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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Welcome! to Issue 29 of

‘The DeuxSèvres Monthly’ magazine.

Well, we certainly have a packed issue for you this month, with many new advertisers and lots of things to do and festivals to visit. It does feel like the theme this month is music! Let’s hope that the weather stays dry for these events as they take such a lot of organisation, and it’s a shame for them not to be enjoyed.

I’ve also got my ‘organisational hat’ on for our second Trade Fair (Foire Commerciale) in September. It will again be held in our village, Secondigny, and the stands are booking up fast! We are always looking for demonstrations for the day, so if you think you have something of interest to share / demonstrate, please do give me a call.

If I could dance, I would do so for some sunshine..... let’s hope it puts in an appearance soon! rah.

à plus, Sa

Email: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr or Tel: 05 49 70 26 21 website: www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

Emergency Numbers: 15 SAMU, Medical 17 Gendarmes, Police 18 Pompiers, Fire

112 European emergency 113 Drugs and alcohol

CONTENTS

What’s On.....................................................................................4 Hobbies, Clubs & Associations.....................................................6 Getting Out & About....................................................................7 Take a Break...............................................................................16 A-­‐Z of the Communes in the Deux-­‐Sèvres.................................17 Health, Beauty & Fitness............................................................18 Our Furry Friends.......................................................................20 The Great Outdoors...................................................................22 French Life, Food & Drink..........................................................26 Motoring....................................................................................29 French Adventures.....................................................................32 Communications........................................................................33 Building & Renovation...............................................................35 Business, Finance & Property.....................................................41

THIS MONTH’S ADVERTISERS

79 Renovations.....................................................................................................39 A2B Food Services............................................................................................... 27 A La Bonne Vie (Restaurant)................................................................................ 28 Ace Pneus (Tyre Supplier & Fitter)...................................................................... 30 Affordable UK Designs (Kitchens & UPVC D/Glazing)......................................... 2 AKE Petits Travaux (Builder)................................................................................ 39 Alan Pearce (Plumbing & Heating)..................................................................... 37 All In One..............................................................................................................39 Andrew Longman (Plumber)............................................................................... 38 Angie Weston (Mosaic Workshops).....................................................................11 A.P.S. Automobiles (FORD Garage)...................................................................... 30 Arbrecadabra.com (Tree surgery)........................................................................22 Bar/Brasserie Vue du Chateau.............................................................................9 Belle Maison (Construction & Cleaning Services)............................................... 37 Bijoux en Fleurs (Handmade jewellery)...............................................................11 Bill McEvoy (Plumber / Heating Engineer).......................................................... 38 Blevins Franks International Tax & Wealth Management................................... 41 Blue Bicycle B&B / Chambre d’Hôtes.................................................................. 44 British Mobile Mechanic (John Purchase)...........................................................30 Buzay Autos......................................................................................................... 30 Café des Belles Fleurs.......................................................................................... 28 Caniclôture (Hidden fencing)............................................................................... 20 Centre de Beauregard.......................................................................................... 7

...continued.

Centre Régional ‘Résistance & Liberté’............................................................... 8 Chris Bassett Construction.................................................................................. 39 Christies (English Book Shop and Tea Room)...................................................... 7 Cleaning Services by Karen.................................................................................. 44 CSB Construction................................................................................................. 36 Currencies Direct (Money Transfers)................................................................... 42 Cut 46 (Hair Salon).............................................................................................. 19 DB Electricité....................................................................................................... 36 David Cropper (Stump Grinding & Jungle Busting)............................................ 22 DJ Jeff (Professional DJ)....................................................................................... 9 D J Maintenance (Handyman)............................................................................ 37 EcoPower (Solar Thermal Trading Company)...................................................... 44 Electricien Anglais en France.............................................................................. 36 Energie-­‐79........................................................................................................... 38 Franglais Deliveries.............................................................................................. 31 Fresco Interiors.................................................................................................... 11 Futuroscope......................................................................................................... 40 Gan Assurance (Insurance Services)................................................................... 31 Gardens & Stuff.................................................................................................... 24 George Rayner Computers.................................................................................. 34 Give the Dog a Comb (Dog Grooming)............................................................... 20 Glass 2 France...................................................................................................... 2 GL Joinery (Carpenter / Joiner)........................................................................... 36 Hallmark Electronique (Electricians & Sat. Engineers)........................................ 36 Heather’s Pet Care Services................................................................................ 20 Homes In France (Tony Murdoch)....................................................................... 39 Insink Plumbing................................................................................................. .. 38 James Harris (Plasterer)....................................................................................... 37 John Spray Maçonnerie (Stonemason)............................................................... 39 Jon Crocker Photography..................................................................................... 43 Keith Banks Pool Services.................................................................................... 38 La Deuxieme Chance (Annie Sloan chalk paint supplier).................................... 35 La Petite Épicerie (General Groceries & British Produce)................................... 27 L’Étable Gastronomique (Restaurant)................................................................. 26 Leggett Immobilier.............................................................................................. 46 Les Bons Voisins................................................................................................... 44 Les Deux Chênes (Cattery)................................................................................... 20 Les Ecuries du Saumort (Horse Riding School).................................................... 20 Le Petit Cadeau.................................................................................................... 11 Le Petit Logis (B&B and Chambre d’Hotes)......................................................... 44 Le Petit Pillac (Holiday Accommodation)............................................................ 27 L’Immobilier de l’Autize....................................................................................... 44 Man & Van (Keith McNie).................................................................................... 31 Mad Hatter’s Kitchen.......................................................................................... 26 Mark Sabestini Renovation & Construction........................................................ 36 MB Plumbing & Building Services....................................................................... 38 MCH Groundworks/Construction....................................................................... 40 Michael Glover (Plasterer, Renderer & Tiler)...................................................... 37 Michael Hobson (Painter & Decorator)............................................................... 35 Michael William Hairdressing.............................................................................. 19 ML Computers..................................................................................................... 34 Motor Parts Charente.......................................................................................... 29 Mutuelle de Poitiers Assurances......................................................................... 31 Nathan Foster Building Services.......................................................................... 36 Needa Hand Services........................................................................................... 39 Owners Direct...................................................................................................... 45 Pamela Irving (Massage & Reflexology).............................................................. 18 Pascale Matéo (French Lessons)......................................................................... 15 Pause! Café.......................................................................................................... 27 Philip Irving (Mini Digger hire)............................................................................. 40 Polar Express (Frozen Foods).............................................................................. 27 Premier Autos (Mechanic).................................................................................. 30 Restaurant des Canards....................................................................................... 26 Rob Berry (Plasterer)........................................................................................... 37 Robert Walker Plomberie.................................................................................... 38 Ross Hendry (Interface Consulting & Engineering)............................................. 33 Sandy G (Ladies & Gents Hairdresser)................................................................. 18 Sarah Berry Online (Graphics & Website Design)............................................... 34 Satellite TV (Nigel Gubb)...................................................................................... 34 sarl Down to Earth (Groundwork & Construction)............................................. 40 Sawmill -­‐ Alain Miot............................................................................................. 39 Sentinel Security Systems.................................................................................... 44 Siddalls (Financial Advisors)................................................................................. 43 Simon Bienz (Carpenter / Joiner)........................................................................ 36 Simon The Tiler.................................................................................................... 38 Spectrum IFA Group (Amanda Johnson)............................................................. 42 Steve Enderby...................................................................................................... 35 Sue Burgess (French Courses & Translation)....................................................... 15 The English Mechanic & Son -­‐ Tony Eyre............................................................ 30 The Market.......................................................................................................... 7 Threading by Carolyn.......................................................................................... 18 Total Renovation Services (Michael Dominey)................................................... 35 Tracey Bowring (Hairdressing & Nails)................................................................ 18 Vendée Carriers................................................................................................... 31 Vendée Houses.................................................................................................... 14

© Sarah Berry 2013. All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced without permission. While care is taken to ensure that articles and features are accurate, Sarah Berry accepts no liability for reader dissatisfaction. The opinions expressed and experiences shared are given by individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the publisher. Please ensure you verify that the company you are dealing with is a registered trading company in France and/or elsewhere. <<The Deux-­‐Sèvres Monthly>> est édité par Sarah Berry, La Bartière, 79130, Secondigny. Tél: 05 49 70 26 21. Directeur de la publication et rédacteur en chef: Sarah Berry. Crédits photos: Sarah Berry, Clkr et morgeufile.com. Impression: Raynaud Imprimeurs, zone industrielle, BP13, 79160, Coulonges-­‐sur-­‐l’Autize. Dépôt légal: juillet 2013 -­‐ Tirage: 5000 exemplaires. Siret: 515 249 738 00011 ISSN: 2115-­‐4848

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

What’s On... July 2013 1st July -­‐ Top Hat Quiz & Curry at Limalonges See www.tophatquizzes.com for more information.

1st July-­‐16th September -­‐ Summer Exhibition.

At the Château de Coulonges, 79160. Photographs of Church wall paintings -­‐ Peintures murales -­‐ médiévales et gothiques" by Howard Needs. Can also be seen during guided tours of the Château which are bilingual. For further information see website: www.ville-­‐coulonges-­‐sur-­‐lautize.fr 3rd July -­‐ Open Guitar Night at Bressuire at Bar/Brasserie Vue du Chateau. Bring your guitar, strum with friends. From 6.30pm.

4th July -­‐ Top Hat Quiz & Curry at Chef Boutonne See www.tophatquizzes.com for more information.

6th July -­‐ Charroux Festival For more information, see flyer on P.8 or call 05 49 87 60 12 9th-­‐14th July -­‐ Airvault Music & Dance Festival See programme of events on the right of this page.

10th July -­‐ Top Hat Quiz & Curry at Aigre See www.tophatquizzes.com for more information.

11th July -­‐ Traders Day at Pause! Café, l’Absie with Paperback Jan, Red, White & Blue and much more. 2pm-­‐5pm. See advert on P.27 for details.

11th July -­‐ Top Hat Quiz & Curry at Champniers See www.tophatquizzes.com for more information.

12th July -­‐ Quiz Night At Camping Moulin, Chef Boutonne. Please see advert on P.26 for details.

13th July -­‐ Live Music with ‘Mr BlackJack’ At Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux from 8pm. See advert on P.28 for details.

14th July -­‐ Fete Nationale at Bressuire at Bar/Brasserie Vue du Chateau. Panoramic view of Chateau and fireworks, Menu 15€, Reservation Only with live music 60s group Three+One. 16th July -­‐ Novice Pony Day at La Chapelle Thireuil With Les Ecuries du Saumort. Please see advert on P.20 for details.

17th July -­‐ Mind, Body & Soul Pampering Afternoon At Pause! Café, L’Absie. Everyone welcome, 2-­‐5pm. See advert on P.27 19th July -­‐ Music Night with Angie Palmer at Mad Hatter’s Kitchen, Caunay. Please see advert P.26 20th July -­‐ Live Music with ‘Geoff & Helen’ At Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux from 8pm. See advert on P.28.

20th & 21st July -­‐ British Weekend In La Mothe St. Héray. Numerous activities will be on offer: an English breakfast, afternoon tea, tug of war, British market etc. For information please call 05 49 05 06 05.

26th July -­‐ Quiz Night At Camping Moulin, Chef Boutonne. See advert on P.26 for details.

26th July -­‐ Show Jumping Day at La Chapelle Thireuil With Les Ecuries du Saumort. Please see advert on P.20 for details.

27th July -­‐ The Royal British Legion Summer Fair At Salle de Fêtes, Linazay. Trade stands, Brocante, Music, Classic cars, Food, and much more. Please find more info on P.9 or on website: www.rblpoitou-­‐charentes.fr 28th July -­‐ Horse & Dog Fun Show From 8.30am at Centre de Beauregard, 86250 Asmois. For information, please see advert on P.9 28th July -­‐ Café Crafts Club At Café des Belles Fleurs, 11am-­‐4pm. Please see more details on P.13 31st July -­‐ PC Course “Using the Cloud” At Pause! Cafe L’Absie, 10.15am. Please contact Ross on rs.hendry@gmail.com for further details or to book a place.

What’s Coming Up...

9th-­‐10th August -­‐ Mad Hatter’s Music Festival See full details on P.10 13th August -­‐ Picnic ride at La Chapelle Thireuil With Les Ecuries du Saumort -­‐ please reserve a place on 05 49 05 30 75 15th August -­‐ Village Family Fun Day At Loubillé, 79110 from 12 noon. For more info, please email: frenchvillagediaries@gmail.com

Monthly services at the English speaking Church in Deux-­‐Sèvres Jassay The Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd, Poitou-­‐Charentes, has a Home Group Service at Jassay commencing at 11.00am every 2nd Sunday in the month. It is held at the home of Ann White, where a warm welcome awaits everyone for a time of worship and fellowship.

St Leger Church Services on the 1st Sunday of each month at 10.30am at the St Leger near Melle starting its summer season from May 5th. After each service tea or coffee is served and an opportunity to meet other people in the area.

Parthenay Church Services on the 4th Sunday of each month at 10.30am in the Presbytery Rooms, rue de la Citadelle, Parthenay, opposite St Croix Church. After each service, tea or coffee is served and everyone is invited to a 'bring and share' lunch.

