The Quercy Local May/June 2016

May – June 2016 Issue 24

uercy Local The

The Region’s FREE magazine in English

Inside – Short Story Competition Winner The EU Referendum Planting for a Drought Art and the Vineyard

www.quercylocal.com

www.kitchensinfrance.com

Your dream bespoke kitchen in France VISIT OUR SHOWROOM OR CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

Letting your property for holidays ?

Register now with Halcyon Leisure for earliest marketing coverage

Specialist holiday home rental agency with 25 years experience in the area Personal service for Owners, Caretakers, Property Managers & Guests Advice on letting your holiday home Fast friendly response to all enquiries Global marketing coverage with new responsive website & social media Contact us for full details of our Owners package to save on your advertising & administration costs

+44 (0)1 46 03 02 00 www.halcyonleisure.com book@halcyonleisure.com @HolHomesFrance on Twi�er for news

Follow our Facebook page for Guest informa�on & offers

OPEN STUDIO Weekends 11- 12 June and 9- 10 July (14.00-19.00)

BERNARD VAN DE ROER Watercolours Lieu dit: Roumiguières Bas (D16), Saint Maurin 47270 From Bourg de Visa in the direction Saint Maurin (Agen) we are about 6 km on the right hand side.

From Saint Maurin in the direction of Bourg de Visa we are about 4 km on the left hand side.

Everyone most welcome to come and look.

Visits on other dates arranged by appointment. www.une-lumiere-du-passe.com fanfan.bernard.van.de.roer@orange.fr 0553669551

4 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

W

elcome to our Quercy-spring after what’s seemed like a long, cool start to the season. Doubtlessly, as with most years there will soon be worries about the heat and sleepless nights!

Before then I hope, if you can, you’ll consider becoming registered to vote in the UK/EU referendum on the 23rd of June (p.62).

We are delighted to be printing the winning entry in our Short Story Competition, ‘The Pig’ which written by Catherine Gorman (p.39).

At some point, we’ll run a similar competition again.

Also in this edition you’ll find information on gardening in droughts, France’s developing Sharing Economy, two family vineyards each with added points of interest, then there’re bikes, beds and even Bach.

There’s also a chance to meet two local chefs who are sharing one of their favourite recipes with everyone, something we hope to do again this year. Then for something naughty – we have lovely cakes from Le Caillau.

Anna

So until July when the next magazine appears – do have a lovely spring. www.quercylocal.com Email: info@quercylocal.com

9

CONTENTS Recettets de Chefs

p.9

Le Caillau - Cupcakes

p.14

The Big Bed Furniture Co.

p.16

Garden Party - Le Boulvé

p.18

Art Points de Vue

p.20

Drought Tolerant Planting

p.26

Club de Jardinage

p.28

Quelques Informations en Français

p.32

Am-Dram, Montaigu de Quercy

p.34

Tax Planning for 2016

p.37

Short Story Competition Winner

p.39

Cycling - Hill-Climbing

p.44

Wine and the Web

p.46

Bach - St John Passion

p.49

Château Saint-Serin

p.52

Ex-pat Radio

p.54

Classical Guitar Festival

p.56

Vignobles des Verdots

p.58

A Sharing Economy

p.60

UK/EU Referendum

p.62

English Church in Cahors

p.65

52

14

From our website you can - Subscribe to receive the magazine directly to your home, read the magazines on line, sign up for our newsletter, add your business to our free on-line directory and find our advertising rates. You can also follow us on twitter @QuercyLocal or ‘like’ us on Facebook - www.facebook.com/quercy.local

U.K./France van deliveries U.K./France van deliveries

PENSION ‘Bonnes Vacances’

Fourgon Conclusions Ltd.

Fourgon Conclusions Ltd. Tel: 0044 7841 220 980

e-mail: jayseabea@hotmail.com www.fourgonconlusions.co.uk

Tel: 0044 7841 220 980

Tel: 0044 7841e-mail: 220 980 jayseabea@hotmail.com

Email: jayseabea@hotmail.com

www.fourgonconlusions.co.uk

www.fourgonconclusions.co.uk

Peaceful Cattery 5 spacious heated pens No dogs boarded TLC ensures ‘happy cats’ Per night: 1 cat 8e, 2 cats 10e, 3 cats 12e or 4 cats 14e

Lavolvene, Belveze 82150 jan.lemmy@wanadoo.fr Please call me for more info or to arrange a visit 05 63 94 38 47 06 43 53 04 52 (mb)

The Quercy Local ISSN: 2116-0392. No part of this publication may be copied, used or reproduced without the written consent of the proprietor. No responsibility is accepted for any claim made by advertisers. All content accepted and printed in good faith. Please check that all advertisers are registered businesses in France or elsewhere in their relevant home country.

The Quercy Local is owned and managed by A Atkinson (Las Razes, Touffailles, 82190): Siret: 518 460 605 00018. It’s produced by the Magazine Production Company, West Sussex, UK. Printed by Gráficas Piquer. Admin. Valérie Rousseau.

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 5

Why not rent a bike for your holidays or let us help your guests get out on two wheels!

We can deliver (free within a radius) and provide all the necessary accessories.

We have our own onsite workshop and a very experienced and particular mechanic. We love good quality bikes and know them when we see them.

So we only offer for hire what we would appreciate ourselves. Bikes for Men, Ladies and children available.

Adult bikes from 22e per day.

(Gîte owners – partner with us – offer our service to your visitors, including on your website and we can promote you as a partner on our website).

We offer a fully-equipped professional workshop deep in the heart of the Quercy countryside. With an experienced Cytech qualified mechanic.

No job is too big or too small, from inner-tube replacement to full custom-builds we’re here to help. Collection and return of bikes can be arranged.

If you’ve bikes for your gîte or hotel guests then please contact us for a quote for their maintenance.

We carry a large range of spares and components – contact us for any advice. Suppliers of Shimano bike parts and TORQ performance/nutrition supplements.

Please see our website for a full schedule of service and repair costs.

You can contact us for both Hire and Fixing on veloplushire@gmail.com

www.velo-plus.net Velo Plus, Las Razes, 82190, Touffailles

Siret No. 81462583600014

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

Pool design & construction Traditional swimming-pools Liner – reinforced PVC - Automatic water treatment - Automatic cover Automatic cleaning - Heat pump – Equipment - Chemicals

EURL Jean-Luc RIVIERE

Swimming-pool renovation Liner replacement

Spas

Saunas

Maintenance & reparation

ean- uc

IVIERE

Building Work Heating

Renewable Energy

Air conditioning

Electrics

Plumbing

30, avenue Louis Resses – 82150 MONTAIGU DE QUERCY Tél : 05 63 95 32 77 – email : contact@jlriviere.com

W

W

W

.

J

L

R

I

V

I

E

R

E

.

C

O

M

8 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

La Cuisine de Karla For all your catering needs up to 50 pers.

Karla Wagenar Cinq Sols, 47370 Courbiac 0553716392 0628147136 info@domainecourbiac.com www.facebook.com/lacuisinedekarla

Quercy Gite & Quercy Services Gestion & Gardiennage de Résidences Secondaires Locations Saisonniėres

Marianne Charpentier www.quercygite.com Property Management & Caretaking Holiday Rentals bosredon46@orange.fr

06 71 71 77 22 The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 9

RECETTES DE CHEFS MEET THE CHEFS AND SHARE THEIR RECIPES Here we meet two local chefs, two of the faces behind some of the great food served in the area. Michel from the Lot et Garonne and Rosie from the Lot have each kindly shared one of their favourite recipes, a chance for everyone to add to their list of ‘family favourites’.

MICHEL TRAMA FROM LA POULE D’OR IN PUYMIROL (47270) 53 rue Royale - 47270 Puymirol. www.aubergade.com There’s no doubting the historic charm of the ancient village of Puymirol which perches on a hill above a green valley that idles towards Agen. Maybe you wouldn’t expect to find such a centre of culinary excellence at its sleepy heart.

Michel travelled the world, studied widely and spent time as a deep sea diver, including a spell with Jacques Cousteau’s team. Since then there’ve been years of passionate cooking, recipe development, and guiding others along a similar route.

Initially Michel and his wife, Maryse, were based in Paris before moving to the Lot et Garonne, where he developed his famous and stunningly beautiful, 2 Michelin starred, restaurant – Aubergade.

La Poule d’Or is a later addition, it nestles into the same ancient buildings and provides a second dining option, an informal and convivial experience. Michel’s son Christophe has created a style and charm that delights people, who come to appreciate the fusion of great local-food with Michel’s culinary passion for originality, authenticity and above all quality.

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

10 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Lamb shank with white beans and herby oil Michel is happy to share one of his simple but very tasty recipes, one that can soon become a family favourite. The simplicity of the cooking process, relies on the use of great quality, local ingredients. Locally sourced lamb is the best, herbs from the garden and importantly time, time to let a slow process draw out the flavours and scents of the region. Serves: 4 Main ingredients: • 4 lamb shanks • 320g of fresh white beans • 640g of chicken stock • 3kg of duck grease • 1 carrot and 1 onion • Thyme and bay Herby oil: • 150g olive oil • 150g grape seed oil • 30g dried tomatoes • A few leaves of tarragon • Half a bunch of parsley • 1 bunch of chives • Salt and pepper Method: • Brown the sliced onion and carrot into a pan • Melt the duck grease • Season the lamb shanks and cook them in the duck grease for 3 hours in the oven 120°C • Cook the beans in the oven at 150°C for 1 hour covered with the chicken stock and the onion, carrot, thyme and bay • Season Herby oil: • Wash and finely chop the herbs and cut the dried tomatoes into small pieces • Add the two oils and mix To serve: • On each plate arrange some beans with a lamb shank • Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of the ‘herby oil’ to each shank • Serve very hot

Rosie’s Marinated Aubergine recipe We are lucky to get a plentiful supply of organic – or sometimes grown by my neighbour – aubergine in season. My Greek friend insists aubergine isn’t grilled aubergine unless liberally soaked in olive oil, but we have tried several different ways to fry or grill without copious amounts of oil – and the marinade provides the moisture that the aubergine needs.

Young shiny aubergines shouldn’t be too bitter, but if you think they look a bit old and wrinkly, slice them, then salt them liberally and allow them to drain for an hour or so before cooking. Putting salt on draws out excess moisture and the bitterness along with it. Remove any excess salt by pressing the slices with kitchen towel. (It also collapses some of the eggplant’s air cells, so it also absorbs less oil.) Serves 4 to 6 as a starter, one bowl of tapenade, or around 30 small spoons.

Ingredients: • 2 large aubergines • 2 garlic cloves, peeled • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • 1 knob of ginger around 4cm long • 2 small handfuls of mint leaves • 2 tbsp. soya sauce • 3 tbsp. balsamic vinegar • 4 tbsp. olive oil Method: • Slice the aubergine into ½ to 1cm thick round slices, and grill or fry until coloured each side.

• I’ve found the easiest way for us is to use our powerful restaurant grill to quickly grill each side – but they require very careful watching to avoid burning. If your home grill isn’t that strong, lightly brush each slice with olive oil and fry in a non-stick frying pan, turning over once browned.

• Once all slices are cooked, leave as whole rounds to serve stacked up as a starter. Or cut up smaller for tapenade to spoon onto baked bread slices, or even smaller still to pile onto aperitif spoons.

Top with coriander or mint leaves.

• Put into a non-metal bowl and add marinade for at least several hours before serving. (Can be left overnight.) Serve at room temperature.

Marinade: • Mince or chop finely, by hand or by machine, garlic, ginger, mint.

Add soya sauce, balsamic vinegar and mustard. Whisk in oil.

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 11

ROSIE PADDON FROM RESTAURANT MONTCLÉRA (46250) www.restaurantmontclera.com Opposite Montcléra’s 700-year-old castle, Le Restaurant de Montcléra serves a lunchtime menu du jour, along with weekend evening meals and special theme nights. Rosie is both proprietor and chef.

Rosie began her hospitality career in hotels and kitchens in her native New Zealand before heading for adventure overseas. Funding her travels by working both in events and in London pubs, she eventually managed her own London pub and restaurant before leaving to work as a chef in grand English houses, settling for a while in a Lord’s household in the Hampshire countryside.

Rosie built up a wedding catering service after moving to France in 2001, until the opportunity arose to buy a derelict former restaurant that she had long coveted.

Rosie who is always busy with her restaurant, the catering and wedding-planning business, finds time to share one of her failsafe recipes that she really cannot be without.

Rosie describes it as her ‘go-to, secret weapon’ she reveals. ‘I can rely on it to always be popular, and it ticks many boxes; It fuses pacific rim ingredients from where I grew up with the flavours of the Mediterranean, and I can use it for aperitifs on spoons, tapenades on crostini, or piled up and served with fresh bread for a superb entrée.

In fact, our intern from last year became known as the aubergine queen from the mountains of sliced aubergine she needed to grill!’

Come and try it for yourself at Le Restaurant de Montcléra, and you will be sure to receive a warm welcome from Rosie and her team.

