the D901 route to Chalus.
· OUR AIM: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION.
SUCCESSIO (Roma Nova Book 3) by Alison Morton (reviewed by Kate Rose)
Roma Nova is an imaginary 21st century country in central Europe, ruled by benevolent hereditary Roman families, and
priding itself on ancient Roman traditions, especially the value of loyalty, courage, and patriotism. Successio is the third
book in the Nova Roma series, a thriller dominated by its central character, Carina, as the narrator. She is a thirty
something, tough no nonsense modern day woman, soldier and mother. The sort of person one would be quite happy
to be with on a rainy night down a dark ally. Like many of the other characters, she is fit, attractive, and intelligent.
Throughout the narrative we are reminded of the Roman roots through healthy smatterings of ‘By Juno’ and ‘Mars’ balls’.
The plot is a fast moving thriller, Carina’s husband, Conrad, a senior officer in the Praetorian Guard, is being blackmailed
and as a result the Roma Nova ruling family is threatened.
Attempts by officials to address the blackmailer fail, thereby drawing Carina to the rescue. As a specialist intelligence officer in the
Praetorian Guard, she goes off record to find the blackmailer and take them to task, assisted by a loyal team of guards, her family and
some rather dubious characters from her past. But this is modern day Roma Nova and she has no end of technology to assist her by
way of specialist surveillance equipment to hunt down her enemy in treacherous conditions. You don’t need to have read the first two
books; but it helps, as it gives you a background, and also familiarity with the vast number of family members and other characters you
meet along the way. A good read, that keeps you enthralled to the end.
Published by Silverwood Books. Available from Amazon £9.99 Paperback / £2.99 Kindle
About the Author
Alison Morton, has lived and studied in France off and on since she was a child. Her husband loved the Loire Valley on first sight when
they both came to visit on their first holiday together. So they bought their house as a holiday home in 2005, and moved there permanently
in 2010. As a full-time writer, Alison says the tranquillity and quality of life are perfect in the Deux-Sèvres.
19
Crafts, Books, Home & Gifts
Thé Bonbons Cadeaux
Tea & Coffee Salon
Andy Phillips
Ideal if you’re trying to sell your property
or as a present for Christmas
or even for a Wedding!
Photos or video footage of your house and
surrounding area
Please contact me for further details
Prices start from €50
09 74 76 72 02 | lagrangeancienne@yahoo.com
17 Rue Principale, 87440, St Mathieu
Christie’s
coeur et étoile
This month we have a fantastic new exclusive
range of gorgeous embroidered aprons and
towels by Mother Goose Embroidery. We are
also happy to re-stock last year’s winter favourites
from Trés Jolie - ponchos, hat & scarf sets, head
wraps, and for the children; Hello Kitty earmuff &
scarf sets. Towards the end of November we will
be laying out our fantastic new Christmas stock.
This will include beautiful gift items, as well as
fabulous new Christmas decorations and
ornaments, and lovely spiced candles. So be sure
to pop in and start stocking up for a splendid Noël.
TEA ROOM ~ CARDS & GIFTS
ENGLISH BOOKS & DVDs
INTERNET ACCESS
It’s all go chez Christie’s: stunning
Christmas Cards taking pride of place
in the shop … and Online too!
(Free Delivery within France
when you spend 30€ or more)
T-Anne’s Rich & Boozy ‘Merry’
Christmas Cakes: it’s ‘First Reserved First Served’ so don’t miss out!
Christmas Crackers: Mix & Match, as
Offering a stunning range of distinctively
French shabby chic furniture, household
items & gifts
Wed to Fri 10:00 - 12:00, 14:00 - 17:00
Sat 10:00 - 12:00
( 06 06 81 60 33
www.coeuretetoile.com
Siret 532 528 775 00010
always - plus Diaries, Calendars and a
great variety of personally-selected Gifts.
We’ve LOTS to offer, so whether
in person or online, do visit us soon.
Christie’s … extending our welcome!
NB: Christie’s closes the 1st week of November,
however orders may still be placed Online for
despatch on 10th November. The shop reopens
the following day, TUESDAY 11th (Jour Férié).
www.chezchristies.com
Tel: Brendan Jowett 06 04 45 86 64
Email: brjsilver@yahoo.co.uk
05.49.50.61.94
GENÇAY (86) - behind the Mairie
CLOSED SUNDAY / MONDAY
• Goldsmithing & Silversmithing
• Designing & Making
• Repairs, Antique Restoration
• Bronze & Silver Casting
• Sculpture.
Siret: 47876969800018
Christie’s
Our stunning ranges of Christmas Cards are
displayed in all their glory: Relations, Charity
Packs and Budget - you won’t need to look
elsewhere! This impressive choice is mirrored in
our Online Shop, together with a growing selection
of lovely, practical gifts that won’t traumatize the
purse, so do ‘pop in’ and browse - if, for example,
you’re Tempted by Tapestry…
We’ve Rich & Boozy ‘Merry’ Christmas Cakes;
Christmas Crackers; Gifts Galore; Diaries;
Calendars, and of course Ooodles of Books!
We reopen on Tuesday 11th November, a Jour
Férié (see above advert) with even more gorgeous
goodies for you!
Andrew & T-Anne
Based Oradour-sur-Vayres Siret 7536929380016
BRJ - If you follow the catwalk, autumn trends
continue with large statement pieces, with a touch
of ethnicity. With inspiration from native art making
an interesting juxtaposition between modern and
traditional. Classic pieces are always in style, and
Brendan is happy to design and make a bespoke
piece. It’s time to think about Christmas, December
will be too late to order for gifts, so get orders in
now! As well as repairs and antique restoration,
Brendan can make new pieces from old jewellery.
He also does bronze casting. See website for more
information, and like his facebook page, BRJ
Silver, for up to date work and tips.
Need a print from a print? We can do that.
Want an old photo restored? We can do that.
Need something framed? We can do that too.
Charente
Photography
Need it by Christmas? That’s another yes we can!
www.charentephotography.com Tel 0545 71 38 44
St. Maurice des Lions 16500 Siret 798 135 885
Charente-Photography - With Christmas not far away, our services might give you a few gift ideas!
We have loads of experience in restoring old photos and the results can be printed up to 24 inches
(60cms) wide. Alternatively would you like a poster of your favourite photo? We can do that, again up
to 24 inches wide (but as long as you like!) on either paper or canvas. Finally, Charente-Photography
now offers a framing service with a wide range of mouldings available. Please visit the website to see
what else we do or contact us for details. You can also find us on Facebook.
NEW 10€ NOTE
The new 10€ note is now in circulation. The old notes are still valid and will be
phased out gradually.
20
« Gifts
« English Greetings Cards
« Fashion Jewellery
« Fabrics
« Traditional English Sweets
7 Ave Jules Courivaud, 87190 Magnac Laval
06 72 38 82 20 Tue-Sat 10am-5.30pm
Thé Bonbons Cadeaux
“Aladdin’s Cave of Gifts, Clothing &
Greetings Cards for all Budgets & Tastes”.
XMAS COMPETITION 2014 - Can you come up
with up to 100 words which best describe the Thé
Bonbons Cadeaux shopping experience for all
those people who have not yet visited us? If so,
there is a prize of an in-house shopping voucher
of 100€ to the winner! Entries can be emailed
(info@thebonbonscadeaux.fr), posted or handed
in by 24th Dec 2014 and winner to be announced
January 2015. Bon Chance!
La Pimparola Bijoux
et Cadeaux
Contact Helen
05 55 60 20 88
or email info@lapimparola.com
www.lapimparola.com
Siret : 79797238700014
La Pimparola Bijoux et Cadeaux
We are a Company based in the Limousin offering
a wide range of gifts and jewellery. Our handmade
bags are very popular, why not pop along to our
website www.lapimparola.com and see what we
have for you. We are pleased to say you can now
see and buy a range of our items at Mon Chic
Cottage in Le Dorat so pop along and have a
browse through the great gift items. We are also
running an offer up until 24th December, a free
stocking filler with all orders. Coming soon is our
Freshwater pearl range, perfect for Christmas gifts.
Life etcetera
A serious injury was the trigger to start a new life for the Cooke family…
Malcolm Cooke, that’s me! Let me tell you
my story… a long story short…
In 2006 I sustained a very serious head injury
which left me in a coma for 5 weeks, but as
you can tell, I’m here to tell the tale!
After regaining consciousness I had to go
through learning to walk, talk, eat and even
wash myself. I had to start from scratch.
At the time we as a family, my wife Julie, and
two boys, Josh and Joseph, were living in
Reading but after coming out of hospital we
moved to Birmingham where I am originally
from, with the intention of a new beginning.
After 18 months my health started to
deteriorate and my wife needed the help of
friends and family, so we decided to move
back down south to Newbury, Berkshire in
2009. During this time in Newbury I became
a member of a local church where my family
and I found good fellowship, support and
love.
Over Easter 2012 we came to visit family
here in France. We took the opportunity to
do a bit of sight-seeing and became curious
about the lifestyle in France. It was never our
intention to move here but we came across
a property in Limalonges that was for sale. It
was a property we could only dream of
owning in the UK through winning the lottery!
We felt very drawn to this home and called
the estate agent to have a closer look. But it
wasn’t just the house, something bigger felt
‘right’ and to be quite honest it took us a bit
by surprise! After viewing the house, my wife
and I went to the gate and prayed ‘should we
start a new life here in France?’
As the doors were closing for me in the
roofing business in the UK, all of a sudden it
seemed the doors were opening to come to
France. But I had no idea what I would do for
work. The same for my wife - before my head
injury, Julie was a hair stylist, but had given
up her career to become my carer. And with
our two boys, there was more than just us to
consider.
We returned home and quickly made the
decision that yes, it was the right thing to do
and in August 2012 we arrived here in
France, still not really knowing how we were
going to live or provide for ourselves, but
having the faith that God brought us here.
The family home has two barns and we
decided to have one converted for my in-laws
by a local builder, whom I started doing some
roofing work with.
And so, another door opened for me to start
my own roofing company ‘Strictly Roofing’
which is going from strength to strength! May
I just add that my experience here shows that
the British often start renovating their new
homes without even thinking about the
condition of their roof as no survey is carried
out in this area. I find that very bizarre!
We are very grateful for the opportunity we
have here but we knew it wouldn’t be easy
to up-sticks and move country, however we
had the support from our church in the UK
and our new found church here in France. At
first, I lacked a lot of confidence, partly
brought about by the past health issues and
partly because of the huge pressure we were
under with regards to learning the French
language. We are incredibly lucky to have
made friends with our French neighbours
who are very willing and patient with us as
we muddle our way through. Julie is involved
with various French lessons while I work
which is a big help for getting things done.
Two years down the line, my son Josh (16)
is at Lycée in Melle and Joseph (9) is at
L’École Primaire in Civray, making new
friends and adapting to the French culture,
however if I’m honest, it hasn’t always been
easy for them.
Joseph struggled during his first year at
school and we felt that perhaps the school
wasn’t right for him. We had seen a change
in his behaviour at home that we could see
was as a result of him being unhappy at
school. We made the decision to move him
to a different school and we are pleased to
say it was clearly the right thing to do. Joseph
is now back to being a happy and secure
child. One of the main things he had
struggled with was learning the language and
it knocked his confidence when all of a
sudden he couldn’t understand his work.
Other parents in a similar situation may be
interested to know how he was helped to get
over this hurdle… we arranged for English
lessons with a local association ‘Accents’! I
know that may sound strange, but by
continuing his English education, he was
able to see that he wasn’t stupid or incapable
of learning - to get good results in English is
a big confidence booster. With a boosted
confidence he is now less daunted by the
French language.
When Josh started in collège on arrival, it
was advised that he be held back a year,
which is a very common occurrence in
France. This was to give him the time to pick
up the language before sitting his Brevet
exam the following year. It turned out to be
a wise move as he passed with flying colours!
But whilst the academic side of things has
not proved to be a problem for Josh, the
social side has been, as any parents in a
rural area will probably understand. He has
plenty of friends but there are a lack of
activities for youngsters. However, he has
now joined the Ruffec Rugby Club and is
thoroughly enjoying it and the opportunities
to socialise it offers.
Despite some of the more trying issues, there
are some wonderful positives to life in
France. Julie and the boys spend a lot of the
21
summer months by the river or at a local plan
d’eau. There’s always something to enjoy in
the hot weather, especially with an ice-cream
thrown in!
We are also very impressed with the medical
system and care here. Julie is diabetic and
has found that the doctors are much more
on top of her care here than in the UK. Her
mother also fell and broke her hip last year
and was over the moon with the care and
attention she received and also with the
cleanliness of the hospitals.
Julie has been able to enjoy spending more
time at home and has discovered she
actually enjoys the art of cooking. With a
busy schedule in the UK and the
opportunities take-away meals, cooking was
not so enjoyable. Now Julie impresses us
with a whole range of new culinary skills.
It has been a roller coaster and at times we
have wondered what we are doing! But after
two years we are getting to grips with the
different culture, the paperwork, the
greetings etc and we are slowly conquering
the language and starting to lay our roots and
awaiting what God has in store for us.
In the meantime, my father-in-law is in his
glory keeping the veg growing and looking
after the chickens. My mother-in-law does
our ironing and is enjoying having her weekly
French lessons and feels like she has
stepped back to her enjoyable days in the
50s! Julie is busy running the children from
A to B, cooking and fitting in a bit of
hairdressing, and Me - well I’m enjoying what
I do best - Roofing!
Our home
Me at work
M: 0632 195 053 / H: 0549 076 704
E: malcolm.cooke@me.com
W: wwwstrictlyroofingfrance.com
Leisure, Entertainment & Eating Out
The Irish Belle
Wednesday to Saturday
12-2pm and 5-8pm
Breakfasts & Lunches to include bacon
sandwiches, baked potato with toppings,
a side salad & more.
Also selling Irish/English produce and
Gluten-free products.
Come and enjoy the cosy country ambience.
Tues & Wed: 10h-18h
Thur & Fri: 11h-18h Sat: 11h-16h
21 Rue du Maquis Foch, 16500 Confolens
06 14 12 54 61 / 05 45 31 23 31
The Golf de Saint Junien
Enjoy a delicious meal in our restaurant, next to the
fireplace; open everyday 12h-14h / 19h-21h. Xmas
Party bookings now being taken. Our 3* hotel is
offering low-season tariffs from just 80€ per room.
Pilates: Weds 16h-17h. ZUMBA: Fri 10h30-11h30.
Fri 14 Nov: The Rhum Runners (Exotic Rock n'
Roll), 8pm. FREE entry. Dinner available.
Sun 23 Nov: Indoor Christmas Market, 11h-17h.
Stalls, live choir, pony rides, hot food & drink.
Wed 25 Nov: Buy 1 Meal, Get 1 Half Price. Lunch
for 2 for only 22,50€. Reservation only.
Thur 26 Nov: Bennetti's Jazz Blues Club, 20h. Free
entry. Dinner available.
Civray Footlights
Presents
All Balls
and
Ashes
5th edition
Saturday 22nd November, 19h
Salle Polyvalente, 23600 Boussac
Proceeds of this year's AIPB Battle of the
Bands competition will, as usual, be donated
to charity.
This year we are supporting "Les Restos
du Cœur", "Le Secours Catholique",
the Tennis Club de Boussac and an
animal charity. Entrance tickets cost
only 4€, available on the door plus a
bar and fast food will be available
throughout the evening. Also available is a tombola
with fabulous prizes to win.
The winning group will receive 400€ plus a trophy
sculptured by local well known agri-sculptor, JeanClaude Aubailly. "Funky United", last year’s runners
up, will be opening the evening and young singer
Georgie Calladine will entertain us while the groups
set up. 6 groups of varying genres will be fighting
for the trophy and prize money: Blues Deluxe Band
(Blues), Unpinned Grenades (Punk Rock), Trio
Tippi (pop rock), Oxymore (pop rock), Bears of War
(heavy metal) and Hushin'Tones (pop/rock/blues).
An impartial jury, headed by respected local
musician Keith Wildman, will decide the winner.
Come along to support your favourite group and
dance the night away all for a good cause!
The Irish Belle
Anyone wishing to order a Christmas Hamper
please contact me, Mary Burke, by e-mail at
theirishbells@orange.fr or via Facebook private
message: www.facebook.com/TheIrishbelle
Fri 7 Nov: Music/Bistro night
with ‘Samphire’ - 18€
Book our beautiful 5 bedroomed manor
house for your Christmas break and let us
organise your Christmas for you.
3 nights, fully catered, for a group of up to 11
people costs only 3250€.
Fabulous food, roaring log fires, home from
home but no washing up!
Bar, Hotel & Restaurant
Only 1 family or group can benefit so call us
quick to book.
(We can cater for up to 17 people if you book
our gite as well. Also available for New Year).
Call Karen on 07 81 51 80 99
www.lagrangeterrou.com
6 Rue de Diamant 86460 Mauprevoir
James & Nicky - 05 49 87 20 28
hotel.lediamant@gmail.com
Hotel du Diamant
Keep up to date with events by following us
at: www.facebook.com/hoteldudiamant
TIPS & TRICKS … Separate egg yolks and whites
All you need is a little help from a clean, empty water bottle. Crack an egg into a shallow bowl,
then hold the mouth of the bottle near the yolk and gently squeeze. When you release the
squeeze, the yolk will be sucked out, and you can deposit it into another bowl. (This may take
a few attempts at first, there is a certain knack!). Google it to watch videos!
22
Leisure & Entertainment & Eating Out
November 2014 (all venues from 18h unless stated otherwise)
Sat 1st
- Liglet (18h30 start)
Tues 4th
- St Leger Magnazeix
Thur 6th & 20th
- St Sulpice les Feuilles
Thur 13th & 27th
- Lussac les Eglises
Fri 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th - Le Dorat
Early dates for December:
Tues 2nd
- St Leger Magnazeix
Thur 4th
- St Sulpice les Feuilles
Fri 5th
- Le Dorat
Sat 6th
- Liglet (18h30 start)
Sun 7th
- Christmas Fayre - St Leger Magnazeix (11h start)
Siret: 503 419 871 00010
The Traditional British Takeaway in France
Siren 498 551 498
Le Soleil Couchant - NOV EVENTS …
Sat 1st: Jazz a la Carte (Jazz & Pop) Sat 8th: Martin Lavansch (Acoustic 60s/70s) Sat 15th: Nick Shires
(Blues/Rock/Pop) Sat 22nd: Rock Bottom (Blues) Sat 29th: Viz Chris (Variety) Thurs 27th: Special Tribute
to celebrate life & times of John Lennon. 19h30 for 20h, supper included. 10€ deposit by 16th Nov please.
Thurs 6th: Free IT Surgery 1pm-4pm, join Ron to solve all your IT and gadget problems.
Thurs 6th: Night Time Quiz 7:30pm. Thurs 27th: Day Time Quiz, €10 entrance including Fish & Chips.
Tickle Your Taste Buds!
Speciality
Hog/Lamb
Roast
• Birthdays
• Anniversaries
• Christenings
• Marriages
52338364400011
For all your catering needs
• Any celebrations
• Spit roast pig or lamb
• Hot and cold buffets
I can offer you the total package, in your
own home, garden or Salle de Fête
I've just opened a new restaurant
called Karma. There's no menu, we
just give you what you deserve.
Grindrods fantastic Christmas Turkey Butterflies
are back again this year by popular demand. The
Turkey butterflies are Freshly Frozen, Farm
Assured. Superb value at just 8,95€/kg. You pay
for 100% natural turkey meat and NO WASTE!
The butterflies have no bones or no added water,
so, price for price you are getting more meat for
your money. Contact us by email, phone or via
facebook to place your order now. Orders to be
placed by 20th November for delivery/collection
early December.
Coming Soon: Wrights Pies and Pasties, contact
us to place your orders now!
FARM ASSURED OR
FREE RANGE…?
Whilst preparing the advert for
Grindrods I was curious to know what the
difference is between ‘farm assured’ and ‘free
range’ so I asked Hayley to write a brief
explanation so that all readers could benefit…
“Farm Assurance schemes set very high
standards for the nutrition and welfare of
poultry and also verify producers’ compliance
with them. Another objective is to regularly
review and develop the standards to achieve
high levels of food safety and environmental
care. Many argue the case that farm assured
poultry is much tastier than free range and
that the poultry, because of the standards set,
get to enjoy more fresh air and open skys
than the free range variety.”
5 rue de St Martin, Jouac 87890
Tel: 05 55 47 30 43
email: jouac.bar@gmail.com
Thursday to Saturday 11h to 23h
Sunday 11h-21h
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday Closed
Eileen: 05 49 87 47 64 / 06 42 28 58 26
Tickle your Taste Buds
Fancy having family and friends round for a
great day without the stress of the cooking?
Why not give us a call? We offer a number
of Packages from a simple buffet to a full 4/5
course meal. Or for that Special Day how
about a Hog/Lamb Roast or a Special BBQ?
We supply everything including special
cakes made to order. French and English
recipes from Christmas cakes to special
wedding cake. All cloths, napkins, china etc
can be hired. Please phone to discuss your
requirements and for a no obligation quote.
Christmas Farm Assured
Turkey Butterflies 8,95€/kg
T: 05 49 84 36 40 / M: 06 34 02 83 08
E: sales@grindrods.com
www.grindrods.com
Fish et Frites - Fancy a fish and chip supper? Why not try a portion of our Icelandic cod weighing on
average over 220gms, freshly filleted, cooked in crispy beer batter and served with chunky traditional
home cut chips (not frozen French fries), or if you have a large appetite you could try our large cod
weighing in at over a monstrous 300gms, it’s the largest fish in town and a taste of The Traditional
British Takeaway as you remember. We also have our customer loyalty card, collect yours when
next visiting; ask Jackie or Del for details. We look forward to seeing you at one of our locations.
