The Quercy Local July:August 2016

July – August 2016 Issue 25

uercy Local The

The Region’s FREE magazine in English

Inside – Shakespeare’s – The Comedy of Errors Enjoying the region with your ‘feet off the ground’ Le Tour de France Wine, Food and finally Song

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OPEN STUDIO 5th anniversary edition weekends 9-10 and 16-17 July 2016 (14-19 h.)

Stefaan Eyckmans paintings

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The studio can be visited

Lieu dit Troniac

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throughout the year

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by appointment

4 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

W

elcome to the 25th edition of this magazine.

This summer edition has ended up being the largest ever and it could have grown still more. It just goes to prove that this whole area, despite its tranquil surroundings, is beating with life and activity.

We’ve brought together, in this edition, Shakespeare, ornamental grasses, zen bicycle mechanics, chefs, vineyards, delicious cake, history, ceramics, Tour de France, tax, exhilarating ‘off the ground’ activities and even an English style tea-shop.

Don’t forget to enter the competition to win tickets to Antic Disposition’s The Comedy of Errors (see below).

Do have a wonderful summer and if you are just visiting the region, we hope to see you back next year!

Anna

The next edition will be out for the 1st of September. www.quercylocal.com Email: info@quercylocal.com

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CONTENTS The Comedy of Errors Les Nuits de Lauzerte Sarah’s P’tea Salon Historical Duravel Staycations Cancer Support France Club de Jardinage de Lauzerte Festival Bruniquel Christian Pradier – Ceramist UK Pensions in France Am Dram, Montaigu de Quercy Recettes de Chefs Caussade and its Hats Domaine de Belfort Château de Chambert Ornamental Grasses Useful Plants Quelque mots en Français Taming the Terroir English Church in Cahors Le Tour de France – Caylus Fête le Tour Marché Enjoying Quercy with your ‘feet off the ground’ Zen and the Art of Bicycle Maintenance Wine Tasting and Food Pairing

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p. 6 p. 8 p.12 p.18 p.22 p.24 p.26 p.28 p.30 p.32 p.38 p.40 p.44 p.46 p.48 p.54 p.56 p.57 p.58 p.62 p.64 p.68 p.72 p.73

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Shakespeare Tickets Win one of 3 pairs of front-row tickets to any Antic Disposition performance of The Comedy of Errors during their tour of Perigord & Quercy this summer.

To enter simply answer the following question: The Antipholus twins were separated at birth. One going to Ephesus and the other to Syracuse. Which two modern day countries are these towns located in?

Email us the answer by July 10th and 3 winners will then be drawn. thequercylocal@gmail.com 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

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

6 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

THE COMEDY OF ERRORS comes to Quercy

This year marks the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death in 1616, and to celebrate this very significant occasion, the popular London-based theatre company Antic Disposition will be returning to Quercy for a twelfth successive year with a brand new production of Shakespeare’s hilarious farce, The Comedy of Errors.

The Comedy of Errors was written in the early 1590s, making it one of Shakespeare’s earliest plays, and it’s also his shortest, clocking in at just 1777 lines.

To put that in context, the character of Hamlet has around 1400 lines of his own!

The plot, as the play’s title suggests, is a riot of slapstick humour and comic mayhem.

Antipholus of Syracuse and his longsuffering servant Dromio arrive in the glamorous resort town of Ephesus in search of the twin brothers they both lost as babies.

The pair are swept into a bewildering society of mobsters and misfits, and find themselves at the centre of a chaotic double case of mistaken identity.

A brand new production inspired by one of Hollywood’s best-loved comedy movies, Antic Disposition’s The Comedy of Errors combines Shakespeare’s most farcical play with live music and songs performed by a talented cast of actor-musicians.

The production will be performed in ten stunning open-air locations around the region: the picturesque town squares of Lauzerte, Monflanquin and Monpazier; an idyllic walled garden in Lherm; amongst the stone ruins of the abbey in Saint-Avit-Sénieur and the castle in Eymet; under the ancient wooden halle in Belvès; against the backdrop of spectacular vistas in Montcuq and Domme; and in the intimate surroundings of Puy l’Evêque’s charming open-air theatre.

Following performances in France, the production returns to London for a two-week run in the beautiful Elizabethan setting of Gray’s Inn Hall, the very space where The Comedy of Errors had its first recorded performance in 1594.

Tickets for The Comedy of Errors are already selling fast, so do book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets are free for children sixteen and under, making the show a perfect night of entertainment for the whole family.

Tickets: e20 – e40 Free for children 16 and under (maximum two per adult) For more information and to book tickets, please visit www.ad-tour.com

The Comedy of Errors will be performed around the Lot and Dordogne valleys from 31 July – 11 August 2016 31 July 1 August 2 August 3 August 4 August 5 August 8 August 9 August 10 August 11 August

Domme Lauzerte Lherm Monflanquin Belvès Saint-Avit-Sénieur Eymet Montcuq Monpazier Puy l’Evêque

Jardin de la Rode Place des Cornières Centre of the village Place des Arcades La Halle Centre of the village Jardin de Cadix Esplanade Nino Ferrer Place des Cornières Théâtre de Verdure

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

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Les Nuits de Lauzerte One enchanted evening...

Lauzerte richly deserves its place amongst the « Plus Beaux Villages de France », perched on a hilltop dominating the fertile valleys of the Quercy Blanc, and boasting many fine medieval façades and a classic bastide square. Every year since 2000, the Nuits de Lauzerte festival transforms this stunning historic site into a place of mystery and imagination. Cars are banned, and as night falls a circuit lit only by some 2000 candles and huge illuminations projected onto walls and pavements stirs into life.