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

NOWOpen

FACTORY SHOP

VILLEFRANCHE DU PÉRIGORD

FA M FFR BA RA RID A N CE ÇN AT AC IIN ISE ON E

Chestnut

• Maritime Pine • Oak • Poplar

990 €

per M2

FA M FFR BA R R A ID A CAE N ÇN T AC IN ISE ON E

CLADDING DECKING BOARDS FLOORBOARDS AND PANELLING FENCING AND POSTS STRUCTURAL TIMBER LANDSCAPING MATERIALS

1790

1990 €

€

per M2

MARITIME PINE, DECKING BOARDS Autclaved Class 4 CTBB+ Size: 23 x 145 mm, length 2 ml, 2 smooth sides. Guaranteed 10 years.

per M2

SOLID, PLANED, POPLAR PANELLING 16 mm thick, 150 mm wide Lengths from 2 ml to 0,50 ml

Prices held until 30th June 2016

LA GARE 24550 VILLEFRANCHE DU PÉRIGORD 05 53 29 90 16 Mon – Fri 8am – 12 & 2pm – 5pm, Sat 8.30am – 11.30am

Our prices include TVA

FA FR BR A IC N A Ç T A IO IS N E

SOLID CHESTNUT FLOORING (TO NAIL) 23mm thick, 70mm wide Lengths from 1m to 0.30m

dehors

17, boulevard de la Madeleine, 46300 Gourdon - 05 05 65 65 37 37 13 13 30 30

Introducing dehors...

...pools & spas are our passion www.cps-dehors.fr

14 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Chocolate cupcakes with white chocolate buttercream & red berries These chocolate cupcakes are a lovely balance of dark chocolate and fresh berries, we find the new season Gariguette strawberries are especially sweet and delicious.

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 15

Piano lessons all levels Workshops for singers The basics of singing ...sessions in small groups ...relaxed atmosphere ...learn to improvise ...(re)discover your voice ...build your confidence ...meet other music lovers

www.musiquelot.net

TAXI ROQUENTIN 05 53 95 95 95 06 81 22 47 89 English Spoken

7/7 24 hrs/24 hrs 3 Cars www.taxiroquentin.com

For the chocolate cupcakes: Preheat the oven to 160°C /350°F/gas 4. Grate the chocolate (or chop using a food processor) and tip it into a large bowl. Add all the other dry ingredients: the self-raising flour (sifted), cocoa and sugar and mix together thoroughly. In a free standing mixer or a large bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs, coffee, buttermilk and vegetable oil. Gradually add the dry mix into the wet mix, whisking until smooth. Carefully fill the paper cases until two thirds-full. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they spring back when touched. Leave to cool, transferring to a wire rack when cool enough to handle.

For the white chocolate buttercream icing: Break the white chocolate into small chunks and place in a bowl along with the milk. Melt in the microwave (or over a pan of boiling water) very slowly and on a low temperature, stirring every 15 seconds if using the microwave – white chocolate burns very quickly! Beat the butter in a free standing mixer (or in a bowl with an electric hand whisk) for 2 minutes until pale and smooth. Sift the icing sugar into a bowl and add it to the butter in two stages, beating well between each. When the butter icing is smooth, add in the melted white chocolate mix and beat for a minute or so until silky.

To decorate: Either spoon the butter icing onto the top of each cupcake or if you’re feeling more adventurous, using a star shaped piping nozzle, pipe swirls onto the top of each cake. Decorate with red berries.

Ingredients Makes 12

For the chocolate cupcakes: 75g dark chocolate 175g self raising flour 30g cocoa powder 180g caster sugar 2 large eggs 100ml cooled coffee 100ml buttermilk (lait fermenté) 105ml vegetable oil

For the white chocolate icing: 100g white chocolate 3tbsp milk 150g butter, softened 270g icing sugar

To decorate: Selection of red berries: Strawberries/raspberries/blueberries

You will need: A 12-hole muffin tray with 12 paper cupcake cases

Le Caillau: Nestled in the heart of the Cahors vineyards you’ll find Le Caillau is a family run Restaurant, Café and Pottery Painting Atelier. In 2011, Caroline and Chas Sharp opened the doors of Le Caillau, a renovated 300 year old winery. Our aim is simple – to produce great quality, simple and tasty food. In our restaurant kitchen our small team creates dishes based on vegetables from our own kitchen garden and local seasonal produce, (with some more exotic ingredients thrown in for variety and a different flavour from traditional Quercy cuisine). Our Café and Pottery Painting Atelier is perfect for an afternoon getaway, whether you’re after a coffee and slice of homemade cake (lemon drizzle and coffee and walnut are some of our customers’ favourites), or you’re feeling artistic and decide to get creative by painting some pottery.

Spring Opening Hours: Restaurant: Lunch every day except Tuesday, Dinner Wednesday – Saturday inclusive Café Atelier: Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat: 10am - 5pm, Sunday: 12pm - 4pm, Tuesday: Closed Le Caillau, 46700 Vire sur Lot. Telephone: 05 65 23 78 04 www.lecaillau.com facebook.com/lecaillau twitter.com/lecaillau Instagram.com/lecaillau

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

16 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

The Big Bed Furniture Company There is a very special workshop nestled in the hills quite near to St Antonin Noble Val where creative minds and skillful hands are creating remarkable pieces of furniture.

A

t the Big Bed Furniture Company we do indeed make big beds of style and quality, from singles all the way up to super kings. We are proud to call our beds big because they are so well constructed and robust, built to last and last, and are often tailor made to individual clients’ specifications.

In addition to our beds, we make under bed wheeled storage boxes as well as blanket and linen boxes to individual specification. Our goal, and our pleasure, is to make that very particular bed that you’ve been wanting but haven’t been able to find, yet.

Beds aren’t the only things that come out of the workshop though, we also make individually designed babies’ cots that transform into stylish two-seater plantation style sofas when they have been outgrown as cots.

Beyond our beds and cots, and not forgetting our four legged companions, we have a little fun and also make bespoke dog beds. Raised slightly off the floor for good airflow and ease of cleaning, these cozy beds are a welcome

replacement for the more standard plastic versions, becoming a charming part of your household décor.

We also make a range of tables to cover all occasions, from stunning, extendable dining tables, to smaller coffee or side tables. All of these come with the option of drawers.

The Big Bed Furniture Company is a small company of dedicated craftspeople led by one of the first women to qualify in the UK as a structural timber-framer and who also holds a qualification in traditional boat building. She combines these skills, along with a passion for traditional joinery, in designing and making exceptional, beautiful and robust pieces of furniture.

We are proud to say that all of our furniture is made using locally sourced Oak, Chocolate Oak, Ash and Chestnut and we strive to make each piece unique by favoring the use of traditional joinery techniques, many of which hail from structural timber-framing. Also, wherever possible and because its fun, we like to peg joints using our own handmade green oak pegs.

Please contact us on 0674 17 68 93 or 0563 67 36 65 or at bigbedfurniturecompany@gmail.com where it would be our pleasure to discuss your particular furniture needs.

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 17

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

18 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Restaurant Le Moulin de Dausse

Restaurant Gastronomique

Le Bourg, Dausse

Terrasse Couverte

Tel: 0553412600

www.moulindedausse.com

GARDEN PARTY Le Boulvé Friday 10th June I can’t ‘hand on heart’ claim that Le Boulvé is truly the centre of the cultural universe – we have friends from Guildford who are convinced that’s the spot and who am I, a Lancastrian brought up in Yorkshire, to argue with them? Neither is it ever likely a designated European Capital of Culture but at our Association Quercy Musique here in Le Boulvé we know a good evening when we organise one!

On Friday 10th of June it’s the return of our out-door Garden Party. The Garden Party is designed as a more intimate counterpoint to our electric concert/picnic (Boogie au Boulvé of mid August) and is an open-air picnic with acoustic music set in the superb setting the Jardin de la Mairie. To emphasise the intimacy this year we are restricting the numbers to under 100 people and I would urge you to reserve your places as soon as you possibly can.

This how it works; The format is a picnic – that’s to say we provide wine and water free of charge and we set out the tables and seating for you. You bring along your food, plates and utensils and of course your friends!

There’ll be a surprise acoustic duo to open up and then the guest musicians will be Perrier Menthe featuring guest singer Jane Parris. If you came to last year’s Boogie you’ll remember Yann Perrier’s stunning guitar-playing along with Bob Neal and you’ll understand why I have asked them back and to team up with vocalist Jane Parris. Together they have a tremendous presence and a superb repertoire – pure entertainment! Le Boulvé is halfway between Prayssac and Montcuq on the D28.

Do mark the date in your diary Friday 10th June the concert starts at 8pm the price is 14 euros for adults (children free). If the weather is poor it won’t be a problem – we’ll simply transfer to the Salle des Fêtes and there is plenty of parking either next to our bijoux château of behind the village square.

Reservations to me please (Mike Jones) at mikejones46800@gmail.com or by telephone 05 65 22 71 64 The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

In our restaurant you will find only the very best of Quercy’s gastronomy, meals prepared with only fresh local organic ingredients.

Whether you dine in the exquisite dining-room or on the beautiful summer terrace you will be in the perfect place for an experience never to be forgotten.

Set in beautiful landscaped gardens Le Manoir St Jean offers peace and tranquility as well as a real sense of style with its neoclassical elegance.

If you are looking for somewhere for a special treat, a celebration or simply somewhere to try the best of the region’s products then a table at Le Manoir awaits.

We recommend calling us to reserve a table. (Eng. Spoken) At Le Manoir St Jean we have a selection of individually designed rooms/suites which will help you make the very best of your visit to the region.

Le Manoir St Jean 82400 Saint-Paul d’Espis Tél. : + 33 (0) 5 63 05 02 34 info@manoirsaintjean.com www.manoirsaintjean.com

20 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Looking for inspiration?

Come and get it!

by Jeanne McCaul

Since its establishment in 2012, followed by exhibitions of contemporary art during the summer months of 2013, 2014 and 2015, the arts association Art Points de Vue (APV) of Lauzerte has undergone many changes and grown in experience and strength.

T

he coming season promises to reach new heights. Not only will it be extended into October, but the numbers of artists exhibiting on a rotating monthly basis, as well as the disciplines they represent, have been increased. Collaborations with other arts associations, groups and galleries have likewise been improved and, for the first time, each monthly exhibition has been conceived around a theme on which the artistic programming is based.

The May exhibition is entitled “voyage…voyage… d’un univers à l’autre”, June: “l’éloge du trait”, July: “le vide et le plein”, August: “abstraction: un peu, beaucoup, passionnément”, September: « verre et sous verre » and October: “un voyage introspectif”. The disciplines represented include painting, sculpture, graphic art, calligraphy, ceramics, glassware and photography and range from figurative and realistic to abstract artistic expression. Most

artists live and work in the region, but some are from further afield. Some are French, others not, but have made France their home. Some are well established, others less so. (Visit our new website www. art-points-de-vue.com for more details.)

The month of July will see most of the gallery space allocated to ceramic artists who are members of the association Terres Neuves du Sud-Ouest, to coincide with the 10th anniversary of their week-end exhibitions of pottery in Lauzerte, this year scheduled for 16 and 17 July. October (1st to 16th) will be dedicated to photography and include master classes – another new direction, which will hopefully be continued in future.

By kind permission of the enthusiastic Lauzerte mayor, Jean-Claude Giordana, who sees art and culture as essential components for the vitality of the town, and his councillors, all exhibitions are housed in 5 rooms of a very beautiful venue: the Espace

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 21

Points de Vue. Historically part of a nunnery and later a school – ensuring generous proportions and lots of natural light – the former “Centre Jeanne d’Arc”, situated at the medieval entrance to the town (“barbacane”) is worth a visit in itself. Entrance is free and all are welcome. The opening cocktails or “vernissages”, which take place every first Saturday of the month at 18:00, are also open to all (see website for detailed calendar and opening hours).

Artists are selected by the Conseil d’Administration (administrating committee) of the association, from an impressive pool of applicants and recommendations.

The committee is headed up by a “bureau”, consisting of a president (Marjolaine Favreau), two vice presidents Pascale Maheu-Stritzke and Daniel Pézeril) a treasurer (Keith Macfarlane) and a secretary (Jeanne McCaul). The statutes provide for three additional administrators (Catherine Boillon, Jacques Pol and Claude Benito). Rosalind Marchant joined the team as a “membre actif” pending formal election onto the committee. All contribute their varied talents, competences and professional experience on a voluntary basis to the collective result, which includes the seasons’ artistic programming, contacts with artists and selection, administration and organization during months of preparation and during the season, as well as the writing, editing and publishing of all publicity material. Financing relies on association membership contributions, donations and subsidies as well as a modest percentage of sales of art works.

The association welcomes new members and anyone can join. At the time of publishing membership stands at 60 and growing. Privileges for members (special visits to museums, such as a recent guided tour of a temporary exhibition at the Musée Ingres of Montauban) are planned and tax reductions on membership fees and donations are pending. Should you wish to join the association or submit an application to exhibit or require any further information, feel free do write to espacepointdevue. lauzerte@gmail.com. In any event, do visit us as one of several thousand from far and near each season – some who simply come out of curiosity and go away inspired and some of whom are delighted to find the exact piece of art they were missing in their homes and lives.

Photo credits Chris Collister.