PLAN D’EAU VERNEUIL 16310
www.lesoleilcouchant.eu
05 45 65 23 67 / roslyn1.james@gmail.com
Friendly lakeside bar • Open 7 days a week
Suppliers of Breaded,
Battered, Raw & Southern Fried Chicken
Freshly Frozen Turkey Butterflies
25 bis, route d'Angoulême
16150 Chabanais
05 45 31 83 95
(please book)
Friday 14th November
CHINESE NIGHT
Prawn Crackers & Spring Rolls
Crispy Duck Pancakes
Sweet & Sour Pork
Chicken Chow Mein
Special Fried Rice
Mixed Stir Fried Vegetables
Lychees & Ice Cream
All for €17.50 - Booking Essential
23
Café Clémence - Chris and Jane look forward
to seeing you at Café Clémence. We offer a 4
course lunch and 1/4L wine for 12.50€ Mon to
Fri. Sat lunch 12.50€ exclusive of wine. Fri &
Sat nights plus Sun lunch we offer an everchanging 4 course menu for 23,25€, price
reduced for 2 or 3 courses. Also available,
Menu d'étape - buffet, plat du jour, dessert 15€
and plats at 8.75€, steak frites 12.50€.
Quiz Night: 20th November
Leisure & Entertainment, Accommodation & Eating Out
5 Rue Nationale - 16150 Chabanais
Tel 05 45 29 03 99 Fax 05 45 85 92 25
Visit www.petticoatlaneshop.com E-mail sales@petticoatlaneshop.com
Cashew-crusted
Salmon & Salsa
English groceries, Fresh British Beef & Steak to order only, Gammon Steak, Bacon,
Sausage & Cheddar cheese. Wide range of frozen items including vegetarian.
Traditional English beers, Sherries & Wine. Cards for all occasions.
Christmas stock now available!
This month we will only be at the following markets/fairs:2nd Nov: CLE Christmas Fair, Lessac 5th Nov: Bourganeuf Britsh Fair (Dept 23)
9th & 23th Nov: Panazol 2nd Dec: Civray Christmas Fair 6th & 7th Dec: Aigre Christmas Fair
Monday to Saturday 10am - 6pm
Please note that on 4th November we will close at 5pm and on 5th November we will be closed all day.
FLU VACCINATIONS
France’s flu jab campaign is under way, recommending vulnerable groups to get
vaccinated. Over-65’s with certain illnesses, obese people and pregnant women, will
receive free vouchers for the vaccine and get reimbursed 100%. The vaccines can be
bought at pharmacies for under €10 and administered by your nurse or GP (reimbursements at the
usual rate). You can also ask your GP to prescribe the vaccine, this is reimbursed at 65%.
ICELAND frozen, chilled & grocery foods
available here in France for the 1st time!
Good selection of all your beloved English foods
- Pizzas, Chinese, Indian, ready meals + much more.
All supplied by Iceland frozen food giants.
A choice of online shopping or shopping at the store.
For further
info visit our
on-line shop
Mon closed
Tues closed
Wed 10-5
Thurs closed
Fri 10-5
Sat closed
Sun 11-3
Ingredients
4 x 150g skinless & boneless salmon fillets
4tsp runny honey
60g unsalted cashew nuts, chopped
Green salad, to serve
For the salsa
4 spring onions, finely chopped
2 red peppers, finely chopped
2 large tomatoes, finely chopped
(reserve a few leaves to garnish)
3tbsp sweet chilli sauce
Zest and juice of 2 limes
Ÿ Pat the salmon dry with kitchen paper.
Ÿ Coat with the honey and cover the top
with the nuts.
Ÿ Heat a large non-stick frying pan over a
medium heat, then add the salmon and
fry for 4–5 min on each side until cooked.
Ÿ Mix all salsa ingredients in a bowl, then
garnish with the reserved coriander.
Ÿ Serve with the salmon and green salad.
www.healthyfood.co.uk
When a big local farm in Brillac was sold to an investment company called “Méthane Invest” last year, rumours were rife. As no information whatsoever
was forthcoming from our municipality we were forced to investigate ourselves. We started in Chasseneuil, a commune that had also been faced with
a methane plant, and learned from its Maire that the project had been rejected after a visit to an existing plant near Bergerac, because “the smell was
absolutely unbearable”. Next we had a meeting at the Chambre d’Agriculture in Angoulême. When they explained to us that Méthane Invest had asked
for planning permission for a huge methane plant that would process 29.9 tons a day of manure and green waste, the equivalent of one lorry-load, we
started to ask ourselves questions.
Why precisely 29.9 tons a day? How can one lorry-load a day fuel a plant of that size? And at the same time secure a profit for an
investment company that promises its investors 8% interest over 20 years?
The answer is simple: methane plants are subjected to different administrative procedures depending on the quantity they process. By officially limiting
it’s daily raw material intake to below 30 tons, Méthane Invest chose the very lowest and therefore least restrictive procedure in order to circumvent
impact studies or a public inquiry; necessary requirements for higher quantities. A simple “Declaration” is all that is needed in this case.
At the same time we learned that our Maire had in fact given his approval (avis favorable) to the project long before without informing or consulting local
residents directly affected or his own council. He had simply ignored the Convention of Aarhus which states very clearly that the population must have
free access to environmental information and take part in the decision-making process.
At this point the worried local residents became “Le Collectif des Riverains” and decided to act, informing a wider audience to the known
dangers, such as intolerable odour and noise pollution, health risks, property blight and heavy additional traffic.
Replying to our flyer in the press, Méthane Invest did admit to 18,000 tons a year, the equivalent of 50 tons a day, which would have required not just a
“Declaration” but an “Authorisation” with a public inquiry. And the originally promised “one lorry-load” a day had now turned into “four or five tractor-trailers”.
Our own precise calculations however came to an additional 32 tractor-trailers a day - which small country roads cannot cope with.
Other than that, Méthane Invest tried to disseminate misleading information: “We will only process manure, green waste and maybe silage, but no other
waste…”
But on their own website (www.methane-invest.com) the company is looking for the waste from abattoirs and the sludge from sewage
plants and plenty of other waste that will produce a disgusting nauseating stench!
A public information meeting attracted a large crowd and resulted in a heated exchange between angry farmers and Méthane Invest, a seemingly opaque
and rather dubious company. People living near existing plants had come from afar to describe their troublesome experiences. They testified that the
story is always the same: for a short time in the beginning everything is fine, low intake of farm waste only, then suddenly at a radius of several kilometres
from the plant a horrific stench of abattoir waste and sewage sludge appears - and stays, because a methane plant would not be profitable without.
Since this meeting we have received welcome news that the prefect refused planning permission for the methane plant, however, it does not mean it’s
all over for us - Méthane Invest has already announced they will simply modify the project!!
Brigitta Pauley, Le Collectif des Riverains
24
Deals etcetera
Get More for Your Money
10 mins from Bellac
Open
Sundays!
LA PIMPAROLA
AKA
‘The SHED’
BIJOUX ET CADEAUX
FREE stocking filler with all orders
until 24th December
GOLF DE ST JUNIEN
Wed 25 Nov: Buy 1 Meal, Get 1 Half Price.
Lunch for 2 for only 22,50€. Reservation only.
Heinz Baked Beans • Homepride Flour
McVities Biscuits • Typhoo T-bags
Mushy Peas • Baking Powder
Icing Sugar • Cornflour • Walkers Crisps
Curry Pastes & Sauces • Poppadums
Naan Breads & Mango Chutney
Robinsons Juices • Cadburys Chocolate
+ 100’s of other well known grocery products
LA PETITE PLACE
Decking • Skirting board
Flooring • Tongue & Groove
(int/ext treated) • Plywood &
OSB plus much more….
PVA and all your silicone
based products
And a great selection of beers and
wines all year round!
Thistle Multi-Finish Plaster,
Cement, Sand & Gravel
20% OFF your 1st cut & finish
Valid to end November 14
CONTINENTAL HORIZONS
FREE French lesson in a group on
presentation of this voucher
in November 2014
HALLMARK ELECTRONIQUE
FREE electrical safety inspection with
every full satellite system installed
ALLIANZ
We specialise in buying surplus/discontinued and clearance
stock and periodically have end of lines from well known
English and French supermarket chains.
‘Rentrée pour Tous’ Special Offers
until 31 Dec 14
‘2 months free’ or ‘free file fees’
ECOPOWER
Furniture • Clothing
Beds & Mattresses • Pet Accs
Hygiene & Household Smoking
Accs • Toys • Storage etc.
Winter hours
Tues - Sat 9h00 - 12h00 14h00 - 18h00
Sun
9h30 - 12h00 14h30 - 18h00
Mon
Closed
FREE energy monitor and LED pack
with Solar Thermal Systems
Plus a regular stock of Leyland &
Johnstones Emulsions, undercoats
& masonry paints & more
Route de l’Isle-Jourdain
87320 Bussière-Poitevine
Situated just off the RN147 on the D107,
direction L’Isle Jourdain
GPS: Long: 0° 53' 33" 40 E Lat: 46° 13' 45" 10 N
Tél. 05 55 68 74 73 Email: eco.entrepot@orange.fr
For those of you who love old buildings and architecture, each month we hope to
introduce somewhere new to visit. Many thanks to John at www.abandoned-france.org
TRANSFERS
8mm / Super 8mm / VHS / Vinyl to CD/DVD
10% Discount throughout Nov & Dec
LOOKING FOR…
… MARKETING CONSULTANT
One of our clients is looking to employ the
services of a bi-lingual (French/English)
Product Marketing consultant.
If you fit this criteria or can recommend
someone, please get in touch with us at
etcetera. Thank you.
05 55 68 15 77 | etcetera.editor@neuf.fr
Like Abandoned France on Facebook www.facebook.com/AFExploration
Evening all day
No sunset
No sunrise
No streaks of red
announce
a beginning
a dissolving
The Chateau de la Cantiniere takes its name from its first Lords. The first known is Nicolas receiving the
castle on 1 June 1327. The Cantineau succeeded to it until the beginning of XVIIth century. They sold
the domain to Pierre de Verdon, who already owned the Château du Puy-Louet.
In 1763, the domain was bought by Pierre Monnier, he undertook the restoration of the castle & fit
replacement slate tiles. After his death, his daughter Mary, wife of François Soulard de la Roche, inherited
in 1790. The castle remained in the hands of the family until the early 20th century.
The oldest part is 15th century. The castle was then redesigned in 1632, and in 1765. Only a few sections
of walls are still standing today, and two towers. The castle is completely surrounded by moats.
It is unclear when it was finally abandoned.
25
Only a calotype
sepia silver crystal
sliding against
wire
suspended over
grey blue universe
called raindrop
John Eliot, author of ‘Ssh’
In the Garden
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Prepare for winter by insulating outdoor taps and pipes.
Collect fallen leaves and add to a leaf or compost bin.
Plant drifts of lily-of-the-valley in shaded spots ready for spring next year.
Plant your new fruit trees this month.
Increase stocks of shrubs and fruit bushes by taking hardwood cuttings. Suitable for forsythia, roses, currants,
buddleia, etc.
Ÿ Spread straw or mulch around base of tender climbers (such as clematis) to provide protection from the cold.
Ÿ Clean, oil and sharpen tools, service your mower and other petrol garden equipment before storing for winter.
Ÿ Plant heather and trailing ivy in garden pots and hanging baskets to add winter colour to your garden.
…
By Kate Dunn ID Property Services Tel: 05 55 02 80 66
QUALITY TIMBER GATES
Tel 05 55 60 14 18
www.gatesinfrance.com
Mon-Sat 10h-17h Sun 10h-13h
(open through lunch)
15 Rue de Schleithal,
87190 St Leger Magnazeix
Tel: 05 55 68 73 76 Mob: 06 04 01 28 41
email: andrea1yaxley@hotmail.com
Siret: 490 922 309 00011
siret: 452 821 101 00022
Visit our new website: www.dalle-87.com
Planning a new terrace or patio?
Then view our range of slabs, borders and
copings. With expert help and advice at
hand we can offer a complete design,
delivery and installation service.
06 38 55 49 88
Grass Cutting
Strimming
Hedge trimming
Clearing
Fencing
Tidy ups
Cutting back trees
AC Landscapes
We have been in France for 10 years and in
business for 8. Over the years I have
landscaped many gardens including my own
which is open to the public and inspires all who
visit. We have a small nursery which is
expanding each year. I studied at Writtle for 3
years and have a HND in Landscape Design
& Construction and 2 years at Capel Manor
receiving City & Guilds 123 in Arboriculture.
We supply a friendly and helpful service and
cover all aspects of garden work. We have the
expertise and equipment for all work
undertaken. To visit the garden we are open
on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Neil: 05 55 00 08 90 / Mob: 06 11 71 66 87
www.facebook.com/webuildit
Siret: 493 562 474 00012
Jardinerie - St Leger Magnazeix
We will be closing for the winter Wednesday
26th November 2014. We have in stock pansies,
violas, winter baskets. Also a selection of
christmas items cards, wrapping paper etc. If we
don't see you before we would like to thank you
for your support and wish you a merry Christmas
and New year, and look forward to seeing you
for the new season in 2015.
Dalle-87
Just slab it
.
FENCING
• Agricultural/Equestrian
• Garden
GATES
• Swimming Pool
• 5-Bar Field/Entrance
• Garden
32 years experience • Driveway
Free estimates
Tel: Frank Hawkins 05 55 71 43 38
Email: sparksstudio@yahoo.com
Siret: 514 758 028 00013 Areas covered 87 & 24
TREE SURGERY
A vigorous and fast growing vine, Virginia
creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) is
an outstanding plant for nearly any soil
and light situation. It produces one of the
most spectacular colour displays of
Autumn. The five pointed leaves are
usually just an average green but turn a
brilliant crimson once temperatures cool.
Virginia creeper can grow in sun to full
shade, where soils are wet to dry. The
adaptability of the plant makes it suited
for any site but care should be taken to
keep it off wood siding and gutters.
The vine climbs and adheres to vertical
surfaces with aerial roots, and the weight
of the plant could pull off boards and
misalign gutters.
If you are trying to cover an area with the
vine, plant several at once, as the plant
does not branch well.
Use plant ties to help it start its climb up
a vertical surface. You can also use it as
a ground cover, much like ivy.
Darren Edwards NCArb
• Pruning • Shaping • Reducing • Tree Felling • Hedge Trimming
• Hedge Laying • Planting
Fully qualified and insured. For friendly advice, or free quotation
Tel: 05 55 00 21 38 Email: monkeyboydar@hotmail.co.uk
26
siret 510 997075 00013
Other timber products available to order.
Delivery by arrangement
Siret 479 503 179 00018
Traditional diamond brace gates made from
pressure treated larch. Attractive and practical
for the garden or farm.
All sizes and fittings.
In the Garden & Swimming Pools
30 years experience
Fully qualified arborist
Fully insured
siret 53084095800017
Cross Cut Tree Surgeons
Vernon Pawson is now in his 30th year as an arborist. Immediately after leaving school he went to the famed 'Merrist Wood College' where
he left with the highest level of skills in arboriculture. He did advanced courses on aerial work using chainsaws with ropes and harness, as
well as the understanding of all aspects of tree biology and disorders. After leaving college he progressed through a company of tree surgeons,
which he later owned. He moved to France in 2004 and has continued to build his company here with a style and service second to none.
Prices from €15,712 for an 8x4m pool
All work completed by us design, excavation, construction
& landscaping on completion
All work guaranteed
Testimonials available on request
GARDEN BONFIRES
From pruning to dangerous dismantles
Ground clearance & maintenance
Grass & hedges, spring blitz
Portable planking service
No job too small - no job too far
Call Darren Shepherd for a free quote
Romagne 05 49 87 29 16 / 06 73 21 00 27
www.viennetreeservices.com
Home & Garden
ü
ü
ü
ü
ü
Interior & exterior painting
Gutter cleaning & repair
Lawn care & hedge trimming
Garden & swimming pool maintenance
Special OAP rates
Le Vivier Jusseau, 17510 Chives
Tel: Mike Curtis 05 46 33 66 17
TAYLOR RENOVATIONS
Please leave phone number,
I will call back as soon as possible
05 45 31 13 04 / taylor4057@icloud.com
Email: lacourtyard@wanadoo.fr
www.anenglishnurseryinfrance.com
DID YOU KNOW …?
that … in 1774 Captain Cook
discovered a tropical Melanesian
island in the South Pacific. With a preponderance
of pine trees it reminded him of Scotland, so he
named it New Caledonia. Sixty years later
English entrepreneur John Paddon, who'd
established good relations with the natives,
sought to make it a permanent trading settlement
& a British colony, however, lack of interest at the
Colonial Office in London meant his initiative
wasn't taken further … so, in 1853 Napoleon III
sent an admiral to raise the tricolour & the island
thus became French. For some 50 odd years
this idyllic paradise was a penal colony, though
not as tough as Devil's Island. Now, with wealth
garnered from nickel mining, coconuts & exotic
fruit, allied to wonderful tourist facilities, it's akin
to a southern ocean Hawaii, attracting visitors
from all over the globe. Guess us Brits missed
out again...!!!
Reg Clarke
ALL the popular English fruit
trees in stock, plus hedge
shrubs and ornamental trees.
I now sell
POLYTUNNELS!
Details on request
Siret: 441 257 615 00019
An English Nursery in France
Deliveries to all areas in NOVEMBER, so
please give me a call or send an e-mail and
I will give you a quote on fruit trees, hedging,
natural or ornamental and ornamental trees,
or come and visit the nursery. Please phone
first, gives me time to put kettle on!
Please be careful when you are
getting rid of your garden waste
by having a bonfire, it is strongly
recommended that you speak to your
mairie before you do so.
There has been a big increase of small
personal fires becoming out of control and
creating masses of damage, so much so,
that each commune in the Haute Vienne
has been issued a Departmental 'arrété'.
The current rules will be publicized at your
local mairie. Anyone not observing these
new rules may be subject to a fine if a
complaint is made.
Based near Confolens
siret: 79745917900017
27
Supplier of
Seablue / Astral / Crystal Pools
In ground pools
Competitive prices from €7375 (kit only)
and €10,500ht installed
Friendly, professional service
All work guaranteed
Terracing & landscaping service
For further details visit
www.poolsbyjonathan.com
05 49 84 03 62 / 06 22 36 10 56
Siret 479 947 6 16 00021
Chez Pierre Naturelle supplies natural
stone paving and tiles at very competitive
prices. You’ll find our range reflects choices
that are popular in both the UK and in
France. We can also supply steps, coping
and stone wall cladding and tiles. Our range
is larger than listed on our website. Please
call or email us if you don’t see the stone you
are looking for or come and visit us just 10
minutes drive from Civray. In stock materials
can often be collected within 24 hours notice.
TREE SURGEON
siret 51325382300019
www.chez-pierre-naturelle.fr
Agents:
Arbres-et-Abeilles
Nursery
Chez Perochon 86250
(near Civray)
Tel: 05 49 87 52 37
FowLe Batimenter
Panel pools are an affordable way of getting
an in ground pool. Installed 8x4m inclusive of
security cover and terracing - under €21,000.
Heating options and dosing/salt systems
available. I am an agent for several panel
pools so can tailor the best deal for you. I have
experience of installing over 40 pools and I
can organise the dig, build terracing and
arrange landscaping if required.
When not fitting pools I use my general
building experience and will consider most
work large or small, having access to
registered, skilled and experienced artisans.
In the Garden
By Taylor-Made Gardens
Whilst many of us are blessed with larger gardens than we had before we came to France, not everyone either has or wants acres of land. Here are a few
ideas that may help if you have a small garden (or a small area as part of a much larger plot) that you are struggling to design.
The main thing to remember when considering a design for a small garden is not to overcomplicate it. Your initial consideration should be to decide what
function your garden is to fulfil. If the main purpose to your garden is to grow fruit and vegetables, the design will be very different from a garden which has
the sole purpose of relaxation or entertaining.
Let’s assume your garden or the area of your garden to be designed is roughly 7m by 10m and look at what can be achieved.
If your aim is to be self-sufficient, this can comfortably be achieved in an area measuring 70m2 including space for a small greenhouse, 3 large vegetable
beds (to allow for crop rotation), compost bin and a small seating area. Fruit trees can be grown as espaliers against a boundary wall and even herbs and
strawberries can be grown in containers.
If plants are your passion and you want to include trees and shrubs as part of your small garden then pay attention to the ones that you choose as many
trees and even some shrubs can quickly outgrow a small garden. Trees to include in a small garden which provide much interest include the ornamental
cherry Prunus ‘Kiku-shidare-Zakura’ - it has a weeping habit and ensures a beautiful spring display of
pink blossom without taking up too much space. Cornus kousa has a triple bonus of stunning autumn
colour, large white bracts (modified leaves) which look like flowers from a distance and interestinglooking fruit which is edible though not tasty. The ornamental pear, Pyrus salicifolia ‘Pendula’ is another
Tracy & Lorne Campbell
weeping tree and looks stunning planted in the middle of a lawn. Its leaves are rather willow-like and
Tel 05 45 21 69 63
it produces creamy-white flowers in mid-spring. If you would prefer an evergreen tree as your
Mob 06 13 84 75 78 / 06 17 37 64 64
centrepiece, Juniperous scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’ can grow up to 4.5m in height but has a very compact,
E-mail lorne.campbell@orange.fr
pencil-like form.
www.taylor-madegardens.com
Chez Callois, 16310 Massignac
It is possible to create a formal garden without having a space the size of the Gardens of Versailles. In
fact, small gardens lend themselves very well to formal, symmetrical shapes. A 7 x 10m garden could
Design • Creation • Maintenance
easily be designed in a formal style. Think of creating a centrepiece which could be a fountain, a small
Charente, Haute Vienne, Vienne & Nth Dordogne
standard tree (such as a standard bay, box or privet) or a sculpture. Have this in the centre of a paved
area or a manicured lawn - this needn’t be a square or rectangle, just so long as it is symmetrical. This
Specialising in all areas of gardening:
in turn may be surrounded by a low hedge of box or Lonicera nitida (also known as poor man’s box)
• Professional designs
and then beds created in each of the 4 corners of the garden. Just think ‘symmetry’ and you won’t go
• Creation of new gardens
• Restoration of overgrown gardens
far wrong!