For further informaoon about locaoon of churches and about what else is happening near you, please take a look at our website www.church-­‐in-­‐france.com or contact us at office.goodshepherd@orange.fr

Airvault Music and Dance Festival 9 July (21.00) at Barroux: Makhatchala Ensemble (9€) 10 July (21.00) at Irais: Ballets Fambondy from Sénégal (9€) 11 July (18.30) at Soulièvres (Airvault):

Djé Ka Fo (percussionists) free,

food and drink available 12 July Soulièvres (20.00): Brazilian meal and show with

Chalana (16€, advance booking is

necessary) 13 July (21.00) salle du Clos-­‐de-­‐L’abbaye at Airvault:

The Ukranian group Podillya (9€) 14 July, Soulièvres (Airvault):

Free show from 19h30: National

Orchestra of Barbès (couscous -­‐

please book in advance if you want to

eat) and fireworks at 23.15.

Satyananda Yoga Rysz would like to Thank all those for attending his yoga classes. The last Satyananda Yoga Class will be Thursday 4th July, after which time he will be training to become a Farrier.

The National Holidays, Religious and Feast Days 2013 Sunday 14th July...............

Thursday 15th August.......

Friday 1st November.........

Monday 11th November...

Wednesday 25th December.

Naoonal Day (Fête Na-onale de France) Assumpoon of Mary (Assomp-on) All Saint’s Day (Toussaint) Armisoce Day (Armis-ce 1918) Christmas Day (Noël)

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Looking for Authentic, Fresh Products from Our Region?

Paperback Jan Books in English

3rd July: Café Cour du Miracle, Vouvant 85120. 2.30pm-­‐4.30pm 4th July: Bar le Palais, St Aubin le Cloud 79450 2pm -­‐ 5pm 4th July: Bar/Brasserie Vue du Chateau, Bressuire 79300 10am -­‐ 12pm 5th July: Bar de la Paix, Thouars 79100. 12pm -­‐ 2pm 5th July: Le Tipsy Bar, Coulonges-­‐sur-­‐l’Autize 79160. 4pm -­‐ 6pm 7th July: Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux 79160. 2pm -­‐ 4pm 11th July: Pause! Cafe, L’Absie 79240. 2pm-­‐ 5pm 12th July: Jan’s home, La Ferrière-­‐en-­‐Parthenay. 11am -­‐ 4pm 13th July: Cafe Le Chauray, St Maixent l’Ecole 79400. 10am -­‐ 1pm 21st July: British Day at La Mothe St Héray 79800. 10am -­‐ 6pm 25th July: Le relais des 2 moulins, Clessé 79350. 4pm -­‐ 6pm 26th July: Le P’tit Bar Boucard, Ménigoute. 4pm -­‐ 6pm 28th July: Horse & Dog Fun Show, Asnois 86250. from 8.30am 31st July: Jan’s home, La Ferrière-­‐en-­‐Parthenay. 1pm -­‐ 6pm For more info contact Jan on: 06 08 30 73 29 or email: paperbackjan@gmail.com

Mr T’s Friterie

Open 6.30

-9pm

With regular venues at:

F oire (27th month) • Aulnay (Open from 6pm) • Rouillac • Gourville • St Hilaire de Villefranche • Loulay • St Jean d’Angély • Matha

+ Cognac Camping Municipal - Every Weds 6-9pm from 10/7 + 21st July: Gourville

The Thursday weekly market of La Mothe St-­‐Héray fulfills all these functions.

In addition this summer, a novelty. On the 1st Thursday of July, August, September and October, the market will run throughout the day. Local residents and residents of nearby villages and tourists can take advantage of this opportunity to find products that will delight the taste buds and other small pleasures. Do not miss this opportunity!

Information : 05.49.05.01.41.

Local Markets

• • Tuesdays: • • • Wednesdays: • Thursdays: • • Fridays: • • Saturdays: • • • • • • Sundays: Mondays:

Benet 85490 Lencloître (1st Monday in month) 86140 Lezay 79120 Coulonges-sur-l’Autize 79160 Thouars 79100 Parthenay 79200 Sauzé-Vaussais 79190 Niort 79000 Thouars 79100 Melle 79500 Chef-Boutonne 79110 Airvault 79600 Niort 79000 Coulon 79510 Saint-Maixent-l’École 79400 Neuville-de-Poitou 86170

Photo: Lisa Roberts

+ See www.frying2nite.com for details or call 06 02 22 44 74

Reel Fish & Chips Traditional English style Fish & Chips

3rd July - The Canteen, Etusson 5th July - Bar Tabac, Bouille-Loretz 6th July - Bar Vue du Chateau, Bressuire 17th July - The Canteen, Etusson 18th July - St Martin de Sanzay 19th July - Bar Tabac, Genneton 20th July - Café des Sports, L’Absie

18H30 - 21H30 18H30 - 21H00 18H30 - 21H00 18H30 - 21H00 18H30 - 21H00 18H30 - 21H00 18H30 - 22H00

Tel: 06 04 14 23 94 or visit: www.reelfishandchips.net

Open Fish 4 Chip Fish, Chips & mushy peas!

SUMMER MARKET SUNDAY 9th JUNE Organised by Aidez Association (Terves)

We would like to thank all the Stall Holders, Keynotes, 3 plus 1 and everyone who came along to help make the day a great success.

All the profits will be donated to French Local Charities

THANK YOU!

6-8pm

Mondays: Bar Tilleuls, Champniers (near Civray) Tuesdays: Sauzé-Vaussais (Main square & can be eaten in local bar) Wednesdays: Chef Boutonne (near Chateau) Thursdays: Sauzé-Vaussais - Lunchtime & Evening.

(Main square & can be eaten in local bar) Fridays: Mansle (Car park of Simply Supermarket) Tel: 06 37 53 56 20 or visit : www.mobilefishandchipsfrance.com

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Hobbies, Clubs & Associations...

Book Club Thouars. Do you enjoy reading a cracking good story?

And talking to others about it? Do you live in north 79, south 49 or north 86? Come along to our book club.....

Contact Alison Morton at info@bookclubthouars.fr for more details.

Cycling Group Do you enjoy cycling? I am a keen cyclist and looking for others to meet up with me for outings once or twice a week. Purely for leisure and very informal with a coffee stop en route. I live at Pamplie, near Secondigny.

Contact: steve.coupland@hotmail.com / 05 49 28 24 06 Open Door Lending Library Over 7000 fiction and non-fiction books and DVDs Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 10h00 to midday at 18 rue Pierre Pestureau, Civray (86400) Individual membership 6€, family membership 10€ www.opendoor-civray.com

Book Group....meeting 2nd Thursday of the Alone in France? We are a group of people living alone in the L'Absie area who meet regularly for coffee and lunches. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 11am for coffee at the Pause cafe in L'Absie. Our lunches are at different venues each month. There's a warm welcome if you'd like to join us.

More details from Frank 05 49 69 80 47.

Franglais Thouars The Thouars ‘Franglais’ group meets every Wednesday from 19.30h to 21.00h, in the Association’s centre at 7 rue Anne Desrays, Thouars, for conversation in English and French.

We welcome those of all nationalities who would like to participate. Either come along to see us one evening, or contact us at: Mobile: 06 52 21 92 34 ~ Email: jcbed@orange.fr

Association Meridien Green We are an Anglo-­‐French group which was founded in 2001 for mutual understanding of each other's language and culture. We meet twice weekly in the Salle des Associations in St Coutant, 79120. The best way to find out more is to visit our website -­‐ www.meridiengreen.asso.fr or contact Maureen Dalby: 05 49 29 94 50. The name of our group comes from the fact that St Coutant is on the Greenwich Meridian!

Le Tallud Boules en bois are offering sessions every Wednesday from 16h to 18h from April through to September 2013 at the parc de Loisirs, Le Tallud. Everyone is welcome to come and play or learn the game of boules en bois. We have all the equipment, just turn up for half an hour or more for a bit of exercise and socialising. Details from Rosemary Williamson rw.williamson@orange.fr

The Harmonics Singing Group. Based in the Salle

d'Annexe behind the mairie in Civray. We meet each Wednesday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. No experience necessary just a willingness and commitment to learn. We sing all sorts of music and in several languages, whatever the music dictates. We are a small and friendly group who would love to meet you.

Contact: Dolly Ait Boualou: 05 45 22 89 32 or sylvia.murray@wanadoo.fr or Margaret Gomersall on 05 49 48 09 02 or margaretgomersall@sfr.fr Through the Lens Group Local photography group meets on the last Monday in each month to chat about all things photography! New members welcome. For further information contact: Ian Gawn: 02 51 00 84 52 or Brian Preece: 05 49 72 09 94

month from 3pm at Christies Tea Room & Bookshop, Gençay, 86160.

Take a look at the Book Group page on the website: www.chezchristies.com for more information.

The Filling Station ~ Poitou-­Charentes The Filling Station is a network of local Christians of all denominations who meet together regularly for spiritual renewal & evangelism purposes. ALL WELCOME. Please see our website for details of meetings and spring programmes www.the=illingstation.org.uk or locally contact 05 49 87 18 58 or email:michael.willis@sfr.fr

2nd Sunday Motorcycle Club www.2ndsundayclub.fr If you would like to attend our coffee mornings please contact us via the website........New members always welcome!

Rubber Bridge:would any of you bridge players out there in the Deux-Sèvres, be interested in making up an occasional 4? Email David Rowe: djfrowe@hotmail.com or' phone 05 49 63 26 57.

Les Amis Solitaires We are a group of people living alone in France. We meet up for coffee mornings from 11am.

1st Tuesday: The Gallery, Civray (coinciding with market day).

Every 2nd & 4th Thursday, The Lemon Tree, Sauzé Vaussais.

Every 3rd Thursday in Ruffec. More details from Gwen on 05 49 87 91 79 ~ email gwanshep@gmail.com A R E Y O U A M O D E L R A I L W A Y ENTHUSIAST? If so, join a group of likeminded modellers who meet on a monthly basis to visit members' layouts and swap information. We are based on the DeuxSevres/Vendee border but also have members in the Vienne and Charente. If you are interested please contact Gerry Riley for more information on 05 49 63 34 01.

Secondigny Running Club...

Put the bounce back in your step. Join our friendly and supportive running group. All abilities welcome.

Email Kelly for more details: kellyencezelle@hotmail.co.uk

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Getting Out & About...

Summer Activities for All the Family...

There are lots of fun and exciting things to do over the summer holidays as a family in the department of Deux-­‐Sèvres. I have listed some of these activities below to help you decide what to do.

These chosen activities are for all ages and for both families living in the area and on holiday in France.

Whatever you choose, have fun and remember to stay safe in the sun!

Activities for Children Children's activity camps like “Le loup-­‐Garou” are great for children from 6 to 14 years old. They can go on small adventure holidays and do all sorts of outdoor activities like camping, horse riding, mountain biking, swimming and canoeing.

Visit www.loup-­‐garou.fr for more information.

(This is a french association, so it would be best if your child has a high level of french. Schools usually send you a leaflet about these camps.)

Local swimming pools are great for families with kids. There are many outdoor and indoor pools to choose from. You can leave your children at the pool for an afternoon and they can have lots of fun. You can buy a pack of 10 tickets for 10 swims at most pools.

This is a cheaper way of getting lots of swims.

Visit www.guide-­‐piscine.fr to find your local pool.

This is a french website and can not be translated into english.

by Philippa George

Family Activities

• Park Adventure: A great day out for all the family. Go swinging though the trees on a zip line course or go climbing across the forest on their 3 different courses for all ages. If you don't like heights, you can do a round of mini golf.

Visit: www.parc-­‐aventure-­‐79.fr for more information.

• Boca speed karting: A fun activity for families with older children. Race each other around the outdoor 880 meter course.

Visit: www.bocaspeed.fr for more information.

• Le rocher branlant: A fun park for families. Ideal for picnics. It's a fun place for small children to play and a great place if you like to walk.

• Mouton village: A great place for young children where they can see and touch the animals.

Visit: www.moutonvillage.fr for more information.

• Park de la vallée: A fun amusement park for all ages. Includes a small roller-­‐coster, western themed area and a small aquatic area.

Visit: www.parcdelavallee.com for more information.

• Le Venise Vert: A relaxing day out to the villages of the Marais Poitevin. A great place for picnics and looking around as well as all the different boat rides around the canals.

Visit: www.ville-­‐coulon.fr for more information.

There are lots of plans d'eau, lakes where you can fish, swim, canoe, and all sorts of other activities. There is also usually a restaurant, cafe and a life guard onsite.

You can find one in Secondigny, Lambon, Verruyes, St Christophe sur Roc and Luché-­‐Thuouarsais.

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

RBL Summer Fair 2013.....

Saturday 27th July, 10am -­‐ 4pm This will be our third annual Summer Fair and we hope we are learning more from the feedback given to us from you, the general public.

This year there will be many craft stalls, light refreshments, fish & chips, ice creams, British beer bar, live music, a raffle with an 80cm HD flat screen TV and HD FREESAT recorder as first and second prizes and much, much more.

For full details please see the “Summer Fair 2013” page on web site: www.rblpoitou-­‐charentes.fr. Come along, have fun and support our Armed Services and their dependants.

Every centime made will go to the Poppy Appeal 2013.

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

English Speaking Church Forms New Singing Group

Do you love to sing with other people? Then Nexus could be the group for you and we would love to hear from you.

We are a group of Christians who love to sing, and have fun together making music. We support and help lead the music in our worship. We include non-­‐religious music in order to take part in other events, or simply for the fun of doing so!