O.T. CONSTRUCTION On-time reliable service For all your drainage problems Burst water mains Blocked drains Storm water Water ingress

Contact Keith Verrall Groundwork contractor 30 years’ experience 13 years in the Tarn et Garonne Call 07 88 04 07 06 e-mail: chenebois@hotmail.com Dept 82/47

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

22 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Bi-­‐lingual architectural practice Planning, design, project management Full architectural services

Sean Rawnsley RIBA, AA dipl. www.architectesud.fr -­‐ info@architectesud.fr Tél : 05 82 81 10 21 -­‐ 82330 Verfeil-­‐sur-­‐Seye

Membre de l’Ordre des Architectes

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

G M Construction A skilled and loyal workforce of British & French tradesmen

All aspects of building projects both new and renovation, including project management, swimming pools & ground-works If you are looking for a British/French speaking builder operating in 46, 47, 82 & 24 Contact Greg:

06 37 67 49 89 / 06 76 92 28 68 ggmconstructionfr@hotmail.com www.englishbuilderinfrance.com Siret No:- 50741519800013

24 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Place de le Croix – 82150 Roquecor General supplies, Bread, Newsagents, Postal Point We also stock a supply of British products and a great selection of wines from local producers

Local and convenient – a true village shop 05 63 95 25 78 / 06 82 84 56 30 r.long@orange.fr (SARL Lacroixroc) Delphine and Jean Longueteau

CUSTOM BUILT BRICK STOVES Highly efficient heat-retaining system, constructed mainly from brick with various finishes available. Creating an attractive focal point which radiates heat from the occasional burning of wood.

Our work can be seen and we will be happy to provide more information

please email: taneltoomsalu@gmail.com www.nordicbrickstoves.com

Sand, Gravel and Crushed Limestone – available from 3 sites (St Denis Catus, Cahors & Crayssac).

We deliver.

Also, Building Materials, Pipe Laying and Skip Hire

05 65 22 79 95 English Spoken

www.sable-quartz-mangieu.com

4m flatbed truck

available for barn and house clearance Dechetterie runs 30km radius of Lauzerte 82110 Call: 0782161941

ALLEZ SOUTH WEST FRANCE PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN TARN, TARN ET GARONNE, AVEYRON AND THE LOT. We are an English couple who’ve been successfully selling houses in the Tarn et Garonne, Lot, Tarn and Aveyron for over 12 years.

We’ve built up a reputation for our friendly, professional and hands on service. We sell properties at all price ranges from 100,000 euros to over one million and our buyers come primarily from the UK but also worldwide.

Our area is mainly around St Antonin Noble Val and Caylus but also all points 45 minutes from Caylus. If you’re looking to sell then we have the buyers. We’re here to help.

CONTACT:

Gillie and Anthony Pearce on 06 23 94 22 or 06 12 51 85 05 Email info@allezsouthwestfrance.com Website www.allezsouthwestfrance.com

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 25

FAMILY BOARDING FOR PETS For dogs, the option of a large indoor or outdoor kennel.

Big shady parks where your dog can run around and play-freely, overseen and in complete safety.

For cats, cheerfully coloured indoor boxes, complete with off the ground hiding places.

During the daytime your pet can take advantage of a playroom and access to an entirely closed and secure, outside garden.

Phone: 06 95 20 92 01 figarocompagnie@yahoo.fr www.figaro -et-cie.fr Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

26 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Dianthus

Draught Tolerant Planting

Sempervivum Aladdin

Salvia Verticulata

T

he summer is fast approaching and if you’re still choosing new planting for your garden, it’s important to select plants that work well in this climate here in South West France. Even experienced gardeners can be caught off guard by the extremes of our winters and summers, so don’t assume that because a plant worked well in your garden in the UK it will be OK in the Midi Pyrenees.

Over here, the summers are long and dry, so for a low maintenance garden, it’s advisable to select drought-resistant plants, which, after an initial period of being watered-in, can survive without irrigation.

All plants need water, of course. Water is essential to all living things, and in plants it’s required for photosynthesis, when plants convert the sun’s energy into molecular energy, taking in sunlight, carbon dioxide and water and producing glucose and oxygen. It’s also needed for transpiration, where water and minerals are

drawn up through the roots and transported through the xylem vessels of the stem, up to the leaves, where water evaporates through the stomata (small openings in the leaf). Water also keeps plants turgid and erect.

Without the endoskeleton or exoskeleton that keeps animals upright, vascular plants rely on turgor pressure to remain rigid and supported, and thus insufficient water results in drooping and wilting.

Drought-tolerant plants have built-in features which allow them to obtain sufficient water during our incalescent summers. A useful indicator is the leaves, and those that are succulent, silver coloured, hairy, small or needle-like are all useful in their own way, and are good indicators of a plant that will cope well with dry growing conditions, maximizing water uptake and minimizing water loss.

Succulents (from the Latin “sucus” – juice, or sap) have fleshy leaves, stems and roots, specially adapted for storing water. Examples include Crassula, Delosperma, Jovibarba, Sedums and Sempervivums. They all cope beautifully with extended hot temperatures and are very easy, low maintenance plants.

Many drought tolerant plants have silver or greygreen leaves, with their light leaf colour absorbing less heat and reflecting the harsh rays of the sun. Silver foliaged plants, such as Achilleas, Artemisia, Cotula, Glaucium and Perovskia, will all thrive in full sun, and their pleasing foliage is versatile in planting schemes as it can both help tone down bold, hot colours, and harmonize with softer, cooler colours.

Some plants have a coating of fine hairs on their leaves or stems, and these trichomes serve to trap moisture around the plant tissues. Salvia verticulata, Stachys byzantina, Sempervivum arachnoideum and Sempervivum ciliosum are popular examples that add sensory appeal to the garden.

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 27

ARBRESERVICES Matt Strawbridge Tree Surgeon Elagueur Arboriste

Delosperma Red Mountain

Papaver Royal Wedding Poppy

Phlox Subulata

Perovskia

Sempervium Ciliosum Borisi

Tours 47340 Cassignas 05 53 95 80 27/ 06 45 25 65 58 matt@arbreservices.com www.arbreservices.com SIRET NO. 5025222200004

Another way for plants to avoid excessive water loss is to have reduced leaf areas, with leaves that are either very small, or long, thin and needle-like. The reduced surface area tempers evaporation brought about by wind and sun, with fewer stomata resulting in less water being lost through transpiration. Such plants include Arenaria, Dianthus, Lavender, Penstemon pinifolius, Rosemary and Thyme.

Of course, is not just about leaves. Plant roots have the vital function of obtaining water from the soil and there are two categories of plant root systems: fibrous roots and taproots.

Fibrous rooted plants have a network of thin, branching roots. They are shallow rooted and obtain surface water. As such, they are more prone to drying out and thus may require additional irrigation. This doesn’t mean you have to dismiss all shallow rooted plants though, as some of them possess the leaf qualities previously discussed. Shallow rooting plants such as Sedum, Phlox subulata and Phlox douglasii, can be useful additions to our French gardens, especially in such situations as rocky terrain with poor soil depth, or over a septic tank system, where you would not want to risk root penetration.

Tap-rooted plants have one dominant central taproot, with some lateral secondary and tertiary roots. Tap roots penetrate deep into the ground and can therefore access underground water stores when the surface water is depleted. Plants such as Acanthus, Euphorbia, Poppies and Verbascum all have tap roots and do very well over here, coping with periods of drought.

One thing all drought tolerant plants don’t like is excessive water. As the winters here can be very wet it’s important to ensure that your soil has good drainage, drought resistant plants will not survive a winter in clay soils. Drainage can, of course, be improved by digging in plenty of organic matter and horticultural grit.

John and Debbie (Le Jardin des Espiemonts) lejardindesespiemonts@gmail.com, 05 63 64 68 76, www.lejardindesespiemonts.fr

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

28 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

ISABEL & DIDIER WEBER Saturday 10h30 /12h30 et de 15h /18h30 Sunday morning 10h30 /13h Et sur rendez vous.

22 bd des thermes - 82 140 Saint Antonin Noble Val Tel: 06 83 15 33 59 histoiresetjardins.com

The following two events are open to the public – do come along, we’d love to meet you!

We are a friendly group of people of all ages, nationalities and green-fingered abilities, sharing knowledge and experience while we all get to grips with gardening in sunny S.W. France.

Mother Nature has been a step ahead of her usual self this year, so we’ve had to accelerate our programme in order to keep pace with her! Although it is only May, we’ve fitted in our AGM, a talk given by a local ethnobotanist, 2 members’ presentations (on creating vegetable gardens and herbaceous borders), a grafting workshop, a demonstration on pruning fruit trees and a delightful stroll through a wild daffodil wood.

Our updated 2016 Annual Programme is as follows: May 10 June 7-10 June 21

July 12

August 19 September 13

Sept 24

October 11 November 8 Nov (tba) Nov (tba) December 13

Garden Visits – Prayssac Coach Trip to View Gardens in Provence Tea Party and Plant Swap – see details below* Visit to Manoir d’Erygnac, Lunch & Nursery – Perigord Summer BBQ Visit Gardens in Cadiot/Masquere & Lunch – Dordogne CJL Garden Show in Lauzerte – see details below* Talk on Saffron & Truffles Meeting – details tba La Journee de l’Arbre Christmas Table Decorations Workshop Club Christmas Lunch

Please note: information given above may be subject to change

English Tea Party Tuesday – 21 June 2016 from 15.00 to 17.00 – Ressigeac Bas, Sauveterre, 82110 The President of our Club, Fiona Forshaw, is holding an English tea party in her lovely garden. Join us for refreshment (at a small charge) and the opportunity to swap or purchase plants and to exchange views and tips on the challenges and rewards of gardening.

If you would like to come to our English Tea Party and need directions, please contact Fiona Forshaw on frenchflowerpot@outlook.com Garden Show Saturday – 24 September 2016 at 14.00 – Salles de Fêtes, Lauzerte Join members and friends of the Club de Jardinage de Lauzerte for an afternoon filled with entertainment for the whole family! Enter competitions with your home-grown flowers and vegetables, win prizes on the Tombola, buy plants at bargain prices and enjoy delicious home-made cakes and scones. Entrance is free.

If you wish to register your interest in entering your produce for a competition at the Garden Show, please contact Pam Westcott – details given below.

The Club meets on every second Tuesday in the month, usually at the Salle des Fêtes in Lauzerte from 2pm to 4.30pm. Our meetings cater for French and English speakers. Come along and meet us with no obligation – you’ll receive a warm welcome! And if you do then decide to join the Club, our annual subscription is only 10 Euros.

If you would like to join in a meeting or to know more about us generally, please contact our Vice-President, PamWestcott: 05 63 94 19 25 or pamwestcott47@hotmail.com

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 29

LAVENDER FARM OPEN DAYS Sat. June 25 & Sun. 26, 10am-7pm Ferme de Lacontal, Touffailles, 82190 Come and learn about lavender production, the distilling process and see the fields in flower.

Craft and produce stalls.

05 63 95 78 12 www.lavande-quercy.fr At Touffailles, follow the signs ‘Bienvenue à la Ferme’ Free Entry – A great day out!

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

30 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

  Spring Exhibition      





At the beginning of May there will be a new exhibition in Sauzet village during Ascension week-end   (Wednesday 4th to Sunday 8th).   At  the 11th ARTSauzet Exhibition, works of 8 local artists will be on view : Julia Barton’s etching, Jean-Louis Simon’s paintings,  Orlane Zavaroni’s ceramics, Christone’s paintings, Frédérique  Dessane‘s bronze jewellery, Françoise Leclerc’s paintings,      Thierry Fontanini’s wood sculptures and Hugo’s stone sculptures.  On Wednesday 4th of May at 6 pm. all artists will be pleased     viewing. to   meet you during the private      Galerie Lou Faouré – 214 Grand’Rue – 46140 Sauzet – 3 - 7 pm  









www.artsauzet.org

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 31

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

32 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Administration & Business Management Could your business run more efficiently with the help of an independent assistant handling your paperwork and your French and English customers?

No contract – just working when you need help.

Leaving you free to concentrate on your business.

Please call me or take a look at my website.

Valérie ROUSSEAU O6 70 64 54 97

vgr.secretariat@gmail.com vgr-secretariat.com

VOUS QUI VIVEZ EN FRANCE,VOUS PRENDREZ BIEN QUELQUES PHRASES GAULOISES AVEC NOUS !!!!

Combien de fois avons-nous entendu des personnes nous dire: « Mais pourquoi est-ce que ‘LE’ QUERCY LOCAL n’est pas aussi écrit en français? On trouve tellement d’informations utiles à l’intérieur! » ?

Et bien, tout simplement, parce que les personnes qui l’ont créé, qui participent à son contenu à chaque édition, sont de langue natale britannique, et que THE QUERCY LOCAL s’adressait, en tous cas dans son objectif initial, aux personnes de langue anglaise vivant ou séjournant dans notre grande région...

Puis, petit à petit, des annonceurs locaux ont choisi de présenter leur entreprise dans ce bimensuel parce qu’il a aussi l’avantage de paraître régulièrement, avec une multitude de renseignements pratiques, de manifestations à venir, de conseils quotidiens pour tout un chacun.

Et ce n’est pas tout ! Aujourd’hui, avec un site internet complètement réactualisé, « LE QUERCY LOCAL » s’adapte aux exigences tendance de communication immédiate et rapidement renouvelée! En six ans, le nombre d’éditions a augmenté, le nombre d’exemplaires a doublé, le nombre de points de collecte a triplé et l’information locale s’étend désormais de Bergerac à Montauban, d’Agen à Cahors, en passant par une foule de villages, de petits commerçants et d’offices de tourisme qui souhaitent tous avoir la « fameuse boîte à l’Union Jack » dans leur bureau d’accueil...