• Maintenance/grass cutting
A small courtyard garden with high walls needn’t feel like a dark, uninviting dungeon. Fill it with raised
• Consultation and advice
beds and luscious shade-loving plants to create a
• Fencing, terraces and driveways
tropical feel. Introduce a dining area and you will
• Supply of quality plants, trees & shrubs
have a perfect cool haven unaffected by scorching
Contact us now for your free quote
sunshine in summer. Surround it with subtle lighting
Taylor Made Gardens
and it transforms into a delightful area for evening
Are you stuck for ideas regarding how to transform
drinks with friends. Use plants such as the false
your garden into the haven you would want it to
castor oil plant (Fatsia japonica) with its large, lobed
be? If you need a helping hand but don’t want to
shiny leaves, spotted laurel, Sarcococca and
go to the expense of a full garden design with
Mahonia, which all thrive in the shade and have the
planting schemes, book your half day consultation
advantage of being evergreen. Add a chimenea to
with Taylor-Made Gardens for affordable,
provide heat and you could even be enjoying your
professional advice. We will spend a half day with
garden in spring and autumn. (See photo).
you looking at the various areas of your garden
The only limitation is your imagination (and your
and follow it up with a written report.
budget!)….
Siret: 497 756 866 00016
TAYLOR-MADE GARDENS
Mike George is our regular contributor on wildlife and the countryside in France. He is a geologist and naturalist, living in the Jurassic area of the Charente.
This has been a long and very temperate year. www.wildlifetrusts.org (Amy Lewis)
The winter was not cold; night-time temperature
rarely fell below 4°C (below which ice can form) so there were hardly any frosts, and no severe ones. It was
mild enough in March to sit out in the garden at lunchtime, although a dip in April caught out those of us who
had ventured to turn our central heating off early. After April, temperatures stayed mild for the rest of the
year, rarely getting up to 30°C in the shade (although in the sunshine the temperature was often above
45°C), until October. Several moderately severe wind-storms meant that fabric roof on our temporary garden
sun-shelter had to be taken on and off like a gentleman’s hat at Ascot.
The wildlife has responded to these conditions in a strange way. Butterflies, for example, often suffer in a mild winter as fungi and bacteria which can
destroy their overwintering state are not killed by the cold. Certain butterflies have been much in evidence, especially during the Indian Summer in
September - Tortoiseshells, Red Admirals, Commas were abundant, and will probably attempt to overwinter. However, I saw hardly any Swallowtails
this year, and only a couple of Painted Ladies. I had a reliable report of a male Orange Tip in early September. This is very unusual - the butterfly is
usually active only in April and May - but can happen after a very long mild spell, which can encourage a second brood to hatch. I also saw for the first
time in my life a Purple Emperor female. What a splendid creature. Now I want to see her husband! I saw only one Small Tortoiseshell, but I have heard
that this charming butterfly, which has suffered a severe population decline in recent years, is showing signs of recovery.
Fortunately, the Indian Summer has meant that plants have gone on flowering much later. My Buddleia, which usually closes down in late August, this
year was still carrying some flowers into October.
The Indian Summer has fooled some birds into trying to raise a late brood. The sparrows which inhabit the walls of my house have been trying to raise
families since April, but with little success - I have seen relatively few fledglings. They are still trying as I write in mid-October. I found egg-shell remains
about 9th October; any hatchlings will have little chance of survival when the full Autumn weather strikes.
Strangely, the Hoopoe seems to have made itself scarce this year. I caught a brief glimpse of one, and have heard its call on one or two occasions, but
it really has been elusive.
I hope the winter to come will not be too cold and bitter, and let’s look forward to a bit more warmth next year.
A VERY STRANGE YEAR!
28
Allan Powell
A Weekend Away
With two of our sons not often seen for living in Switzerland we decided, in the
lovely weather of early September, to honour them with a long weekend visit. And join the
army of ‘oldies’ emerging when the children are back at school.
An astronomical number of motorcaravans were flying in both directions; and not a few
brave souls lugging a caravan. We have recently, in the internet search for a campervan/
motorhome (the difference, if there is one, always eludes me) become quite knowledgeable
about them. To know an Adria from a Challenger, a Bavaria from a Ducato. Each of us
getting drawn to the opposite lane despite ourselves in the juvenile search for another
confirmed identity.
Starting later than intended we had only reached Blonde when the obligatory coffee stop
arrived. What a pleasant place, at least on such a lovely day. We had to wait for our drink
as a gang of eight road repairers, all in French blue, edged in front of us. In two trucks and
a van. As they left one of the guys, scrambling to get in, almost lost a limb as his mate left
in a hurry. Then the postman arrived in splendid new trainers but no socks - as though he
thought they should not be defiled.
We overnighted in a place we had often driven around but never before visited - Charolles.
Our next door farming neighbour in North Wales, recently converted to keeping some
Charolais cows, had come here years ago on a farmers fact-finding trip. And about five
years ago a sister of mine had loved her visit to the town. We could see why, it’s well worth
a stop-off. A walled town with a tower, lovely Cotswold limestone everywhere, a flower
haven with cobbled streets dotted around. And our introduction to a weekend of climbing
steep stone stairs!
Because when we motored the fifteen minutes to Viry, to our monastery B&B, we were
unsurprisingly required to climb a spiral stone staircase dating from the late 13th century.
It could have been worse, there were people above us. Fittingly the tiny village exuded an
air of total silence - even the church clock went on non-strike between ten and seven. But
woe betide you if you intended to sleep beyond that dedicated French hour for there were
several minutes of rambling bell bars to accompany the strike. No need for an alarm clock.
Our very large room looked Spartan but had all the usual facilities and period furniture - not
medieval! - to add atmosphere.
The following morning we drove to our destination, Divonne les Bains. But not before we
had bisected the very sizeable CERN complex. I’ve no idea what the cost of CERN, the
scientific attempt over 300 feet below ground, to artificially create and harness an energy
force greater than that of the sun, has been to date. Still less whether that ‘goal’ is close to
being achieved. What I can report is that the operation is already on the tourist trail, which
presumably recovers a few sheckles. A monumental amount of money must have already
gone into the project. If it fails it will surely count as one of the biggest white elephants of
all time. Something tells me that it won’t fail and that an amazing new form of energy will
emerge. Are not scientists the modern magicians mesmerising ignorant politicians with their
talk and their prognostications, skilfully loosening state funding belts in the process?
Divonne les Bains, as its name suggests, introduces you to the presence of water wherever
you go. Indeed its lake, if the town map is anywhere near accurate, is getting on for half of
its area. And through the centre runs a narrow river, as fast-flowing as you are ever likely
to see, the cause of the recent demolition of one end of a bridge if I’m not mistaken, and
seriously noisy. As if to counterpoint its dominance there are a series of fountains, indeed
our hotel was in the three hundreds of Fountain Street.
We had wanted to avoid paying the obligatory 40 Swiss francs road tax sticker. Divonne is
just inside France. When we rode the bus into Switzerland the following day, Saturday, to
meet our sons at Coppet on Lake Geneva, the border post was deserted. But they assured
us that the Swiss police are hot at picking up defaulters, especially on motorways. And an
on-the-spot fine will be delivered. Better, and cheaper, the twenty minute run on the bus.
If the size of a wedding is to be measured by the number of its guests then that of Aline
and Pierre in Coppet is the biggest I have seen. And overwhelmingly of young people,
supporting an impression I have gained before, that a lower proportion of older people than
in the UK get to French (and seemingly French speaking Swiss) wedding receptions.
Another record was in evidence; an amazing number of convertibles, almost all new and
expensive, not only around the reception chateau but all over the town; an open invitation
to rogues and the elements to exploit. The confidence of the affluent young, a reminder of
where we were and of how stupid it would be to expose your precious car in this way in
Britain.
It seemed appropriate that such opulence should be vested for the day in the chateau that
was once the home of Louis XVI’s formidable financier, the Genevan Director of Finance,
Jacques Necker, the man who, through his paper explaining the concept and methods of
his Compte Rendu, introduced the notion of open and public accountability for state
spending. Louis did not quite get what he bargained for. Perhaps Pierre and Aline had
another thought when they chose Necker’s home; he had a notably happy marriage and
family life. Yet I could not quite wriggle free of a sobering theory I have; that the more you
spend on a wedding the shorter the marriage will be. Don’t panic, it’s just my impression
though I do know of one on the Wirral about twenty years ago that cost the bride’s parents
over £40, 000 for a marriage that lasted six months!
29
Steve Richards
Welcome to our newest
contributor, Steve, who will
be sharing his experiences of moving to,
renovating and living in France. Steve kicks
off this month with…
Working with Tradesmen
in France
As with many of you who have made the
move over to France, the property that is
purchased is quite often in need of some
TLC and as in our case renovation works
are unavoidable. We purchased an estate
with 12 buildings and plenty of land for the
dogs, visitors and ourselves to enjoy. The
smallest of the properties had been lived in
fairly recently, up to and until we took
possession in November last year. Having
said that it was most certainly not suitable
to be called a home of any description and
was not far from being the pig house it once
was, the only noticeable difference being a
kitchen and bathroom. The main house that
we wished to live in had not been lived in
for over 40 years and along with the other
buildings was practically a ruin.
Enjoyable is not a word I would use to
describe the first stage of the renovation
works required. Armed with our best basic
French and an air of excitement we set
about doing what work we could do
ourselves whilst hunting for the trades that
would assist us both with timescales and
providing us with the knowledge,
experience and skills that we lacked.
All too often you hear of horror stories when
it comes to tradesmen in any country and
when hiring a trade in another it can be
quite a frightening and daunting prospect.
We used many tools at our disposal in order
to find these trades including resources
such as this one. It became apparent that
the tradesmen that were any good and
came spoken very highly of, were booked
up some months in advance. Those that
were available we asked for references and
examples of work along with and most
importantly the SIRET number. The Siret
number means that they are registered to
work in France. There are huge
consequences for employing someone
without this number to carry out work on
your property in addition to being personally
responsible for any medical costs should
that person have an accident whilst
performing duties you have employed them
to do.
The system of application for a Siret
number is in the process of change and as
from January 2015 any person that applies
for one that is classed as a skilled trade will
need to provide relevant qualifications or
attend a training course as they will be
classed as an artisan. This system will
make you and I feel more comfortable when
employing a trades person rather than
enlisting the help of someone who was
once quite handy at DIY and after the move
to France suddenly becomes a qualified
and experienced jack of all trades and hides
behind such a number…
Country & Animal Care
Family Owned Dog Specialist Business
Consultante Canine
DOG TRAINING • DOG BOARDING • DOG GROOMING
Open all year - Visits welcome
Registered with the DSV | Certificate Capacity | Fully insured
Tel: 05 45 68 91 25 Email: consultantecanine@hotmail.com
www.consultantecanine.com
‘Consultante-Canine’
Purpose built facilities designed for cats by cat owners
5 mins off A20 jct 22 Nr Arnac la Poste, no passing traffic
Countryside surroundings / inspections welcomed
Individual outside runs with space exceeding UK standards
Outdoor runs have sneeze barriers & double entry security
Indoor pens : sleeping platforms, insulated & double glazed
All cats must be fully vaccinated
Veterinary Health Dept approved & French animal care cert.
Owners updated by email during your cats stay
PETITE PAWS CATTERY
Claude's Cat Hotel
Isabel Evans
La Tourterie
16310
Montemboeuf
Tel: 05 45 23 62 35
Les Chaillauds 16220 MONTBRON
Tel: 05 45 24 01 45
Email: claudescathotel@gmail.com
www.claudescathotel.com
www.petitepaws.fr
email: izzy@petitepaws.fr
Siret: 80189111000018
Claude’s Cat Hotel
'Claudes' is a small purpose built family run cattery
situated in a quiet hamlet just outside Montbron,
Charente, bordering the Dordogne and Haute
Vienne. Our accommodation units provide a fully
insulated internal space with individual heating and
a private outdoor area with views over the
countryside, offering a calm, caring and safe
environment. Caroline has over 20 years experience
of caring for animals, 14 years as a veterinary nurse
in the UK and Spain. For more information or to
arrange to visit us, please telephone Mon-Sat 9am6pm. 'Claudes' looks forward to offering you and your
cat a warm welcome.
Petite Paws Cattery is a small, friendly,
family run cattery where your cat will receive
plenty of love and attention whilst you are
away. Your cat can be assured of receiving
the very highest standard of quality and care
whilst with us and your cat’s happiness and
wellbeing is our main priority. The cattery is
fully insulated with each pen benefiting both
inside and outside space. There are also
heated pads for each bed for cooler months.
Located in La Tourterie, a hamlet close to
Montemboeuf, Montbron, Chasseneuil and
La Rochefoucauld. Viewings welcome and
we look forward to meeting you and your cat.
Lake Management
Aerators for Lakes & Ponds
For our full range of fisheries &
fish farming products/services:
www.AquacultureEquipment.co.uk
+44 (0)161 6835869 mob +44 (0)7715 007964
Email: sales@AquacultureEquipment.co.uk
Aquaculture Equipment Ltd focus on the supply of specialised equipment to help with
most aspects of fisheries management. We can help with most aspects of lake and pond
management, specialising in aeration equipment to help maintain a healthy environment for
the fish. We supply work boats, waders, dry suits, nets, fish transport tanks, fish feeders etc.
We have also developed the new LIMPET range of Reinforced Self-Sink Air Hose - ideal
for small, discreet aeration systems for stock pools and ponds (including natural swimming
ponds). We make regular visits to the region, please contact us to discuss your needs.
30
It was showtime last month at Barbezieux if you
remember and it's been Showtime again this month…
"oh no, spare us" I here you utter. No, honest, trust me,
I won't bore you with details 'cause even I know a
'proper' alpaca show can be like watching paint dry…
a judge working his or her way along a line of near
identically coloured animals peering into their fleeces
with a critically myopic eye deciding if yours is a
million'th of a micron finer than your neighbours animal
or if yours should be marked down due to it's slightly
lumbering walk caused by a genetic defect a dozen
generations back when a bored ancestor decided to
mate with a rather surprised river dwelling Capybara
in the depths of Peru somewhere!
Anyway, I digress. Alpaca shows are generally more
for the enthusiast not a spectator sport although this
show at Macon a few weeks ago was a little different
as there were Llama's there as well, (the alpaca's
larger cousins) who are marginally more willing to be
trained and can be taught to participate in
agility/obstacle courses… which can be entertaining.
Unfortunately our five 'paca show team eyed the
obstacle course with complete incredulity which said
"you have got to be joking… " yeah ok guys, but
maybe next year after a bit of training!
Obstacles aside the team done good and we came
away with 3 first places, 2 seconds and a third in the
colour classes and a Reserve Champion brown with
young Espresso, so well happy with that. Shows like
this help us to see if our breeding plans are working
by comparing with other European breeders, all trying
to improve the quality of the animals and the fibre year
on year.
I said I wasn't going to bore you by rambling on about
shows and look what you've made me do! You can
see why I have trouble finding time to do everything
around the farm, as the alpacas are such wonderful
time wasters… I can watch them for hours! I think I
need to go on a 'time management' course to see if I
can get the hang of fitting 24hrs into the allotted 24hrs.
Personally I don't think it is possible, you just can't do
it and as for prioritising jobs… no chance. The most
important job to do will always be the job I'm not doing
now, so I stop this one and start the new more urgent
job but that's never going to be a 5 min one so I stop
that and move to the next of the dozen or more
important ones that are nagging… So you see, I'm
getting in trouble here. Do you think that maybe
somebody wrote the numbers the wrong way round it should have read 42 hours in a day, now I could just
about fit 24hrs into a 42hr day and make it work … and
we all know that '42' is the answer to the Ultimate
question of Life, the Universe and Everything... the
Hitchhikers Guide can't be wrong!
Country & Animal Care
Tel 05 45 85 44 06
La Riviere de Vienne, 16150 Chassenon
www.bluebellwoodkennels.com
Siret 493 125 439 00015
Bluebell Wood Boarding Kennels
Small, established, family business, enabling
us to give each boarder extra time and
attention, helping your pal to feel at home.
Purpose built kennels boast private internal &
external runs allowing plenty of space and
fresh air. During cooler months the building is
warmed with a log burner and each run has a
heat lamp. We have a 1.5 acre grassed and
fenced paddock with two large outside
enclosures, allowing regular exercise. A
private wooded walkway and 'Monty’s Maze'
leads to a shaded track through woods, where
boarders are walked daily. Our aim is to make
your dog/s as comfortable as possible, so you
feel comfortable leaving them in our care. Fully
registered, insured & veterinary approved.
Siret 49412501600019
Rochechouart
Secure, quiet, heated. Large individual
& and family units with outside areas
Purpose built isolation unit
French certificate in cat care
awarded by CFPPA, Bellac
Limoges veterinary approved
English & French spoken
Inspections welcome
Tel: 06 30 02 35 73 / 05 55 03 76 87
bdowning77@wanadoo.fr
(30mins from Limoges airport)
Caring Cattery - Rochechouart
Well established cattery
in the French countryside. Your cat will be
comfortable in it's own
private or family unit. Units have tiled floors
with 3 levels to relax on and a private outside
area, with chair to sleep on & shelves to climb
& scratch. The cattery is heated in colder
weather and individual needs catered for.
Veterinary approved and awarded The French
Certificate of Capacity. Easy to find, la route
to La Royere, 30 mins from Limoges airport.
Viewings welcome by appt. Barbara works
closely with Tracey at Bluebell Wood to
provide a complete pets service.
Cachette du Chat
Small friendly run Cattery
Condac - Ruffec
T: 05 45 29 01 31/06 15 66 38 92
E: Flurry16@gmail.com
June Altman, Le Puytren, 87800 Meilhac
05 55 58 87 94 / 06 61 01 12 21
zdh@ze-dog-house.fr
Purpose built heated Chambers
for your cat with its own outdoor run.
Each chamber is well equipped to give
your cat all the comforts.
Open all year. Visits welcome.
Reg DSV - Certificate of capacity
Cats & Dogs
Boarding kennels
Tel : Josie or Sean 05 55 60 27 79
Email: Josieschuster@yahoo.co.uk
www.doggyholidays.fr
Thiat 87320 (10 mins north Le Dorat)
Doggy Holidays
We want your dog’s stay with us to be a happy,
stress free and enjoyable one. When they leave
us, we want them to be looking forward to
returning for another holiday. And we hope that,
on collecting them, you will recognise, that they
are content and have had a good time, which
will leave you reassured and happy for us to
care for your pet again and again... We can care
for your dog for weeks, months or just a day.
CANINE MASSAGE
A natural & gentle way
to promote your dog’s
health through the
use of deliberate &
controlled techniques
Andrea Richards
Certified Member of the
Association Les Masseurs Canins
05.55.60.70.06 / 06.74.33.85.41
richardsandrea@hotmail.com
Siret 519 165 872 00010
Canine Massage
There are many benefits to canine massage, not
only can it help aid relaxation, improve joint
flexibility and assist recovery, it can also help
restore your dog's natural balance, which can
then maintain and enhance both physical and
emotional well being in your dog. Having trained
with Pauline Arnt in Paris I became a certified
member of The Assocation Les Masseurs Canins
in 2012. (NB Massage does not replace veterinary care).
MICHAEL & WENDY ALDRICH
▪ Puppy parties
▪ Obedience
▪ Agility
▪ Groups or individual sessions
▪ Home Visits available
Le baillat
16220 rouzede
Charente
Tel 05 45 66 14 62
Joy: 05 45 30 61 95 / 06 11 56 89 52
paws4thought2fr@hotmail.com
Located 16150
catsanddogs2009@hotmail.co.uk
Paws 4 Thought
Do you have a young puppy? Would you like
to join us for weekly 'Puppy Parties'? Teach
your puppy basic manners, prevent separation
anxiety and socialise your puppy. Following the
Kennel Club Good Citizens Puppy Scheme,
there will be a friendly assessment with
certificate at the end of the course. If your
puppy has not yet received the necessary
vaccinations' don't worry, the first session will
be without the puppy. Agility sessions and adult
obedience, including RALLY also available plus
one-to-one and home visits. All groups are
friendly and fun using 'positive re-enforcement'.
For an informal chat pleased contact me.
Cats & Dogs Boarding Kennels
Purpose built kennels, with secure paddock
areas enabling dogs to run free and play with
balls & frisbees while having their 2 walks a
day off a lead. Each dog is walked individually
under supervision. Michael has 45 years
animal care experience with certificates
covering animal sensitivity and administering
medication. Kennels and animals are fully
insured. Each pet has its own kennel plus
there are 4 outside play areas. We have family
pens where pets can share. Catteries have
heated vet beds, the kennel block is heated to
provide an even temperature. 15 mins La
Rochefoucauld / 20 mins Rochechouart.
Siret 494 030 919 00018
31
Home Stays & Grooming
Le Paradis 16460 Ventouse
05 45 31 51 37 email nickyandade@sfr.fr
For home stays come to Le Paradis
Your dog will love all the creature comforts;
woody walks and bags of space to relax and play
in a safe and secure garden. And in-doors, there
will be a cosy bed near a radiator or close to the
fire. Your dog can stay for a couple of days or a
week or two. Also, I am a qualified dog groomer
offering a range of services from nail clipping to
hand stripping, to a full trim including bathing and
drying. Situated in Le Paradis between Beaulieu
sur Sonnette and Valance - 20 minutes from
Mansle (RN10).
Country & Animal Care
PROBLEMS WITH MOLES
IN YOUR GARDEN OR PADDOCK?
Top breeder with Multi
Champions & World &
European Ch.
TRIED EVERYTHING…?
Winner in Toy Group Crufts 2009
Puppies available from
time to time
www.papillons.be
jan@papillons.be
05 55 68 30 21
I CAN HELP!
A dog holiday home in the Limousin
No kennels
Whether for one night or a few weeks,
your dogs are treated as one of the family!
05 55 14 47 19
debbie_shiralee@hotmail.co.uk
AE registered mole trapper working mainly in
the 16 / 86 / 87 border areas and occasionally
further afield including 24 & 79.
I offer a reliable, efficient & safe service.
Please contact me for a free quote & advice.
804 476 802 00017 Located Neuvic Entier 87130
T: 05 45 31 61 12 E: mail@nicepix.net
Phoenix Association
MONTY - 7 month-old
Golden Lab X Boy needs
a home!