We meet together on the first and third Fridays of each month in the upper room of St Nicholas's Church, Civray from 2.30pm -­‐ 4pm. New singers are always welcome -­‐ there are no voice trials. There is no faith requirement save the willingness to take part in Christian worship. Just come along and enjoy making music. Sessions finish with tea and a time to chat together. For more information, contact Carolyn Kimber on 05 45 84 19 03 or Andy Shepherd on 05 45 29 08 93

Bar Brasserie Vue du Chateau, Bressuire Following our successful opening night, we are pleased to be welcoming a steady flow of customers to our English style bar/restaurant. It's fair to say it's been a challenging few months, but all the hard work has certainly been worth it, as we are enjoying meeting lots of new customers and receiving some lovely comments. We are now busy planning our forthcoming events, which will happen throughout the year, and hope many of you will come and pay us a visit.

The highlight of our events calendar has to be the ‘Fete Nationale’ on the 14th July, as we are ideally placed for you to enjoy in comfort (either inside or outside on the terrace) the wonderful firework display at the Chateau. On this occasion we are offering a set menu for €15 -­‐ you are advised to book early to avoid disappointment.

July's events include: Open Guitar Night, Fish and Chips Night, Paperback Jan & Jo Ashforth of Phoenix cards, Friday Pie Night and 80's Night. For more details please visit our website: www.bar-­‐brasserie-­‐vueduchateau.com Other events to look forward to: Themed Music Nights, Afternoon Cream Teas, Speed Dating, Pimms O'Clock, Halloween Night, Traditional Games Afternoons and much more... We hope you'll find something for everyone, but please let us know if you have any other event ideas and The view from the terrace suggestions.

Got something to celebrate? We can cater for parties and large groups by offering a set menu, and the ability to hire a section of the restaurant or terrace, more information available on request.

Cheers: Finally, thanks to everyone (English & French alike) for all your support, it is really appreciated. We look forward to your continued custom and to seeing you again very soon.

à bientôt, Amanda and Mark.

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

The Mad Hatter’s Kitchen Presents its 3rd Music Festival.

Step in to Wonderland and enjoy a fun-packed weekend!

9th & 10th August 2013

Circus acts, classic cars, skate ramp, sideshows, bouncy castle, trade stands. Music from 7 different bands of every style to suit all! Rag Time Ewan (Ragtime), Ghouls (Gypsy Punk-­‐Rock), Paul and the Suspenders (Glam Rock/Pop), Swallow and the Wolf (Indie/Folk), The Grey Goose (Blues Band Rock/ Blues) (playing 2 nights), The Brian Mc Combe Band (Celtic/Folk Rock) and Imperial Leisure (Alt/Ska).

BBQ, Hog roast, salad bar, Bar all day and evening. Also in the evening we have a Mad Hatter’s Feast (reservations only), Friday and Saturday.

The Festival commences on Friday from 4.30pm, free entry and on Saturday from 2.30pm, free daytime entry. Evening music is strictly tickets only and starts from 6pm, cost: 10€ Friday or Saturday. Tickets for the feast, with wine: 25€ pp includes all music, Friday or Saturday, from 6pm. Camping available for the two nights 35€ pp includes feast on Friday or Saturday night. All tickets must be booked in advance.

Please get in touch if you would like to bring a classic car! There is availability for trade stands, and the fee is 25€ for evening markets Friday and Saturday afternoon-­‐evening. For further details please call: 05 49 27 67 29 or see advert on Page 26 for information about Mad Hatter’s Kitchen.

COLOUR with Rupert !

Rupert Roxburgh-Abbs has been busy designing more pictures to colour! This time something for the Summer holidays. A selection of pictures can be downloaded and printed from our website:www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

I am often asked “how do people who consider themselves to have no artistic ability manage to produce such great mosaics in my studio?”. The answer is that to make a great mosaic you need to follow the rules of art and design that apply to all two dimensional art forms. We study composition, line, light, shade, perspective, colour theory and more, then apply these basic principals to our mosaic artworks so we improve our design and drawing skills whilst creating beautiful long lasting mosaic artworks.

Traditionally if you hear the word ‘mosaic’ you think of smashed up plates (‘pique-­‐assiette’ style) and badly grouted broken ceramic tiles. This is not what we do! For a long time this magnificent art form has been overlooked in the art/craft world as something ‘homemade’ not ‘handmade’. I am working everyday in the studio to change these ideas and show people what an amazing, practical, tactile, dynamic and challenging activity mosaic making can be. We are trying to create ‘paintings’ with tiles. Mosaics are durable, never fade in sunlight, waterproof, frost proof and have surface movement when light plays on them which make it the perfect medium for both indoor and outdoor projects.

Small Colour advert only 34€

Picture Mosaics with Angie Weston

We make tables, floor panels, wall art, bowls, tableware, decorations, trays, pots, birdbaths and jewellery.

This year the studio has welcomed makers from as far away as Russia and Japan, America and Finland for residential courses.

We have lots of ‘one-­‐ day’ workshops for makers who are on holiday here and looking to learn a new skill during their holiday (so if you have guests, friends or family staying with you and are looking for an activity for them, then here we are). We also have regular weekly sessions for makers who live in the region who are creating some brilliant artworks for their homes and gardens. So why not join them?

You can follow us on Face book and see the progress week on week of our talented makers. Call in and see us Monday toThursday 2pm -­‐ 5pm every week and be inspired.

Angie Weston’s books, ‘Mosaic Magic’ and ‘Micro Mosaics’ are available worldwide. For individual client commissions or for any shops/galleries interested in becoming stockists of her work please email: enquiries@mosaic-­‐courses.com

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Combined Services Support Group (CSSG)

by Terri Laverick So what happens when we are not rehearsing for a play?

After such a big production as Calendar Girls many of our members are taking a well earned rest, if you can call gardening and DIY a rest, but there are still a few groups who are continuing various activities.

Planning is now going ahead, not just for our next production but also for future productions. We have a large audience with a wide variety of preferences, so it is sometimes difficult to balance the type of production we put on but we do our best. So send me an email with your views and who knows your choice might be one of our next productions.

During June the Keynotes Singers have provided two concerts where we raised funds for various charities. Some of the ladies even did a sponsored slim, although why I don’t know -­‐ they look pretty good to me in our Alternative Calendar Girls Calendar which is still very much for sale... always get a plug in if you can, I always say. We have other venues planned for later in the year, dates and venues will be advertised in future.

The Keynotes have a wide repertoire ranging from “I do like to be beside the seaside” to Christmas Carols in both French and English. So if you have a charity and you would like the Keynotes to come along, just let me know.

This group is continuing throughout the summer with both weekly indoor meeting and plein air painting trips.

I have been reading the “ARTicles” column in Deux-­‐Sevres Monthly written by Josie Bounds. As all my art experience has been based on Representational art, painting what you see, I must admit I found Josie’s articles a bit high-­‐brow so I arranged to have a coffee with her at the Pause Café. Josie then agreed to attend a couple of Art Scene sessions to enlighten us. The sessions were great and caused some debate and some disagreement because like most things in life we all like different things don’t we? My thanks to Josie and I suggest you read her column and look at the courses she provides -­‐ I might see you there.

Don’t forget our Calendar is still for sale at the following four venues and will remain so for the rest of the year.: Restaurant A La Bonne Vie at Le Beugnon, Café des Belles Fleurs at Fenioux, Pause!

Cafe at L’Absie and Cafe Cour du Miracle at Vouvant.

So let me have your news and views and if you want to join any or all of our groups send me an email John Blair: johnblair@btopenworld.com

For a full list of our advertising rates, please phone 05 49 70 26 21 for an advertising pack or download from our website: www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

Well this month has been fairly quiet, only two events to remark upon, but both were interesting and fun in their own way.

On the 8th June a group of us visited the bi-­‐annual Highland Games in Bressuire, an event that both myself and my husband have been meaning to attend on several occasions, but due to the trip organised by our group we managed to make it this year.

I am so glad that we did. Parking was a dream, just outside the venue, it definitely pays to arrive early; therefore, we managed to get some of the best seats in the house to watch the participants showing muscles that I had only learned about in Anatomy and Physiology lessons! Between us, we managed to keep our seats all day, some went off to see the Irish and Highland dancers, others wanted to visit the inside of the chateau, and others wished to buy some Haggis! The finale, as far as we were concerned, was the parade of the massed bands at around 17.00 hrs when we left for home, although the event went on well into the evening.

The second event on Sunday 9th June, was at St Germain-­‐des-­‐ Longue-­‐Chaume, where we had our tombola stand. We managed to raised the sum of €91 which will shortly be wending its way to SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association) France.

The event was organised by the Aidez Association (Terves) and we had a thoroughly good time, everyone was so generous with their time and money. We would like to thank those of you who bought tickets, won prizes and especially those of you who re-­‐ donated their prizes. Perhaps you can win them back in September at the Gardening Club Produce Show, or the Christmas Market in Terves, where you can be sure we will again try and get your money from you. All in good fun of course. A special thanks must go to those who manned the stall and to those who originally donated prizes for the tombola stall.

Our next event will be the bi-­‐monthly meeting, but this time we are away from home. We shall be holding it at the vineyard of Pierre and Brigitte Van Den Boom, Domain de L'Enchantior, in Le Puy Notre Dame on 18th July. Pierre will do a tour around the vineyard and explain the wine making process and Brigitte is providing us with lunch and wine tasting after the tour.

If you would like further details, either about our meetings or if you wish to join us at any of our events please contact us on our new email address, which is CSSGroup@outlook.com. CSSG is slowly growing in numbers and we always welcome new friends to our group. So please, do come and join us.

PS. We are making good progress with organising the Beer Fest on 19th October, 2013. So watch this space for more information.

Contact ‘The Deux-­‐Sèvres Monthly’ La Bartière, 79130, Secondigny.

Telephone: 05 49 70 26 21 or email: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

ARTicles

by Josie Bounds

In Munrau-­‐Steffelsee 1908 we can see how Kandinsky begins to strip away the representational, reducing recognisable elements of the landscape. Although we can recognise this is a painting of the

Cézanne’s continued influence on negating the negative A good example of how Cezanne took the representation of a landscape and distilled it down to what he saw as its structural abstract elements is Mont Sainte-­‐Victoire 1904.

Wassily Kandinsky Munrau-­‐Steffelsee 1908 landscape, the colour palette Kandinsky uses here shows us his heightened sense of colour, where he is beginning to push the boundaries. The colour patches give the picture its special depth and perspective.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Paul Cezanne Mont Sainte-Victoire 1904.

Cezanne’s emotional response to the landscape can be described through his exaggerated use of atmospheric colour, juggling shapes that nature gave him, assembling them on the canvas, giving the painting abstract conformity.

In 1911 for Kandinsky ‘a general interest in abstraction was being reborn, both in the form of the spiritual, occultism, spiritualism and the “new” Christianity, Theosophy and religion in its broadest sense’.1 Through the lectures and teachings of Rudolf Steiner and Madame Blavatsky, Kandinsky sought a special blending between Eastern philosophies with Christianity. The merging of Eastern and Western philosophy for Kandinsky galvanised ‘the romanticism of his vision’.2 Studying non-­‐Western religions, for example, Buddhism, Kandinsky ‘searched for a style that would effectively change the moral and ethical climate’. 3 Like other intellectuals of the late 19th century and early 20th century, Kandinsky interpreted his age as one dominated by a relentless struggle against the effects of industrialisation, materialism and the bourgeoisie.

On The Spiritual in Art Kandinsky describes his pathway in the development of his art through three categories, ‘Impressions’ – observation of the world, ‘Improvisation’ -­‐ a spontaneous expression of a mood or feeling and ‘Compositions’ -­‐ inner visions.

Through the images below we can see Kandinsky implementing his vision.

The landscape and imagery from Russian fables inspired Kandinsky early on in his career. Following a move to Germany in the early twentieth century, we can trace the beginnings of a new style in Kandinsky’s work. Another influence through The De Blaue Reiter, Kandinsky begins to conceive an alternaove pathway, through his painongs to spiritual reality. Classical music also influenced Kandinsky; we can see how he included large areas of colour, encouraging and somulaong an emooonal response in the viewer. These large areas of colour could be argued as Kandinsky’s response to the influence of classical music. In abstracong the landscape, ‘Kandinsky felt that he had discovered a spiritual reality, which was more powerful for not being oed to the outside world.’ 4

Golding G (2000) Paths to the Absolute Mondrian, Malevich, Kandinsky, Pollock, Newman, Rothko, Still, Thames & Hudson, U.S.A. Ibid.

Tuchman M (1986) The Spiritual in Art: Abstract Painting 1890 – 1985, Abbeville Press, New York, p. 201.

Kandinsky W (2006) Concerning the Spiritual in Art, MFA Publication, Boston.

Find Josie Bounds at Le Studio, 79240 Le Busseau www.monpemtcoeur.info

SHOW CASE EVENT KICKS OFF NEW CRAFT SKILLS CLUB A unique showcase of craft skills kicks off at Fenioux (79160) on July 28th from 11.00 to 16.00 hours. This taster launch of the new Café Crafts Club highlights a wide range of crafts which will then be featured at informal learning sessions during the winter months.