Maintenant, arrêtez-vous un instant pour imaginer ce que ces 60 ou 70 pages régulières demandent comme temps de préparation?… Pour pouvoir être à la hauteur de votre attente, nous essayons sans cesse de renouveler les sujets, d’associer des découvertes patrimoniales avec des annonces de nouvelles entreprises (que nous essayons à chaque fois de promouvoir), de publier des articles pour des associations caritatives, de rencontrer les personnes qui souhaitent partager leur passion, leur activité ou leurs découvertes. Parce que vous pouvez TOUS

nous transmettre un article, un sujet d’article, des informations à faire paraître… nous nous efforcerons toujours d’éditer ce que vous présentez, d’adapter aussi un peu, peut-être, votre prose, et d’y ajouter quelques compléments d’informations.

Sans compter la date limite de réception des textes, des annonces, les retouches, la composition de la maquette (véritable TETRIS!) l’impression (vous avez remarqué la nouvelle couverture glacée depuis l’édition de Novembre 2015?!!!)...

Non, non, ne nous plaignez pas... Au contraire, on adore!!! On apprécie lorsque vous êtes plus nombreux à nous faire part de votre satisfaction, lorsque vous nous joignez pour nous indiquer un événement, ou pour obtenir plus d’exemplaires parce que les visiteurs de votre entreprise, les ont déjà tous emportés…

MERCI à vous tous qui avez permis au magazine d’être plus connu et reconnu, et d’avoir permis à une britannique – qui cherchait des informations concrètes à son installation en France, en courant partout– de faire partager sa passion et ses choix à des personnes de bon goût!

Aujourd’hui, avec une page française qui vient s’immiscer dans le magazine, avons-nous transgressé le règlement intérieur de THE QUERCY LOCAL ?! Qu’en pensez-vous? Faîtes nous part de vos réactions, vos suggestions sur le mail: info@quercylocal.com.

Et cette FRENCH PAGE n’étant pas à publication unique, nous attendons que d’autres personnes de langue natale française s’expriment dans cette tribune ! Alors, à vos plumes pour l’édition de Juillet, à vos choix de sujets, à vos billets d’humeur ou toute distraction onirique pour ravir nos lecteurs de toutes origines…

by Valérie Rousseau

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

SARL TOUBELMONT Your local professional contact with Environmental Warranties (Qualisol, Qualipac, Qualibois, Qualibat) A WELL-KNOWN LOCAL FIRM WITH A GREAT REPUTATION

SWIMMING POOLS Since 2004 TOUBELMONT has specialised in the quality design, construction and landscaping of swimming pools, spa and saunas. Supplying and fitting pool-liners, water-treatment equipment, automatic pool covers and heating solutions.

We are happy to guide you to help you achieve your project, provide maintenance and an after-sales service. We offer you a professional, quality service with a ten-year guarantee. For more information or to make an appointment please contact us.

LANDSCAPING The creation and maintenance of landscaped areas.

Including grass-cutting, turf laying (either real or synthetic).

BUILDING Restoration of stone buildings, including re-jointing.

Drainage both new and renewal.

Electrical and plumbing work either new or renewal.

Heating: including renewable energy (Red Label), boilers, fuel, gas, wood, granules, heat pumps, air conditioning and solar.

Laveroque 82150 BELVEZE TĂŠl. 05 63 94 30 51- Port. 06 70 72 37 75 toubelmont.sarl@orange.fr www.sarl-toubelmont.fr

34 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

BEAUTIFUL CHALK BASED PAINT

Beautiful chalk based paint, 150 stunning colours, paint for every project, easy to use. Ideal for painting furniture and so much more.

Regular workshops now taking place.

For more details about the range please call: Resa on 06 40 05 85 00 | resa@chalk-paints.com | www.chalk-paints.com

La Troupe D’Acteurs Du Quercy

Fancy a night of drama?

Rich Ruby is the latest theatrical production to be put on by La Troupe d’Acteurs du Quercy. After the success of the bilingual pantomime, Puss in Boots in January, the Troupe is bringing a brand new English play to the “boards” of the Salle des Fêtes in Montaigu de Quercy.

Rich Ruby is a comical farce with a story line of rival gangs, stolen money, bumped-off bodies and the powers of an unusual holy relic, all mixed up with a cast of eccentric characters and miscellaneous mayhem.

The play has been written and is being directed by the Troupe’s president, Steve Mercer.

So put the date in your diary – Thursday May 19th is the popular bring your own picnic night. For those who appreciate the fine dining offered by Viv Woffinden and her team, then Friday 20th May is the night for you.

Tickets can be booked by from latroupeboxoffice@gmail.com or by phoning 05 53 49 19 51 The Troupe is a very active Amateur Dramatics group, putting on 3 different productions a year. Membership is currently in excess of 50 people, but we are always on the look-out for more members. Whether you wish to act or help in other roles there are lots of different ways in which you can become involved. For example, the Troupe has a reputation for outstanding set design

and costume – this involves a whole team of people designing, painting, building, sewing and assembling to bring the set to life. But the set wouldn’t live without the special sound and lighting effects. Or perhaps hair and make-up might be your thing – we would love to hear from you!

But the Troupe is not all about the stage – we like to have FUN! We also hold social events the last one was a Trivia Quiz night on the 16th April at the Montaigu, Salle des fêtes. So we really do cater for all tastes.

Want more information about any of the Troupe’s activities? Please contact any of the following: www.la-troupe.org.

Sarah Pegg: pegg.sarah@orange.fr Tel: 05 53 49 19 51.

Stephen Mercer: stephen.mercer@orange.fr Tel: 05 65 35 69 91.

On Another Note…

The International Club in Montaigu de Quercy is running theatre workshops – why not come along for a taste of Am Dram and see if it’s for you? The theatre workshops are being held on Wednesday afternoons at the International Club. Tutor: Jenny Hurst. Voice/ Movement for starters and set design/sound/ lighting next. If you are interested contact Jenny Hurst direct at: jenbullen@hotmail.com

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 35

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

36 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

“Are my investments suitable for me as a French resident?

Am I paying more tax than necessary?”

Talk to the people who know.

PWK038-fr

The French tax regime provides opportunities for tax efficient investing, but there are many pitfalls. Using the wrong arrangements could have major tax and succession consequences.

Blevins Franks has in-depth knowledge of the local tax system and using it to your advantage, and would be happy to review your existing investment structures.

contact us now on

05 56 34 75 51 bordeaux@blevinsfranks.fr

Blevins Franks Group is represented in France by the following companies: Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (BFFM) and Blevins Franks France SASU (BFF). BFFM is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided overseas, via the Insurance Mediation Directive from Malta, the regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks France SASU (BFF), is registered with ORIAS, register number 07 027 475, and authorised as “Conseil en Investissement Financiers” and “Courtiers d’Assurance” Category B (register can be consulted on www.orias.fr). BFF’s registered office: Parc Innolin, 3 Rue du Golf, CS 60073, 33701 Mérignac – RCS BX 498 800 465.

FR ANCE  SPAIN  PORTUGAL  CYPRUS  MALTA  UNITED KINGDOM

www.blevinsfranks.com

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 37

TAX PLANNING FOR 2016 When was the last time you reviewed your tax planning? There have been a number of French tax reforms over recent years and it is important to ensure your arrangements are up-to-date, and designed to avoid unnecessary tax and take advantage of the opportunities that exist within the French tax regime.

Income tax Income tax rates for 2016 (payable on 2015 income) remain the same as last year, though the income tax bands for each rate have increased slightly.

Last year saw the removal of the 5.5% income tax band, which, though designed to help lower earners, presents tax planning opportunities for investors because of the difference in France between income and taxable income.

Income tax is payable on earnings, pensions, rental income and investment income. There can be more tax efficient ways of holding your investment assets.

Social charges In February 2015 the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled that France could not apply social charges on people who were subject to social security in another EU/EEA member state. This meant that non-residents should not be liable on French real estate income and residents who are affiliated to the social security of another EU Member State (generally individuals holding EU Form S1) were exempt on unearned and investment income. The French government confirmed this in October.

Therefore, if you are resident in France and are affiliated to the social security of another EU Member State, you can claim repayment of social charges on capital gains on property and shares, dividends, interest, assurance-vie, letting income etc, for income received in the years 2012 to 2015 (refund rules depend on the type of income and you should seek specialist advice). Claims are being successfully made and refunds received.

However, the French government changed its rules again in its social security budget for 2016. In essence, Article 24 says that social charges will now be paid to non-contributing fund (fond vieillesse).

Therefore this is outside the scope of ECJ’s ruling and so for income received from this year onwards

(refunds are still available for past years as above), social charges are again due on unearned and investment income (or on French real estate income for non-residents) even if you have Form S1. This law change may be challenged, so watch this space….

The combined tax rates with income tax can reach 60.5%, but there are compliant, tax efficient arrangements available in France that can help you lower this tax liability, sometimes significantly.

Wealth tax Wealth tax remains a concern for wealthier residents.

You are liable if your taxable worldwide assets are above e1.3 million, with tax payable on assets over e800,000 at rates of between 0.5% and 1.5%. If you are affected seek advice on how to lower this tax liability.

Succession tax There are no key changes to succession tax this year, but estate planning has been brought into the spotlight by “Brussels IV”, the 2015 EU succession regulation. If you opt for UK succession law to leave assets freely, depending on who your heirs are they could be faced with tax rates of up to 60%.

You should consider your estate planning as a whole – succession tax mitigation, succession law, probate, how you can control who to leave assets to and when and how. These considerations now include whether to choose French or UK succession law – this is a complex area, and you must take specialist advice.

It is important to understand how French taxation impacts you personally, and establish tax planning solutions based on your objectives and family circumstances. Seek personalised advice.

Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual is advised to seek personalised advice.

Peter Wakelin, Regional Manager of Blevins Franks France part of the Blevins Franks Group the leading international tax and wealth management advisers to UK nationals living in Europe, with decades of experience advising British expatriates moving to and living in France. Telephone 05 56 34 75 51 ~ bordeaux@blevinsfranks.fr ~ www.blevinsfranks.com Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual is advised to seek personalised advice.

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

38 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 39

The winner of our short story competition Catherine Gorman from Dorking in Surrey whose story ‘The Pig’ was judged 1st in our competition.

Born in London, Catherine Gorman was formerly a professional classical musician. Having studied the oboe at the Royal College of Music she subsequently went on to play with many of the top UK orchestras and was a member of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra for ten years.

Catherine and her husband Richard have had a home in the Lot since 1991.

Email: catherine@catherinegorman.com Mobile: +44 (0)7976 414180 Catherine nominated CSF (East Dordogne and Lot) to receive the charity element of her prize.

2ND PRIZE was won by Melissa Beckham from Limoges, who nominated Chats du Quercy as the recipients of the charity element of her prize.

3RD PRIZE was won by Peter Martin, who lives in the Lot. Peter asked that his prize be given to Poor Paws.

A big thank you to Maree Giles for all her hard and considered work in judging the many entries.

Finally a huge thankyou to everyone that took the time to enter. We may well run the competition again later this year or during 2017.

ThePig (Different People, Different Places)

I

t was a cold, crisp January day yet the sun felt warm on her skin. Cynthia lifted her hand to shade her eyes. She hoped that she might be imagining things but no, there it was, a wild boar snuffling around at the back of the garden in broad daylight. Suddenly the animal seemed to sense her presence and lifted its huge head to look straight at her. She froze, bracing herself for the attack but it merely turned away and ambled up the hill before disappearing into the bushes. She waited until there was no sight of it and then walked hurriedly back into the house, glad that there had been nobody to witness her fear.

Although they had lived in the Lot for nearly ten years this was only her second sighting of a wild boar. Last summer they were driving home from a nearby village fête in the early hours of the morning when a huge male suddenly strode out in front of the car. Robert had only just managed to slam the brakes on in time. The creature stood for a moment and looked at them with disdain before majestically continuing its journey into the undergrowth. Robert was thrilled. ‘Just look at him Cynth, isn’t he magnificent? Absolutely wonderful.’

Cynthia didn’t think that the animal was wonderful at all and shrank down slightly in her seat. She had

always been rather a nervous person, although confident enough in social situations and reasonably happy to take on new challenges. It was any sort of physical threat she found difficult to cope with and that threat often involved animals. She wasn’t phobic; she was happy enough when she came across a well behaved dog out walking with its well behaved owner.

A stray dog was a different matter though and even worse was the thought of coming face to face with a wild boar.

She wondered if the strange encounter was a sign that they had been right in their decision to sell up and move back to England. Perhaps it meant that her fears were justified; the porcine creatures were always there on the hill in the pitch black night, unseen and silent but ready to charge out of the bushes and attack.

It was time for one last look around. Everything was well organised so that when the house sold it would be ready for a removal firm to come and expunge all traces of their life there. The estate agents had a set

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

40 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

of keys and Miriam would be arriving at any minute to take her to the airport. Robert had left a few days earlier as he had business to attend to in London but would be there to meet her at Gatwick. They planned to go straight out to dinner ‘to mark the beginning of a new chapter in our lives’ as he put it. She felt confused about the move. In many ways she would be glad to be back in England but sad at the thought of leaving her many friends and the lovely house that had been their home for so long.