This smiley face belongs
to Monty who is already
on his second home
through no fault of his
own. He loves, and I
mean LOVES people,
cats, and all other dogs.
He is adorable and loving,
bouncy,
and
so
desperate to please, it is amazing. Monty will
make a fantastic dog for anyone!
Please
contact
Simonie
via
email:
simonie.cp@hotmail.com or telephone 07 81
40 17 40.
Monty is chipped, vaccinated, wormed and
de-flead. For more photos of Monty of for details
of other animals awaiting homes, please visit
our website.
Life is tough when you are an unwanted kitten…
Born June 2014, Frank and Harry were abandoned
six weeks later at the refuge,
then taken into foster care,
where they have been ever
since. They can obviously
be rehomed separately, but
it would be lovely for them to
go together. Frank is more
playful and confident - he’s
the little escape artist desperate to see the world. Harry,
the white and tabby, is more of a lap cat. He loves to
be petted and stroked and purrs the moment he sees
you. Both boys are chipped (Harry 250269810550731
and Frank 250269810578416) and they are sponsored
by the refuge, so you can adopt them for 90€ each. This
price, including chip & vaccinations, wormer and flea
treatment, and a voucher for free sterilisation at a range
of vets across the Charente department. Contact
emmalee4hope@gmail.com. For further info, please
visit our website.
We have a number of hand reared kittens ready to
leave us, litter trained little cheeky bundles of fluff.
Good news, we have rehomed our sheep in a new
breeding program! Lots of grass, and a rather
handsome ram awaiting them, they are even taking
our poor old ‘knobley knees’ to help with new mums,
to show them the ropes. We have some young
castrated boy goats and 2 female, looking for a
forever home. And the poor guinea pigs being trailed
around the conker festival, 4 in a Nesquik box, no
water, with a price tag! Now doing well in their new
big home - thank you to Charlie and dad who saved
them and brought them to us. So would your
children like some sweet and cuddly guinea pigs?
Christmas dance with picnic in December. Date to
be announced in the December edition of etcetera.
Bring your dancing shoes along with your picnic
supper to the Salle de Fête at Maisonnais sur
Tardoire. Bar available. T: 05 55 70 64 76 / 06 24
12 21 86 to book a table. 7€each, under 14 free.
www.noahsark.fr 05 55 70 64 76
www.facebook.com/noahsark87
Motoring with Stuart
Yes yes, I know we live in
France and that we chose to
be here and that the road back
to the UK is always open (unless it’s
December when there will be roadworks)
blah blah blah, but why is nearly everything
relating to cars so bloody expensive in
France if using dealerships or big names?
Example 1. I needed a new battery for the
car. €149.99 in Norauto. Had I been able to
purchase in the UK, it would have cost £50
(so call it €62,50). Even in Halfords it would
only have been £69,99 (so €87.49).
Example 2. And this is a good one. Take the
car to Mitsubishi in Limoges for a check up,
then ask for a devis. I knew that it needed
tyres but they wanted €284,40 per tyre…..!!!
I could order the same ones from
123pneus.com for €160 each. However, I
actually ordered better tyres (from the same
company) for even less. I do appreciate
Mitsubishi have a fancy dealership to
maintain and lots of computers that go
‘beep’, but that was just taking the pi……
Leasing, at least at sensible pricing, is
becoming more of an option in France.
Previously, you would have needed to put
down a massive initial payment before
leasing your vehicle, but now, many
manufacturers are offers leasing ‘sans
apport’ which means no ‘down payment’. I
have recently seen a deal from BMW offering
a 116d from €260 per month and an X1 from
€340 per month.
The world economy and the conflict in the
Middle East needs to sort itself out, and
quickly. These are the reasons being given
for the possible delay in production of the
Lamborghini Urus, an SUV set to more than
rival the very best Porsche Cayenne and
Range Rover. The car is expected to go into
production in 2017 but given the state of
matters globally, the green light is yet to be
given by Audi executives.
Now, my appreciation of the Dacia Duster
is well documented but I do wonder about
the new, limited edition ‘Air’ which is
distinguishable by coloured door mirrors and
decals of an altimeter on the doors and
32
seats….er, what? It’s hardly Bell & Ross is
it? However, if stickers are your thing then
prices start from €16,200.
Ever wondered about a French Highway
Code? Well, I sort of did but couldn’t exactly
find what I was looking for. However, there
are many French web-sites where you can
take online multiple choice type tests. I used
www.code-route.com that has over 1500
questions spread across various categories.
It’s not a bad idea to have a look, though you
do need to sign up go get your results. I didn’t
find a section on not exceeding 60kph on
route nationals though…..odd that, there
must be one from what I’ve seen….actually,
some of the questions are quite vague and
some of the answers are questionable, but
even so, it will give you an insight into French
driving instruction….cue the complaints….
Talking of which, why oh why are there so
many cars with their front fog lights on
during good weather? I’m not talking about
the silly new fangled LED ‘day’ lights, I mean
full on fog lights? Really. Why? Turn ‘em off,
you don’t need them - it’s not foggy.
Removals, Storage & Motoring
VINTAGE
CLASSIC CARS
TYRES
AND
ALL MAKES SUPPLIED & FITTED
Car Cleaning On Your Doorstep!
See Website for More Info
www.charentemobilevaleting.fr
06 02 31 95 27
cmv16@hotmail.co.uk
all etcetera areas covered
Charente Mobile Valeting
Contact us now for a full valet, leather seat
treatment, bumper care or full wax. Discounts
available for same day, same location
bookings - see the website for full details
www.charentemobilevaleting.fr and more
testimonials like this..
"We have a large dog who would love to live
permanently in the estate part of our Peugeot,
so we take him with us whenever we can. This
means lots of mud, animal hair and general
muckiness - CMV visit us quarterly and I rarely
recognise our car when they've finished - nor
do our friends!" Mr Mike & Mrs Sandie George
COACH TRAVEL
Hopefully we should soon see
lower prices announced for
coach travel in France.
Current rules state that companies can only
offer France-only travel on an already
existing international route. For example,
tickets cannot be sold where the departure
and arrival points are in the same
department. Not only that, but domestic
travel must account for less than 50% of
passengers onboard and 50% of the
turnover!
Germany scrapped these rules last year
and has seen an increase of 180%!
£ Competitive Pricing
£ Puncture Repairs, Wheel Balancing, Tracking
£ Alloy Wheel Repair & Refinishing
£ Headlight Refurbishment
£ Towbars & Batteries
Automotive Technician
Mechanic • Bodyshop
walton.coachworks@hotmail.co.uk
Mob: (+33) 07 87 65 53 11
Tel: (+33) 05 55 78 67 02
Chez Pouveroux, 7 Les Clos, 87600 VAYRES
Siret: 789 759 701 00012
Walton Coachworks
I moved to France from the UK to start my
own business in Vayres, near Rochechouart.
I am a fully qualified mechanic
with nearly 25 years experience. I served my
apprenticeship with Lotus and have worked
for General Motors for the past 10 years. I've
worked on vehicles from a 1903 vintage Bean
to present day makes and models. I'm also a
qualified panel-beater and sprayer and enjoy
restoring classic cars. My rates are fair and
competitive and in this first year provided an
excellent service to many satisfied customers
in the Limousin and surrounding regions.
From the 20's to the 60's
All mechanical and maintenance
work undertaken
CAll vehicles & vans, 4 x 4, light commercial, vintage
Contact Ace Pneus 05 49 29 86 92
www.15luche.com/tyre-fitting-deuxsevres.html
Based 10 minutes from Chef Boutonne
ACE PNEUS
Fully trained and insured, the original tyrefitting business, Ace Pneus, has been running
successfully now for 5 years. Due to demand
the business expanded into fitting towbars and
batteries last year and to repairing alloy
wheels and refurbishing headlights the year
before. During opening hours David will pick
your car up from The Market, Luché sur Brioux
(see advert, page 16), where you can relax in
comfort whilst your car is being repaired special menu prices for Ace Pneus clients.
F rench V an M an
Scott Marshall 05 55 33 21 59
www.frenchvanman.eu
Genuine/Reliable/Honest
Local • Europe • UK
House/Barn clearances
Antiques Finding & Sales
Soon offering storage solutions on the Haute
Vienne/Dordogne/Poitou Charente borders
14m3 capacity | 4.2m load length
Chasseneuil Sur Bonnieure
16260 Charente
T: 05 16 09 84 46
M: 06 12 88 04 57
E: paul.richfield@cegetel.net
siret no: 378 681 944 00021
Vintage & Classic Cars - Paul Richfield
In 1961, Paul had his first vintage car. Too
young to drive, many hours were spent on
stripping and rebuilding in time for his licence.
This was followed by the usual Austin 7, Riley
Specials and many others.
Eventually turning to full time restoration he
was a partner of Fergus Engineering, Lincs,
working on such cars as Hispano
Suiza/Bugatti/Bentley/Mercedes/Maserati.
Head hunted to look after a private collection
on the Mediterranean coast, has spent the last
40 years maintaining European-American and
English Classic cars. During the last 18
months has repaired cars ranging from a 1932
Cadillac V12 to a 1960 Morris commercial van.
French Spoken • 87150 Oradour-sur-Vayres
TRANSITION REMOVALS
Nick Walton
Walton Coachworks
PAUL RICHFIELD
Siret: 53021364400012
Charente Mobile Valeting
Family run business based in France which prides itself on a personal professional service.
7.5 tonne truck to and from the UK and Europe, with a highly experienced staff.
We provide a door to door service with packing and dry secure storage.
We are a professional furniture removal company NOT a man and a van.
Please call Phil and Jean Evans....
Phone (+33) 05 55 34 19 46 Mobile (+33) 06 80 75 87 14
Email p.evans@orange.fr Visit www.transitionremovals.com
siret: 48252490700011
DID YOU KNOW (FA Cup special)…?
that … the FA Cup is the oldest national football tournament in the world.
that … football clubs are only allowed to have triangular flags on their corner posts
if they've won the FA Cup … otherwise they have to be square or rectangular. Whatever the
shape, I suppose corner flags might lend a carnival atmosphere to Scunthorpe versus Crewe
on a damp, cold Tuesday night in February.
that … Colchester is Britain's oldest recorded town & its football club were the first non-league
side to beat a top flight team in the FA Cup ... Huddersfield Town in 1949. The next season
Colchester were elected to the Football League.
that … during the 1966 FA Cup Final the BBC would not allow commentator Ken
Wolstenholme to pronounce the surname of Cornish striker Mike Trebilcock the way it's spelt
& said in Cornwall. Trebilcock was to score two goals for Everton that afternoon at Wembley
& Wolstenholme referred to him as 'Tre-beel-coh' … trust Auntie!
Reg Clarke
33
Removals, Storage & Motoring
MOTOR PARTS
JOHN SOWERSBY
0044 (0)1377 255470 / 0044 (0)7830 170761
motorptscharente@aol.com
Call: 00 44 (0)1253 725 414
Email: smartmovers@hotmail.co.uk
www.smartmovesremovals.co.uk
CLENTONS REMOVALS LTD
(EST. 1876)
Removals to and
from south-west
France
UK Reg: 4935391
• Bargain prices on large moves
• Smaller loads at very reasonable rates
• Insurance included
Personal service from an established firm
Vehicles & tractors also transported
Andrew: 0044 7803240137 /
0044 7710149682
email: clentons@yahoo.co.uk
With over 25 years experience in
transport and removals, we offer:
Weekly trips between UK and France
Everything from part loads to full house removals
Fully insured and registered
UK depot available for deliveries
David: 05 49 87 15 06 or 05 49 97 09 63
Email info@buzz-transport.com
www.buzz-transport.com
Motor Parts Charente - John Sowersby
With over 30 years experience in the motor
industry, John prides himself in offering one
to one customer service, “treat people how
you would like to be treated yourself” is his
motto. He offers LHD headlights delivered
to your door. Spare parts, from a bulb to an
engine or panels, both for left or right hand
drive; in fact anything to do with cars or light
commercial vehicles. High quality easy fit
tubular Towbars complete with all electrics,
sockets etc. Mower Batteries & drive belts.
He can also supply tyres and exhausts (not
fitment). What's more, he can supply vehicle
polishes and cleaning materials as well!
Siret: 481 224 129 000 33
Delivery via Parcelforce Worldwide to your door in France
Depts 16, 86, 87 & 24
(Towbars & Batteries also supplied & fitted)
Any make of Car, Van or Motorcycle tyre
supplied & fitted, by appt at your address.
Typically 40% cheaper than French prices
Tyre fitting, inc balancing 12€
Puncture repair
12€
Tracking/Alignment
35€
Towbar Fitting
75€
Email: dixontyres@gmail.com
Telephone: 0545 306707
siret 53821341400013
CHARENTE
Suppliers of Car & Van Spares
& LHD headlights
Direct to France at big savings!
also Mower Batteries and drive belts!
Deliveries and Collections
FRANCE-UK-EUROPE (Inc. the islands)
Transport & Small Removals
Throughout Europe
Full and Part Loads
Friendly Personal Service
For Quote/Devis:
Tel:0033(0) 549971556
Mob: 0033(0)685805057
English Mob: 0044(0)7754732640
keith232@hotmail.com
Joffreny Loisirs
We supply the full range of Millers Oils
lubricants/fuel treatments throughout France and
stock all ranges: Classic, Automotive, Motorsport,
Nanotechnology, Commercial, Agricultural, Marine.
Visit our online shop (www.millersoils.fr) to
purchase goods using PayPal/cards/cheque,
view technical information and latest developments
on products, press releases and sponsored drivers.
Our new FLOWCONTROLR bottle, with an easypour mechanism, revolutionises bottle design by
enabling the user to control oil flow. We also
provide specialist technical advice so call us if you
have specific questions. We also provide secure,
car storage at very competitive rates and can
arrange valeting, servicing, maintenance, CTs and
help with re-registering your car in France.
Family business for 30 years offering a
professional service.
• Packing services
• Containerised storage
• Vehicles transported
• Competitive prices
• Full or part loads
• Transit liability included
Stephen or Jane Franklin
Tel/Fax: 0044 (0)1283 792838
E-mail: sales@franklinsremovals.co.uk
www.franklinsremovals.co.uk
Moving??
Big enough to cope & Small enough to care
Professional reliable service
-
Fully insured
UK 01227 713738 UK Mobile 07896 670958
France 02 54 47 14 08 E: ian@pandsremovals.co.uk
www.pandsremovals.co.uk
34
We are a small company based in Kent & Central
France offering a professional & friendly service. Goods
in Transit & Public Liability Insurance assured. We use
large Iveco 17.2m³ vans & secure 15.5m³ trailers as
opposed to lorries as access to properties in France and
Spain can be restricted - vans go where lorries can’t!
Big enough to cope with most jobs but where loads
demand more capacity, additional vans are used; still a
cheaper option to larger carriers. Full & part loads
catered for. Secure storage facilities in Southern UK &
Central France. Packing cases & cardboard wardrobes
can be provided. We do not use sub contractors.
CASSE AUTO
C.R.A.L
Centre de Recyclage d'Automobiles du Limousin
We will collect your scrap car
Second hand and new spares parts
All makes
English spoken
Les Tourettes 87440 SAINT MATHIEU
Route de Limoges - Sortie Saint Mathieu
N°SIRET 513 355 503 00014
Removals, Storage & Motoring
AUTO MOTO MECHANIC
40 years experience
Robert Phillips
La Greliere,
16220 Rouzede
T: 05 45 65 96 20
E: carolyn@rishworth.org
Siret No. 792 215 659 00014
Tel: 05 55 48 21 33 • 06 52 80 52 62
Email:cral87@gmx.fr
A FAMILY RUN STORAGE FIRM IN THE HEART OF THE LIMOUSIN
Over 35 years experience on all marques
* Fully equipped workshop with state of the art
diagnostic equipment.
Services are done to
manufactures standards
- not just fluid changes!
* Service and repair of cars & light commercials
including preparation for Control Technique.
* We also supply and fit left hand drive headlights.
09 66 03 52 89
Tony Eyre & Chris Eyre
Tel 05 49 07 30 08 - 06 31 51 89 54
Call Karen for a quote on
http://www.theenglishmechanic.net/
1 route des Prés Guillon, 79190 Melleran GPS co‐ordinates N 46˚07’18” W0 ˚01’03”
• Weekly UK Þ France Þ UK
• Very competitive rates
• Storage Haute-Vienne / Kent / Lincoln
• Fully Insured
• 20+ years experience
'Your French Connection’
Weekly services to & from SW France
Internal moves within France
Containerised Storage
Range of Packing services available
Over 30 Years’ Experience
Call Matt:
0033 (0)555 60 05 91
0044 (0)7506 457225
UK registered business
Fully Insured members of the BAR & GUILD of Removers
Tel: 0044 1622 690653
Email: info@anglofrench.co.uk
www.anglofrench.co.uk
UK Registration 543 77 60 UK
05 55 14 49 45 / 09 67 10 49 45
06 13 38 59 68
Diagnostic
Testing
Equipment
THE GARAGE
Based near Bellac
2 Le Petit Confolens 87190 Droux
Tel : 05 55 47 37 68
or 06 75 08 45 30
Every aspect covered from replacing
headlamp bulbs to engine rebuilds!
Parts obtained at sensible prices or you
source the parts and we fix it!
Call for friendly, professional
advice and a free
no obligation quote
Siret No: 53032962200019
30 years experience as a mechanic
with own garage in the UK
35
Parking Limoges - Just 20 mins from
Limoges Airport, we offer alternative, cheaper
parking facilities with benefits of regular
vehicle checks so you can be confident that
on arrival, your car will be ready to drive. Not
only that, we offer packages to enable you to
get to and from the town centre etc plus a new
meet and greet service for Limoges airport, for
new and existing customers, please contact
us for details via the website.
We also offer B&B accommodation. Visit:
www.lemoulindelafauvette.com
Additional services include, vehicle valeting,
arranging a Contrôle Technique (MOT) and
assistance with registering a vehicle in France.
More Motoring from Stuart…
Dear Motoring with Stuart,
I need your good, sound advice. I would like to buy a small 4x4 vehicle. However, I don’t know what make or model!
I want something that fits the following criteria: Inexpensive insurance, value for money and good fuel consumption.
I am an OAP and would appreciate your suggestions. Many thanks.
JB, Dept 24
Hello there. You don't specify if you plan to buy new or not so I shall work on a new basis, but all of the suggestions below are
available 'used' as well.
Hmmm, a small 4x4, cheap insurance, value for money and good fuel economy. Well, one suggestion would be a Dacia Duster.
Even though I don't own one, I feel Dacia should send me one for my support of them in this magazine. A realtively no-frills
Duster Ambiance 1.5 dCi with 4-wheel drive is available from €17,300. However, to add air-conditioning would be a further
€900. It may even be too big entirely for your needs? It may also be too expensive?
In which case, what about the Fiat Panda 4x4 which starts from only €15,140? With a small 1 litre, 2 cyclinder 'twin air' engine
it offers low CO2 emissions, cheap insurance and good economy levels. As quoted in Auto Express 'Few city cars are available
with all-wheel drive but the Panda fully deserves its 4x4 badging as it takes muddy fields and rutted tracks in its stride and copes
brilliantly on rain-soaked roads. In fact, the Panda 4x4 inspires huge amounts of confidence behind the wheel and feels utterly
unstoppable. It encourages you to keep going regardless of the conditions and is sure to put a smile on your face'.
In the very same ball-park but even cheaper, is the Suzuki Swift 1.2 VVT 4x4. Starting at €14,810 and fitted with the usual safety
features such as Electronic Stability Control, Anti-lock Brakes and Electronic Brake Distribution and 8 air-bags, it also has
air-conditioning as standard. The Swift is often put up as a direct rival to the Panda.
In my opinion, any of these 3 would offer good value for money. All will be cheap to insure and the Fiat and Suzuki in particular
are fairly frugal with their petrol.
Note to Dacia, Fiat & Suzuki - my address for your gratitude is on page 2!
Tickle’s Reflections
“He’s a smug, supercilious,
pompous
and
overrated
weasel”. That was Piers Morgan
speaking about Jeremy Paxman. Nasty! For a
long time I regarded ‘Paxo’ as a mouthpiece of
the ‘metro-left’, nevertheless his quarter-century
anchoring Newsnight was nothing if not
entertaining. He combined the sharp, with the
sardonic, blending humour with a capacity to
probe for the truth unlike any other.
However…by his own admission he has
declared himself to be a ‘one nation’ Tory!
Much has been said about BBC ‘bias’.
Unfortunately this was frequently evidenced
when guests (of both him and his co-presenters)
were permitted free rein to deliver up
unchallenged blatantly left-biased codswallop.
Then there were those occasions (such as Ms
Walk’s recent pedestrian interview of the Mr
Valls the French PM) that represented a
precious opportunity missed. This followed close
on the heels of Mr Valls ‘business friendly’
speech to a Guildhall audience, which was
overshadowed by the John Lewis MD’s words
on France as “finished, hopeless and
downbeat!”, advising anyone with investments
there to “get them out quickly”. An apology came
later, but the word is out there. And that’s it, a
Prime Ministerial visit, a speech, (not entirely
uninteresting), a bland and uninformative
interview on the BBC and it’s over. Has anyone
inside the BBC suggested that perhaps some
forensic analysis of exactly what is happening in
France (or Italy and Germany for that matter) is
long overdue? Anybody daring to do so would
get short shrift. It may, after all, play into the
hands of those daring to question the EU hidden
agenda/grand design. Rod Liddle (Today
programme Editor at the time) wrote of being
summoned by his boss following a complaint of
BBC bias against Eurosceptic voices who told
him ““Rod, you do realise that these people are
mad?”