Hosted at the Café des Belles Fleurs, Fenioux, the launch features; Découpage, jewellery and beading, working with wood, painting on silk, mosaics, drawing for beginners, painting, scrap-­‐booking, calligraphy, stamping and flower arranging. Cake decorating, stained glass techniques, photography plus chocolate decorating are also planned as learning sessions to be held every third Thursday afternoon from September 2013 to March 2014 inclusive.

A spokesperson for the newly formed Café Crafts Club explains: “We are excited about this new concept which we hope will inspire people to take up new interests as they learn new skills in an informal and friendly environment. We are all enthusiastic amateurs who will also learn from each other as we pass on our own skills to others. Everyone is invited.”

For more information contact: Freddie Main Tel: 05 49 09 29 11 Email: Freddie.main@gmail.com

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY More from local writer Alison Morton... Please see back issues of ‘The DSM’ if you would like to see previous articles.

You don’t want to be alone Sitting by yourself, in a spare bedroom, study, or even at the dining room table, and tapping away can be a lonely business. People wonder why you don’t go outdoors on a sunny day or wander into the village for a leisurely drink at the local bar or browse around the market. You don’t want to see, let alone talk, to other people.

You are absorbed in your writing world.

Of course, you need to get the word count or the hours in on your latest work – that’s understood. But why do you need to interact with other people? Ninety-­‐six percent of people are not interested in writing or in your latest work, you mutter to yourself. You’ve often watched their eyes glaze over when you reply honestly to the enquiry about how your writing is going. But four per cent are interested and you need to find them. Why? • Your mental health – you are a human being who needs contact with like-­‐minded souls • Learning from others’ experiences – competitions, agents, the ever-­‐increasing number of routes to publication, conferences, writing and book events • Getting critiques from other writers – not Auntie Maud who taught English or your mate at work, but working writers • Learning new writing techniques and approaches to work – not just how to sling words together, but about characterisation, the senses, novel or poetry structure, research • Networking to make those vital contacts to get your book published • Not boring your nearest and dearest

Blood Dona)ons

by Philippa George

Expats living in France can donate blood as long as none of the conditions below apply to them.

Why give blood?

3 000 000 blood donations can save 1 000 000 lives a year. There is no artificial product to replace it, so it is essential that people give blood.

The blood that you donate is used for most hospitalized patients from victims of road accidents to cancer patients. The blood you donate will be sent to hospitals all over the country.

You should not give blood if: • You have lived in any of the Great British Isles for over 12 months between 1980 and 1996 because of the risk of transmitting “mad cow's disease”. This rule applies to any nationality, not just British.

• You are pregnant.

• You have given birth in the last 6 months.

• You have been taking an`bio`cs for the last 2 weeks.

• You have had an infec`on in the last 6 days.

• You have had a taaoo or piercing in the last 4 month.

• You have had a dental treatment in the last 3 days.

• You have done another blood dona`on in the last 8 weeks.

• You have had an opera`on in the last 7 days to 4 months.

• You have had a trip to a malaria infected country in the last 4 months.

• You weigh less than 50 kg.

• You have diseases such as: HIV, syphilis and viral hepatitis B and C. For more informa`on and to find out where you can give blood in your area, visit: www.dondusang.net (This is a French website and it can be translated into English).

So where are these fellow-­‐writers? Starting locally, try and find a writing group. Look in the English language press and on online apps like Facebook. Ask anybody who has a faint connection with writing. Ask at your local book club. Have a chat to the organiser and go and try out such a group. The main requirements are a supportive open atmosphere, honesty and a lack of ego-­‐tripping!

Next are writing associations, usually specific to a genre of writing, such as the Romantic Novelists’ Association or the Crime Writers’ Association. They have events, newsletters, Facebook pages, websites, blogs – you name it! Even remotely, you can benefit enormously.

Online critique groups like Authonomy can be a little daunting at first, but as you grow a writer’s thick skin, you’re likely to find it helpful and inspiring as well as immensely valuable. But you’ll need to plunge in!

Going to conferences can be a real boost to your writing. There are hundreds of literary festivals each year in the UK, including more practical ones for writers such as the Writers’ Workshop Festival of Writing in York and the Festival of Chichester where you can meet fellow writers, agents and publishers. Moreover, you may hook up with another writer you can develop into a writing buddy, or more formally, critique partner. With Skype and email it’s no problem to discuss and work on writing together at distance. The writing buddy must be someone you trust, so it may take a little while to get to know them. Mine has kept me sane so they’re worth their weight in gold! And she will have scrutinised this article before it goes to print…

Happy writing!

Alison Morton writes alternate history thrillers, blogs about wriRng and Romans at hTp://alison-­‐morton.com/blog/

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We’re All Going on a Summer Holiday

Vocabulary / Vocabulaire : partir en vacances

to go on holiday

Well, July's here and the schools have broken up for two months of grandes vacances (the long summer holidays). The kids sont en vacances (are on holidays).

partir en weekend

to go away for the weekend

partir en voiture

to go by car

A lot of French families partent en vacances (go away on holiday), often for three weeks.

prendre le train

to go by train

by Sue Burgess

Family holidays are generally taken either in July or in August, but rarely across the two. French families like to spend their holidays à la mer, à la campagne or à la montagne. (at the seaside, in the country or in the mountains). They don't often go à l'étranger (abroad).

Some families decendent dans un hôtel (stay in a hotel) whilst others font du camping (go camping) or ont une maison secondaire (have a holiday home).

Many families partent en voiture (go by car). The last Saturday in July and the first Saturday in August as classed as noir (black) by Bison Fûté, the authority that keeps a watch on road transport.

Traditionally there are huge bouchons and embouteillages (hold-­‐ ups and traffic jams). Let's hope you don't tomber en panne (break down).

The kids generally have cahiers de vacances (holiday books which help them to revise their school work from the previous year, so that they haven't forgotten everything when it's time to go back to school la rentrée). You can find these cahiers de vacances in supermarkets. For kids from infant school to high school, some are general cahiers which revise all the subjects studied and others specialise in one subject.

passer ses vacances à la mer to spend one’s holidays at the sea side faire ses valises

to pack

réserver

to book

retenir une chambre

to book a room

descendre dans un hôtel

to stay in a hotel

monter une tente

to pitch a tent

se baigner

to bathe / to swim

prendre un bain de soleil

to sunbathe

bronzer

to tan

passer des vacances

to spend holidays

passer une nuit dans un hotel

to spend a night in a hotel

envoyer des cartes postales

to send postcards

When their parents are at work, children can go to centre aeré (day camps) or even centre de vacances (holiday clubs) which could be colos/colonie de vacances (summer camps) or camps scouts (scout camps) or centre de loisirs (activity clubs) for horse-­‐ riding, canoeing, camping.

Please mention ʻThe DSMʼ when responding to an advert Page 15

THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Take a Break...

DSM Easy Crossword Across: 8. City in Florida (5) 9. Found in the ordinary course of events (7) 10. Learned person (7) 11. The path of a moon (5) 12. Very large passenger aircraft (8) 13. Nourishment (4) 15. Close friend (4) 17. Size of paper (8) 21. Aromatic herb (5) 22. Knee cap (7) 24 . One of a class of artifacts (7) 25. A person who moves about according to the seasons (5)

DSM Toughie Crossword Across: 8. Neglect to point out there’s a group performing? (7) 9. Settle over a fish? (5) 10. Was it Blackbeard’s vocation to do this? (5) 11. One to go against all the others; cheer it up (7) 12. Genuine foreign currency? (4) 13. Turn right for town to get the best view of the theatre (5,3) 16. R e d s s a n k d i s a s t r o u s l y i n condiQons of poor visibility (8) 19. After a word of choice, state provides the biggest dolphin (4) 22. Associate parent mistakenly with right shambles! (7) 23. Smart confidence trick? (5) 24. One way to bet a thousand is symbolic (5) 25. Naïve international organisation goes back into three of a kind (7)

Quiz-tastic!

Down: 1. Mischievous fairies (4) 2. Measurement of water depth (6) 3. Someone who spoils the pleasure of others (7) 4. Come into view (6) 5. Receive pleasure from (5) 6. Tropical woody grass (6) 7. Made warm (6,2) 12. Of or relating to James I (8) 14. Without any attempt at concealment (7) 16. Distresses (6) 18. Large harmless fish-­‐eating hawk (6) 19. Vertical structure (6) 20. A film of oil floating on top of water (5) 23. Assistant (4)

Down: 1. Unable to at first, but, with some hesitation, journalist set a fair pace (8) 2. AlternaQve taken out of view in central America (6) 3. Paid a hotel bill in state cover-­‐up (5) 4. Something to drop ranch in a mess over nothing (6) 5. Letting off the hook article in season (7) 6. React oddly about one side of a large hole (6) 7. Stylist young bird loses a key letter (4) 14. Learn about unusual old train organisation to become a rider on the range(8) 15. An arrangement with my son bizarrely brings up other names (7) 17. Try air variety that is not found everywhere (6) 18. Takes things off big cat’s markings out east (6) 20. Isadora is invited to hold some of the fruit cake (6) 21. Pressure taken off drug dealer, allowing him to show up at the wedding (5) 22. Stop, put it in reverse and fetch some containers! (4)

With thanks to M.Morris

New monthly quiz by Roland Scoa.....how many can you get?

1) In the song "Puff the Magic Dragon", what is the name of the little boy who was the dragon's friend?

2) Name the British band leader who had a BBC radio show from 1949 to 1968, his signature tune was "Somebody Stole My Gal" 3) Who was captain of the Tottenham Hotspur team which won the FA Cup and League Championship double in the 1960/61 season?

4) Who conducted the Promenade Concerts from their inauguration, in 1895, until his death in 1944?

5) Which "Archers" (Radio 4) character is the second husband of Peggy (Archer)? He is played by Arnold Peters.

6) Which English playwright and dramatist is best known for "Pennies From Heaven" and "The Singing Detective"?

7) Which former England Rugby Union captain is married to the Queen's grand-­‐daughter?

8) Born Thomas Hicks in London 1936, how is he better known?

9) Born May 1942, he was M.P. for Ormskirk, 1974-­‐83; Knowsley N. 83-­‐86; joined UKIP in 2004 and presented his own TV show 1986-­‐2004, who is he?

10) Which American TV series starred Sharon Gless and Tyne Daly?

11) Which American Country singer had a British Top Ten hit with "Don't it Make My Brown Eyes Blue"?

12) Which company, formed in 1953, was responsible for cinema advertising in Britain?

Assuming you have 12 correct answers, each answer or part of an answer has a connection. Award yourself an extra point if you can spot it.

Find the answers on our website: www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr Copyright RJS 2013.

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

A-Z of the Communes in the Deux-Sèvres A-Z of the Communes of the Deux-Sèvres.

by Sue Burgess CLESSÉ The village of Clessé is part of the Communauté de communes Terre de Sèvres. The inhabitants of the village are known as les Clesséens and les Clesséennes. At the time of the last census the population of Clessé was 923. The village boasts an infant and junior school. The river Cébron flows through the commune.

The commune has a bakery and a new bar has just opened with newspapers and groceries.

revolution. The masses were very popular until the Republican authorities put a stop to them.

• The ruins of Villegué The only part of this fortified house that is still standing is a large round tower with thick walls with arrow slits. There is also part of the main building with doors and arched windows. There is a pigeon loft at the back.

• La Voie Verte The Voie Verte is the old Parthenay/Bressuire railway line.

Nowadays it is a walkway for pedestrians and cyclists. The Voie Verte was opened in 2005 and is 30 km long. You can us it in all weathers.

• The crosses and calvary There are many simple crosses and calvaries which are larger monuments. In the village centre on the road to Laubrecais there is a calvary which dates from a mission in 1868. Originally it was a wooden cross on a high base. In 1881 it was completed with five other statues. In 1892 the wooden cross was replaced by a cross in granite. The two side staircases were added in 1934.

On the road to la Chapelle (route de la Gourbeillerie et la Gare) : The calvary of Peu was erected after the 1910 mission and a procession of over 2000 people. The calvary was built on a mill. It is 16 metres high with an 8 metre high cross.

A VOIR / MUST SEE • La Formnière Four beautiful mullion windows and three skylights light up the facade of this old manor house built in 1577. The crest of the Maynard family with a boar's head and a lion can be seen on the triangular fronton of the main door. The building still has some large chimneys. The Fortinière is a private property.

• Route de Parthenay and route d’Amailloux: An important ceremony was organised in 1945 for the inauguration of this calvary.

• Route de Moncoutant and route de Boismé : A virgin on a stand.

• La Roche Gabard This doorway is characteristic of the XVIIth century. It had a pedestrian doorway and a doorway for carriages. The archway was sculpted with the crest of the Menard family and the date 1688.

• Les Fréaux The small holding and the pond of les Fréaux b e l o n g e d t o t h e monks of the abbey of l'Absie from the middle of the XIVth century but the property was confiscated during the revolution and sold in 1793.

The property is owned by the MENARD family who have three high quality gites and 15 fishing sites at the "logis et l’Étang des Fréaux".

• Saint Ambroise Chapel The chapel was built in the XVIIth century and enlarged at the end of the XVIIIth century. The chapel is found in the middle of the fields a few hundred metres from the Clessé/Boismé road. It is close to a spring which is said to have therapeutic virtues. The water is supposed to heal headaches.

During the revolution, secret masses were held in the chapel.