It had been a complete surprise when Robert said he wanted to abandon their life in the Lot, especially as it had originally been his idea to move to France. That was ten years ago after her illness.

They had already decided that it would be best for her to take early retirement. It was during the course of a long weekend staying with Miriam and Don that he suggested registering with estate agents in the area. ‘Imagine Cynth, the sunshine, a slower pace of life, new interests. We can buy a place with a pool, think of that.’ Darling Robert, he always put her first. His own work took him all over Europe and he could easily commute to London when necessary. She was reticent at first, worried about not being there for Dawn and the children, although Dawn herself had been enthusiastic about her father’s idea.

‘Don’t be silly Mum, go ahead. It’ll be wonderful for you, especially after what you’ve been through over the last couple of years. Don’t forget we’re both teachers. We can bring the children out to France for most of the summer.’ Cynthia remembered those wonderful, fun filled, endless August days. Once the children were in bed, the four of them would sit by the pool until the early hours, sipping Cahors wine and putting the world to rights as the cicadas performed their nightly symphony. She thought how strange it was that ten years ago Robert had spent months persuading her to move to France and now he had spent nearly as long persuading her to move back to England. Their conversations always followed much the same pattern.

‘But I thought you loved it here Rob.’ ‘I do in many ways but let’s be honest, I haven’t really settled down like you have I? I wish I had your ability to speak the language for one thing.’

‘But that’s because you aren’t here so much darling.

Remember that I have a French lesson once a week.

You’ll feel differently when you retire.’

‘That’s part of the problem though Cynth. I don’t want to live here when I retire. I don’t want to struggle with the language. I want to be able to walk down to a village pub and join the National Trust and that sort of thing.’

That made her laugh and it wasn’t long before she gave in, even though she had a niggling feeling that there might be some underlying reason he hadn’t revealed. Now it was all arranged; they could stay with Dawn and Andy while they looked for somewhere to rent and when the French house was sold they would find somewhere to buy. Her mobile ‘phone rang, startling her out of her reverie, it was Dawn.

‘Mum, where are you? Are you still at the house?’

Dawn sounded anxious.

‘Yes, you know Miriam, she’ll be late for her own funeral. I’ve allowed plenty of time though, there’s no problem.’

‘Mum, I … Oh no, it doesn’t matter.’

‘Dawn, what is it?’

‘Nothing Mum, it’ll wait. Just have a safe journey and say goodbye to the house for me.’

At the sound of a car on the gravelled driveway Cynthia stood up.

‘Darling, Miriam’s here, I must go. I’ll see you tonight.’

She opened the door to find Ann, one of Miriam’s neighbours.

‘Sorry Cynthia, I had a panic call from Miriam.

She woke up with one of her migraines, can’t even get out of bed poor love. Don’s on a business call so here I am!’

‘Ann, that’s so kind’. Cynthia grimaced as she turned away to gather up her things. ...........................

In London, Robert sat on a worn, red velvet seat, hunched over his pint of bitter and trying to make sense of his feelings. On one hand he was so pleased, thrilled in fact to be back but the thought of telling Cynthia the real reason for wanting to come home filled him with dread. There were three hours to go before he was due to meet her at the airport. Even now he couldn’t help worrying about her but then he had always worried about her, possibly without reason. He felt guilty when he remembered how brave she was during her illness all those years ago; he was the one who found it difficult to cope.

His hand shook as he picked up his ‘phone.

Why hadn’t she rung? He badly needed to know that everything was going to plan. After trying her mobile for the third time he sighed and resigned himself to the fact that there was nothing to do but wait. He looked around the 17th century pub with its leaded light windows and open fire. This sense of history was what he loved about London, the city that had survived the Great Fire and the Blitz. Walking from the tube station to head office

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 41

he often had a strange sensation when turning a corner, that he might glimpse Shakespeare on his way to his Silver Street lodgings or a young Charles Dickens hurrying to his office at Gray’s Inn. He really was a Londoner through and through although he and Cynthia had lived in Surrey for most of their married life.

He turned back to his drink and his increasing sense of anxiety. Why hadn’t she called? He breathed a sigh of relief just a few moments later when the trite ring tone of his mobile startled him even though he had been waiting for it for nearly an hour.

‘Hello darling, where are you? I was getting worried.’

The pause was too long.

‘Robert, I’m sorry. I won’t be there, I can’t do this.

I’m so sorry.’ Robert felt the colour drain from his face.

‘What? You can’t mean that. What about all our plans?’ The group of young city workers at the next table turned to look at him, his words had been loud and desperate.

‘Robert, what can I say? I am truly sorry, I realise how much I’m hurting you.’

‘Sheila, please! Everything is arranged, I’ve even spoken to Dawn. You knew I was going to.’ He spoke in almost a stage whisper, aware that he was attracting attention from his neighbours.

‘Yes you’ve spoken to Dawn but not to Cynthia, you still haven’t told her have you? Rob I’m sorry but I can’t do this to another woman, I just can’t. I love you but this…this whole thing was a fantasy, a pipe dream.

Please don’t try to contact me, I’m going away for a while, I’m sorry.’ The line went dead and he was left holding the phone to his ear. ...........................

Cynthia and Ann sat opposite each other in the airport café. Ann was still droning on and on with gossip about their mutual friends, much of which was rather malicious. Cynthia had almost given up listening while they were still in the car and wondered how soon she could escape without seeming rude.

‘Ann, sorry to interrupt but I think I might go through now. Security can take so long these days.’

Ann leaned over and squeezed her hand. ‘Oh Cynthia, we’re all going to miss you so much. Also…

I must say how brave I think you are.’

Cynthia withdrew her hand and shrugged. ‘Oh no, hardly brave.’

Ann sat back in her chair. ‘Well it makes me furious.

Bloody woman, why doesn’t she go and find someone single?’ She stared at Cynthia’s stricken face. ‘Oh my

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

42 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

God, you didn’t know did you?’ Did a slight smile hover at the corners of her lips?

Cynthia slowly shook her head. She stood up unsteadily. ‘Take me home please Ann.’ ...........................

Robert sat in the Costa coffee bar at Gatwick, sipping a cappuccino and feeling surprisingly normal. Cynthia’s flight had landed and she would soon appear through the barrier, smiling, relieved to be back and glad to see him. He thought how strange it was that only a few hours earlier his heart had been broken. It would take a long time to mend but once the initial shock of Sheila’s ‘phone call had passed, an instinct for survival made him spring into action. ‘Damage limitation’ they would call it at work.

He rang Dawn and told her that he had come to his senses, he couldn’t imagine what he had been thinking. He said he had spoken to Sheila and told her that it was over; he realised that he had never stopped loving Cynthia and that there was no way he could ever leave her.

Dawn was over the moon. ‘Oh Daddy, I’m so glad.

I can’t tell you how glad I am.’

He didn’t like lying to his daughter but he could see no alternative. The plan had been for him to take Cynthia out to dinner, tell her of his decision and then leave her at Dawn’s before going on to Sheila’s flat. For one moment he felt a surge of pain at what might have been but then comforted himself with the thought that maybe everything had turned out for the best after all.

Perhaps Sheila was right, perhaps their relationship had been a fantasy, a moment of madness. He finished his coffee and went over to wait at the barrier.

neighbour’s garden. Sometimes she was startled by the night sounds; a strange call of an unidentified animal or a sudden rustling in the bushes. She was startled but never afraid. She often thought that the strange encounter on that fateful January day had indeed been a sign but not the one she had imagined. Instead it was surely a sign that she should never be afraid again.

What was the point? What was the point of being afraid when life could change in a second? What was the point of being afraid when things were so often not as they seemed? The wild boar, the creature of her nightmares, had done her no harm but Robert had cruelly ripped her heart in two. The man she had loved and shared her life with for nearly thirty years would have shown no mercy; it was only circumstances that caused him to change his plans.

Living in the moment was an art that Cynthia had never been able to master before, but now she knew that it was the only possible way forward.

She had every intention of enjoying this new chapter in her life.

...........................

In the months that followed, Cynthia grew to enjoy living alone in the house. It was still for sale, a situation which she hoped would last for as long as possible.

She would have liked to stay there for ever but Robert needed his share of the proceeds and she couldn’t afford to buy him out. She hadn’t decided if she would stay in France or return to England but took great pleasure in the fact that for the first time in years the decision would be hers and hers alone.

Once spring arrived she spent a great deal of time working in the garden but never again caught sight of a wild boar. The weather was exceptionally mild that year and in the evenings she often sat on the terrace with a glass of wine until it was nearly dark.

It was pleasant to watch the sky change colour and listen to the chatter and laughter coming from the The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 43

APM

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

44 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

The only way is up!

A right hand turn and into the village, a lovely tiny village, but no time to take in the sights, it’s nearly time.

Quickly down a few gears to let the legs spin, the climb up here is not significant but that doesn’t help.

The legs needed warming up, a gulp or two from the water bottle and a quick “shut up” to the voice inside my head saying “it’s not too late”. The filled in cattle grid at the end of the houses marks the start and the end of the self-doubt. Over the grid, don’t look down ‘you ARE in the right gear,’ so go.

A sharp 15% incline for 200m takes you to the next cattle grid, stay sat down it’s not worth it... yet.

A

utumn is a funny season in the world of cycling, the road races are done and the weather is far too nice for cyclocross. It’s a non-event, unless you are one of a small band of hillclimb riders, then it’s your time-to-shine. In the UK, autumn is hill-climb season: it’s when the national hill-climb time trial race is held. The beauty of it, is its simplicity: whoever posts the fastest time from the start line to the top wins. It’s a very British type of race: the weather’s usually awful; there’s very little media coverage; a lot of people have never heard of it and it’s a race that, from the word go, produces nothing but pain... lovely. ...The cattle grid: stand up but don’t accelerate over it, the wheel-spin will cost you. Drop down off the big ring* and look up. The first hair pin approaches, don’t take the inside line, it’s far too steep and the shallower outside means too many extra metres; stick to the middle (the road is just over a car’s width). Stand up and work the legs around the first hairpin, straighten up and sit down for about 5 metres before standing up for the second hairpin in the other direction, a smidge over 20% for the two turns.

Hill-climb time trials hark back to around 1890 when motoring groups tried to ban cycle races on public roads. The way around this was to hold a time trial: a race against the clock, so no “pelaton” for the savvy 19th century ‘boy-racer’ to deal with. Most people are familiar with a time trial cycle race and there are stages in all three Grand Tours (Tour de France, Giro d’Italia and Vuelta D’Espagne), a world championship TT race and countless others. Only in Britain will you find one up a very steep hill. ...Now is the time. The time to win or lose.

Exiting the second hairpin we look up and see about 300m of 20% average incline, in a straight line, with no corners to hide. Out of the saddle and go.

Dance on the pedals, pretending you are Contador, keep the back straight to allow maximum lung

inflation, keep the shoulders and arms relaxed and take a finger off the bars to prove to yourself you are relaxed. Let your core hold you up and your legs move you forward. Two thirds of the way up a drystone wall begins on the left, a good sign: nearly at the next corner.

Many of the country’s biggest and best cycle racers have lifted the national hill-climb trophy, including the likes of Chris Boardman. In 1991 he won the outrageously steep “Park Rash” in the Yorkshire Dales; to this day one of the most unforgiving and savage hills I have ridden. These races can also bring out the engineer in many riders.

Back in “the day” any part with enough to take a drill bit was drilled out to save weight and fixed gear bikes are still used. ...The legs are begging you to sit down again.

Wait. Get around a 90 degree right and then you

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 45

can sit. For a couple of metres it feels like heaven then you remember you are still going up, but only about 15% this time. Gulp in air (and flies), keep the shoulders relaxed, nearly there. A 90 degree turn to the left, back to just over 20% so out of the saddle again; the gradient remains for about 30m before levelling off... finally.

These days any bike ride can become a personal hill-climb TT thanks, in part, to the Strava website and the introduction of GPS bike computers.

Here you can place yourself on a leader board of a particular climb or “segment” based on your GPS time. The reward? A Strava KOM (King of the Mountain). You could be the fastest out of thousands of people up a particular climb, reason enough for any amount of pain is it not? ...It’s not over, not yet. Back into the big ring*, legs protest, a super quick gulp from the bottle and get your head down again. The next undulating 500m are just as important. Up the final small rise and then you kick again with everything you have left, change the gears as the momentum increases, the final cattle grid is in sight, so pedal. You’d better be doing 21mph when you hit the cattle grid. The buzz of the cattle grid sounds, legs in tatters, back down the gears to get rid of the lactic, slurp like mad

from the bottle and breathe the deepest breaths you can because soon you are down the other side and at the bottom of “Henside”, a climb that can be a real heartbreaker!

One of my own experiences of chasing a KOM was up a hill called Langcliffe in the Yorkshire Dales.

I made it to 3rd place on the leader board, 1st place was the national hill-climb champion. Why do it?

Why put yourself through the pain for nothing (in real terms)? I ask, why not? The downside to all this is that Strava can ruin as well as bring-to-life your bike ride – depending on your point of view. However, if you’re sporting about it and put in an honest effort from the bottom of the climb you can rest easy.

After all, there’s always tomorrow.

Tom, a Yorkshireman here in France, owns and runs, velo plus FIX, a cycle workshop based in 82190. www.velo-plus.net

*cog for gears

L’AUBERGE de Miramont

Le village, 82190 Miramont de Quercy A very popular restaurant serving local specialities in a lovely, cosy dining-room and in summer on the beautiful terrace.