That was then, how about now? Well, we’ve just
been treated to Mr Barroso grandly issuing forth
on EU rules declaring Britain would be lost
outside the EU embrace, her ‘world influence’
falling to ‘zero’. He should check out the Lyons
report on the London economy: To-day it’s
£350Bn. 2034 forecast assuming significantly
reformed EU: £640Bn. 2034 outside EU:
£615Bn. Interesting eh? 2034 in unreformed EU:
£485Bn. Ooops. Someone likened the EU to the
Titanic with its ‘Officer class’; superior,
unconcerned, incautious….. Mr Barroso, ten
years on the throne, his latest annual
remuneration amounting to some €350,000 is
about to be regally piped off the ship and
tendered away, smug, financially secure,
unassailable. Over on ‘the other side’ Channel
4 showed a piece by the one-time Newsnight
economics editor and fiercely left-wing Paul
Mason For him to shine a light on the ‘Europe
isn’t working’ condition, or suggest the EU ‘social
model’ may possess some shortcomings and is
pauperising rather than enriching its people
would be headline news in itself!
We now wait as Evan Davis gets into his stride,
carefully guided, no doubt, by Newsnight Editor
Ian Katz (former Guardian deputy editor) ably
assisted by - amongst others - Allegra Stratton,
also formerly of the Guardian. It has been said
he is ‘business friendly’; his time at Dragons Den
offering a valuable insight into the creativeentrepreneurial process, the risks, the
challenges,
the
optimism
and
the
disappointments. Will we see less of Diane
Abbott? Caught out ‘selecting’ her son’s school
– several miles distant – having denounced
others for doing just that! Or Margaret Hodge,
who, as Leader of Islington Council ordered the
red flag over the building and a bust of Lenin
placed in the reception. In more recent times
we’ve been honoured with speed-talking Rachel
Reeves and the elegantly tailored and hugely
self-confident Mr Umunna who, it is said, nurses
a strong ambitious streak. That was dented a tad
by the news that someone in his office edited his
Wikipedia entry and dubbed him “the British
Barack Obama”. He was apparently not well
pleased. Really? And how about this: The entire
world’s demand for electricity could be satisfied
by 300 square miles of solar panels placed in the
Sahara. That represents 1/12,000 part of the
desert….and 49% of 18-54yr olds are into
‘sexting’!
DID YOU KNOW …?
that … a Tiare Gardenia, the national emblem/flower of French Polynesia, tucked behind a Polynesian lady's
ear is a message for admirers; behind the right ear signals they're 'free & unattached' (photo)… behind the left
ear, means they are 'not free' … however, a Tiare behind each ear indicates they are 'not free', but nevertheless
'still available'! French sea captain Louis de Bougainville said, “the ladies of Polynesia know no other God than love.”
Artist Paul Gauguin was so entranced by the Islands & their women that in 1891 he left his wife & five children in France
to live there with his newly acquired Polynesian lass. Rupert Brooke, English romantic & soldier/poet, wrote some of his
best verses whilst with his Polynesian mistress.
Others of the Arts who succumbed to the Islands' magic were: Robert Louis Stevenson ~ Somerset Maugham ~ Jack
London ~ Joseph Conrad ~ Herman Melville ~ Zane Grey ~ Marlon Brando … & so on.
Reg Clarke
36
Finishing Touches &
Specialist Services
You know that song 'What a difference a day makes' (sorry, you're
probably going to be singing it for the rest of the day now!), well
during the summer, one day of playing around on the internet made
a huge difference to me.
Twenty two years ago I was small, fit, healthy, full of energy, agile
and nimble. I enjoyed sport and looked forward to playing it at
school each week. But then life seemed to happen and the clock seemed to race
forward. Twenty two years later, I'm still small (5' at a stretch) but that's where the similarities with the
fourteen year old me end. I did know deep down, that if I didn't do some exercise, things were only
going to get worse. I'd tried step aerobics, fitness dvd's, the 30 day Ab challenge (I lasted 3 days),
walking, and even horse riding which was doomed from the start when I realised I was afraid of horses.
I just couldn't stick at any of it.
Then, one day during the summer I spotted a notice on Facebook, asking for players for a new netball
group. I hadn't heard about netball being played in France before, so I tried to find out more and before
I knew it I was making the hour and twenty minute journey to Vasles for the group's first ever training
session.
I had managed to work myself up into a bit of a tizzy; the distance was an issue, I was nervous about
not knowing anyone and I was convinced that everyone else was going to be better and fitter than me.
After much arguing with my sat-nav (he won!), I arrived 10 minutes late into a group of woman who I'd
never met before, but who made me feel welcome straight away. Within minutes, I had forgotten my
journey, I realised that the fact I hadn't played netball for 22 years didn't matter and I stopped worrying
that I didn't know anyone.
We trained outside in the sunshine for an hour, and it was the best workout and fun I'd had for a long
time. My level of fitness didn't matter at all and I felt I real sense of accomplishment at being part of
something. After just one session, I was hooked.
I've been going to netball training every week since that first session. I've met lots of new friends and
we still have new people joining every week. It's great getting to know a new crowd, especially during
the après-netball drinks in the local bar each week!
So, if like me you are struggling to find some sort of activity which is healthy, fun, good exercise and
involves a bar, why don't you give it a try? We are Vasles Netball Club and we meet every Monday at
5pm at the Salles Omnisports, 79340, Vasles (near the football pitch, just after the mouton village) or
if you would like anymore information please drop Sue Fitzgerald an e-mail at susan_beale@hotmail.com
See you there!! Vicki Ivens
Siret: 512 945 874 00018
22 Years…
Fraser W. Eade
General Engineering
Turning, Milling, Welding
Quality & Precision Guaranteed
Forgeix, 87200 Saint Junien
05 55 71 41 75
frasereade87@gmail.com
L’Atelier de Fer- After a 5 year apprenticeship
as a Toolmaker, I worked in several countries
building/repairing tooling from press tools to
plastic injection moulds. I bought machines
when I had a cylinder head gasket problem on
my car and struggled to get the head skimmed
in France. I have a Colchester lathe, a Beaver
turret milling machine and a sand blasting
cabinet. I work in most materials: metals and
some plastics. I believe that if it was made once
there's a pretty good chance it can be made
again. One off items are frequently better
quality than production batchwork. I look
forward to helping solve your problems.
Tim Shepherd
Chimney Sweeping Services
√ Registered & qualified
with over 15 yrs Experience
√ Open-fires, Woodburners & Stoves
√ Pots, Cowls, Flu liners fitted
√ Certificate Issued for Home Insurance
Do you enjoy really
challenging puzzles?
Would you relish the opportunity to solve problems for cash rewards?
Can you rise to the challenge and discover my fiendish, deeply hidden, clues to the
pots of cash?
We have wrapped up a series of conundrums in a story of two peoples' travels across France, The
UK and New Zealand. This is their quest to gain their rightful inheritance and the search to know more
of their personal family histories.
Your job is to follow them, solve the problems with which they are challenged, and possibly beat them
to the main prizes at the end of their quest! These prizes will be come from a significant pot
accumulated from affordable enrolment fees. You will be certain of good value for money and a
challenging and fun brain exercise.
Further prize winning side challenges may be issued as the chase progresses.
You need travel no further than your own computer and no specialist knowledge is required.
For more details look into our free first chapter offer and receive a fully explanatory letter.
www.thecloudquest.com
About the Creator My name is Roger Jones and I live in the Vienne. The Cloud Quest is the result
of over 2 years gestation and is my 'baby' since I love setting puzzles and quizzes. I get enormous
pleasure from attracting an audience of like minded people and making new friends along the way.
At the same time I want to share my love and enjoyment of the 3 foremost countries in my life (UK,
France and New Zealand) with as many people as possible - without being classified a bore that is!
Besides the construction of the conundrums and the composition of the background story I have had
to seek out a computer programmer to provide the essential web site. Finally after many trials and
false starts in 4 countries I found Marc Baugh in Confolens (MonkKeys.com) who has joined me and
has been extremely constructive and helpful in getting the web site you now see.
To support the site I have had to learn some new skills such as construction and managing the
Facebook page ‘The Cloud Quest’, and finding ways of reaching the people who will hopefully get
pleasure from what I have to offer.
In my previous life I was an Agricultural/horticultural scientist and consultant.
I sincerely hope you will enjoy joining me on this quest!
37
For enquiries call: 05 49 87 02 96
Email: shepherd.timothy@orange.fr
Siret: 752 049 932 00011
Tim Shepherd
As a fire fighter in the UK for 18 years, I have
seen the devastation that a house fire can cause.
During this time I also ran my own chimney
sweeping business, both residential and
commercial clients. I also provided advice on
how to reduce the risk of fire in the home. In 2015
French regulations regarding fire safety are
changing, and it will be compulsory for all homes
to have fire prevention equipment installed. This
legislation will apply to second homes and gites
also, so if you need advice on any aspect of fire
safety, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers or
carbon monoxide detectors, please get in touch.
French trained, qualified & registered
Don’t delay, call Dan Fox today!
A certificate issued for every chimney swept,
often a home insurance requirement.
Modern no mess method.
Cut firewood delivered - please enquire.
Siret No : 51013659100029
Finishing Touches & Specialist Services
PM
CARPETS &
FLOORING
For all your flooring needs
Ÿ We supply and fit a range
of carpets to suit all budgets
Ÿ We also fit amtico, vinyl,
wood and ceramic tile
Ÿ Over 25 years experience,
100% customer satisfaction
Ÿ 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
magseal
• B&Q Cooke & Lewis Kitchens
in stock
• Flat packed or built up & delivered
• Planning & Design service
• Fitting if required
• No minimum purchase
eg; one cabinet, one door
• Visit our 1000m2 showrooms
D.J.FLOORING
& property maintenance/ multi services
• In business for 10 years
Mr D Armitage
• Working to a budget? We can help
Weds - Sat 10am - 4pm
Mon & Tues by appt only
Contact Ray, Sonia & Mathew
T: 05 49 87 67 34
E: thekitchencompany@orange.fr
Find us on D727 Jousse,
10 mins from Civray
carpets • vinyls • safety flooring • underlay
gripper • wood flooring • laminate
kitchens • bathrooms • windows • doors
decorating • plastering
Epenèdre 16150 Chassenon
Tel: 05 45 30 32 85 / 06 78 70 99 79
Email: djflooring1@aol.com
Siret: 79278514900016
D.J. Flooring has been trading for 26 years in the
UK and 1 year in France with the renovation
business trading for 7 years in the UK and 2 years
in France. All works undertaken. We can supply
flooring or fit flooring supplied by you. A friendly and
efficient service - contact Dave for a quote or advice.
Famous Furniture in France
www.famousfurnitureinfrance.com
Tel: 05 49 83 03 71
06 06 86 50 07
British Paints
In France
Keep it simple
Collection points
throughout France
Suppliers of
Dulux • Crown • Leyland • Cuprinol
Johnstones • Craig & Rose
15 ltrs of paint delivered from
the UK to your door for just 10€
Free delivery on orders over 150€
VISIT WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS
When it’s Gone! It’s Gone!
Crown 10ltr
Matt white or
Magnolia €25
Siret No 52267348200017
A large range of fabulous G Plan high back, sofas, chairs & 3-piece suites
always available from stock.
Along with a range of quality UK pocket sprung mattresses.
Delivered direct to your door in France - Pay in £'s or Euros.
Famous Furniture in France - A small family run business located near Montmorillon, Dept
86, with many years experience in the retail of quality furniture in the UK. We specialise in
a full range of G-Plan high back traditional sofas, chairs and 3-piece suites - up to 50% off
UK retail prices! Our aim is to supply high quality furniture, sofas and beds at a fraction of
the UK retail price delivered direct to your door in France.
38
http://www.kis-uk.com
enquiries@kis-uk.com
0044 (0) 1962 714249
Finishing Touches & Specialist Services
Curtains, Blinds & Interior
Design by Wendy
Soft Furnishing • Upholstering
For all your sewing needs
Siret 50061735200017
Alterations • Repairs • Garment Making
Car trimming & upholstery
Curtains & soft furnishings
Dressmaking
Repairs & alterations
City & Guilds qualified / 30+ years experience
Tel 06 81 99 29 63
e-mail angelastephens@sfr.fr
www.angela-creations.com
Tel 05 45 30 20 11
Siret 514 972 108 00013
Angela Stephens trained in the UK and has a
‘City & Guilds’ qualification. Her business, based
in the Sud Vienne between Gençay and Civray,
makes all soft furnishings including loose covers,
curtains, blinds, cushions, bedding, table linen
and silk lampshades. She can upholster all types
of seats, chairs and canopies etc. She makes
made-to-measure clothes to fit all shapes and
sizes. Also she repairs and alters. The
professional service offered by Angela provides
high quality products at very competitive prices.
Contact her as above and view a small sample
of her work at www.angela-creations.com
Mary Johnson has 25 years of experience in
all sewing trades. She has worked for dress
making and upholstery companies. She also
worked for Marcos sports cars as a car
trimmer; this work was of a very high standard
as these hand made cars commanded a high
price. Mary was also self-employed for many
years, during which time Mary made a
multitude of items including cat beds, tank
bags for motor cycles, Bickerton bike bags,
sports bags and of all things Free Masons
aprons. Because of her varied experience
Mary can also repair or alter most things.
Made-to-measure with
your new or old fabric…
alterations too
Email: whitfieldwendy56@gmail.com
www.harlequindevelopments.com
Tel: 05 55 60 44 69 / 06 02 23 30 07
You can also find me on Facebook
Based 87330 Siret: 79768033700012
Wendy Whitfield
I can design and create curtains and blinds using
your own fabric or I can re-design your old
curtains to suit your windows. I also create
pelmets and beautiful cushions to give your room
the look you desire. I cover dept. 87 but will
happily consider projects in surrounding areas.
Ideally I would prefer to visit you/your room/s and
take necessary measurements, but am happy to
work from your measurements/photos if this suits
you better. In fact I have worked in this way for
clients in Dubai, Cyprus and Spain! I look forward
to working with you.
Open: Thurs - Sat 10h - 18h
Sun 14h - 18h
French & English Fine & Country Furniture ▪ Lighting ▪ Pictures & Paintings
Antique Linens ▪ Antique Toys & Dolls ▪ Vintage Costume Jewellery
Ornamental & unusual items ▪ Postcards & other collectable items
Vintage Persian Carpets & Rugs
Items bought & Sold
siret 519 118 855 00013
FREE PLAN, DESIGN & COSTING THROUGHOUT POITOU-CHARENTES
UPVC windows, Doors & Conservatories made to UK Spec in French styles
Made in the UK
Fitted in France
Phone: 05 49 42 99 41 Mobile: 06 63 71 09 81
Email: scott.braddock1@yahoo.com
SIRET: 513 577 809 00017
‘BIC for Her Medium Ballpoint Pen’ - customer review on Amazon UK!!
“My husband has never allowed me to write, as he doesn’t want me touching men's pens. However when I saw this product, I
decided to buy it (using my pocket money) and so far it has been fabulous! Once I had learnt to write, the feminine colour and
the grip size (which was more suited to my delicate little hands) has enabled me to vent thoughts about new recipe ideas,
sewing and gardening. My husband is less pleased with this product as he believes it will lead to more independence and he hates
the feminine tingling sensation (along with the visions of fairies and rainbows) he gets whenever he picks it up.”
39
AT H O M E . . .
Our Henley kitchen looks strikingly contemporary with cutout handles, Sheldrake dining and Salt painted walls
Create your own design ideas at French Lily Cuisines et Intérieurs SARL - by appointment
Vervaux, 23240 Saint Priest La Plaine, 05 55 80 92 91| info@frenchlily.fr | neptune.com
40
Artisans & Home Renovation Services
Groundworks & Stonework
3 SAND BLASTING
3 GENERAL BUILDING
3 PLUMBING
Stone
Wood
Metal
Renovations
All Interior & Exterior Work
CAD Drawings
Wood Fired Central Heating
Bathrooms
Kitchens
T: 05 49 07 62 71
E: tony@apsmultiservices.fr
• Fosse Septiques
• Digger & driver
• Land clearance
• Driveways
• Demolition
• Foundations
• Stonework specialist
M: 06 47 67 57 49
Siret No: 517 487 31000016
anny
olton
General Building • Roofing • Stud Walls
• Stonework • Carpentry • Joining
• Plastering • Pointing • Blockwork
30 years experience
Free quotes
Deux-Sevres & surrounding areas
Tel: 05 49 07 43 90 Mob: 06 43 43 70 91
Email: s.t.f.building@hotmail.com
Siret: 50290475800013
Small jobs accepted. Insured & guaranteed.
English & French-speaking.
Tel: 06 48 17 20 94
HOME CARE
& MAINTENANCE
From 10€ per hour No Job too small
25 years experience
Based in Chabanais
Cleaning, to Fitting a new Kitchen
or a helping pair of hands
Paul : 0545 71 58 09
paulfreegard@orange.fr
Siret 51243129700013
BTP/SERVICES
MINI - PELLE , TRACTO PELLE
L.D PLASTERING & BUILDING
Specialists in full Renovations & Extensions
Extensions
Renovations
Plastering
Kitchens
Conversions
Groundwork
Roofing
Bathrooms
Over 35 years experience. All work fully guaranteed
& undertaken to the highest standard
Local references on request. Free quotes/advice
06 73 01 94 01 / 06 82 99 28 98
E: l.dplastering-building@outlook.com
ASSAINISSEMENT:
Covering all Poitou Charentes Siret 80254172200012
All work conforms to current French
regulations (fosses septiques and
drainage). Obtaining of certificate of
conformity is guaranteed.
Home Care & Maintenance
I have been in the trade for 25 years, working
for Crabtrees, a family business in London,
employing 50 people where I worked my way
up to Company Foreman. Most of our work
was for Network Rail, refurbishing major
stations in London.
My services include double glazing, painting
Interior and exterior, installation of bathrooms
and kitchens, flat pack assembly, drainage,
fencing and building maintenance for local
business. I also offer general small works for
the non DIY person and will do all the little
jobs you cant be bothered with. Give me a
call… references can be given.
TERRASSEMENT
TRANCHEE
CHEMIN D' ACCES
COUR
DRAINAGE
Including Tiling & Plasterboarding
Room construction to finishing touches
T: Ian 05 55 53 37 10
E: ian@zanado.co.uk
www.zanado.co.uk
Siret No 484 206 624 00014
DEMOLITION
Competitive tariffs, careful work, free quotes
05 45 31 19 40 - 06 26 71 45 69
St Laurent de Ceris - Montemboeuf
Siret 494 719 826 00021
Kitchen & Bathroom Fitting - Ian has been successfully living and working in France for 10 years.
During that time he has met many clients, some of whom have become good friends. He enjoys helping
his clients design and plan their project and informing them where best to look for a new kitchen or
bathroom. He can create a new room in your house, such as dividing the space in a large bedroom
to create an en-suite. If another tradesman is needed he is not afraid to say, and can recommend
someone that he has worked with, and coordinate with them to complete your project on time.
DID YOU KNOW …?
that …the Romani people have no written record of their history &, unlike other nations, have no homeland either. The English term
for Romani is Gypsy, which originated from the word Gypcian, based upon the belief in the middle ages that they were itinerant
Egyptians, reputedly exiled as punishment for supposedly harbouring the infant Jesus. The medieval French also referred to the
Romani as Gypcian. In actuality, they are of Indian ethnicity from the sub-continent. Each May, Romani folk from all over Europe gather at
Les-Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in the Camargue for their week-long Fête & to pay homage to their patron Saint Sarah, the Black Madonna (maid
servant to the Virgin Mary). Story has it that after the Crucifixion, Mary Magdalene sailed from Alexandria & landed at Les-Saintes-Maries. I would
defy anyone upon hearing the sensual Romani music at the Fête not to feel a more poetic & passionate attitude towards life.
Reg Clarke
41
Artisans & Home Renovation Services
Mark Slee
Qualified Carpenter
Building work w Renovations
Mini-Digger & 2 ton Tipper Trailer
Tel: 05 55 68 31 59 / 0044 7969 575285
Email: slee.mark@orange.fr
Based in Bellac
Fully registered and insured
Trading in France since 2007
Call Mark for a free quotation:
Tel: 05 55 71 49 13 Mob: 06 78 60 96 16
mumford.toiture@orange.fr
Siret No. 493 159 412 00011
Siret: 75001854100011
DANNY TRENDALL
Interior & Exterior Renovation,
Maintenance & Repair
Professional tiling, plumbing & carpentry
Painting & decorating
Installation of kitchens and bathrooms
Property & garden maintenance
HOUSE & GARDEN
www.propointfacades.fr Email: paulchester@club-internet.fr Tel: 05 55 78 80 31
Tel: 0555607133 Mobile + (0044) 7966208233
E-mail: dannytrendall@gmail.com
Siret no: 52206605900018
siret: 483 664 165 00014
Pro-Point Price Guaranty - We will beat any like for like quote:
Re-Pointing from 10€ m², Coloured Rendering from 15€ m², Plastering from 7.50€ m²
At Pro-Point Façades we don't do septic tanks, we don't do electrics and we don't do plumbing!
We do exactly what it says on the tin. We specialize in Facades. Traditional repointing using sand
and lime, and repointing with high pressure injection system using pre-bagged coloured mortars
that are available in 100% lime and sand. We specialize in coloured rendering of new and old builds
applied by our high pressure rendering system. We can render any structure, blocks, stone or even
wood, so if you are building a new house or renovating an old cottage or château, Pro-Point Façades
can do it. Online portfolio available, site visits to see our finished works, references from past clients.