They were celebrated by priests who did not agree with the

More ‘A-­‐Z of the Communes of the Deux-­‐Sèvres.’ next month...

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THE DEUX-SÉVRES MONTHLY

Health, Beauty & Fitness...

2013 Beauty Recommendations...

Samantha’s 3 Tips to Fuller Hydrated Lips

1. Exfoliation. No ma…er how many lip balms or hydraong lip products you apply unol you have removed all of your dry skin they simply won't work. Exfoliaong your lips is simple. You can either buy a lip exfoliater, Clarins do an amazing product for this, or if you are watching the pennies an old tooth brush will work just as well.

Simply gently brush over your lips unol all dead skin is removed.

2. Hydration. Now your lips are free from any dead skin you can start hydraong them. Before I apply my lipsock or gloss I like to apply a lip balm. This stops my lips from drying out through the day, and is a cheap and simple way of keeping my lips looking their best.

3. Fuller lips. For those of you that have thinner lips I recommend choosing a lip liner that is similar to your natural lip colour. Carefully line just outside your lips to give the illusion of fuller plumper lips. Also another good op is to place a light reflecong concealer onto your cupids bow, add some high shine gloss and this will give you the perfect summer pout.

Samantha's recommend product is Clarin’s Extra Firming Lip and Contour Gentle Exfoliater For booking call Samantha 06.50.04.37.30

Emma’s Summer Hair Care Tips

Your hair during the summer needs that little bit of extra TLC, there are a number of things to contend with. The drying sun, chlorine in the pool and sea salt are just some of the things you need to tackle. Here are a few tips: Hydration: Your hair like your skin will need to be hydrated so drink plenty of water through these summer months.

Call your Stylist: Make sure you have regular trims, to keep hair that is dry at bay. I would recommend every 6-­‐8 weeks.

Moisture: Your hair can lose moisture in the sun especially if you have highlighted hair. Try using a moisturising hair mask once a week or use shampoo and conditioner that contains oil that will penetrate the hair shaft.

Protect your hair: Wear a hat in the midday sun. This will protect your scalp and hair.

Bleached Highlights: Try swapping bleach highlights for a high lift tint. Tint is not as harsh as bleach and will lift to a lighter colour in the sun.

Emma's recommends all types of Argan oils. These can be purchased at local supermarkets in the hair care secoon.

Charente Hair & Make Up Tel: 05 45 31 56 93 / 06 50 04 37 30 www.charentehairandbridal.com

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

New Salon Now Open

In the centre of Chef Boutonne, the salon provides a light and modern space to enjoy all the hairdressing services expected from a highly experienced and dedicated team.

Colour Advert Size A or B, only 38€ per month or from 33,33€ per month for 12 months.

Established over thirty years ago in the UK, Michael William Hairdressing expanded into the Haute Vienne in 2009 and is proud to have now launched a second salon in the Deux-­‐Sèvres.

Michael William Hairdressing philosophy is simple: To provide a unique speciality in hair care and design, welcoming clients whatever their needs to receive the highest standards at affordable costs.

Our salon allows you to relax from the moment you enter; fresh refreshments are always on hand, as well as wi-­‐fi and the latest magazines, all of course complimentary. We also have plenty of space for those accompanying you to relax, everyone is welcome.

Your time with us is as individual as you and you can always be assured of our undivided attention.

What makes us unique?

Well it's simple. We listen to what people want and we identified that people missed the 'salon' experience.

Our consultation process allows you to discuss in confidence your ideas and needs and we work together to create a style that not only looks and feels great at the time of its creation but lasts and is easy to manage.

As your haircut and/or colour is the focus of your time with us, you can have confidence that the techniques we use are those passed down from major industry leaders as we now continue to develop and lead the next generation of stylists. Professionalism is always imperative to us.

So whatever your requirements, from a precision cut to a complete restyle and/or colour, or if you have a concern with your hair or scalp, visit Michael William Hairdressing, a real salon experience delivered with care, expertise and professionalism.......every visit.

A HUGE Thank You to all the lovely ladies who joined the ‘Race For Life’ to support C a n c e r S u p p o r t D e u x -­‐ S e v r e s o n Saturday 15th June.

A fun time was had by all and we raised a tidy sum for a very worthwhile cause. If you would like to make a donation, please email: sabestini@orange.fr.

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Our Furry Friends...

HOOF (Horse Orientated Open Forum)

HOOF is open to anyone with an equine interest.

You do not need to own a horse! We meet about once a month for talks, visits etc. Interested?

Contact Jo Rowe on: 05 49 64 30 59

Equine Rescue France

We are always looking for new members and we are in need of donations so we may continue to help equines in France. Please support the ERF.

Please contact Equine Rescue France via their website www.equinerescuefrance.org

Phoenix Associamon, who rescue and re-­‐ home animals in need, has a new website.

Please visit: www.phoenixasso.com and find out what you can do to help animals in need in south west France!

MAYDAY MES AMIS Mayday Mes Amis has been formed to help animals in need in l'Absie and the surrounding area.

For more information please email: jill.zub@sky.com.

Hope Book Sale May 2013

Once again our May Book Sale has well and truly broken all records. We have had our most successful event yet. This is down to you, the public, supporting HOPE by coming along and spending your money. Also to the volunteers who worked tirelessly and turned up in great numbers every day to help, without their endless dedication and determination the event would not have been the success it was.

Thank you to everyone involved, you have been part of a great success and many animals in need will be helped as a result.

Watch this space for the dates of our October event!

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

APPEAL HOPE have had a plea for help: "Please can anyone help me out by taking on one or two of these beautiful kittens. Two have been re-­‐homed but there are still 5 to adopt or foster. The kittens have been well-­‐handled and are socialised. They are almost 6 weeks old. We are in Biarge, Chaunay, Dept. 79 -­‐ 05 49 43 51 18. I can’t keep any more myself, I have a full house already. Please call Carol any time."

There’s only 5 of these kittens left now, so if you’re dithering about adopting one you’d better be quick.

There are more cats, kittens, dogs and pups looking for homes on the HOPE website. www.hopeassoc.org.

40 KILOS OF LOVE...ALSA ALSA is a big girl with an equally big heart. A non-­‐destructive, non barking, obedient Matin Espagnol cross of 5 years old.

Alsa is fun loving and lively in the garden but calm indoors. She is always willing to please, loves human company and long walks, and will sleep at your feet at the end of the day.

Light at the End of a Tunnel?

The French system for dealing with stray cats and dogs requires that they stay in a fourrière, an officially recognised kennel/pound for 8 working days. After that period, if they haven't been returned to their owner they can be given to an association for the protection of animals, provided that the association has access to an officially recognised shelter. If they can't be adopted and a vet agrees, they may be put down. When the legislation was discussed in the Senate, it was assumed that every town would sign a contract with an association and that putting down animals would be a last resort.

Unfortunately, it hasn't turned out that way. Firstly, there is a lack of associations that have access to an appropriate shelter. They're expensive to build and it's a big commitment to do all the paperwork and get the appropriate qualifications for running one. Secondly, back in 1998 when the legislation was proposed, it was thought that a contract would cost one franc (about 15 eurocents) per inhabitant per year. That was a bit optimistic and anything from 50 cents to one Euro soon became the norm. This resulted in many towns not signing up with any association at all, so that euthanasia became standard practice, rather than a last resort. Because they are not identified so their owners cannot be found, it's estimated that about half of the stray cats and dogs in France are put down. Clearly this situation needs to change.

As you probably know, NALA doesn't have an animal shelter; in addition to the reasons enumerated above, we don't think that a shelter is the best place for a cat. We use foster families so that it is kept in a loving environment and we can accurately evaluate its personality and behaviour, which is essential for a successful adoption. In shelters there is also the risk of an epidemic affecting a large population, whereas in a foster home the numbers affected are significantly less.

Recently we had one of our regular 6 monthly meetings with the Direction départementale de la protection des populations which is the service responsible for, amongst other things, animal welfare.

They asked us to explain how we operate with foster families, which we did. Then came the bombshell: they are exploring how to modify the requirements so that it would be possible for associations like NALA that don't have a shelter to adopt animals from the fourrière.

This is fantastic news, as that would remove one of the major obstacles to getting animals adopted and is one of the things that we are asking for in our petition. Hopefully something will come of this proposal as it seems like a win-­‐win scenario: more animals saved, less cost to the ratepayers. We'll keep our fingers crossed.

Alsa loves all other animals, even those from down on the farm, but whilst she gets on with other dogs, she would be best suited to be the only dog in the family.

Alsa is micro-­‐chipped (2502698020705995), vaccinated and neutered. This is a lovely dog best suited to a family who like and understand the larger breed of dog and can give her the attention she deserves.

There is an adoption fee for Alsa and if you think you could give her a "home for life" please contact Isabelle on 09 77 48 71 43 or email asso.orfee@laposte.net for more information. Thank you. www.association-­‐orfee.forumactif.com/f49-­‐english-­‐corner

Above: Harvard, Hall and Lina all under 1 year old, are all waiting for a good home.

Please contact NALA if you can help....

Nos Amis Les Animaux 85480 (NALA 85480).

Tel: 07 70 31 54 59

Email: nala85480@hotmail.com www.nosamislesanimaux.com

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

The Great Outdoors...

Bonne Pêche

by Simon Tee

Recently I did some tiling work for a retired Vicar, near Angouleme. When I told him I have fishing lakes, I was amazed to learn that he was a very close friend of the late Jack Hargreaves and that Jack left the Vicar all his fishing tackle. The afore-­‐mentioned tackle is still in storage in England, but I have a date with the Vicar when it arrives in France! Jack was one of my heroes … when I saw “Out of Town” I was hooked!

This month I have returned to Carp fishing tactics as Carp are one of the most popular species of fish. Whether it is the size, the power or just the elusiveness of Carp, anglers in their thousands want to catch them. Here are a couple of handy tips that could help you put them on the bank: To fish for Carp off the surface try cutting a very small groove in the back of a dog biscuit and superglueing the shank of a size 6 or 8 hook into the groove. The result is that the weight of the hook automatically pulls the biscuit over so the hook is underneath, a perfect hooking position.

Start by throwing in 10-­‐15 biscuits, then wait.

When the fish start taking them, put in a few more. Don’t cast in until you have them taking the biscuits off the top with confidence; almost competing for them. Then cast your biscuit amongst them… and hold on!

My next tip is “The Knotless Knot”.

It’s a great way of presenting a hair-­‐rigged bait on the bottom. Why go and buy them from your local tackle shop when you can make them yourself? The satisfaction of catching and landing a fish on a rig that you have tied is a better feeling than having that first beer after a long hot day (almost!).

First tie a very small loop in whatever hook length you choose (I personally like to use braid). Push a baiting needle through your bait (i.e. maize, boillie), put the small loop onto the needle and pull it back through the boillie, thus pulling the loop through it. Then put a boillie stop through the loop and pull it tight against the bait.

Pass the line up through the back of the hook until the bait is level with the bend of the hook. Wrap the line around the shank, about 6-­‐7 times, and put the line back through the rear of the hook as before.

Moisten the knot before you pull it tight.

This technique doesn’t rely on the strength of a tied knot. The strength comes from the resistance of the line being pulled; the harder the line is pulled, the tighter the knot will become.

Bonne Chance et Bonne pêche, Simon

Simon Tee is the proprietor of 2 coarse fishing lakes in Secondigny (www.francefishinggites.com)

CONTRIBUTIONS....

We are always looking for new contributions for consideration in future issues.

Do you have an experience to share? Are you a tradesman with a Top Tip? or perhaps an avid reader who would like to contribute a book review?

Whatever it may be, either long or short, we would love to hear from you.

You can call Sarah on 05 49 70 26 21 with any ideas, or send them on an email to: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Domaine des Forges Golf Resort With the winter finally out of the way, what better way of getting out and about in the fresh air and sunshine, than playing golf.

You can explore the nature and participate within a sporting environment at the same time. Sometimes you may find more of the natural terrain than you wish for, but it is an excellent way to pass a few hours by yourself or with your friends and family.

Blue Green Golf des Forges is situated 30 minutes from Poitiers and 30 mins from Niort. The nearest town is Vasles and with 27 holes available there will always be space for you to play and enjoy the splendid views of the countryside.

Even for non-­‐golfers the golf complex offers a bar/restaurant, with a attractive terrace overlooking the 9th green, which is open to the public 7 days a week. There is also a driving range, with space for up to 30 people at a time and a putting green, so for those of you who have never touched a club before, you are welcome to discover Golf des Forges.

Starting from the 7th July, during the summer months there will be golf lessons for youngsters aged between 6 and 17 years of age.

Over a 4 day period they will learn the basic skills of the game of golf and get to experience the highs and lows, which come with the sport.

The lessons will be given by Stewart Cronin, Golf Professional at Golf des Forges. Stewart has 20 years experience, as both a coach and a player and the lessons will be available to all youngsters.

Stewart speaks French, English and Dutch.

There will also be group lessons for adults during the same period, with options of either 6 or 10 hours of coaching. This will be an ideal way to start your golfing life or even to improve your golf game. Groups will consist of between 4 and 8 players so the quality of the lesson will not be affected.

For more informaoon on Blue Green Golf des Forges, please call 05 49 69 91 77 or email:forges@bluegreen.com Website: www.bluegreen.com

On Your Bikes...