Great atmosphere and food.

Popular for great value lunches and special evening meals.

Reservations recommended.

Stephane & Karen look forward to welcoming you.

05 63 94 65 57 06 30 80 55 55

www.aubergedemiramont.com check opening hours

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

46 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

By Lisa Stanton from – Domaine des Sangliers is an independent, organic vineyard located in the hills of picturesque Puy-l’Evêque, one of the best terroirs of the Lot valley. We produce organic AOC/AOP Cahors, Vin de Pays du Lot and Vin de France red and rosé wines, and apéritifs. Family run, we personally undertake every step of the wine making process, from pruning to corking, all on the estate. Our aim is to achieve the highest quality product, naturally and ethically produced, at fair prices.

For further information please visit our website www.domaine-des-sangliers.com or find us on Facebook.

Wine & The Web! Nestled In Nostalgia

As, by now you may have guessed, I am quite resistant to change. My mother always said that I was born in the wrong century. I do not want a Kindle, I write with a fountain pen, I don’t even watch television (never ask me to be on your quiz team, I am seriously lacking in entertainment references). However, when a dear family friend gave me my first smart phone earlier this year, it has forced me kicking and screaming with reluctance into the 21st century.

Procrastination or Progress

Tempted By Time

One of the reasons that I decided to move my family to this beautiful vallée du Lot, was to take a step back in time, a return to basics and jump off the treadmill. I wanted to remove myself and my children, from encroaching consumerism and peer pressure; the endless ‘keep up with the Joneses’, the need for the latest technology and the latest trainers. This idyllic spot presented me with a real-life option for time-travel, a trip back fifty years to a farmer’s life, in touch with nature and outdoor living.

Loving Life

I often felt that I had achieved this goal; reunions with the children’s old school friends proved that childhood here certainly lasted longer. For myself, I went from a claustrophobic office, to most of my work being outdoors.

Back to nature, time to think, space to breathe. I lived the life of my grandparents and great-grandparents (I’m from a farming family).

Everyday in the vines, up on the hill, I languished in the delight of the views of Prayssac to one side, and Puy l’Evêque to the other. I was overjoyed by the quiet, the contact with nature and the simplicity of it all.

Foolishly, I expected this to last!

New technology has brought with it a whole new language barrier. I’ve learnt a whole new set of vocabulary, in both languages. Not to mention the new words I need for texting on various platforms (where’s the train?). Fortunately, I have teenagers to guide me through this torturous process. Kwa? – just say it and you’ll get it!

Slippery Slopes

Before I knew what had hit me, a floodgate of unavoidable technology appears to have been opened. Now I have a smart phone (not that smart, it can’t prune my vines), it seems that I must have ‘up-to-date’ Facebook pages.

I have to tweet on Twitter, message on Messenger, chat on What’s App, Pinterest myself interesting, google Map my co-ordinates, Instagram my every instant, Tripadvisor my tours and blog, blog, blog. Not to mention daily updates of the website (I did it five years ago, why must I change it?)

Virtual Reality

This of course, is all very well. It’s inevitable, a long-time coming etc. But, who is going to spend all the extra time required to do all of this extra work? A virtual assistant I hear you cry! Perhaps, but do they accept virtual money?

I think not.

Perennial Pleasures

Luckily, I have a fabulous solution: I will let my children embrace all this new technology, whilst I drop le iphone into

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 47

le Lot, and go back to enjoying the life of fifty years ago.

Fortunately, those pleasures of sitting on the terrace in real sunshine, with a real verre de Cahors et du fromage, remain the same. A la votre!

Visitors are welcome to the property. We are open from June to September, from 2pm to 7pm. Wednesday and Sunday by appointment. Other dates and times by prior arrangement. A variety of tours of the vineyard and wine tastings are available year round.

Learn about the organic wine making process, the basics of wine tasting, or just enjoy trying some new wines or aperitifs. Group and

Wind Quintet The CAHORS WIND QUINTET will be giving a concert at Saint Barthélémy Church, Lauzerte on Friday 27th May 2016, at 21h.

The quintet is made up of teachers at the Cahors Conservatoire.

The programme will include music by Mozart, Haydn, Dvorak, Grieg, Ligeti and Zequinha de Abreu

www.libertedesanes.com

l

l

corporate bookings are welcome (musical entertainment/catering can also be arranged). Purchases can be made directly from the cellar door. Children welcome. Disabled access. Always drink alcohol responsibly and in moderation; pregnant women are advised not to consume alcohol; don’t drink and drive.

Domaine des Sangliers – Les Sarrades – 46700 – Puy-l’Evêque Kim-Louis & Lisa Stanton – 06 04 03 34 12 info@domaine-des-sangliers.com www.organicfrenchblackwine.com

Quercy Counselling English-speaking counselling and psychological services on all manner of issues.

Based in Belveze, we offer services face-to-face, via telephone and Skype.

For more information please see the website: www.quercycounselling.com Or contact Elizabeth Cross on +33(0)788279014 or quercycounselling@gmail.com

Large, comfortable & air-conditioned car (C4 Picasso 7 places)

Service to & from stations & airports l For ‘medical’ transport – Conventionné assurance maladie l l

24 hours & 7 days

All journeys – Any distances l

Based in Caussade 82300 l

English spoken

06 69 24 61 42 mail@fabietaxi.com Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

48 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

www.poorpaws.com For information and enquiries about rescue dogs – so many dogs desperately looking for their ‘forever’ homes. contact Sue on 05 65 24 53 03 email: susan.glibbery@orange.fr

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 49

Keep it simple – Delivering British Paints in France British Paint, all leading brands delivered in three days to your front door in France Visit our website: www.kis-uk.com Contact: Rob Maiden 01962 714249 robmaiden@kis-uk.com

THE PASSION ACCORDING TO SAINT JOHN BY J.S. BACH Soloists, choir and Orchestra du Centre Philharmonique Director Richard Beswick In May, the OCP is attempting the greatest challenge it has undertaken in the 25 years since it was founded: performing the St John Passion by Johann Sebastian Bach, which together with the St Matthew Passion represent the pinnacle of the very ancient tradition dating back to the Middle Ages of singing the Passion of Christ during the Holy Week of Easter (in our case in 2016, during the period of the Ascension and Pentecost in order to be able to perform in several locations in the Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, and the Dordogne). It retells the death of Christ in the words of Chapters 18 and 19 of St John’s Gospel, but the aim is not simply to recite the text, but to bring it to life, to shed light on it, to make it personal for the listener. The work consists of alternately recitatives and solos or choruses. The different ‘actors’ in the Gospel appear: the Evangelist, Jesus, Peter, Pontius Pilate, the crowd, the priests, the soldiers…

After the Evangelist, it is the choir who have the key role. They have two functions. Firstly, they represent various groups of people (the priests, the Jews, the Roman soldiers…). These crowd choruses, known as “turbae”, are long, very animated, dramatic, and sometimes even violent; they express the cries of the crowd, full of hate or irony. But at other times the choir symbolize the faithful, who with simple words reaffirm the faith of Christian people. Our choir members have been preparing themselves for this challenge with great enthusiasm!

As in an opera, the music is a vehicle to make the text of the story understandable, and this Bach achieves

with grandeur and beauty. The original text used by Bach was the translation by Martin Luther into German (unlike the Latin of the liturgy), which he did precisely in order to make the Bible intelligible to all without the intermediary of the Church. It is in this same spirit that our director, Richard Beswick, has chosen to give the Passion in French (almost always in France, it is performed in German): “We want to give the public the opportunity to follow this dramatic and well-known story in the language which they know”.

But if your French isn’t up to it, don’t be put off: we will provide a version of the text in English!

Come and be part of this wonderful masterpiece with us on the weekends of Ascension and Pentecost – and discover why we are so excited to have the opportunity to present it.

Verteuil 47260 Villeréal 47210 Bergerac 24100 Puy l’Evêque 46700 Moirax 47310 Villeneuve/Lot 47300

samedi dimanche vendredi samedi dimanche lundi

7 mai 20h30 à l’église 8 mai 16h à l’église 13 mai 20h30 au Temple 14 mai 16h à l’église 15 mai 16h au Prieuré 16 mai 16h à l’église d’Eysses

Adults 20e under 25 10e, under 12 free.

Tickets at the door, reservations in advance 05 53 01 76 08 or for enquiries in English 05 65 36 45 98.

Online: reserver.ocp@gmail.com.

Website: www.ocp-verteuil.com

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

for the best value airport car hire

Bergerac - La Rochelle - Limoges

book direct book

buggs super mid

sma

large

fun

large

ll

www.buggscarhire.com

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 51

SARL TAXI OCCITANIE Séverine DALPOZO

Large, air-conditioned car for 7 people.

Service to and from stations and airports Also ‘medical’ transport – Conventionné assurance maladie Child seats and wheelchair access 24 hrs / 7 days – Any distance Mob: 06.32.10.63.36 Tel: 05.63.04.20.19 email: taxioccitanie@alsatis.net Based – 82200 MONTESQUIEU

O rrom Informatique

PC & Laptop Repair • Computer Support & Maintenance Internet Support • Networking • Graphic Design

15 Rue Saint-Sauveur - 46700 Puy l’Eveque 09 67 46 02 63 - 06 42 69 83 92 - www.orrom.fr Siret: 503806275 00023

Web Design • Web Hosting • Domain Names English Spoken • Free Quotes

Birthday!!

At Buggs Car Hire we are celebrating ten successful years of business.

Founders Karl and Simon recount: “Back in 2006 we decided to take on the monopoly of the faceless multi-national car rental companies. We operated

from a car park at Bergerac Airport with a fleet of just 3 cars!!”

Fast forward to today and the fleet is now 200 strong serving 3 Airports – Bergerac, Limoges and new for 2016 La Rochelle and plans are afoot for even further expansion with Biarritz next in line.

Buggs are the only independent car hire company at these locations and they tend to do things their way “You book directly with Buggs and this can only be done through our website, which means no brokers or middle-men and the price you see is the final price you pay, guaranteed.

We refuse to be associated with comparison websites as these also use brokers who then try to sell on bookings to whoever will service them, sometimes this means no one at all!

We like to keep our car hire simple, the best value, with a speedy service and a genuinely hassle free experience and with thousands of satisfied customers behind us, we are pretty sure we are doing it right...”

congratulates Buggs on 10 great years of business!

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

52 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Château Saint-Sernin Tradition, Fusion and Artistry

by A Atkinson

some vines in 1619 by a Mr Fournié. The family, who later became Fournié Cavalié, has carried on dedicated themselves to wine production on this same land whilst adding to the hectares and overcoming many of nature’s great challenges.

Fast forward to 1965, Domique and his wife Marie took over the management of the family vineyard. Their plans for development, launched the vineyard forward and fitted well with the Cahors region obtaining the title Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée. The vineyard flourished.

Forward again to 2005, their daughter, Anne Swartvagher officially took on the continuing relationship between their land, nature and wine lovers! Anne and her husband Heifara, have been propelled further by their passion and professionalism. These new-age winegrowers now manage 36 hectares producing Cahors AOC wine and a further 8 hectares producing Vin de Côtes du Lot IGP (Indication d’Origine Contrôlée), both red and rose.

Tradition

Fusion

Tradition’s a by-word for much that happens in the Lot Valley with its thousands of years of wine-making history. The secret to any tradition’s longevity, is that it must cherish the past whilst also embracing modernity and creating new norms that’ll become part of the future’s own history and traditions.

Traditional wine-growing in the Cahors’ region has re-invigorated itself over the years. Natural disasters, including disease and extreme cold, have caused re-thinks and fresh starts. The modern-day producers, who are often descended from the early wine-growing pioneers, are challenged with leaps in technology and importantly the globalisation to their trade. However, at the roots of all this there’s the same land, worked by the same families, producing the same crops for centuries. All nurtured by the passed-down knowledge and a combination of personal passion and pride.

Château Saint-Sernin, Parnac 46140 has all the history, with papers showing the purchase of land and

Heifara was born in Tahiti to a Polynesian mother and when he (a special needs teacher) met and married Anne (a Maths teacher) a fusion of cultures was inevitably going to bring new traditions to the ancient vineyard. Enhancing and enriching whilst taking nothing away from the historical knowledge and ways. Surely this is how some of the most enduring of traditions are given constant new life.

The vineyard produces many classic cuvées, labelled with an image of the Château. However, the great grapes of the region are now being encompassed by Heifara’s artwork on the bottles of their Varua Maohi cuvées. The labels for which have been designed using Polynesian drawing techniques and create a wonderfully joyful presence.

I do wonder whether a ’chic’ design company could have, or would have, come up with anything better.

The contrast with the historic French grape varieties, the ancient artistry of the Polynesian Islands and the

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 53

vibrancy of modern design shows that this family’s traditions are the very best of innovators.

Artistry The artistry does not end when the colourful bottles leave the vineyard. For the 6th year Château SaintSernin will be hosting its summer celebration of Barriq’ART. The vineyard provides wooden barrels which are then used for individual artistic works. These can be works done by painting, sculpture, floral-work, iron-work, indeed anything at all that you can imagine doing to a wine barrel.