RPT, E.U.R.L
Minidigger, Driver
& Tipper Truck
Carpenter, Joiner, Woodturner
from 250€ per day
Small Building Works/Renovations
Loft conversions/Velux windows
Bespoke shutters & doors
Patios/Terraces
Stables/Field Shelters
Gravel driveways, rubbish/
tree stump removals, trenches etc
Tel 05 55 29 01 58
06 81 50 37 66
andysurbois@gmail.com
Siret 501 368 393 00010
NEW / RENOVATIONS
ROOFING
CONCRETING
SITE CLEARANCE
DRIVEWAYS
LANDSCAPING
Danny Trendall - House & Garden
Property Renovation, Maintenance & Repair
Due to increasing customer demand Danny
will now decorate as well as renovate your
home. From loose tiles and blocked gutters to
kitchen and bathroom installations including
plumbing, plastering, carpentry, painting and
tiling, as well as lawn care and garden
maintenance. Danny is a professional artisan
working from the north Haute-Vienne and into
the neighbouring departments. Any interior
and exterior work considered. For a quotation
or to discuss your renovation needs please
contact by e-mail or telephone. Danny looks
forward to hearing from you.
www.davesdiggers.com
Email davesdiggers@aol.com
Dave/Katie Good
0549 073358/ 0675 180913
Based near Couhé 86/79/16 siret 5250162590018
RECOMMENDED FOSSE INSTALLER
DIGGER & TIPPER HIRE
SWIMMING POOLS
GRAVEL, STONE & TOPSOIL
PONDS & LAKES
DRAINAGE
Paintstripping
& RENOVATION
ü
ü
ü
ü
Wood & metal stripping
De-rusting & degreasing
Waxing & painting
Collection & delivery service available
TAYLOR RENOVATIONS
05 45 31 13 04 / taylor4057@icloud.com
Based near Confolens
siret: 79745917900017
Glyn Chubb
Carpenter/Joiner
Staircases, windows, Doors,
Gates, Barn Doors, Kitchens
Roofing, plasterboarding, tiling
Restoration and general building
WE OFFER A FRIENDLY AND EFFICIENT SERVICE WITH 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
QUALIFIED GUARANTEED AND INSURED
Contact Carl Dyson
Siret 493 799 878 00019
25 years experience
email: glynn.chubb79@orange.fr
Tel: 05 49 27 67 29
Siret No. 494 068 315 00014
42
Artisans & Home Renovation Services
DESIGN & PLANNING
Experienced Painter and Decorator
covering all aspects of Interior and Exterior Painting,
Wall Papering, Fine Finishes, Tiling and Remedial Works
for New Builds, Renovation and Refurbishments
SINCE 2002
siret: 78846968200017
BESANT Design & Planning
Building design projects undertaken. Over 40
planning applications in France alone with 100%
positive outcome. Permis de construire,
déclaration préalable et certificats d’urbanisme.
Comply to current French building regulations and
RT2012. Associated structural and thermic
engineers, architects and air infiltration engineers.
Also offered - kitchen plans, building construction
plans and landscape plans. Why not try our
website design service? Your own online info site
from 250€ + URL & hosting. Our prices are
competitive, our team competent and our service
impeccable. Contact us today to price your project.
14 Rue des Bans
Contact Wayne on 05 45 30 64 37 or email info@smartdecs.com for a free estimate
Smart Decs offers the complete personal package for home decoration and renovation. From painting
to wallpaper hanging and flooring to plastering, Smart Decs specialises in all aspects of interior and exterior
decoration and renovation. Contact Wayne to discuss your requirements and request your free quotation.
Paul Wrathall B.A. Dip Arch R.I.B.A.
Ordre des Architectes
Architect
Creu de Grelet, Beaumont, 16490 Alloue
T: 05 45 30 65 17 M: 06 86 21 07 00
Email : apwrathall@gmail.com
Siret No. 800 007 643 000 11
Paul Wrathall
British architect with 30 year's experience, offering
a full Architectural Service. Renovation projects,
conversion works, newbuild and surveys
undertaken, including submissions for Permis de
Construire and liaison with builders/artisans.
CHRIS RINGGUTH
Painter & Decorator
Architect - John Hartie
Experienced BRITISH Architect, registered in
France and Britain, offers full Architectural
Service from his office which has been based
in La Rochefoucauld for over 7 years.
Undertakes all types of projects, specialising
in New Buildings, Renovations, Barn
Conversions, Extensions and Eco - Building.
First consultation and site visit free of charge.
Service Includes: Full Measured Survey /
Sketch Designs for Client Approval /
Submission of drawings for Permis de
Construire / Issue of Approved drawings to
Contractors for pricing / Energy Efficiency
Studies / Project Management. Experienced
in dealing with French Authorities and British
and French builders and Artisans.
All round decorator, Paper Hanging & Tiling.
Over 35 years in the trade.
Free estimates given. Covers depts. 86, 87 & 16.
Call Chris
06 04 44 32 12 / 05 49 48 27 91
Email: leseffes@hotmail.co.uk
Siret: 528 599 459 00013
A HELPING HAND
05.55.76.20.98 - 06.52.63.66.43
Email: k.besant@lc-bois.fr
www.smartdecs.com
IN THE HOME, GARDEN & OTHER
3 Building Design & Plans
3 Permis de Constuire
3 Déclaration Préalable
3 Certificats d’Urbanisme
3 Kitchen / Landscaping Plans
Siret No: 789 663 556 000 15
Professional Decorating Services
Decorating
Rubbish Clearance
Collecting large items
Cleaning
Gardening
Much more; just ask
Flat rate: just 10€/hour
helpinghands79861687@gmail.com
05 49 07 62 71
Siret: 517 487 310 000 16 Based Dept 79 but will travel
A Helping Hand
…is a unique service offering a reliable
helping hand on request. Capable, hard
working, experienced and reliable, A Helping
Hand offers you an economical solution to
help you progress and complete a project in
the home, garden or elsewhere. You may just
need a help to collect something or need a
companion to visit somewhere, what ever it is
just ask or email for a prompt response and
to discuss you requirements. There is a flat
rate of 10€/hour with a minimum hire period
of 4 hours, within a 30km radius of 79120 and
a small surcharge for fuel on further distances.
EIFFEL TOWER
The Eiffel Tower’s new glass
floor has been unveiled,
designed to jazz up the formerly draughty
first floor! Check out images online.
Independent supplier of affordable, reliable, high quality, environmentally friendly micro-stations
and sewage treatment systems for both new builds and properties with a non-conforming fosse.
Use a rubber band to rescue a stripped screw!
Siret: 50021621300016
Fosse France Solutions - Having been in the construction and water industries for many
years, we have extensive knowledge of all waste water treatment systems: from traditional
fosses to the newest micro-stations. We know the pros and cons of each system and the
suitability of these systems for you and your property. We have negotiated the very best prices
for our clients and this, along with our full pre-sales consultation service, means you can be
sure of getting the best system for you at the lowest possible price. So, for great advice,
affordable quality systems and a professional service, contact Clint today.
43
Artisans & Home Renovation Services
Lovejoys
SCAFFOLDING HIRE
Strong, fully adjustable cup-lock
scaffolding
Collect & erect yourself to save costs
or delivery & erection included
T: 05 55 68 22 04
E: info@limousin-builders.com
siret 789 209 236 00015
M. J. QUIGLEY
SCAFFOLDING
GM SCAFFOLDING
Full English
Scaffolding Service
Delivered, erected
& dismantled
25 years+ experience
With full public liability insurance
(Dept 86 & surrounding areas)
Full English
scaffolding service
Tel: 05 49 48 84 03
Safe, secure, adaptable
Meeting all safety regulations
and covered by full public liability insurance.
Delivered erected and dismantled
Over 20 years experience
Depts 87, 16, north 24
mike-pauline.quigley@sfr.fr
Tel Gary on 05 55 48 83 94
Siret No: 485081475 00025
Siret no. 480 541 093 00013
Your local odd job & handyman
Anything considered small or large, inside or out
Confolens & surrounding areas
30yrs experience, fully qualified
Free estimates, friendly and reliable service
Call Gary Worrall on
Tel: 05 55 68 35 79
paul_pickup@hotmail.com
05 45 71 43 99 or 06 40 53 73 78
Email: mrfixit16500@gmail.com
Siret: 511294373 00010
www.limousincarpenter.com
Siret: 528 646 771 00014
SJ Renovations was started when I arrived
in France 4 years ago, with 20 years
experience building in the UK. We do kitchens
(which can be supplied from the UK at discount
prices), bathrooms, plumbing, studwork,
plasterboarding, plastering, knock throughs,
stone work, joinery work, lime rendering and
lime jointing. I speak French, am fully insured
and registered with the Chambre de Metiers
de la Haute-Vienne. References and photos
of previous jobs available.
Mister Fix-It Gary Worrall
It's time to get those jobs sorted that you've been
putting off so why not let me do them for you. From
erecting a new shed or sorting out a dripping tap,
in fact if it needs fixing, hanging, glazing,
assembling, painting, clearing, tiling, filling,
decorating, plaster boarding or moving, or if you
just need a helping hand for a couple of hours
please give me a call to discuss your
requirements. I have 18 years experience in all
aspects of property maintenance and
development. References available.
Small jobs no problem!
Plasterboarding
Rendering
Renovations
Sam Feasey
ENGLISH/FRENCH SPEAKING BUILDER
I offer a wide range of experience in building,
renovation and refurbishment, to include
stonework, carpentry, parquet flooring,
plaster-boarding, brick and block work,
concreting, window and door installations
and fitting kitchens. I have established good
contacts with reliable local tradesmen in
electrics, plumbing, plastering and traditional
lime rendering, clients are offered a
synchronised and professional service. To
view the gallery of my work and testimonials
please visit my website.
Siret: 502 353 675 00015
C & C Carpentry
Fully registered, qualified, time served
carpenter & joiner of 30 years experience.
Before moving to France Paul worked
exclusively throughout London and built up a
regular and loyal client base as he has now
done in France. Some of Paul's work (for
French & British clients) can be viewed by
visiting his web-site. A friendly and reliable
service in carpentry, joinery and renovation
covering depts 87, 86, 19 & 23. Please contact
for advice or to discuss requirements.
P.D.Smith Plastering & Building
High Quality Plastering and Building Work
All jobs undertaken from renovations to new builds
Specialist in flat plastering, plasterboarding
Stud partitioning, rendering and pointing
free quotes, please call
06 75 44 02 86
E:psmith539@gmail.com
Siret No: 511 322 810 00017
Don't forget to tell advertisers
where you heard about them!
44
Artisans & Home Renovation Services
For all your professional roofing needs:
Repairs 2 Renovations / Tiles & Slates/
Roofing surveys / Chimney removal /
W: wwwstrictlyroofingfrance.com
Siret: 78995612500015
CHIPBOARD type P5 18mm tongue and grooved water repellent, chipboard comes in 8ft
X 2ft sheets, specially bought in this size to make your life easy when trying to get this
upstairs into your grenier and also suitable for one person to handle.
C.L.S. stud work is a beautiful product to work with, clean dry and STRAIGHT, currently
held in 2.4m lengths and 3.6m in length.
38mm X 89mm C16 planed for eased edges CLS profile.
FLOOR JOINTS currently held in 4m lengths
47mm X 200mm Sawn Dry graded to C16, treated.
Other lengths and dimensions can be ordered, please feel free to phone.
PLYWOOD All in 8 X 4 sheets
Internal grade Elliottis, filled & sanded on one side so suitable for internal floors, walls etc.
9mm / 12mm / 18mm Elliottis
External grade suitable for construction uses with a high quality finish on both sides.
12mm Malaysian WBP BB/CC 18mm Malaysian WBP BB/CC
Marine ply suitable for all external applications and total immersion
18mm Marine Ply
SKIRTING BOARD & ARCHITRAVE IN STOCK!
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
ROLLS OF ISOVER INSULATION IN STOCK! 100mm, 150mm & 200mm ~ Plus others
Typical spec for 200mm: (Contact us for spec on other thicknesses)
Pieces per pack: 2 x 580mm wide
Pack area: 4.5m2
Pack Length: 3880mm
R-Value: 4.65
Siret:530 444 496 00018
1 km from Confolens on the
D952 Ansac sur Vienne road
Siren 449 714 989
• All reclamation bought & sold
• Demolition undertaken
• Specialists in oak beams
• Metalwork & stonework
• Indian stone flooring
M: 0632 195 053 / H: 0549 076 704
E: malcolm.cooke@me.com
WE NOW CONSTRUCT
TIMBER FRAME HOUSES
FROM YOUR PLANS, DESIGNS
OR IDEAS.
FROM SUPPLY & ERECTION TO
FULL TURN KEY SERVICE
All other aspects of building, joinery, dampproofing & timber treatment still available
Alan Goodwin Building & Joinery
I’m time-served and qualified in carpentry &
joinery, with 20+ years experience in all
aspects of the construction industry.
**NEW** Do you yearn to build your dream
home, but worry about the cost or wonder where
to start? Or maybe you want to extend your
current property. Timber Frame In France (TFI
France) is an affordable solution where you can
do as much or little yourself as you want, at your
own pace. This ecological alternative can take
you from slab to weatherproof and watertight
within just seven days. Don’t lose the plot - get
in touch today.
Building & Renovation
Exterior & interior:
Roofing - Rendering - Plastering
Kitchens & Bathrooms
Full scaffolding service
Depts 86, 87 & 16
Competitive rates / free quotes
Tel: 05.49.48.59.18 / 09.63.20.87.07
Mob: 06.79.42.64.72
Email: iamducked@hotmail.fr
Siret: 51195427300013/51907938800012
Sarl Down to Earth Construction
FOSSE SEPTIQUE & ACCREDITED
MICRO STATION INSTALLER
• Full house clearances quoted for.
• Your complete house contents bought.
• Use until the day you move knowing it is all sold.
45
Professional, friendly, reliable with competitive prices
Conception to completion - we even do paperwork
Drainage problems, groundworks patios & driveways
Established 10 years, French registered & insured
Artisans & Home Renovation Services
DRIVEWAYS
DIGGER &
OPERATOR HIRE
DEMOLITION
CONCRETING
SUPPLIER OF
SAND STONE
TOPSOIL
19 TON TIPPER
GROUND CLEARANCE
MAINS DRAINAGE
GUARANTEED • QUALIFIED • INSURED
PUBLIC WORKS
REFERENCES AVAILABLE • 100K RADIUS OF CIVRAY
PASTURE TOPPING
Tel: 05 49 87 03 63 / 06 42 28 52 31
Siret: 492 374 145 00018
Roofing / Renovation Business
- All aspects of roofing on old or new properties
- Zinc / PVC guttering
- Anti-moss treatment
- Interior & exterior renovations
- Rendering
For a free quotation please contact:
Howard Charlesworth
(fully bilingual, living in France since 1990, 10 yr décennale Insurance)
Tel: 05.55.60.23.70 / 06.85.43.13.58
Email: rcc87@live.fr
Depts: 87,86,16 & 23 Siret: 799 894 860 000 11
Roofing
Specialist
Petits travaux du Batiment
Stuart F Park
Painter Decorator
Plus all aspects of Building & Ground work's covered.
Siret: 489 199 661 00013
Artisan Carpenter / Joiner
Public liability insurance
10 yr Décennale guarantee.
Call Adrian direct on: 06 10 89 49 16 / Tel: 05 45
email: adrian@robinsbuilders.com
61 40 15
Contact 05.45.85.78.30 / 06.04.49.04.10
stuart.park@hotmail.fr
Siret N°4880506750013
rs
ea e
Y
5 c
r 2 rien
e
Ov expe
Painting, Tiling, Wallpaper hanging
all types of decorating undertaken
Confolens 16 and area
25 years experience.
For more information & to view our works please visit:
www.robinsbuilders.com
Tel: 05 45 21 63 96 / 07 80 09 13 09
A. Robins Construction - Adrian has over 25 years experience in the construction industry
Email: wesley.halton@orange.fr
with 10 of those being here in the Charente. Over the years he has undertaken many roofing
Depts 16,24,87 Siret 489 815 258 00012
projects using both modern & traditional methods. Adrian is a highly skilled carpenter joiner
www.facebook.com/wezconstructions
who is also able to take on all kinds of building works. He benefits from having his own plant
machinery including a 17 metre reach telescopic manitou, 3.5 tonne digger, 3 tonne dumper, W.E.Z Constructions
2 x 3.5 tonne tipper trucks, plus 1000m2 of scaffold, therefore no extra rental costs will be Wesley Halton is a fully registered artisan with
incurred for plant hire. To view his works please visit www.robinsbuilders.com
27 years experience in the building trade (12 in
France) and has completed a wide range of
works from new builds, renovations and
restoration works using traditional joinery and
stonework to be sympathetic with the build. He
All aspects of building work undertaken:
offers good advice on design and build from
submitting plans to the finished project and is a
3 Renovations
fully qualified carpenter and stonemason. He has
3 Barn Conversions
3 Plasterboarding / Plastering
Andrew Hadfield recently completed another traditionally joined
Troy Davey
oak framed covered sun terrace and has a good
05 55 60 72 98
3 Brick/Blockwork/Stonework/Repointing
05 55 60 47 78
selection of different designs and also makes
07 81 53 71 91
06 10 49 49 57
3 Tiling
dandahadfield@aol.com
medieval style doors, please email to request
troy.davey@orange.fr
Based 87330 | References Available
siret: 53229047500013
siret: 49895173000015
further information or examples of his work.
BUILDING / MULTI SERVICE
46
Artisans & Home Renovation Services
Concept to Creation
All types of building work and renovations from design to completion!
§ Project Management
§ Design & Planning
§ Estimating
§ New Building
§ Renovations
§ Pre Purchase Reports
§ Fosse Septiques
§ 10 Year Decénnale Guarantee
§ Structural Works
§ Swimming Pools
35 years in construction on major projects. Member of Chartered Institute of Building and Chambre de Metiers
www.crtconstructions.com
Tel: 05 45 79 17 58 or 06 38 81 07 56
Email: clive @crtconstructions.com
or info@crtconstructions.com
Siret: 798 241 436 00012
CRT Constructions
From surveying and estimating, to designing to your own specifications, be it a small extension or a full new build, CRT Constructions can provide
a complete service. Using local artisans, both French and English, we are able to offer you a complete one-stop service. With over 35 years of
vast experience in both commercial and residential works and as a member of both the Chartered Institute of Building (UK) and the Chambre de
Metiers (France) you can be confident that all works will be carried out to the highest standard. Please view our website or give us a call.
10 year Decennale Guarantee
·
·
·
New Build Specialists
Renovation
Barn Conversions
·
·
·
Full Public Liability Insurance
Roofing
Groundworks
Fosse Séptiques
For more information, a free quotation or to discuss your requirements
Visit www.slm-construction.fr E-mail: info@slm-construction.fr
or speak to Stuart on 05 45 65 09 11 or 06 38 68 60 14
SLM Construction provides the complete solution for all aspects of construction and renovation. Myself and my team of fully qualified tradesmen
pride ourselves on providing a high quality, reliable service at a competitive rate backed by a 10-year decennale guarantee and full public
liability insurance. From planning and foundations to those final touches, SLM Construction undertakes all types of building, renovation and
insurance repair works with the benefit of a bi-lingual team to guide and assist you with French legislation and formalities. Visit www.slmconstruction.fr or contact me on 05 45 65 09 11 or 06 38 68 60 14 to discuss your requirements or to request a free fully guaranteed quotation.
Letters & Notices
10 YEARS ON AND STILL WAITING
In response to the letter from Mrs Palmer-Duffy in the October edition, 10 years ago we, and others, bought our houses in a village in the commune of
Chirac and was assured by the then Maire, that we would have main drains in 2 years. 10 years on there are no signs of these drains, but we do have
in Chirac a newly built Mairie!
K Morgans
COCKLESHELL HEROES
Do any readers have information about the “Cockleshell Heroes”? You may know that 10 brave marines were dropped from a submarine at the entrance
to the Gironde estuary during the second world war. Their task was to paddle up the estuary in small canoes (cockleshells) and plant explosives to
destroy the German emplacements in Bordeaux. Only 2 of the marines made it, the rest died in the attempt. The survivors were subsequently helped
to escape by the French Resistance. In fact the hotel “La Toque Blanche” in Ruffec was one of the places that sheltered them.
The Club Marpen in Tusson, in conjunction with the Association Frankton, are putting on an exhibition about the event. It will run from January until
June next year. Le Coq et la Rose, a local French/English Association have been asked to help. Any information, stories, photographs or artefacts that
you may have that could form part of the exhibition would be very welcome. It goes without saying that precious mementoes would be treated with the
utmost respect. Thank you.
Celia Hall: 05 45 71 43 22 / candles@wanadoo.fr
LET’S TALK!
We are a group of French and we would like to meet some English-speaking people to create a discussion group. We are in Brie (16590), 15km from
La Rochefoucauld towards Angoulême. Please contact us if interested.
Fred Petit: fred.ptit@yahoo.fr or 06 64 62 95 68
47
Getting Connected
Jb Plumbing
Plumbing Repairs
Kitchens
Bathrooms
Tiling
Quality PV Kits incl German built panels
SMA Sunny Boy Inverter included
REDUCE your bills PERMANENTLY
NO need for complicated EDF contracts
Energy Monitors included
Based in dept. 79 near Sauzé Vaussais
All work insured
T: 06 29 90 24 89
E: mrbirky2@yahoo.com
Ecopower
Siret No: 804 390 862 000 14
Charles Hodencq
Electricité Générale
French Electrician - fluent English Speaker.
Based in Bellac - covering 87 & parts of
86, 16 & 23
For all your electrical needs - safety
checks, re-wires, new builds,
upgrades & complete renovations
Ecopower Keep It Simple and use your roof, garden or even shed to generate your own energy
without the need for complicated EDF contracts. There is a growing trend towards energy
self-sufficiency in France. Who wouldn’t want to reduce energy bills and reliance on providers
as well as protecting themselves against price rises? Our quality PV kits come with all you need
to generate and use your own electricity. If installation is required we will carry out all necessary
paperwork and even install an energy monitor when you book a survey to see the savings you
will make. For details contact lindsey@ecopowereurope.com or call 05 45 32 65 57.
Sale & Installation of wood pellet
& poly combustible stoves
0624270186 / 0555686226
charleselec@gmail.com
www.charleselec.eu
Economical
Energy saving
Practical for storage & cleanliness
Quiet performance (<47dB)
Possibility of creating your own fuel
Siret No : 503121279 00015
Charles Hodencq Electricité Générale are
proud to offer all its customers a friendly and
efficient service. From small jobs to complete
renovations or new builds we offer the flexibility
to work on your project from start to finish. Need
any help? We offer a fully bi-lingual service to
help you every step of the way, giving advice,
completing a repair, creating a devis, or offering
assistance in dealing with EDF.
Did you know that WD40
can be used to remove
crayon marks from any
surface!
in association with
N°Siret 79104717800011
Easyvolt - Get ready for winter...