This August, on the 24th/25th, a team of eight French and English cyclists from the local area around Civray are entered into the Le Mans 24 hour Velo Race. This is an annual event for amateur cyclists, fans and their families, taking place where some of the greatest motorsport champions have already made history: The Le Mans Bugatti Circuit.

There will be approximately 2500 contestants either riding solo or in teams of up to 8. The format is that of a continuous 24 hour team relay on the closed circuit.

Our team consists of seven men from the local area, and one coming from the UK a few days before the event for their final training sessions. Their ages range from 21 to 53.

The training for the event started early this year in March and, despite the very rainy weekends so far this year, they have been out together for several hours most Sundays and getting rather wet in the process!

The custom kit which will be in very fetching red and white, bearing the team name of “Les Templiers” and the Templar cross as well as some corporate sponsor’s logos is currently under production.

They are raising sponsorship from private donations towards research and awareness of testicular cancer, and have corporate assistance to help fund partial event costs (cycling attire).

Each team member has paid their own entry fee and equipment costs.

If you would like to sponsor ‘Les Templiers’, you can do so via the link below and all donations will be very gratefully received. https://www.justgiving.com/LesTempliers24HR

Please mention ʻThe DSMʼ when responding to an advert.

Photograph: Jon Crocker ©2013

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

THE AMATEUR GARDENER

tied to support canes. Lettuce and other salad crops need to be planted 'little and often' to ensure a steady supply during the season.

Shall we start with the flower garden this month?

Spring-­‐flowering shrubs have given us a nice show and now need pruning. Taking out the stems which have flowered will keep the shrub a manageable size and good shape and will ensure plenty of blooms next year. Now is a good time also to take softwood cuttings of Pyracantha, Hypericum, Potentilla, Hydrangea etc.

Finally this month, a word about bindweed/bellbind which can be a pesky nuisance at this time of year. Apparently bindweed roots can penetrate as deep as 5 metres and can spread about 2 metres per season! With roots that deep it is very difficult to eradicate because even a small piece of root left in the soil will regenerate the plant. Patience is a virtue in this case, persistent digging and hoeing will eventually weaken the plant and kill it off. However, one of our readers has bindweed spoiling his rose garden. He could try inserting bamboo canes close to the bindweed to encourage it to grow up the canes rather than smother the roses.

These stems can be left on the canes and be spot-­‐treated with a gel-­‐type systemic weedkiller; or alternatively, untwine them, lay them out on the ground before spraying with glyphosate (be sure to protect your roses and nearby bedding plants while you do this).

Spraying with glyphosate is more effective once the bindweed has reached flowering stage because there are more leaves to absorb the weedkiller, but it will be effective well into the autumn.

by Vanda Lawrence

Feed Roses to keep them flowering strongly and continue spraying against mildew and blackspot. Interplant with Alliums, Catmint, Thyme or Parsley to deter aphids.

Collect seeds from Foxgloves and sow in small pots of compost. Plant out in the autumn.

Prune the long side-­‐shoots on Wisteria -­‐ cut back to a length of about 8". Propagate by layering long lower shoots into the soil and cover with a large stone to hold in place until roots have formed.

Sever this new growth from the parent when you are ready to plant in its new situation. Honeysuckle can be propagated in the same way.

Happy gardening mes amis.....See you next month.

If your Irises didn't bloom well this year it could be because they have become overcrowded, so lift and divide when they finish flowering. Reduce leaves by half their height to avoid windrock and re-­‐plant about 5" apart with leaves facing the sun; firm them down into a shallow hole, just deep enough to half-­‐bury the rhizome because they like to be baked by the sun. Ideally, this should be done every three or four years.

When planting up large pots for the terrace put about 6" of grass cuttings in the bottom before filling with peat. This will retain moisture as well as feed the plants during the season. Hanging baskets are often a job to water because the soil surface hardens.

If you add a little washing-­‐up liquid in the watering can you will find that the water will penetrate the soil surface easily and won't run off.

For the vegetable garden broccoli/cauliflower/cabbage plants are all still readily available and you can sow a second crop of broad beans for harvesting in September-­‐October. Onions sown last autumn will become ready for harvesting now.

Early potatoes can be lifted a s re q u i re d b u t l a t e r varieties still need spraying with Bordelaise (Bordeaux) Mixture to prevent blight.

Tomato plants will also benefit from this treatment and don't forget to pinch out side-­‐shoots and keep plants

Colour Advert Size A or B, only 38€ per month or from 33,33€ per month for 12 months.

Cut back Lupins and Delphiniums to ground level after flowering to encourage a second display. Stake Gladioli to keep nice straight stems; Tie young Dahlia stems to their stakes to avoid wind damage and disbud for larger flowers. Deadhead regularly and feed fortnightly. Sweet Peas need regular feeding and dead-­‐ heading too. Use a high potash fertiliser on all summer bedding plants.

Page 24

THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY Remember last month I threatened to do some renovating, well disaster struck. Day one: I fell off the ladder, badly battered and bruised but luckily, nothing broken. I think I should leave it to the experts and stick to being a smallholder.

Life on the Farm...

by Peter & Jenny Sebborn.

What a strange month. We have had most of the four seasons weather in 30 days.

We have been busy and as always have some new additions. Our latest hatchlings are ducklings, keets (guinea fowl) and just two goslings. One of the goslings was born with a badly deformed leg but with a little bit of shaped plastic and some sticky tape (Blue Peter here we come!) we made a splint which it wore for a few days and voila -­‐ perfect.

The first bronze turkeys have arrived ready for Christmas (I know we haven’t had summer yet). They are so small they walk straight though the stock fence and follow the guinea fowl and Fred the Rhode Island Red cockerel around the farm and pinch all our lovely strawberries. We have to keep the turkeys and chickens in separate pens as the turkeys can get a disease called Blackhead which can be fatal. The naughty turkeys found an open bag of cement and decided to have a dust bath in it. Luckily we saw them before it rained otherwise we may have had a few concrete turkeys for garden ornaments!

We have had two more litters of rabbits but still haven’t been very successful curing the pelts, something always seems to go wrong (or we forget about them). But we will persevere as I’d like a hat for the winter.

It’s been a busy month again in the garden. We have a huge veggie plot this year for us and the animals and the weeding alone is a full time job. We have planted lots of potatoes, onions, garlic, tomatoes, peas, and every type of bean you can imagine and for the animals, fodder beet, sunflowers and chicory which can be used as a natural wormer. We will certainly have a lot to choose from and our ‘5 a day’ will not be a problem. The secret now is to keep planting as a space becomes available.

I’ve been piggy shopping again and have bought two large black, GOS crosses called Corky and Porky, they are great fun to watch and are enjoying the mud. The two goat kids are being weaned so we are now milking twice a day and we are giving any spare milk to the sows who love it. We have discovered only one down side of having goats and that is we now have no leaves or fruit on the trees below 2 metres! We live and learn....

The ewes and Beavis the ram have all been sheared in readiness for the hot weather. We will probably use the fleece for insulation again. We have been so busy with the new arrivals and the garden that we got the shearer in this year. He did a fantastic job and only took 4 minutes a sheep and made it look effortless. He sheared all 12 in less time than it takes Jen to do just one. We have also treated the sheep and lambs with Butox for the prevention of fly strike and ticks and they have had their feet trimmed again -­‐ need to look good for the summer!

So thats all for this month; its back to do battle with the weeds.

Enjoy the sunshine -­‐ its bound to arrive soon. See you next month.

Peter & Jenny Sebborn. Breeders of pigs, lambs and poultry.

La Gauteliere, 79220, Pamplie. Tel: 05 49 28 38 57.

Annual Subscription Costs: 28€ within France, 18€ UK addresses.

(Unfortunately the cheaper ‘printed papers’ rate cannot be applied to addresses within France, only when sending abroad) Please tick:

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Tel: Email: Please make cheques payable to SARAH BERRY.

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

French Life, Food & Drink...

French Village Diaries One of the things I love about this time of year is the opportunity to get out and about at the weekends visiting fêtes and vide greniers, especially when the sun is shining.

Food is never far from my thoughts or purchases and whether it is something for the kitchen I pick up at a vide grenier, a naughty treat of freshly cooked frites or some local honey or walnut oil, I’m sure to come home happy.

by Jacqueline Brown.

In June we made our annual visit to the Fête des Plantes et du Jardin au Domaine de Péré, Beauvoir-­‐Sur-­‐Niort, 79360. This is such a great event for all who love their outdoor space, as there is so much more than just plants, that I can recommend it for a lovely day out. Like many families we packed a picnic, but having seen and smelt some of the lovely savoury and sweet pastries being sold by a local boulangerie, maybe next year we will treat ourselves. As usual I was in awe at the attitude the French take to a humble picnic lunch.

Tables, chairs and gazebos were set up in the car park, food and wine were unpacked and life stood still while lunch was eaten.

One of the things I love in a picnic is a homemade quiche or cake, or both. Before moving to France baking was not something I did very often, or very well, but I could make a decent batch of scones. In recent years I have perfected my homemade pastry and now baking a quiche or tart is a regular for our picnics. For some reason though, since moving here every batch of scones I have tried to make have failed to rise. I know all the tips, not to work the dough too much, to be gentle with cutting out and not to over roll the dough. I have tried different recipes, different flours and it is beyond annoying that they just don’t work. I am tempted to blame my beloved oven, as it would be fair to say she is either on and hot, or off, and can also be rather temperamental. I also wonder if it is the fact she runs on bottled gas? If anyone has any help to offer, please do get in touch, as it would be lovely to have some real scones (rather than flat pancakes) to go with the cherry jam I’ve made this week, thank you.

Keeping to the subject of picnics, I am again helping to organise our village family fun day this summer. As usual this will be held from 12 o’clock on the 15th August in the park behind the church in Loubille 79110, just south of Chef Boutonne. Please bring your own picnic to be eaten on the village trestle tables set out in the shade of the trees. Games to amuse young and old will be supplied; badminton, table tennis, cricket and pétanque. Everyone welcome. If you would like more information please email frenchvillagediaries@gmail.com.

For the recipes please email me at frenchvillagediaries@gmail.com or visit www.frenchvillagediaries.com

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Greek Pasta Picnic Salad Ingredients: • Cooked Pasta • Cherry Tomatoes -­‐ cut in half • Sliced cucumber • Red Onion, chopped • 1tsp lemon juice • 10ml Olive Oil • A pinch of dried Oregano • Cooked Chicken, diced • Crumbled Feta Cheese Method:-­‐ Put the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber and red onion into a large bowl and gently stir to combine.

Mix the lemon juice and a pinch of salt together in a small bowl until the salt dissolves. Add the olive oil and dried oregano, then stir until blended.

Pour over the pasta mixture and fold in. Add the chicken, feta and olives and toss gently to mix.

Cool for two hours before serving.

Perfect for a picnic!

THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

We Must Talk About Rudolf Biodynamic Winemaking

by John Sherwin.

Rudolf Steiner (1861 – 1925) promoted spiritual philosophy, or in the words of the General Anthroposophical Society, sought ‘to nurture the life of the soul on the basis of a true knowledge of the spiritual world’. He thought that we should not depend on outside ‘authority’, but rely on our own rational thought processes to comprehend spiritual experiences.

OK, he was a geek and a weirdo: but then where do you place Lennon (‘Imagine’), da Vinci (helicopters), Gandhi (strange underwear) in the whole scheme of things?

Steiner had an interest in lots of stuff: medicine, architecture, social activism, the performing arts, but I really don’t have the space or expertise to address such weighty matters. Biodynamic agriculture was another of his interests, and this spawned the present-­‐day trend in biodynamic winemaking.

This is where the cynics come down from the hills, with their sneers and chemical treatments and optimum yields and profit margins. They will tell you that agriculture based on the positions of the moon, sun and stars is bunkum. They are also perhaps the same people who ignore the fact that soil is an extraordinary structure, one which has its own natural, self-­‐supporting life cycle, which has no need of unnatural, outside intervention.

The idea is that there are days within the lunar calendar more suitable to one activity than another. So, there are flower days, leaf days (favourable to leafy plants like lettuce and spinach), root days (carrots, leeks), and fruit days (best for fruiting plants, including the vine). There are also red days, the vineyard employees’ favourites, when the lunar cycle allows no work to be done.

To see a shire-­‐horse, not a tractor, treading between the rows of vines, spreading treatments of camomile or nettles or dandelion, snorting in the early mist, guided by just the one man who has trained him and will wash him down at the end of the day is a glimpse into the past – and hopefully a sustainable future.

It should be self-­‐evident that simple-­‐and-­‐natural is better than complicated-­‐and-­‐chemical, but the proof is in the drinking. I’ve had some wonderful examples from Montirius (their wines from the Vacqueryas and Gigondas areas of the southern Rhone), and from Chateau Pontet-­‐Canet in Pauillac. But are they really better than their non bio-­‐dynamic neighbours? Personally, I think it’s too early to tell, but I also think the question is irrelevant. White guys can play the blues, and black guys can be presidents: if it works, that’s all ye need to know. These are winemakers who are taking care of their small portion of our earth.

Let’s lose the voodoo and cut to the chase. Two bottles of wine of which you must buy just one to share with your family and friends.

One from a vineyard where they buried the horn of a cow stuffed with ground quartz then harvested by hand by moonlight; the other from a vineyard just across from the latest version of Three Mile bloody Island. Your choice.