The completed works are then displayed over the summer period in the vineyard’s Chai. There is a vernissage on the 4th June (from 17.30) and the works will be available for people to go and see throughout the remainder of June, July and August. Artists can sell their works during this period. Anybody who’d like more

information about taking part should contact Anne on annecavalie@sfr.fr So if you are in the region during the summer months and would like to combine an interesting artistic treat with a chance to try some great wines and perhaps find out more about the wine-making process.

Do not hesitate to make your way to Château SaintSernin; you’ll be most welcome.

From 1619 when the family first purchased the land, the progress has been marked. A family driven by a love of what they do, a family embracing new ideas and cultures, fusing continents and now selling their ‘bottled’ tradition to each of the 4 corners of the world.

Château Saint-Sernin Les Landes, 46140 Parnac Tél : +33 (0)5 65 20 13 26 www.chateau-st-sernin.com

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

54 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Ex-pat Radio.fr is a brand new online internet radio station, which launched live on 21st March 2016.

The station is designed for English speaking people living in France. The aim is to have a variety of shows that cater for all types of listeners. Ranging from chat shows through to music programming covering a full spectrum of musical tastes.

Our DJ presenter led music shows include; ‘The Golden Oldies’ with Mick Hennell, featuring tracks from the 50’s and 60’s. ‘The Eclectic Selection’ from Andy Davies, playing a melange of music from across the eras. ‘The Beat Goes On’ with Steve Bell, showcasing new expat bands, musicians and singers. ‘The Blend’ with Ira, our American presenter, with the best of Creole and Swamp music through to rare blues cuts.

‘The All Day Special’ with station founder, Dave Hailwood.

‘The Roast Beef’ and a little Country and Western from ‘The Southern Comfort’ with Wayne Allen.

And soon to join: Dave Lewis, playing Contemporary and Classic Soul.

The Retro Chart Show with Dave Mac. Our regular topic led shows cover: ‘The Movie Show’ with husband and wife team Conor and Stephanie Irwin. ‘The Sports Review’ with Phil Johnson.

Various music documentaries – Titles to be announced.

Our ‘live’ coffee morning chat shows with station founder, Dave Hailwood will feature regular specialist contributors, covering topics such as, women’s issues, living in France, gardening, the

Tour de France, travel, cooking and schooling, in fact anything that affects expats here in France. Our audience will be encouraged to join in via email or phone with comments, questions and requests.

Ex-pat Radio aims to be a national station, with an approachable local feel to it.

Our website will feature businesses based in France, advertising their services and trades, along with information to do with living in France.

If you are interested in sponsoring one of our shows on a regular basis, or to have a commercial made and aired, please get in touch with Abigail for packages and prices: abigailbureau@gmail.com Email us with requests, stories, jokes, local events in your area, sports groups, and anything else. We want to hear it all...

So get typing to: tellus@ex-patradio.fr Email us: contact@ex-patradio.com Like us on face book: Ex-Pat Radio Tweet us on: Expat Radio@ExpatRadioFr Listen live now… www.ex-patradio.fr

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

56 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Quercy Builders (82150) Stone work and all aspects of renovation Subcontractors to the trade and a professional service to the public References available No obligation quotations

info@quercybuilders.com www.quercybuilders.com 06 52 24 49 95 06 52 49 03 57

New Classical Guitar Festival in Puy l’Eveque The French do summer music festivals well – even in quiet rural areas like Quercy. Now a new international guitar festival (classical, flamenco, brasilain) is being created in the Lot valley, Le Temps des Guitares, to take place July 19th to 22nd in the Théatre de Verdure at the top of the lovely medieval town of Puy l’Eveque.

Artistic direction is in the hands of the superb guitar Duo Olivier Bensa and Cécile Cardinot who have risen to acknowledged pre-eminence in recent years, not only in the Lot but around France – and even booked to play in China later in 2016. Their music for solo guitar, guitar duo or guitar and voice, often using Oliviers own compositions and arrangements, is a delight. (www.guitaresenbois.com) Classical guitarists from France, Spain, Brazil and England will be appearing in concerts over the four evenings with lessons, demonstrations, videos and sales during the afternoons.

This music happens in partnership with wine producers of the area – the Cahors ‘Black Wine’ and local Rosé. So there will be wine tasting available as well as sales – and a glass of wine is included with each concert ticket.

In this wonderful setting, we are promised some truly magical evenings. See the web site www.letempsdesguitares46.com for more details and bookings. And you can support the development and success of the festival by becoming a member (adhérent) of the organising Association – with ticket price advantages of course.

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 57

Safe Hands Haulage is a professional, competitive, full registered and insured company offering a wide range of transportation services.

Full and part loads including complete house moves throughout Europe.

We have many different types of vehicles in order to transport household belongings, building material, tools and vehicles.

Please contact Jon on Jon@SafeHandsHaulage.com (from UK) 00 33 5 53 79 26 48 (in France) 05 53 79 26 48 Mobile (from UK) 00 33 6 50 54 86 80 (in France) 06 50 54 86 80

www.safehandshaulage.com

To buy our French house we already have all the tricks in hands OWNING A PROPERTY IN FRANCE Please find all the requested advice in our English Speaking Branch or on our website e-immobilier at your earliest convenience.

To join us : caonline@ca-nmp.fr / 0033.565.75.75.33 Pub Anglais A5 paysage 2015.indd 1

06/10/2015 12:25:47

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

58 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

VIGNOBLE DES VERDOTS Water under Wine

by A Atkinson

T

his region offers a huge variety of locally grown products.

Whichever direction you look you see landscapes of cattle, fruits trees and invariably vines. There are a number of hugely popular wines central to the area, most famous, of which, is perhaps the Cahors (AOC) but move just a little bit from the centre of our area and you will find many other wines also to be tried.

Just a little further to the north you’ll find the vineyards of Bergerac. The one we are highlighting in this edition is the Vignoble des Verdots owned, since 1992 by David Fourtout and is located at ‘Conne de Labarde’ which for many people is almost passed on those regular runs to the airport.

Originally coming from Saint-Emilion the family have now managed this vineyard for four generations. Their wines falls under the two different headings of Bergerac and Monbazillac wines.

Probably uniquely in the area – the Chateau has a river (the Verdots) flowing under its cellar. The river was discovered during the ten years it took to excavate the cave out of the rock under the Chateau. This underground cellar is ideal for the storage of the wines. Once the river subterranean river was discovered it was explored and exposed. From the huge cellar it is now possible to look down at the river flowing underneath and the same cellar has carefully lit viewing points around its walls allowing the rock formation to be clearly seen.

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 59

Mick Bates – Monflanquin (47150) General Electrician

Certified & Registered Business in France for all Electrical Works | New & Renovation Works Plumbing | All works guaranteed | Free quotation

Tel. 05 82 95 05 73 Port. 06 27 71 94 51 mick.bates@lgtel.fr Refer to this advert to receive a 10%discount The buildings are modern in style but blend well with the surrounding vineyards. The reception hall which is 300 sq. meters in size has a glass wall at the rear to allow visitors to see into some of the barrel storage areas. Here you can also get a great view of the vineyard and take some time to enjoy tasting some of the wines.

The terroir may be exceptional for the growing of grapes but this alone is not sufficient to create great wines. Human intervention with understanding, passion and patience is what actually makes the essential difference. David and his team have these qualities and this in turn has helped them earn many awards. Including the 2016, le Guide Hachettedes Vins awarding them a ‘bronze grape’ for the cuvée ‘Clos des Verdots Bergerac rouge 2014’.

This summer it is hoped to open the dug-out cellar and the underground river to visitors who can then visit the vineyard, taste its wine and see the amazing cellar and its watery foundation; perhaps even sampling a few local ‘Perigourdine’ delicacies at the same time. So it will be worth checking the website for days and times for these visits.

Open all year 9am to 12.30 and 2pm to 6pm.

In July/August this extends to: 9am – 7pm 05.53.58.34.31 verdots@wanadoo.fr www.verdots.com GPS : 44° 46’ 34” N – 0° 33’ 17” E

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

60 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

A SHARING ECONOMY Real prosperity is kindness, is community and is local!

C

ollaboration is on the rise! It serves many purposes, saving money and connecting people. Maybe the primary motivation is money saving; cutting out the middleman! However, a ‘sharing economy’ also promotes a style of living that’s becoming more important. Offering services and goods in ways that unify people and bridging gaps that modernity had widened. Promoting the value of a good’s use rather than the value of its ownership.

If you need a drill twice a year, do you really need to ‘own’ one? Wouldn’t you be better off having the use of one instead? It’s cheaper and the environment benefits as we REDUCE the manufacture of under-used items.

Re-evaluating the value of ‘things’ and their ownership is causing an international rise in sharing hubs. Places to take any unwanted goods, so that they can easily be utilised by someone else. We’ve examples locally, but for an idea of a global movement take a look at Givebox in Berlin.

Car sharing There is a car sharing website that’s moving swiftly across the developed world, www.blablacar.fr is a perfect example of how some very clever software can save individuals money and the environment from duplicated journeys.

Other initiatives that you might be interested in, include:

Group purchasing of local products, particularly food www.laruchequiditoui.fr, for example, allows you to join a local purchasing group which then obtains goods from local producers at a more economical rate. Supporting local growers and allowing people more control over the source of their food. Examples of local groups include those at Montauban, Lafrançaise, Castelfranc, Pradines and Brassac but there are bound to be more. If you are searching for these groups on the internet – try using the initials AMAP.

Community food growing One of the most enlightened initiatives began at Todmorden, in the UK, with www.incredible-edibletodmorden.co.uk. People began to plant vegetables and fruit in any space they could find. Including roundabouts and the entrances to official buildings. The initiative became hugely popular and people were soon helping themselves to raspberries from right outside the police station without paying a penny! This movement has now extended to many towns in France where streets have been transformed into vast community vegetable gardens. (lesincroyablescomestibles.fr).

Second-hand goods www.mytroc.fr is a website designed for mutual aid; matching people with unused goods or services.

The only currency for these exchanges are on-line ‘nuts’. www.leboncoin.fr is the site for second hand items that people wish to sell. Both these have the potential to save people money and allow the REUSE of already manufactured goods.

Sharing items and services www.allovoisins.fr is a website/app that allows people to borrow/lend items and also offer services to people in their area. Perfect for seasonal tools or items you are likely to never require again.

Space in your home Websites such as www.airbnb.fr allow you to let out spare space in your home to visitors to your area. It’s the

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 61

Restaurant ‘La Sirene’

Emergency numbers Medical Help/SAMU 15

Place de l’Hotel de Ville Montaigu de Quercy (82150)

Police/Police Nationale (Gendarmerie) 17

Varied cuisine & a warm welcome guaranteed

Fire & Accident/Sapeurs Pompiers

Open for lunch Tues – Saturday Plus monthly quiz night Open any time for groups

18

SOS – All Services (calling from a mobile) 112

Available for group bookings by prior arrangement

Child in Danger (child protection) 119

Catering service, either here or at your venue.

Missing Child

Reserve by phone on 05 63 94 44 82 email: t-mermaid@hotmail.com

116 000

JARDIN DE COCAGNE DE BRASSAC EN QUERCY Lieu-dit Canazilles, 82190 Brassac

The results of our vegetable planting and conversion to organic-farming will be available from June! Don’t delay. Why not invest € 20 to join our association and support this social and environmentally beneficial activity.

In return for a weekly subscription you can receive either Family Basket of produce (min. 5 varieties) 15 € - Half Basket (min. 3 varieties) 8 €

Info: Jeannette Esteve, or Emma Touzac. Tél. 07.85.28.80.49. jardindecocagnebrassac@gmail.com

advancement and proliferation of mobile technology that’s allowing people to connect in this way.

Sharing expertise www.accorderie.fr offers the chance to exchange (hour for hour) services and skills. No money is transacted you simply offer your service for the benefit of receiving the same amount of time for something you require assistance with. (You may well find this idea more generally referred to as SEL or ‘Système d’Echange Local’) Another example is www.repaircafe.org, which allows people to socialise whilst lengthening the useful life of all sorts of goods. A chance for the experienced and retired to show the young how to keep something maintained, or to show them how they could RECYCLE it into something useful again. There are over 1000 of these cafes worldwide and many in France but nothing in this region yet. It can only be a matter of time and maybe somebody could consider starting one!

Crowdfunding People investing in local projects is critical to local economies as banks are often reluctant to invest in people and their ideas. Local people are interested in

lending or giving money, even small amounts, to be part of local business, associations or agricultural projects.

For example the development of the farming enterprise La Bergerie des Coquelicots à Montlauzun (46800) was funded by a ‘crowd’ of local investors and still welcomes further investors to join their project.

Many of these type of initiatives are perhaps more likely to be found in urban areas. However, many of the principles they demonstrate can be inspiring in this our more rural region. It begins, after all, with a change of mind-set. The recent financial crisis probably instigated or perhaps released many of these developments.

However, if an idea’s good it shouldn’t only succeed in times of crisis. Maybe a ‘tighter belt’ can be a great teacher.

For more information www.consocollaborative.com (in French) is a great resource. You can also look out for the film ‘Demain’ which has been shown in the region.

This film, which is in English and French, sets out to demonstrate a new way of thinking and a new ‘economic logic’. (www.demain-lefilm.com/en).

Research by Valérie Rousseau

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

62 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

The United Kingdom’s Referendum on European Union Membership It’s never been the intention of this magazine to be political. However, the issue of whether the United Kingdom should remain in the European Union perhaps transcends ‘mere politics’ a fact that seem lost on the shambolic efforts at explanation, commentary and debate currently being delivered by much of the UK’s media.