Considering rising costs of energy, we have diversified to include sales and installation of
wood pellet stoves, wood having the advantage of being the cheapest energy available. We
sell a range of aesthetically pleasing pellet stoves, both economical and practical regarding
storage and use. CS Thermos stoves are equipped with an innovative ash removal system
to burn all quality of wood pellets but also kernels and hulls of fruit etc. We offer a chimney
sweeping service, free of charge for the first two years, general maintenance and the
possibility of wood and pellet delivery. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free and fast quote.
SHAUN BARWICK ~ FULLY QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN
Jérôme BETUS
· Fully qualified registered electrician (bilingual)
· All work fully insured with 10-year guarantee
· Domestic & commercial installation / repairs
· Communications wiring & automation
· Safety and conformity checks
86430 Adriers / jbelectric86@orange.fr
05 49 84 34 80 / 06 78 12 02 91
SIRET 537398125 00014
Jérôme Betus of J.B. Electric has a
reputation for high quality workmanship and a
professional service, backed by a 10-year
guarantee to give you peace of mind when it
comes to the safe installation or repair of your
system. Fluent in English and French, Jérôme
is always available to talk through the lighting
or power needs of your home or business, and
provide you with a free quote. Call 06 78 12
02 91 or mail him at: jbelectric86@orange.fr
• Available for all types of electrical work
• Small jobs, new builds, renovations, rewires
• Consuel assistance and certification service available
• Fully insured with 10yr workmanship guarantee
H J Marsh
lectricité
I offer free &
friendly advice
so please don’t
hesitate to
contact me.
T: 09 72 35 74 73
E: barwick.shaun@gmail.com
Based near Chalus 87230
Siret: 794 282 368 00016
Simple jobs
Complete renovations
New builds
Conformity checks
Emergency Call outs
Fully insured 10yr guarantee
Hedley Marsh
86320 Persac
Tel: 05 49 48 35 49
Mobile: 06 45 74 25 36
Email: hedleymarsh@orange.fr
Siret: 51190455900016
Readers are advised to check registration & insurance as appropriate when employing someone to carry out work, as well as obtain
references if deemed necessary. Before final payment, satisfy yourself that all work has been undertaken and remember good
communication between both parties is usually key to avoiding disputes caused by misunderstandings.
48
Getting Connected
PLUMB RIGHT
INSTALLATION ♦ SERVICING ♦ REPAIRS
Bathrooms / Kitchens / Tiling
All aspects of plumbing
Over 30 years experience
Based dept 87 but will travel
OIL ♦ GAS ♦ SOLID FUEL
siret: 53872280200013
Siret: 491827705 00022
Reduced rates for OAP’s
Rewires, new build
Electric heating
n Home security
n Lightning protection
n TV & audio
n Work guaranteed & insured
n
DAVID READ
Contact Paul Ellis on:
Tel/Fax: 05 49 50 09 06
Mob: 06 70 97 59 56
E-mail: paul.gill@wanadoo.fr
Regions: 16, 36, 37, 79, 86, 87
Siret 452 755 390 000 13 - RM 8601
n
French trained
Electrician
Domestic, Public & Industrial Work
Computer technician
French Speaking
Offers good free advice
87190 Magnac Laval
T: 05 55 68 08 13
M: 06 25 20 99 13
05 45 29 68 73 / 06 30 11 86 84
email: gary.moore@orange.fr
The Central Heating
Cleaning Specialists
Siret 51962408400017
Call Gary: 05 55 60 43 55 / 06 44 37 88 15
Email: garycandland1@yahoo.co.uk
Cold radiators High fuel bills Noisy boiler
Prolong the life of your heating system!
Find out more go to:
powerflowfrance.com
05 55 67 35 02
T: 05 45 89 38 02
E: simon.kershaw@wanadoo.fr
Covering depts. 05.15.16.18.19.23.24.36.43.46.86 & 87
siret 440 419 018 00013
Powerflow - Powerflushing, known as
Désembouage in France, will restore systems
with circulation problems and boiler noise
caused by sludge and corrosion, back to
optimum operation. Powerflushing removes
these deposits and the problems that they
cause. People often forget that the only thing
transporting the heat around the heating
system is the water. Powerflushing should
also be done when commissioning new
heating systems to reduce the risk of
breakdowns. Many systems are found to
contain substantial amounts of corrosion and
sludge, even if no flow problems are obvious.
We cover a large area. For lots more info.
please visit www.powerflowfrance.com.
SJK Plumbing & Heating
Don't forget anti freeze for heating systems! Do not
get caught out this winter with burst pipes, radiators
and boilers! We install anti freeze for all heating
systems. This protects your system down to -14º
all year round. Ideal for holiday homes, gites etc .
david.read@wanadoo.fr
ALAN PEARCE
Siret 490820859RM87
PLUMBING
David Read is a French Trained Electrician
based in Magnac Laval and registered with
the Conseil as a ‘professionnel installateur’.
His business was established in 2006 and
David is qualified not only to work in all
domestic, public and industrial areas up to 400
volts live but also to train students. He can also
offer his services as a computer technician
and benefits from being able to speak French.
Contact David for honest free advice.
• Repairs
• Heating
• Bathroom Installations
35 years experience
All work fully insured
Based dept 79 but will travel
T: 05 49 07 67 09
M: 06 48 42 63 93
E:pearce.lynne@orange.fr
PETER AMOR
siret: 48002659000012
ELECTRICIAN
Paul Wilkins
Siret: 75333878900013
Tel: 05 49 91 85 54
Bathrooms / Kitchens
Water Mains / Drainage
Full or part Heating Systems
Wood Stoves - Servicing / Repairs
Fully Qualified - Fully Insured
All electrical works / Security Systems
Data Cabling / Aerials
Based Nr Chef Boutonne
T: 06 35 94 95 85 / 09 80 67 66 40
E: pauljwilkins@hotmail.com
www.electricienanglaisenfrance.com
49
COMPUTER TIP
You can reduce the number of
programs running at startup if
your PC is taking too long to boot.
It may be because you have too many
programs running at startup. Reducing this is
easy, it will make your PC launch noticeably
faster and lighter upon first load.
To change the items running at startup, go to
Run using the hotkey Windows key + R, and
type "msconfig."
A small window will appear, select the Startup
tab. From here you will be able to turn off
many startup programs, which can shave
several seconds (or minutes) off your boot
time. (Note Windows 8 has moved this
functionality to the Task Manager).
However, make sure you research what you
are turning off as some processes might be
needed by third party programs or drivers you
have installed.
Getting Connected
ANDREW LONGMAN
Siret 509 768 639 00012
PLUMBING & HEATING
ü All plumbing works
ü All Boiler/Heating installations
ü Solar Panel Installation
ü Domestic Electrics
ü Décennale insurance
ü French & English spoken
benjaminjourdan@hotmail.com
06 42 65 83 44 / 05 55 60 84 69
PLUMBING REPAIRS
ALTERATIONS
INSTALLATIONS
OVER 36 YEARS EXPERIENCE
FULLY INSURED inc. 10 YR GUARANTEE
BASED IN DEPT 79 - WILL TRAVEL
T: 05 49 29 12 64 / M: 06 79 37 02 08
E: ak.longman@hotmail.co.uk
siret no : 517.848.826.00023 Based 87190 Magnac Laval
Clive & Wendy Masters
Air Source Heat Pumps
Ground Source Heat
Pumps
Solar Water Heating
Phone:
05 55 78 66 35
Adresse: La Côte, 87600, Vayres
Mob:06 17 32 02 12 Fax:05 55 53 34 45
Email: clive@masters-electricite.com
Web: www.masters-electricite.com
Masters Energies, a limited company, owned and
run by Clive & Wendy Masters. The company is well
qualified and prepared to satisfy your electrical,
heating and renewable energy requirements. Clive
maintains his qualifications with regular training on
manufacturers and other professional courses. With
a strong emphasis on quality and customer
satisfaction, Masters Energies has earned a very
good reputation since established in France in 2003.
Through a progressive development and expansion
programme, the company is able to offer a complete
range of services. Electrical services include:
· Electrical installations for new builds,
conversions or renovations
· Rewiring of existing properties
· Electric central heating with an emphasis of
programmability and energy management
· Lightning protection for electrical installations
and telephone systems (essential in order to
protect your computer modem)
· Automatic controls and motorisation for driveway
gates and garage doors
· Telephone installations and extensions
· Additional lighting and electrical points
· Alarm installations
· 'Smart home' systems using infra-red and radio
frequency technology
Siret: 451 371 579 00017
Photovoltaic Electricity
Air-conditioning
Electrical
Wood Burning Stoves
Masters Energies has embraced the new
technologies and holds an Attestation de Capacité
for refrigerant fluids. We are properly qualified to
design, install and commission air and ground source
heat pumps and air-conditioning systems and we
are the manufacturer approved after sales service
engineers for leading marques in this area.
We are qualified installers of solar thermal systems
for the production of hot water and of solar
photovoltaic installations for the generation of
electricity. The solar thermal systems will provide up
to 80% of your annual domestic hot water
requirements. Electricity produced by the
photovoltaic panels can be tied-in to the grid in order
to earn a return on your investment, or may be used
as a stand-alone system for domestic consumption.
In addition to the renewable energy systems, we
supply and install traditional oil and gas central
heating systems. Clive is a certified Professional de
Gaz and as such can inspect and test LPG and
natural gas installations.
We supply and install wood-fired heating systems
from single wood burners to wood-fired boilers as
well as flue systems and liners for all types of fuel.
Our constant aim is to have the highest level of
customer service and satisfaction in every aspect of
our work.
www.masters-energies.com
Approved Service Centre for LG
air-conditioning & Heat Pump systems
We supply
and install
Air-source
Heat Pumps
and
Air-conditioning
50
ELECTRIC SHOWERS
Clive Masters - Masters Electricité
We have bought an electric shower in the
UK, please could you install it in our house
here in France?
A question that comes up every two or three
years. On the face of it, it seems quite a
reasonable thing to ask. My answer is that
"Yes, I can, but you will need to have your
electrical supply increased significantly and
that the cost of your standing charge will be
astronomical in comparison to your needs."
This usually brings about a furrowed brow
and a look of concern on my prospective
client, before the inevitable. "Why?" The
reason is quite straight forward and is to do
with the different way in which that electricity
is supplied in the two countries.
The electricity is basically the same whether
we are here in France or back in Britain; it
is 230 volts, give or take a margin, and
50Hz. However, in Britain the 'normal'
supply current is 80 amps or even as much
as 100 amps at the consumer unit in the
house, which is 18.4 kW and 23 kW
respectively. Therefore to put a 9 or 10 kW
electric shower in is perfectly acceptable.
The electrician simply runs a 10mm² twin
and earth cable from the consumer unit to
just outside the shower room, puts in a pull
cord switch and, hey presto, instant hot
showers (I'm ignoring the plumbing for the
purposes of this article).
The difference is that in France, electricity
is supplied in 3kW increments and for each
increment the abonnement, or standing
charge, is increased (apart from the 3kW
rating the price of the electricity per kW hour
is the same). For a house where the cooking
is by gas, the heating by an oil fired boiler
and the hot water by an electric ballon with
a relay for running during the off peak
electricity period, a 6kW supply is
satisfactory. Use electricity for cooking and
a 9kW supply would be needed. Now
introduce the electric shower, which is
usually rated at at least 9kW these days in
order to get a half decent flow of hot water,
and you start to see where we are going.
The shower is going to take all, or even
more than, the whole supply for the
remaining appliances in the house. So here
we are one morning, the man of the house
is downstairs boiling the kettle (2.2kW) and
madame jumps into the brand new shower
in the en-suite bathroom for a lovely hot
refreshing start to the day and ... clack, the
electricity trips off.
Therefore, in order to have a 10 minute
shower they have to have the single phase
supply upgraded to the 18 kW tarif
(although its not always available in rural
areas) and the annual cost rises by 167€,
and that's not counting the cost of the
electricity actually consumed. If the house
has (or needs to be connected via) a three
phase supply, the available single phase
power is divided by three, thus the tarif
would necessarily be 30kW and the
standing charge would cost 639.46€ per
year. The simple solution: leave electric
showers in the UK.
Getting Connected
Full Freesat HD
Installation
from 350€
All equipment & labour
including Freesat HD
receiver & 65cm
satellite dish
English Free to Air / Freesat
English Subscription TV
French TV
DIY Kits
Based North Dept 87
Expert Service
covering 87, 16, 86, 23, 36, 79, 24
Siret: 480 287 390 00029
Stuart Wallace Tel: 05 55 68 15 77
thefrenchhouse@cegetel.net www.the-french-house.net
French House Satellite TV
@TFHSatTV
Tip of the Month
It's not a bad idea to periodically take out and clean all your satellite/TV/DVD cables
and ensure all the ends are clean and dust free. Various cleaners are available but
even blowing the dust off will help!
Please get in touch to discuss any problems in further detail.
As a professional photographer,
Judy takes a lot of pride in her
pictures. Wherever she goes, she
brings her pictures with her, to
show off her work.
“Wow”, said her host Sandra, “these are really
nice pictures, you must have a great camera.”
Fuming mad at the implication that her whole
talent came from her camera. Judy waited until
the end of the meal and then thanked her host,
“thank you the meal was delicious,” and then
as if an afterthought added, “you must have
great pots.”
We keep our promises
H
E
Hallmark
Electronique
- Registered and Insured
- All areas covered
- 24/7 Service
Electricians
& Satellite Engineers
Tel: 05 49 07 20 28
Mob: 06 71 05 91 70
e-mail: mark.hall@sfr.fr
www.hallmarkelectronique.com
Satman & Jobin
Satellite / Digital TV /
Valve Equipment/PLUS
Installation Repair & Sales
45 Years Experience
Located CIVRAY (86)
Stewart & Lynda
T: 05 49 87 01 14
E: f5vjj@live.co.uk
siret 483 463 535 00037
SIRET No. 515 362 887 00017
Hallmark Electronique
No need to ask - we cover all areas. We pride
ourselves on first class customer service and
will spend as much time as necessary when
quoting a job to ensure the needs of you, the
customer, are met. Our services include
electrics, communications, satellite, French
TV and auto electrics. Our 2 vans are
equipped with advanced equipment to
ensure your job is professionally managed
and all jobs are fully tested prior to final
payment. We even tidy up after ourselves.
Call us for a FREE, no obligation chat to
discuss your requirements. We also offer a
24/7 breakdown service.
Satman & Jobin
I have been involved in Communications and
Electronics for all of my adult and teenage life
so you could say it has been a passion as well
as a career. I was apprenticed at 15 years old
and qualified at 21 years. I continued
progressing through the dramatic changes in
the field of Communications and Electronics
eventually taking management studies in my
late 30's and then further Technical
Qualifications to advance my career. So by
utilising me to solve your problems
(challenges) you are assured of a lifetime of
both technical and customer service
experience which cannot be gained overnight.
51
Stuart Wallace
The French House
Satellite TV
So, what news from the world of satellite TV?
Well, I bought a couple of new jumpers for
winter and am seriously thinking of getting a
2nd pair of water-proof shoes. I also had the
van serviced. Exciting stuff, I’m sure you’ll
agree.
However, none of that is as exciting as the
very old and often repeated fact that Freesat
is not the same as Freeview. Please do not
concern yourself with Freeview when the
subject involves the reception of UK TV here
in France.
What else? Well, I did mention it a while ago,
but, ITVBe has launched on Freesat channel
118. Delivering all the same drivel that you’ve
already seen across the other crappy ITV
channels, ITVBe is sure to induce the same
levels of dullness as its siblings. Just so you
don’t watch it by mistake, ITVBe is apparently
aimed at a female audience in the 16-34
years of age range. If you’re 35 then please
don’t bother. In fact, regardless of your age,
plese don’t bother. Really, what is the point
of ITV? And yes, I have seen the Jeremy Kyle
show…
Please remember that
if you have a Freesat
receiver and wish to
access many of the
on-line services such
as BBC iPlayer or ITV
Player etc, then you are going to need a UK
IP address for this to work. There are various
ways of getting one and this is not really my
remit, but a quick trawl of the interweb should
point you in the right direction.
A client of mine was very surprised to learn
that because he had a SKY digibox, he could
have all the same channels on a 2nd (and
more if required) TV in the house. The
limitation is of course that the 2nd TV can only
ever show the same channel as the SKY box
is tuned to, but nevertheless, it offers a fairly
simple method of TV in a 2nd location.
If however, independent TV is required in 2
or more rooms, then you are going to need a
satellite receiver in each room and
appropriate cabling back to the satellite dish.
Silly little things this month.
If you find that you have a
picture but no sound, or
indeed the other way
around, check your scart
leads are fitted properly
before
calling
a
professional. You’d be amazed at the number
of times this will cure the problem. The same
can also apply, but to a lesser degree, to
HDMI cables. Whilst they do make a better
connection than crappy old scart, similar
things can happen. One thing worth trying is
swapping the ends of the cable (ie. to the
opposite piece of kit). Sounds unlikely I know,
but sometimes it might just make all the
difference. If it does work, then please simply
send a cheque for €60 payable to me at the
usual address……
Getting Connected
DARREN LUCKHURST
COMPUTER SERVICES
Buy UK machines online at
www.anglocomputers.com
Or email sales@anglocomputers.com
Piegut-Pluviers, Northern Dordogne
Tel: 05 53 56 07 87 Depts 24,16,87
Angel Web Designs
Professional Website Design
at competitive prices
All our solutions are tailored
to your needs
Siret No. 491.991.097.00016
Bob Webb
05 55 00 89 98
bob@awd87.com
View our extensive
portfolio at
www.awd87.com
Homecall PC
ESET SECURITY BROADBAND INSTALLATION
SOFTWARE RETAILER ASSISTANCE ON SITE
Year round maintenance • Contracts on request
Tel: 05 55 78 24 86
Email: contact@homecallpc.com
www.homecallpc.com
87150 Champagnac La Riviere
OPEN MON TO SAT 9AM / 8PM
SIRET: 482 107 943 00011 - TVA INT: 0648210794300011
Mayday
Operating system support
Application support
Network support
System security
Virus and Malware
removal
−
Call for friendly
no-obligation
assessment & advice
Phil Monaghan
05 55 68 47 33
06 82 26 31 54
maydaymayday@orange.fr
Siret 50044353600015
Will Travel*
PC repairs, upgrades, internet, home service
tel: 05 49 50 66 80
e-mail: kpcservice@wanadoo.fr
Vant 86510 Chaunay
Siret no: 453 868 275 00026 *within 65kms of Civray
Kev Pope, the Computer Man
Well, it's autumn, and the nights are getting longer.
So perhaps you'll be spending a bit less time in the
garden and a bit more at the computer. So now's
the time to make sure everything is on the top line
- your main program, your sub-programs, your
hardware and your software - and especially your
e-mailing and online services. Time for an overall
checkup? Just call Kev.
ROBSMITH-IT
Website Design
& Computer Maintenance
Contact me for all your web design
needs and computer issues
PC repair on house calls
PC building on demand
We sell hardware & peripherals
computer services
pc • mac • network
Kev Pope, the Computer Man
Have Knowhow
Siret 49239708800021
Repairs / upgrades to laptop /
desktop computers.
Installations, virus removal,
Broadband, wifi / networking,
Data recovery
Home and business callouts.
Lessons available.
Building Work, Babies
& Blunders
Me: So what do you want for your 4th birthday
next week?
Izzy: Erm… a cake please.
Me: OK… anything else?
Izzy: Candles on it.
Me: And what present?
Izzy: Nothing else, thank-you.
I wonder how many more birthdays Izzy will
have where this is all she wants.
Unfortunately, she wants to make her own
cake and our kitchen cannot accommodate
more than one person at any one time.
I’m still keeping everything crossed that we
will have our new, bigger kitchen by
Christmas, when I shall regret having made
so many promises of baking days.
20 years experience
Alan has been lifting the roof to allow for a
bedroom above the living-room/kitchen.
Tel: 07 86 27 25 51 / 05 49 07 52 26
rob@robsmith-it.com
www.robsmith-it.com
Like others, our design decisions are based
on what is cheapest and which method is
quickest.
Fortunately, Alan makes timber frame houses,
so rather than having to buy stone and pay
RobSmith-IT
someone to build up the walls, he has made
Computers for many people are rather like cars.
it from wood. He will crepe it, so it’ll look the
They are used every day and relied on to start
same, but provide better insulation and will
and perform as they should. Then one day
have cost considerably less!
nothing happens, or if it does it’s not what you
want. For many people this is a moment of Meanwhile, the girls and I are refurbishing an
bafflement. Regular service and maintenance old caravan that will be their play room. We’ve
can avoid the baffling moments, but, although had great fun spraying it with paint, bringing
service for your car is thought of, that for your out my inner graffiti artist, and creating a jungle
computer is likely to be forgotten until the day effect.
everything stops. Regular service need not be The interior is a mish mash of cheap wrapping
expensive and in the long run can prevent more paper, old magazines and left-over paint…
expensive work. Visit www.RobSmith-IT.com to Why? Because it is the quickest and
view service options.
cheapest… Not sure it’s a style I want in my
Siret no:510 987 480 00017
new kitchen tho’.
Mobile Computer/Satellite Services
Desktops
Laptops
Tablets
Internet
Mobiles
Sky / Freesat
On-site
Remote
Workshop
www.comsatfr.com
Mike Norman
Depts 16, 79 & 86
05.45.38.74.50
06.04.46.56.42
info@comsatfr.com
Siret 44535334500017
BLUNDER: The girls had a school trip to the
woods and we were told they must wear
wellies and a waterproof jacket. Not knowing
what wellies are called here in France, I was
trying to explain to someone that I needed to
get new ones for them as their others were
getting too small.
“I want boxes for their feet,” I said in French.
Confusion. “Boxes. I need to get bigger boxes
for them.” Still confusion so I wrote it down:
B O I T E S. More confusion, until the penny
dropped and I was missing one small
horizontal line off the ‘I’.
“B O T T E S!”
Leanne Bradbury runs Créativité, selling
handmade gifts, upcycled and pre-loved items,
to raise money for a project to create a leisure /
respite centre for people with disabilities. See:
www.creativite.webs.com. Or call 05 45 21 79 73
for the building services of hubby Alan.