John Sherwin, French Wine Tours.

Tel: 02 51 66 13 05 Email: johnsherwin@orange.fr ~ www.french-wine-tours.com

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Motoring...

King Cobra

by Helen Tait-­‐Wright

Whilst chatting to a reader the other week, he asked why I hadn’t featured any American cars in this column. The answer is simple, they are not really my thing but I hope that this particular beast, while not strictly all American, will satisfy the craving!!

The AC Cobra, is famously associated with Carroll Shelby, the American automotive designer, racing driver and entrepreneur but AC Cars Ltd., the builders of the Cobra, is a British specialist automobile manufacturer (formerly known as Auto Carriers Ltd.) and one of the oldest independent car makers founded in Britain.

The Weller brothers of London built their first car in 1903, and started using the “AC” logo in 1911. The company produced a variety of products over its history, including engines, railway carriages, golf carts and invalid carriages, but throughout, it was their racing cars which grabbed the headlines.

In 1962, AC was approached by Carroll Shelby. He needed a car that could compete with the Chevrolet Corvette in US sports car racing.

The resulting “289” Cobra with a small block Ford V8 engine in the AC chassis with aluminium bodywork was not only achingly gorgeous, but a very powerful roadster, and contributed towards the introduction of the 70 mph (110 km/h) limit on British motorways.

An AC Cobra Coupe was calculated to have done 186 mph (299 km/ h) on the M1 motorway in 1964, driven by Jack Sears and Peter Bolton during shakedown tests prior to that year's Le Mans 24h Race.

However, at the end of the 1964 racing season, the Cobra was being outclassed in sports car racing by Ferrari. So, in collaboration with Shelby, AC completely re-­‐designed the chassis and fitted a monster engine to the MkIII or “427” Cobra. The Shelby Cobra 427 is one of the rarest and most powerful road cars ever manufactured.

It was produced in two versions: a street model with a tamer motor, optional dual carburettors, a glove box, and exhaust running under the car, and a competition version with a stripped interior, no glove box, different instrument layout and revised suspension.

Unfortunately, the competition car missed homologation for the 1965 season and was not raced by the Shelby team. However, it was raced successfully by many privateers and went on to win races all the way into the 1970s.

Sadly the AC Cobra was a commercial failure when in production, which led Ford and Carroll Shelby to discontinue importing cars from England in 1967. Despite this the AC 427 Cobra has now become one of the most sought-­‐after and replicated automobiles ever.

From the late 1980s onwards, Carroll Shelby (Shelby Automobiles, Inc.) and associated companies have built what are known in the trade as "Continuation Cars"; Shelby authorized continuations of the original AC-­‐built Cobra series.

There are also many replicas on the market, allowing you to indulge in the legend that is this wonderfully sexy car, for as little as £14,000.

Of course for the purists, the real deal will set you back slightly more -­‐ anything from £100,000 to a cool million depending on the provenance ......

I think I could live with a replica, couldn’t you?

Contact Helen at: helen@stodel.org.

Photo: www.mrwallpaper.com

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Do You Know What to do in the Event of a Car Accident?

Here are a few handy hints for you!

Once you have established what has happened and of course assuming that you are not injured, one of the very first things you should do is call the 'ASSISTANCE'.

If you are a Gan customer the number can be found on your assistance card, on the back of the green card displayed in your windscreen, or on the sticker in your rear windscreen. So no matter how flustered you may be, you should find it easily.

Our assistance service does have English speakers too if required, helping to make the process a little easier. The assistance service will organise your vehicle to be towed to the nearest garage and will arrange for you to be taken home or for you to have a replacement vehicle (depending on the terms of your contract).

Please do not take the initiative to call a garage yourself, even your local friendly garage. This is because it affects the validity of your assistance contract. You could however request that your local garage be called by the assistance service if you know their name and address as most assistance services will try to comply in this way if possible.

Once the vehicle has been taken care of you will have time then to complete the 'constat amiable'. This is the blue form that you should have in your glove box at all times. Remember it is important to stay calm no matter what the circumstances of the accident. If you are at all unsure of how to complete the ‘constat amiable’ then speak to your insurer. Here at Gan we will help you to complete it correctly if in any doubt!

Following an accident you have 5 days to submit your claim so it is important that if you don't complete the 'constat amiable' at the scene you take the contact & insurance details of the third party so that you can contact them later to complete and sign it together.

In case of a serious accident you must call the pompiers and the gendarmes. In case of emergency you can call 112 or 15

Safe motoring!

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

French Adventures...

Rock On!!

fence seeming to peer in to watch our TV. We are well supported to live our dream by the internet with email/Skype access to family and grandkids in-­‐between visits and free calls to UK landlines.

So here we are in Deux-­‐Sevrés. In October 2012 we left behind our cosy old Yorkshire terrace in Bradford along with our tired and dreary alter egos. Like countless generations before, we took a huge punt, upped sticks and in true Yorkshire spirit I said to the wife ‘Ey up our lass – we’re off’! My wife Maggie grabbed the chance of early retirement from her Senior Manager role in the NHS, quickly trained to be an English Teacher (for speakers of other languages) and I retired from my role as Driver/Carer in the NHS (not without some sadness as I adored my job), where I worked with amazing adults with severe learning disabilities.

So what have I been doing since moving to Deux-­‐Sèvres? (apart from golf, walking, fishing, gardening, art class and learning the lingo….).

Firstly I have established my auto entrepreneur business as a professional DJ. In my previous life I started running a disco and karaoke service in 2007 as a pastime. I have a life-­‐long love of music and initially did occasional weddings, birthday parties and so on. In 2009 I started a regular monthly gig at our local pub which grew in popularity and we were guaranteed a packed house on DJ Jeff nights.

We had travelled on holiday to France for many years and did agonise over the decision, but a dream is a dream and we needed to live it. So, we packed up all our bits and bobs, including a wagon load of disco and karaoke gear, (more about that later) had a few parties to see us off, hugged the six grand-­‐kids to bits, (there are now seven) put the house up for sale and hopped on the ferry (as you do). We have initially taken a long term let as a change to the original buy-­‐a-­‐barn-­‐and-­‐convert-­‐it plan to give ourselves time to settle and test l’eau.

I do theme events like Burns Night and Hogmanay as well as hosting quizzes and money raising events. I have over 17 million digitally sourced tracks to choose from and in excess of 17,000 karaoke songs (French and English) for those who wish to sing.

For us there is no need to ask why we have moved to France. Here in Le Retail we enjoy rural life with beautiful panoramic views from a house that radiates beauty with a lovely hint of French shabby chic. We have a super garden with tree house, chickens to amuse us, a huge old barn for pottering and adorable French neighbours who communicate in English at our level of French -­‐ un petit peu.

We are warm in the winter heated not by expensive gas or electric but by cheery logs burning in the super-­‐efficient wood burner. We toddle down to the local town about 3 km away or further afield to the bigger markets once or twice a week and buy best quality fruit and vegetables. We shop in well stocked and fairly priced supermarkets where staff serve us with genuine courtesy. “bonjour”, “comment ça va?”, “Bon journée”, “a bientôt”….and wait politely while the people in front of us always seem to take ages having a good blether at the checkout. No one seems to be in any rush. There is no litter on the streets (or people either -­‐ depending on time of day or day of the week).

The regional walking group, local theatre and art groups, horse riding school (the wife not me) have all welcomed us kindly and invites trickle in to various Anglo-­‐French events, from ‘bring and buy’ sales, art exhibitions, ‘pub’ style quizzes, to the village VE day commemoration parade and lunch. The best of all of this of course is that we have the freedom to go to them all! Our new French friends are bemused (and amused) by our clumsy French language but love our zest for life and appreciation of theirs -­‐ c’est la vie!

Since those early experiences I have worked a lot of interesting venues in places as far afield as Georgia (Eastern Europe), Scotland as well as West Yorkshire. I enjoy providing the right atmosphere for any occasion; be it, pop, rock, jazz, modern, Rock n Roll, 1950’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, 00’s.

I have found Karaoke has become even more popular on the back of the ‘X Factor’, ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ and ‘The Voice’. It is amazing how many wonderful voices there are in the community, often shy and quiet folk who would not stand out from the crowd -­‐ give them a mike and hey!! I have met many ‘Adeles’, ‘Frank Sinatras’, ‘Mick Jaggers’ and ‘Amy Winehouses’ in the villages around here.

Despite being a relative newcomer to the region and thanks to the advert in this magazine I now have bookings for weddings, large camping sites, and a restaurant. I am starting a monthly Games night at the Café des Belle Fleurs in Fenioux on the fourth Friday of the month (starts Friday 28th June) and I am also doing some themed discos starting with a Tamla Motown/Soul night on the 18th August, so if you fancy a groove get yourself down there.

I am honoured to have been asked to provide music for a ‘Bal Populaire’ on 14th July in the fantastic Logis de la Forêt in Le Retail.

(Tickets from: mairieleretail@wanadoo.fr and includes a meal and fireworks, of course).

So the French Adventure is going well. The French people and new British friends have made us feel so very welcome and if you read this thinking ‘I wish I could do that’, just go for it. Life is too short to wonder. Rock on!

(I am sure that is what Shakespeare really meant when he wrote in 1602 ‘if music be the food of love, play on!).

Contact Jeff by email: DJJeff@gmail.com (or please see advert on P.9) Siren Number: 789 511 854

We slumber peacefully having left behind the noise and busyness of West Yorkshire, the stress and huge constraints on our time of work, the cultural changes that have left my native Bradford unrecognisable, the dreaded M62 with daily pile-­‐ups and traffic jams to test the patience of normally calm Yorkshire folk (ahem). Our ‘noisy’ neighbours now are a herd of beautiful cows and in the evening they stand at the Page 32

THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Communications...

by Ross Hendry

Selecting and Buying a New PC

shelf" PCs that will do most of what you need, they may benefit from the addition of some RAM or an upgraded Graphics card.

In this final article on selecting and buying a new system, I am looking at the more powerful end of the PC market. The type of PC you would need if you wish to use it for resource-­‐hungry applications such as high quality Photo or Video editing, or are a gaming enthusiast.

Here are some examples of what I would consider entry level Power User Desktop PCs :-­‐ • Zoostorm Desktop PC with AMD A8 5500 3.2GHz APU quad core processor, 8GB RAM and 2TB hard disk drive, DVD-­‐RW multi-­‐ write Drive and has on-­‐board AMD Radeon HD7560D Graphics and no operating system. Cost inc VAT £269.99, Incredible value!

• Zoostorm Desktop PC with Intel Core i5 3330 3GHz quad core processor, 8GB RAM and 2TB hard disk drive, DVD-­‐RW multi-­‐ write Drive and has on-­‐board graphics and no operating system.

Cost inc VAT £329.99; with Microsoft Windows 8, 64bit home premium only £396.99.

• Zoostorm Desktop PC with Intel Core i7-­‐3770 3.4GHz quad core processor, 16GB RAM and 2TB hard disk drive, DVD Multi-­‐Write drive, has on-­‐board graphics and no operating system. Cost inc VAT £479.99, this one is available from Amazon with Windows 8 plus a keyboard and mouse for £587.99.

Part 4 -­‐ Power User Systems

Whether it is manipulating the vast amounts of data required to edit high quality photographs or videos, or playing the latest high definition games, the secret of success is processing power and loads of memory.

Modern PCs have more than one processor, in fact most entry level PCs have two cores (processing modules). The main processor manufacturers, namely AMD and Intel, both produce processors with 2,3,4, 6 and 8 cores. The more cores the processor has, the more expensive the motherboard will tend to be, as they have to have the capability of delivering the data to be processed to the processor/s as fast as possible for them to work at their maximum rated speed.

It is also likely that these more expensive motherboards will support more RAM. 24GB and 32GB are the likely maximum values here, there are generally 2, 4 or 6 slots available for RAM and the largest individual RAM chip I have seen is 8GB. AMD's Phenom II range are the affordable ones, running x4 and x6.

At the other end of the spectrum are Intel's i7 range of processors that max out at 6 core processors.

The final element in a Power PC is the Graphics or Video Display Card. If you have selected the best CPU you can afford and got as much memory as the CPU and Motherboard can support, and unless you are into high quality 3D computer aided design, you do not have to go mad spending on the Graphics Card. A reasonable quality one will suffice, it is best to be guided on this aspect by the application/s you intend to run, if you have not purchased the software yet, just check it out on the manufacturer's website.

So here are the important components and what you should aim for -­‐ the CPU quad core or better, the RAM 8GB or more, the Motherboard able to support the quad core CPU and at least 8GB preferably 16GB of RAM, the Graphics Card recommended by the software author/manufacturer. With this in mind you can see why gamers tend to configure and build their own PCs, although this is not strictly necessary as there are some reasonably priced "off-­‐the-­‐

On the more powerful laptop front, here are a couple of competitive models:-­‐ • Samsung -­‐ AMD Quad Core A8-­‐4500M 1.9GHz, 6GB RAM and a 500GB hard disk drive, -­‐ 15.6" High Definition Screen with AMD HD7640G Graphics, Webcam + Bluetooth and Microsoft Windows 8, 64 bit. Cost £400.00.

• In the same range the Lenovo IdeaPad Z585 Laptop, with an AMD A8 4500M Quad Core processor, 8GB RAM and a 1TB hard disk drive, 15.6" TFT screen, AMD Radeon 7640G graphics, with HD Webcam + Bluetooth and running MS Windows 8, 64bit.