The question is being narrowed down to one of migration and who’ll have more or less money/jobs.

Isn’t the long term relationship of one great country with other great neighbouring countries (however diverse) worthy of deeper debate? We’re talking about one of the richest (in every sense of the term) areas of the world and somehow this ‘will we lose money?’ debate resonates with a very unattractive level of self-interest.

Will the UK lose out financially if the vote is to leave the EU? Well as far as I can tell nobody truly knows the answer. We simply have one display of ‘CEOs’ wheeled out to opine on one set of theories followed by a similar bunch, presumably all armed with similar facts and figures who tell us the opposite story. Stock markets and currencies may well be affected, one way or another, but not nearly as much as the financial jolt caused by either of the World Wars.

People died, not just one or two of them, but millions; to eventually bring peace and stability to Europe. In the grand scale of things this peace has been short-lived and the EU is younger still. It’s not perfect, what large institution is? It’s over-staffed, bureaucratic, and perhaps not truly representative, but the same could be said of most large administrative bodies, particularly those governing many British cities.

When you view the development of the EU against civilisations generally it’s an infant. To vote to leave now is like divorcing before the wedding speeches.

Changes to the EU would be good, improvement even better, perfection it will never be but for the sake of all those that came here and died ‘working together’ has to be the key. Remember that the need for change does not signify failure it shows an evolving environment with changing circumstances.

Life cannot simply be a free for all. To benefit from the security and stability that togetherness brings there has to be central governance. Many people will recall (not all with joy) reading different political theorists’ views of the ’social contract’. This is the mechanism by which individuals agree to give up individual rights

in order to benefit from a social society and the protection and enforcement of governance.

Thomas Hobbes, John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau are probably the most often quoted theorists and although their works originate from as far back as the seventeenth century their theories make contemplative reading in light of many of the world’s current political struggles.

I was naive, when I first came upon Hobbes’ political theories. I thought his description of the State of Nature (that’s a world with no social contract or control) as being ‘unbearably brutal’ was probably rather over-dramatic. It wasn’t then and it certainly isn’t now (we regularly see what happens in places that have lost social control, Daesh being a prime example) without control mechanisms the human state can be, and often is, brutal. Hobbes’ suggestion that absolutism was necessary now proves some merit when many regions, that have seen the end of absolutism, find a greater brutality now flourishing.

Originally, I preferred the theories of Rousseau (“Man was born free, and he is everywhere in chains”) and the idea that mankind was naturally good and that only a minimum level of governance was called for. This is perhaps perfect for a utopian society; where everyone’s working for the general good and not threatening anyone else’s property or well-being.

Rousseau felt that man was only answerable to man and could not be subrogated by rulers. Now I see that this is the substance of fantasies. As soon as you introduce ownership and growing demands, which then create pressures on resources, you need effective governance and that means in the case of Europe, governance that covers the whole of the EU region.

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 63 November 2015 – February 2016

Issue 22

l Local uercy Local ocacy uercy Luer March – April

2016 Issue

23

September

The

The

– October 2015

Issue 21

The

The Region’s FREE magazine in English

The Region’s

The United Kingdom cannot rely on being ‘simply an island, with its own agenda’ in today’s global world of opportunities and threats.

Survival under such pressures means surrendering the absolute right to do exactly what you want in exchange for an authority that’ll help you if someone takes your goods or threatens your well-being. Maybe this theory can work for smaller groups but life is just too complicated to allow Nations to be governed by Rousseau’s ‘government only by the people’.

So it’s the theories of John Locke which seem to me to resolve the question of the need to govern the EU. Locke maintained that governance should be limited to the protection of ’life, liberty and property’ and that those governing should be subject to all-encompassing laws of morality. He also believed that where powers were overstepped the governors should be removable.

This sounds like a reasonable expectation for the EU. Many people that complain about what the mechanisms of government in Europe do or don’t do have neither voted in European elections or visited the websites that allow access to each day’s activities, rulings and judgements. They’re simply fed by the persuasions of the media and the ill-informed.

I feel that there’s a fear amongst British people on mainland Europe that this vote is going to be dominated by people who don’t necessarily understand the current values, freedoms and opportunities of this great continent. The UK is not American, it’s European.

However, with the coverage given to the American Presidential Elections; compared to recent voting in Germany, you could be forgiven for being confused.

Europe is discussed when there are startling images of refuges to be shown or a bomb blast. Many people do not fully appreciate the treasures that the continent holds; a millennia of shared history and peoples.

If you’re British and are living in France you can still vote in the referendum on the 23rd of June but it is important to register by the 7th June.

Whichever way you vote, it’s important that people with some experience of the EU add their weight to the decision-making. You can register by visiting www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. You will need to have your passport and National Insurance number to hand.

By A Atkinson Hobbes, Thomas. 1651a. Leviathan. C.B Macpherson (Editor).

London: Penguin Books (1985) Locke, John. Two Treatises of Government and A Letter Concerning Toleration.

Yale University Press (2003).

Rousseau, Jean-Jacques. The Basic Political Writings.

(Trans. Donald A. Cress) Hackett Publishing Company (1987).

e in English FREE magazin

Inside – Bouisset Moissac’s Firmin doorstep Wines on your & Pollinators Composting ls Easter Symbo Cyclocross

The Region’s

Inside – Inside – Les 2 Jours de Montcuq Short Story NEW Organ Donation Competition Roquecor’s Long History Garden Colour WinterPlus: Peren Law Successionnials, EU Pensio ns and Plum Jam Writing Groups Festive Food

FREE magazin e in English

MerryChristmas!

Delivering high quality wildlife door

e products direct to your Bike Hire Servic anic glish Bike Mech www.vivara.fr/en Professional s.net www.velo-plu SEE OUR ADVERT

www.quercyl

ON P.67

www.quercylocal.com

www.quercyl

ocal.com

ocal.com

GET THIS MAGAZINE DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR! Your copy of The Quercy Local can be delivered to your home in France or elsewhere in Europe.

If you would like to get the next 5 copies of the magazine delivered directly to your home in France or another address in Europe then this is very simple to arrange.

Simply visit our website and follow the link to ‘Subscribe’ you can made the subscription immediately by using either a bank card or paypal.

If you prefer to pay by cheque then simply forward a cheque (payable to A Atkinson) to Las Razes, Touffailles, 82190, France – do include the address that you want the magazines sending to. We will always start the subscription with the next edition to be published unless you email to ask us to start with the current one.

You can also arrange this for a friend or relative as a gift. Just drop us an email to let us know what you want to do.

The costs for getting 5 copies sent to you are currently – 19 euro for an address in France or 11 euro for elsewhere in Europe.

thequercylocal@gmail.com www.quercylocal.com Have you uploaded your business to the Free Business Directory on our website? Simply go on line and complete the form and very soon your details will be on-line.

You can now also advertise your business on our website, with a banner at the top of all the pages or boxed adverts that appear on most of the other pages. Take a look and see if this could work for you.

The July edition of this magazine is already very full and so we would appeal to anyone wanting to add editorial, information and news, to let us know as quickly as possible, so that we can hold space for you. Advertisers, if your advert is not already booked then please tell us what space you need as quickly as you can, so that we can make sure space is reserved for you.

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

64 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Au Matou du Montat L’HÔTEL POUR CHATS

Easy access – close to Cahors, Lot

FESTIVAL D’ ORGUE DU QUERCY BLANC Eglise St Barthélémy Lauzerte, Place des Cornieres (82110)

A new modern cattery which offers a high standard of care and accommodation Heated insulated suites each with private outdoor run Webcam access for remote viewing Pheromone release Suites suitable for cats of all ages and abilities Special care for individual needs Vetbed bedding, toys and scratching posts Contact Susan: aumatoudumontat@gmail.com or 07 81 62 17 29 See our website for more information: www.aumatoudumontat.fr

Samedi 14 Mai à 11 H 30: Concert “du marché” par Marion COWMAN (GB), organiste à Moissac Dimanche 15 Mai à 17 H: Concert de cloture par Pierre BARTHEZ, Organiste de la cathédrale de Toulouse

Exhibition

FIRMIN BOUISSET(1859 – 1925)

INITIATIVES EMPLOIS is an association, authorised by the French authorities to promote social and economic cohesion; our agencies are located in both Gourdon and Souillac.

Initiatives Emplois helps people find easy, quick and efficient solutions to jobs that need doing. We match unemployed people with people who need help.

Once we understand what help you need we can use our expertise to help you and importantly, we also take charge of all the administration.

For private individuals we can find you help with:

Révolution dans la Réclame In the March edition of this magazine we explained a little about Firmin Bouisset, born in Moissac, who by the late 19th century had revolutionised, commercial art.

This summer you can see some of this artist’s work on display in Donzac.

From17 May to 28 August the Conservatoire des métiers d’autrefois (which is very easy to find in the village) presents an exhibition dedicated to him and which explains, with the aid of a collection of items and artwork, much about his life and the famously iconic characters he created.

The exhibition is open from Wednesday – Sunday (2pm – 6pm) until July and then every day from (2pm – 6pm) Conservatoire des Métiers d’Autrefois de Donzac 1679 avenue du Brulhois, 82340 DONZAC. 05 63 29 21 96.

Casual maintenance and cleaning (home or holiday home)*, Gardening, DIY, Childcare for over 3 year-olds (incl. school transport and child-minding)*, Home delivery service – using your own car (meals, clothing, shopping)*, Animal care and dog-walking, IT and administrative support, Help with moving and packing *Under the law of ‘Services à la personne’ people can benefit from a 50% tax reduction or tax credit (within the annual legal limits).

We can also help businesses find people for goods-handling/production, administration, sales and catering work.

For associations, we can help find housekeeping, garden-maintenance, reception and administrative staff.

For more information, please contact: 87, bd Aristide Briand à GOURDON: 05.65.27.08.28: contact.gourdon@initiatives-emplois.fr.

Monday morning from 9 h to 12h30/ From Tuesday to Friday 9 h to 12h30 and from 13h30 to 17h00 1, bd Louis Jean Malvy à SOUILLAC: 05.65.41.32.88: contact.souillac@initiatives-emplois.fr From Monday to Friday from 9h to 12h.

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 65

English Builder with 23 years experience

Robert Atkinson Estimates freely given Work can be seen References available Roofing l Stonework l Plastering l Tiling l Paving Blocking l Concreting l Door/Window Openings

Las Razes, Touffailles (82190), 05 63 94 32 80, robert@lasrazes.com, Siret: 499 560 654 00026

English Church of Midi-Pyrénées & Aude

Update from the Cahors Congregation (please see our website for full contact information)

fall during this time including Trinity which this year falls on May 22. There will be a service of Holy Communion at Terre Rouge at 10.00am.

Our congregation in Cahors is a remarkably mixed one and although most members are Anglicans from UK, we have members from The Netherlands, Canada, United States, France, Nigeria, South Africa – everyone is welcome to join in worship. It is through encountering God within worship that we are formed, and transformed, as his people.

You will find the schedule of worship on our website.

We help each other and people in need all over the world. The Cahors Congregation supports several charities: Le Secours Catholique, Les Restos du Coeur receive regular donations from us. We also support the following charities: Friends of Mangochi Orphans Education (www.fomoe.org), US – formerly USPG (www.weareus.org.uk), FFRME – Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East (www.frrme.org), WaterAid (www.wateraid.org). The Congregation gave e2500 to these charities in 2015 and the total contribution to charities by the Chaplaincy for last year was e10000.

The current liturgical season, from Pentecost to Advent, is called Ordinary Time although there is nothing ordinary about this period. The word either derives from the latin word ordinal meaning ‘numbered’ since the Sundays of Ordinary Time, as in other seasons, are ordered numerically or from the latin word ordo meaning ‘order’. In any case, the days of Ordinary Time, especially Sundays, are devoted to the mystery of Christ in all its aspects and many important liturgical celebrations

Those of you who attend the services at Terre Rouge in Cahors will remember the wonderful Sunday on February 28 when Bishop David Hamid presided the service of Holy Communion and baptised one member, confirmed ten candidates and licensed two new Lay Readers. The church was full and the hymns resounded throughout the neighbourhood. www.churchinmidipa.org

Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • May-June 2016

66 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

SAT CONSTRUCTION (82150)

SPECIALIST IN Travertine, Wall and Floor Tiling, Plaster Boarding, Plastering & General Building References available

New at Carpetman chalk & lime paints For all your decoration needs both inside and out.

Also stencils, beautiful waxes, crackle glaze, craquelure...

Mobile Phone: 06 12 82 49 04 Evening Phone 05 63 29 27 31 Email: stephen.tyler@sfr.fr Siret: 802 145 706 00015

The Quercy Local • May-June 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

LEGGETT

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST

Are you buying or selling a property?

Leggett Immobilier was voted ‘Best Estate Agency in France’ third year running.

We have over 25 years experience, with more than 14,000 properties for sale and a dedicated team of support staff ensuring clients receive the best possible service.

Our professional, trained and multi-lingual agents are all living and working in the region.

Please contact us on

0800 or900 324 email

lot@leggett.fr www.leggettfrance.com

Tel: 0033(0)5 53 56 62 54 Head Office: La Maison du Chapitre Route de Riberac 24340 La Rochebeaucourt France