52
LEGGETT
BELLAC
The most successful team in the
biggest foreign agency in France.
Sale of 86 houses completed in
this area so far this year and
another 35 sales agreed.
LIMOGES
ANGOULÊME
ST. YRIEIX
LA PERCHE
info@leggettfrance.com
www.leggettfrance.com
Charente Immobilier East
Charente-immobilier.com
Email: tom@charente-immobilier.com
Tel: 06 02 31 95 27
Charente Immobilier East
Charente Immobilier is a registered French real
estate agency. Tom Larmar represents the
agency as an Agent Commercial covering the
East of the Charente. If you are selling or buying
from Angoulême to Chabanais, Ruffec to
Montbron or La Rochefoucauld to Confolens
please get in contact. We had a busy weekend at
the French property exhibition in London meeting
buyers and sellers alike. See our full portfolio at
www.charente-immobilier.com or visit our
Charente Immobilier East page on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/CharenteImmobilierEast
www.gourdonimmobilier.com
70 Avenue de la Libération 87320 Bussière-Poitevine
T : 05 55 60 03 85 / 06 86 93 80 65 / 06 76 30 13 43
E : gourdonimmobilier@orange.fr
80,000€ FAI
Ref
6428
MEZIERES-SURISSOIRE
Attractive detached
stone property, 4
beds, barn, 2890m²
garden & meadow,
hamlet location
210,000€ FAI
Ref: 6294 DARNAC
4 bedroom farmhouse beautifully
renovated, 2 barns,
& 2169m² garden.
Hamlet location
Subscribe to receive etcetera by post
28€ / year (France) 18€ / year (UK)
(low cost brochure tariff offered by La Poste to UK addresses only)
Send your payment with your name & address by cheque to :
etcetera, 7 La Gervaudie, 87190 Magnac Laval, France
or call 0033 (0)5 55 68 15 77 to make a payment by card
53
Immobiliers
ÉTUDE MOUGNAUD
DELAROCHETTE RIFFAUD
29 bd Victor Hugo
87200 Saint Junien
ÉTUDE COURIVAUD MORANGE
LORIOT CHEYRON
27 av Henri Barbusse
87200 Saint Junien
Service Immobilier
05 55 02 91 91
email : immonotaires87@wanadoo.fr
site : www.immonotaires87.com
Service Immobilier
05 55 02 11 11
email : immo@courivaud.com
site : www.cmvnotaires.com
Commune of St Junien (La
Bretagne), direct access to
main routes. Habitable stone
village house. Comprises
kitchen, living room with
insert fire, 3 bedrooms (one ground floor), 2
bathrooms, wc, boiler room and cellar. Central
heating via a Viessmann boiler, mains drainage,
garden 100m2 and garage. Energy: E 92,012€
Commune
of
Cheronnac,
nonattached renovated
farmhouse
on
100m2 plot. Fitted
kitchen, living room
with stove, leading
to terrace. 2 bedrooms (one on ground floor),
bathroom & wc. Double glazing, mains
Town of Chabanais, semi-detached traditional drainage. No work to do. Energy: D 83,722€
stone house with slate roof. Grd floor: entrance Commune of Cheronnac, restored & calm
hall, kitchen 17m2 with fittings & veranda. Boiler hamlet location. Renovated farm on one level
room, 12m2, office 14m2, living room 35m2 with 86m2. Fitted kitchen 13m2, living room 29m2
chimney, lounge 22m2 with chimney, bedroom with covered terrace 46m2, 3 bedrooms, 2
14m2, bathroom/wc 3.7m2. 1st floor: appartment bath-rooms,
wc,
type 3, currently rented out garage & enclosed
for 2,940€/year. 2nd floor: 2 land 450m2. Mains
loft areas, 2 guest rooms & drainage, double
wc, without heating. Garden glazing. No work
to side & rear 1442m2 plus required. Energy: D
garage. Energy: C 124,972€ 124,972€
Ref: CB10150
€98,000 F.A.I
2 bed French village
house with garden, barn
& outbuilding
Grd flr: Office 15m², utility room 14m², wc, large
gallery 50m², sunroom 50m², garage & boiler room.
1st flr: hall, fitted kitchen 15m², dining /living room
33m², TV room 19m², 3 beds 19, 15m & 11m², one
with ensuite., bath /shower room 9m². Loft, new
roof. GCH (DPE C 120). Secluded garden 140 m²
REDUCED! €130,000 FAI/Agency fees incl.
3 bed town
house in
heart of
Bellac.
Lovely views
over river.
Ref 1677
103,010€
all in.
Time has come for me to say goodbye! My
retirement will start on 1st of December!
It has been such fun and I am grateful to have met
many nice people, some of whom became lovely
friends. Through 16 years, I have seen so many
properties; fabulous ones, and some needing some
serious renovation! Over that time it has been lovely
seeing projects achieved and sad when dreams are
unable to be realized. I will miss my work but it is time
for change! I am looking forward to spending more
time on my lifelong hobby of drawing. Plus I want to
spend more time with our grandchildren in London
and with my French family and our friends too!
The properties I have mandated will be looked after
by my colleagues; Laura, Helen & Alexia. They are
very professional and hard working - I will miss them
enormously!
So it is good bye, au revoir; time to turn the page.
Love & peace to all, Claude Lagny Edwards
For visits or enquiries:
Laura Kennell - Agent Immobilier
Helen Ford - Co-gerant, Agence Le Prince Noir
1 rue de l'Anglin, 36310 CHAILLAC
02 54 36 99 50 / www.agenceprincenoir.com
54
2 bed property
with large barn
& outbuildings
on an extensive
plot.
Ref 1672
86,275€ all in.
For more info contact :
Lisa McKenna E: frenchpa@orange.fr
T: 09 66 84 68 77 / M: 06 77 01 21 73
or visit www.thefrenchpropertyagent.com
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Venteux
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Down
LE DORAT (87)
Town house ready to move into!
2 bed House &
barn
conversion in a
pretty hamlet
close to
Rancon.
Ref 1663
103,010€ all in.
Ref: CB10158
€232,000 F.A.I
4 bedroom traditional
longere set in pretty
hamlet with attached
land 1.25Ha
Property Sales in France
WANTED - Properties in and around Montmorillon, L’Isle Jourdain, Bussiere Poitevine, Le
Dorat, Lussac Les Chateaux. The winter exhibition season is almost over, Olympia, Rightmove
and A Place in the Sun reported a big increase in visitors and your properties are needed to add to
my portfolio ready for Autumn/Winter viewings. Many people think October to February is quiet, it
is not; and if you want to be seen, now is the time to call me; unless you already advertise with
Immoboulevard/Cabinet de France. Valuations are free and are no obligation.
Mme Claude Lagny-Edwards
6 bld du 8 mai 1945, 87210 Le Dorat
www.agenceprincenoir.com
T: 05 55 68 59 29 or 06 08 05 16 48
E: claude.lagny-edwards@wanadoo.fr
We have properties to suit all budgets; visit our
website to find your ideal French home. If you
can't find what you are looking for, contact us
using the details below, as we have new
properties coming in on a daily basis. We offer
a comprehensive bilingual service and will be
by your side through each step of the buying
process. All our prices include all fees and
taxes, so the price you see is the price you
pay, NO HIDDEN EXTRAS !
If you have a property for sale, please call for
a free valuation - we may already have clients
looking for just your kind of property!
Below is a snapshot of what we have to offer:
xword & sudoku solver
cathe@propertysalesinfrance.com
www.PropertySalesInFrance.com
The French Property Agent
Carte Professionelle No. 463 délivrée de la
Préfecture de la Dordogne
Across
Cathe Bower
Tel: 05 49 48 37 74 / 06 09 60 60 82
PLP IMMOBILIER
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Brouillard
Gelée
Râteau
Manteau
Frais
Toussaint
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Private Property For Rent
Private Property / Businesses For Sale
FOR SALE.
New built 4 bed house
(618)
15 min outside Rochechouart direction La
Rochefoucauld. Set on edge of a small
commune, plot 1,600m2.
Fitted kitchen with cooker, oven, dishwasher,
fridge freezer. 3 bathrooms, dining room.
Tiled or parquet floors throughout.
Large 2 car garage with electric doors. Exterior
render to be finished in colour of choice.
185,000€ plus fees.
Also available: 2nd house on 1,300m2 plot
next door, walls, roof, floors and all exterior
doors and windows fitted, sister of above
house, just not finished.
250,000€ plus fees for both plots.
For info please ring Dave 06 25 20 99 13
COTTAGE FOR SALE
Stone, mid-terrace renovated cottage in very
pleasant hamlet a few miles from old market
town of Piegut Pluviers.
Large open plan lounge/dining room/kitchen.
Wood burning stove. 3 Bedrooms, bathroom,
cellar. Large garden to rear.
Separate stone barn to rear which could be
renovated into living accommodation etc.
At present renovation has commenced - ie, a
new extension to barn suitable for mezzanine
& bedroom. Also ground floor large living area.
House is ideal for living in or letting out as
rental home (was rented at 450é per month) or
holiday accommodation.
Price £65,000 to sell quickly
because no funds to complete conversion.
For further information email:
(491)
albert.wyatt@orange.fr
FOR SALE - CROMAC
Private Sale
249,995€
Tel: 05 55 60 40 83
Highly desirable property - requires no work.
Lac du Mondon is just 3 mins walk.
Garden level: 2 double beds, sitting/ dining
room, office, shower room with wc & kitchen.
First floor: hall, sitting room with fireplace,
2 double beds, bathroom & wc, fitted kitchen
& large balcony. Oil-fired central heating.
2631m² beautiful fenced land & triple garage.
HOUSE FOR SALE - ROCHECHOUART
Overlooking Château - Private sale 210,000€
Superb position & views on 3000m² fenced plot.
Solar heated pool in lovely landscaped garden.
3 double bedrooms, sitting room approx 40m²,
study, superb modern kitchen. gas c.h., double
glazing, garage, huge sous sol area.
Workshop, pump house & changing room.
In all, no work to do and suitable for
Permanent or holiday home.
See photos on our own website
www.limousinproperty.weebly.com
Tel. 05 55 49 03 99
(27)
COLLECTION OF PROPERTIES FOR SALE
COTTAGE FOR RENT
SEPT/OCT 2014 TO APRIL/MAY 2015
NEAR SAUZE VAUSSAIS DEUX SERVES
(444)
On a beautiful 3677m² plot of land:
Two traditional houses of 158m² and 120m².
Two garages, large playroom (for table tennis
etc) boiler room (fuel oil & wood).
150m² barn. Two old houses to renovate
(with bread oven) plus 82m² barn with
possibility to add 30m² extension.
This unusual opportunity offers many
possibilities to develop a home and business
including gites, spa etc.
DPE Logement Econome: D / Faible Emission de GES: C
289,000€ Tel: 06 77 34 84 99
Email: tao-bong@wanadoo.fr
(164)
The property is a charming renovated cottage
with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms that can
accommodate up to 6 people The property is
fully furnished and set in attractive large
grounds with an in ground pool. The property
is located in a small hamlet - a short walk
from Sauzé Vaussais.
Price excluding utility costs and wood for
winter €600 per month.
For further details please contact
Tom or Gill: 0044 (0)1509 852864 or
Email: t.wedgewood@hotmail.com
ELSA OF KORA
SHABBY CHIC BARN/GITE FOR RENT
PAVILLION FOR SALE
(457)
Situated in a pretty village, Limalonges,
with restaurant and bakery, supermaket,
pharmacy and all other trades a short
distance away. Near N10 for Ruffec, Civray,
Poitiers & Angoulême.
4 bedrooms, large living and dining rooms,
well fitted kitchen, bathroom with wc and
bidet and separate toilet. Fully decorated.
Well maintained garden to front and rear.
Private sale, no agents fee
Tel: 05 49 07 77 38 for details
(597)
PLOT OF 5825msq WITH CU
ONLY 26,500€
A fantastic opportunity to buy a large plot of
land with CU already obtained for a 167msq
property, but with the potential to comfortably
create two separate homes.
This private, enclosed plot, with mature
Douglas fir trees to the front aspect, is set
within walking distance of the centre of
Pressignac 16150, which has all local
amenities and bus to the local school.
The local equestrian centre is close by and
leisure lakes with their beaches, bathing,
fishing, sailing and restaurants just a short
distance. A golf course is just ½ hour away.
The towns of Chabanais and Rochechouart,
with their supermarkets, brico stores and
eateries are 10 minutes. Angouleme is just 40
minutes away and has direct TGV rail links to
the UK (via Lille) and Paris. Limoges airport is
40 minutes. Bordeaux, Bergerac and Poitiers,
airports are all within reasonable distance.
For more information: 05 45 31 89 88
PARTHENAY - LAKE FOR SALE (483)
78m x 65m
Carp to 25lbs, tench and roach.
Plus quarter acre of woodland across road,
As well as 6 berth caravan & shed next to lake
£20,000
Mike 0044 208 9046150 (London)
0044 753 1088154 (Mobile)
or email mrichardson5346@hotmail.co.uk
Am in France from 26th Nov to 10th Dec
55
Newly renovated stone barn, sleeping up to 8
people set in 3500sqm of land with stunning
views, close to the Dordogne border.
Parking for 2 vehicles, large garden with BBQ,
parasols & garden furniture, trampoline & pool.
Available all year round for house hunters &
holiday rentals.
Please contact us for details:Marsac, 16220 Eymouthiers, Poitou Charente
UK mob: 0044 7977 783834
Email: elsaofkora@gmail.com
www.elsaofkora.co.uk
Sat Nav: 45.651230, 0.537364
MOBILE HOME FOR RENTAL
Champagnac La Rivière
2 bedrooms, sleeps 4, large lounge
fully equipped kitchen, shower etc
Short/long term
05 55 01 22 83 pvbureau@parcverger.com
LUXURY MOBILE HOME
PORT GRIMAUD Bay of St Tropez
www.holidayprairies.com
A/C 2 bed Mobile home on Prairies de La Mer
with own private beach.
Bright and modern mobile home in a fantastic
location with beach-side bars and
restaurants, water sports facilities and spa
centre plus ferry to St Tropez across the bay.
Bookings now being taken for 2014.
Contact linz.e@orange.fr for
(AS02)
details/photos/prices
COSTA BLANCA
(AL102)
House for holiday rent.
3 bedrooms, sleeps 6.
Situated in southern Costa Blanca
From 200€ pw Tel: 05 49 97 15 56
All UK registered vehicles wanted - cars, vans,
trucks, caravans, trailers, motorcycles etc. Any
Mercedes Benz SL320 Automatic. Registered condition. Also French CT failures. Will collect,
in France with 2 cash paid. T:06 99 61 54 21 (PJL18)
years CT. 1997.
GENERAL
New tyres &
battery, all usual
Dining room / pool table,
SL refinements.
Six chairs, cues, balls,
Detachable hard
rests, as new, 1,500€
top, dark Green body with off-white interior in
ovno, can send more
excellent condition. Full service history until it was
pictures. We are in
garaged four years ago. 7,500€ or vno. T:05 45
Chabanais T: 05 45 71 58
31 89 91 (07)
09 (615)
Peugeot
406.
Silver, 1999, very
Full size (board size 150cm x 100cm) floor
good condition. 2
standing engineering drawing board with
years CT, petrol. 2
professional engineering head & scale rules
new tyres. French
150€. Cast iron fire surround (w 92cm, h
registerd, RHD.
(11)
125cm) 80€. Swan's nest, fire dogs , and cast
1,000€ ono. E:
iron fireback (w 63cm) 150€.
martingcarroll@yahoo.co.uk / T:06 30 88 93 77
Black iron fire guard (70cm
Honda Deauville x 70cm ) 25€. Cast iron fire
(497)
650cc, reg 2000, front (40cm wide) 15€.
4,000km
only. Portable oil-filled radiator
French
immat- 20€. Pair of bar stools
riculation
2004. 20€.T:05 55 60 08 06 / E:
3,500€ ono. T:05 49 iconnortyler@orange.fr (13)
83 07 13 after 6pm
VEHICLES/TRAILERS/MOBILE HOMES
Peugeot 807 HDI
Executive. 2.2 td.
RHD, fully French
registered. New
CT April 2014. Full
Service History.
104,000 miles. First registered March 2004. Built
in Sat Nav. 2,950€ ovno. T:05 49 84 36 40 /06
34 02 83 08 (609)
Brenderup 1205S
750Kg,
single
axle, steel trailer.
Payload
610Kg.
Internal dimensions
(03)
203cmx116cmx
Wooden gate,
70cm. Includes removable 35cm extension sides
locking,
3m
- doubling load height to 70cm. Comes with full
opening. Good
load cover. Can be stored vertically if required.
condition. 90€.
Light use. Tyres in excellent condition, unused
T:05 55 03 59 83
spare wheel included. 800€. (note; stock photo
(14)
as trailer in storage but available immediately).
T:06 27 19 20 32 (N. Haute Vienne/Magnac Laval) Altrad B165 700W mixer.
Capacity of 140L. Light use,
RHD Jeep Grand
perfect working order. Costs 239€
Cherokee 2.7CRD
in Castorama, seeking 120€.
Limited 4 x 4. Black,
(note; stock photo as mixer in
2003, automatic, full
storage
but
available
cream leather interior,
immediately). T:06 27 19 20 32 (04)
135,000 miles. Fully
(N. Haute Vienne/ Magnac Laval)
French
registered,
VGC in and out. Great for winter months, lovely Nardi Insert Oven, good working condition and
drive. 6,250€. E:thegannons87290@hotmail.com has smoked glass oven door 70€. Dog Guard to
T:06 74 27 81 40 (15)
fit Jeep 60€. 2 speed Ceiling Fan 20€. T:05 55
60 64 03 (08)
1993 Fiat Ducato Camper, 2.5TD 5 berth.
Little used dog cage, suit back of estate car
6,750€. T: 06 75 08 45 30 (619)
30€. Also large dog bed, little used 15€. Details
Peugeot 807 HDI, French reg LHD full CT just
T:05 55 48 69 80 (10)
been serviced and had 4 new tyres. 2.2L diesel,
Keep Fit Step Machine, 20€, Orion Digital LCD
7 seater, cruise control, air con, radio CD, tow
TV 70€, Double Divan 40€, Philips TV 30€.
bar, full service history.130,000km, pale metalic
T:05 55 68 41 32 E: j_hatcher@sky.com (12)
blue. 5,250€ ono. T:05 45 65 23 67 (617)
MacGregor Golf Clubs, bag and trolley. Clubs
To fit 1971 VW Beetle 1300, 4 wheels and
1, 3 to 9 plus balls and other items. 150€ ono.
tyres, 2 Town and Country wheels and tyres
Golf shoes size 39, 15€ ono. T: Isabelle 05 49
with snow studs also numerous new spares
84 17 73 (613)
175€. T:05 55 60 64 03 (09)
Various items of furniture, inc a near new
Various sit-on mowers, from garden to
commercial cooker, custom made wardrobe/
professional usage. T: 06 75 08 45 30 (614)
double guest bed (looks like wardrobe, becomes
Renault Twingo 2007, 112,000 kms, CT 04/15,
bed) 100€, Whirlpool washing machine, needing
1.2 litre 16V, alloy wheels, central locking,
slight attention 40€. All low prices to clear space.
towbar. 4,500€ ono. T:05 55 48 64 51
T:05 49 97 15 56 to enquire or view (611)
Maisonnais sur Tardoire (87), borders 16/24 (487)
Rolls of Insulation in stock - see The Reclamation
Nov 2011 Kymco Pulsar 125cc motorbike.
Yard advert for details.
Black, French registered, less than 1,000km.
G Plan Sideboard, as new, offers around 60€. T:05
Very good condition. 750€. T:05 55 78 43 56
55 60 40 83 (14)
(492)
56
OAKFIREWOOD4U. We supply 100% oak
firewood offcuts. It
varies in size from a
mobile phone to a
computer keyboard.
This is very popular
(414)
for
Cuisinieres,
Rayburns and Pot belly fires, being semi-dry it
should be ready for burning this winter. 1 load of
approx. 3.5m3 is 115€, 2 loads of approx. 7m3 is
220€ or special offer 3 loads approx. 10.5m3 300€
- includes free delivery up to 30kms from Villefagnan
16240, small surcharge for up to 60kms. T: evenings
05 45 30 74 51 or email Oakfirewood4U@gmail.com
Dry Oak Firewood.
64€/stère cut in 50cm,
69€/stère cut in 33cm,
74€/stère cut in 25cm.
Free delivery for 7 stères.
(211) T:05 55 76 21 92 / 06 77
58 07 89/ 06 30 61 34 46
ANIMALS
Lurcher Pups. Home bred from champion
winning and excellent working lines. Mother (chip
no.900008800112108) - collie/greyhound x
collie/greyhound/bedlington and father deerhound x deerhound/greyhound. Both
parents can be seen, are good with livestock
including cats and are loyal, affectionate, calm
and well-behaved. Black, brown and brindle dogs
and bitches available. Wormed & well socialised,
these gorgeous pups will make great working
dogs or fantastic family pets. Ready-mid
November. Photos available on request. 200€
dogs/250€ bitches to loving responsible homes
only. T:05 55 60 14 18 (616)
WANTED
Books wanted. Are you having a clear out or
moving and have any old books you want to dispose
of? Please give me a call or email: 05 45 71 09 21
/ traceyepona17@aol.com (268)
Cash paid for scrap metal - iron, steel, old
vehicles, aluminium, copper, brass, lead, wire etc.
Any amount large or small. Will collect. T: 06 99 61
54 21 (PJL19)
Wanted rotavators, chainsaws, lawnmowers,
generators, all garden machinery etc, any
condition, working or not. Cash paid. T:06 99 61 54
21 (PJL20)
Old motorcycles and mopeds especially 50cc
motorcycles any condition considered. Stewart 05
49 87 01 14 or e:f5vjj@live.co.uk (A124)
Old oak floor boards, any condition. Demolition
undertaken where necessary. Good prices paid for
good beams. Terry 05 45 30 72 04 (A22)
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