Cost £427.11.

• True Quad Core Intel CPU -­‐ The Lenovo IdeaPad Z580 Laptop has an Intel Quad Core i7-­‐3520 2.9GHz processor with 8GB RAM and a 1TB hard disk drive with a 15.6" TFT screen, HD Webcam and Windows 8, 64bit. Cost £612.50.

Clearly there are far more expensive high powered PCs available "off-­‐the -­‐shelf", I have merely skimmed the web for systems that are relevant to this article. One site I visited when researching had gaming PCs for over £4,000.00 and Gaming laptops costing considerably more.

My best advice is to get some professional help if you are planning on spending anything over £500.00 and also if you think you would rather have a laptop, because these are going to be by far the most expensive way to purchase a Power PC. I do hope that you have found this article of some help, please let me know via email if I can help further.

Page 33

Colour Advert Size A or B, only 38€ per month or from 33,33€ per month for 12 months.

THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Contact ‘The Deux-­‐Sèvres Monthly’ La Bartière, 79130, Secondigny.

Telephone: 05 49 70 26 21 or email: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr or see our website: www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

Useful English Language Numbers...

Cancer Support Deux-Sèvres:

05 49 64 59 96

French State health insurance advice line:

08 11 36 36 46

Elizabeth Finn Care (Grants and advice if in Financial need):

04 68 23 43 79

Orange Helpline:

09 69 36 39 00

EDF International Customer Service:

05 62 16 49 08

CLEISS (Social security advice between countries):

01 45 26 33 41

Association La Porte Ouverte (Open Door):

05 49 87 97 36 or www.opendoor-civray.com

Funeral Information (AFIF):

01 45 44 90 03 or www.afif.asso.fr

Passport Advice:

0044 208 082 4729

THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Building & Renovation...

History, Geography and Half Price Tiles!

by Rik and Sue Newell

Annie Sloan created her Chalk Paint ™ in 1990, inspired by traditional recipes such as casein and gesso. Ideal for painting furniture, woodwork, walls and floors, both internally and externally, allowing walls to breathe, it is ideal for older houses.

“It’s my unique recipe that makes it special” says Annie, “I called it Chalk Paint™ because of its soft, absorbent, matt finish”. So a paint based on recipes from the middle ages has now come into the 21st century, with a fabulous new Facebook page; Share ideas, and inspiration or just to ask Annie a question, at www.facebook.com/chalkpaint.

For us too, exciting times, as part of our “guest cottage” has now been transformed into our new shop. After having the entire roof rebuilt came the exciting stuff – painting! Huge supporting timbers with fabulous dry-­‐ brushed effect, co-­‐ordinating blues for one wall, a window with a bold oriental colour scheme, shabby chic effects on panelling and doors , and finally the tiled floor; and mostly at half price!

For walls and concrete floors we mix with equal quantities of water. The paint remains thick enough to cover in one coat, and is easier to apply, whist doubling the approximate coverage from 13 square meters to 26! Now there’s value for money!

So, Geography -­‐ Our new shop is based in Le Bois de Messé, 79120. We also have paint available at La Deuxieme Vie, an exciting little shop run alongside her estate agency, by Linda Philips in L’Absie, 79240. Linda carries limited stock, although you can pre-­‐order any colour for collection. For details of all opening hours please see our website: www.ladeuxiemechance.com or call us.

Do come and see us soon and be amazed by this unique paint, or ask about our paint techniques workshops, as taught by Annie herself.

Painting has never been so easy.

Small B/W advert only 30€ Page 35

THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

ARTISANS & TRADESMEN...

Do you have any top tips you can share with our readers?

We would love to include them in this section!

For more details, please see the ‘Submit Article’ page on our website: www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

For a full list of our advertising rates, please phone 05 49 70 26 21 for an advertising pack or download from our website: www.thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

Contact ‘The Deux-­‐Sèvres Monthly’ La Bartière, 79130, Secondigny.

Telephone: 05 49 70 26 21 or email: info@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Business, Finance & Property...

More Exchange of Information Ahead

by Bradley Warden, Partner, Blevins Franks

It looks like more and more automatic exchange of information agreements will be signed over in the coming years. is means that a wide range of financial information will be shared between countries helping tax authorities prevent and track down tax evasion.

France, along with its fellow G5 countries the UK, Germany, Spain and Italy, will develop and pilot a new multilateral automatic tax information exchange agreement. ey see this as an important, early step in a much wider move towards a new international standard which would remove the hiding places for those evading taxes. is push for automatic exchange of information started with the US’ Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA). Foreign financial institutions have to enter into agreements to automatically report on US clients.

transparency. Prime Minister David Cameron is urging them all to sign new agreements to exchange financial information.

Luxembourg is preparing to ease banking secrecy, and the EU will negotiate an updated Savings Tax Directive tax accord with Switzerland. e Swiss Private Bankers Association has urged the government to opt for an automatic information exchange regime instead of its current approach, in particular with the EU. ese agreements will have implications beyond tax compliance.

Governments will be able to track the wealth of its residents, and where it is held. Basically, it is the end of financial confidentiality in Europe and the US, and is expected to expand to other areas.

For advice on compliant, tax efficient ways of holding your assets, and the best locations for your money, speak to an experienced wealth manager like Blevins Franks which has decades of experience advising British expatriates on their tax planning.

To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore

world, check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com

It was only a matter of time before other countries followed suit. e Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey have agreed to report client information to the UK authorities along similar lines, and the UK’s overseas territories will sign up to the G5 strategy on tax

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Ask Amanda.

Money Talk...

After reading an article in a mainstream UK newspaper recently, a customer asked me;

Following on from last month here are some more ways of transferring monies with Currencies Direct:

“I understand that when I come to retire I can take my UK private pensions & purchase an annuity. I saw recently how someone had done this and taken an option which gave maximum income now, but provided no benefit to the spouse in the event of death. Their partner had died & now their widow received nothing. Is there a way to use my private UK pensions more effectively as the money forms part of our long term French plans?”

Helping people to get the best out of their private pensions is an area where I spend a lot of time. It is possible to provide UK expats with certain flexibilities not enjoyed by UK residents when it comes to private pensions. Since 2006, expats have been able to move private & company pensions into QROPS (Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes).

QROPS can be a way to enhance pension flexibility through: • Reduced taxation in the event of your death.

• Increased investment choices which are in line with your own attitudes to risk.

• The ability to change your investments should your circumstances change.

• Protection against currency risks.

• The ability to pass benefits, in the event of your death, onto whomever you wish; however you wish.

QROPS are not suitable for everyone and it is important to get professional advice from a company located and regulated to offer financial guidance in the country where you live before you make any decisions.

The Spectrum-­‐IFA Group charges no fee for consultations. This allows you to explore whether a QROPS is right for you without incurring up-­‐front costs; we get paid by the companies we deal with. Please ask for a copy of our customer charter which explains how we work.

If you have any questions that you feel I may be able to help you with, please “Ask Amanda” or use the contacts below and I will call you to discuss your questions and arrange the most appropriate answer.

Amanda Johnson, The Spectrum IFA Group. Tel: 05 49 98 97 46 Email: amanda.johnson@spectrum-­‐ifa.com or “Ask Amanda” at finance@thedeuxsevresmonthly.fr

by Sue Cook

Limit orders Limit orders are a great way of achieving the rate you want and ensuring you don’t miss the exchange rate when the markets are moving. If the exchange rate is close to where you want it, you can target your desired rate with your dealer using a limit order which monitors the rate 24/7. As soon as the rate reaches an achievable level for us to buy your currency, then your limit will trigger the purchase of your currency. These deals are good until cancelled, so if the rate doesn’t reach the level you want it to in the time frame available, then you can cancel the contract at no extra cost.

Contract Type

Spot

Min. amount

No min.

£10,000 £10,000

n/a

12 mths 12 mths

Max. length of contract

Forward Time Regular Op4on Transfer £150

Limit

£20,000

Good unol Good unol cancelled cancelled

No deposit

10%

10%

No deposit

No deposit

Transfer dates

n/a

n/a

n/a

1st,10th, 15th, 20th, 25th

n/a

Transfer fees

No fee

No fee

No fee

No fee

No fee

Deposit*

*Depending on the size of the transfer and the length of the contract, deposits can be nego6ated

Rate watch This is a service that our dealing team provide for registered clients looking to move their money overseas. If you wish to be informed of movement in the market to allow you to make the most of your money when you transfer it, then your dealer can call you to tell you which way the market is moving to help give you all the information you need to make a decision on when to transfer your money. iPayFX Our new online international payments system designed to make online international payments easy. You can store your beneficiary details on the system, make regular payments, add new beneficiaries or edit existing ones whenever required. iPayFX has live market rates which constantly change with the fluctuating market so you benefit from the most current market position. Once you agree the rate, it is locked in and you know exactly what price you will pay for your currency. You can review a statement of all your transactions in the system providing you with a record of all online payment platform payments.

I hope this information has been helpful please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

Small Colour advert only 34€

Please mention ʻThe DSMʼ when responding to an advert

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THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY

How Many Different Styles of French Houses do You Know?

by Trevor Leggett, Chief Executive

Here at Leggett Immobilier we get to see all kinds of property from renovation jobs to fully blown chateaux. Of course, being France you will find that different regions use different names and terminology for house styles but we thought that readers of ‘The Deux-­‐Sèvres Monthly’ might find it interesting if we described ten of the more common ones that we come across every day.

1. France is renowned for the beauty and history of it’s castles -­‐ indeed our Leggett Prestige team is currently marketing some real beauties. A Chateau is actually a manor house where the Lord lived with his family and servants but most people, including myself, tend to say chateau when describing a castle (which, strictly speaking, is actually a Chateau Fort).

2. Maisons a Colombage are most distinctive and can be found in northern France. They are half timbered houses where the wooden framework is prominent. Techniques used date back to the stone-­‐age but half timber houses became popular in medieval times when timber was in good supply (the wood is often called colombage, hence the name).

3. Right at the other end of France you will come across the Mas, particularly if you are in or around Provence. It’s a generic term for a traditional, stone, country property that used to be smaller than a farm but which allowed the owners to be self sufficient. They nearly always face south to protect occupants from the the mistral and are generally full of character.

4. One of our most popular requests is for a country estate or what the French call a Domaine. This is usually used to describe a prestigious country house (or indeed houses) with extensive grounds that are used for a specific purpose such as hunting, fishing, golf or wine production.

5. The Maison de Maitre is popular within the Deux-­‐Sèvres and literally means “masters house”. The properties are uniform and well balanced with high ceilings and they tend to dominate the surrounding houses.

6. We have all come across a French Longère which is one of our personal favourites as they tend to be full of nooks, crannies and character. They are long, rectangular houses, built on one level and usually have their back to the prevailing winds. You can find them throughout France, but are particularly popular in Normandy and Brittany.

7. There is a huge demand for farms (or Fermes) at present as farmland is seen as an ideal investment. Farms tend to be smaller than in England but you’ll usually come across plenty of outbuildings to renovate.

8. The next category is a bit of a cheat as it’s the contemporary villa.

Of course many of these have been built in a bespoke style by individual architects but they are such a feature in the south of France that we had to include them.

9. In a similar vein is the Ski chalet which can come in many shapes and sizes. It’s one of the most popular search terms on our website though so we had to include it.

10. Finally we’d suggest looking across the border at a typically Charentaise style house. They are big, stone, properties, typically rectangular with uniform features and a central doorway that leads to a hallway with big, identically sized, rooms either side.

End

These are our “top 10” of the traditional architectural styles available in France and we don’t have room to include a mill, a bastide house or an equestrian property -­‐ we do hope that it has been enjoyable and informative though!

Leggett Immobilier is one of the leading estate agents in France.

You can access all their local property listings and articles at www.frenchestateagents.com/poitou-­‐charentes-­‐property.

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47

theme park

Futuroscope is one of the best-loved leisure parks in France and the only one of its kind in Europe. It is the ideal place to relax in, with 60 hectares of tranquil green countryside and 25 original experiences you won’t find anywhere else: films in giant format, thrill-filled attractions, 3D rides with 4D effects, games, live shows, open-air activities, and more…

The spectacular theatres inside Futuroscope are gigantic sculptures and their futuristic lines blend in smoothly with the surrounding landscape.

Discovery and thrills guaranteed for everyone, young and old!

BERGERAC

Easy access!

-3 €

per person

The voucher is valid for adult, senior citizen (aged 60 and over) and child (aged 5 to 16) for 1 day dated-entry tickets and must be handed in at the Futuroscope ticket booths between the 16th february 2013 and the 5th January 2014* (1 to 5 visitors per voucher). Discount does not apply to packages, group tickets, and undated entry tickets (visa/ season). Offer may not be combined with other offers and backdated. *Please check opening dates on futuroscope.com

By road, by train and plane

futuroscope • com Futuroscope_Creation/Fotolia/Studio Ludo/S LAVAL/Robothespian-© Engineered Arts Limited 2012 - D LAMING, Architecte - Chorégraphies : Mourad Merzouki - CCN Créteil et du Val-de-Marne/Compagnie Käfig. Société du Parc du Futuroscope, capital de 6 504 455€, siège social : BP 2000 - 86130 Jaunay-Clan, RCS de Poitiers B 444 030 902.

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