As the festival’s reputation for original, sometimes challenging, performances and events has grown, it has increasingly been able to attract artists with an international reputation. This year they are invited to explore the theme “De la Terre à la Lumière” (from earth to light), evoking awakening, growth, birth… both physical and spiritual. “Urban Lights contacts”, an interactive work in which members of the public produce different visual and sound effects through touch, has toured major cities on five continents. “Light painting”, as the name suggests, involves Toulouse artist, Gilles Malassinet, using a range of instruments and techniques to write and draw, improvising ephemeral objects and faces. A haunting video installation with music composed by Jacques Schönbeck (who also composed a magnificent “Mass for Lauzerte” while living in the village) draws inspiration from the Arabian influence on Andalusia, where gardens play on water and reflections

to evoke the divine. Myriam Naisy’s contemporary ballet company performs “Zzz’insectes”, an animal “flashmob” of the tiny creatures on which all life ultimately depends.

In the church, transformed by Bernard Tauran’s visual alchemy into a place of enchantment, a concert for flute and organ entitled “Le chant du soufflé” is performed by the award-winning Duo Eolien.

All this and more (in all 10 performances and installations) from 10 pm until 1 am. Beforehand, park at the bottom of Lauzerte hill and use the free shuttle service to the main square, where you’ll find a restaurant, bars, and stalls selling dishes for you to sample at long tables, village fête style, to live music with free face painting for children – or the young at heart.

Fri 5th, Sat 6th and Sun 7th August. Free parking and minibus from the bottom of Lauzerte hill 9pm - 1.30am.

Food and drink, make-up artist and live music on the main square from approximately 7pm. Candle lit circuit opens and performances begin at 10pm and close at 1am.

Tickets 12e. Children under 13 free. Advance purchase recommended from www.nuitsdelauzerte.fr, or, till 5th July, from the festival office (opposite the Lauzerte war memorial). For group rate 10e (advance booking only) please enquire acap.compta@free.fr.

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

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 11

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

12 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Sarah’s P t’ ea Salon My name is Sarah Morris and I have lived in this area for nearly four years. I had always had a yearning to live in France and so on one, cold, wet, day, on the Isle of Wight, where I worked as a letting agent, I clicked the ‘send’ button on my laptop and off whizzed my application for a job as a housekeeper in France that I had seen advertised in The Lady Magazine.

At the same time I booked a flight to visit Carcassonne, having read about the wonderful, bastide town in a book! Well, to my utter surprise, I heard back about the job and offered myself up for an interview whilst I was on my weekend break! Well, – I couldn’t believe it – I got the job, there and then, so I returned home, rented out my house, gave up my job, and left my wonderful friends and family et voila 5, weeks later I was driving down from Caen, to unknown but exciting future!

Eventually, I decided that the housekeeping job wasn’t fulfilling my dream of experiencing all that French life had to offer and so I put myself forward to the local Cafe owner as a washer upper for free! He gladly obliged and thus started a new career in a real life ‘Allo Allo’ cafe, where I was soon upgraded to sous chef

and then eventually let loose in the kitchen on my own.

By then, and with yet another strange twist of fate, I found myself singing in a newly formed band – The Free Drinks Band!

I had sung in a rock choir for a few years back but I had never sung alone before. Nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs, I took my first steps onto the stage as a soloist and found that not only did I enjoy it – but it seemed that others did too. So there I was – the ‘Singing Chef’!

I rented a little house in Montaigu de Quercy and started to really feel that this was the place that I wanted to be. I sold my house on the Isle of Wight and started looking for somewhere of my own. The house that has now become my home and Le P’tea Salon,

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had been on the market for 16 years! What was wrong with it I thought at first, why had nobody else fallen in love with it, as I had done on that day back in June 2015?

Despite worries that I was making a huge mistake, 10 weeks later, the estate agent handed me the keys and another new adventure began! Renovation and lots of sleepless, fraught nights followed. The house used to be a clockmakers and jewellers many years ago and it started to dawn on me that it was time to bring it back to life again and the idea of opening a tea shop started to form. Would it even be possible for me to do it and what hoops would I be required to jump through in order for it to become a reality?

A four day course in Montauban ensued and then a few weeks later, I finally got my certificate to say that I was officially the owner of a Tea Shop! Magnifique!

I must say, that without the help and support I have received from my many friends here, I couldn’t possibly have done it at all – from Anne, making bunting from old pillow cases, Tony Priestly who kindly took these great photos of the tea rooms, to Bridget and Glenn for laying floors, putting up mirrors and generally lifting my spirits when worry and tiredness got the better of me – they are all truly wonderful (and are entitled to free tea for life!!).

Four weeks after the grand opening and the word is beginning to spread – I now have a regular Friday morning group of ladies who come to do their crafts and have a chat and I organised a Nails and a Natter event on Mon 30th May, where the ladies (and possibly gents!) could have a manicure, a cup of earl grey, or a grand crème and perhaps piece of homemade almond and cherry bakewell cake, or maybe some freshly baked scones with jam and cream.

If anyone is around at lunchtime, they might like to try a Thai vegetable curry with Jasmine Rice, Roasted vegetable tortellini with a cheese and mushroom sauce or a homemade vegetable cottage pie with cauliflower, potato and parmesan mash (gluten free). I change the lunch menu nearly every day and experiment with new cakes to ring the changes from the old favourites of carrot cake and lemon drizzle. You can see them on my facebook page Le P’tea Salon and you can always send me a message if you want to come for lunch and

want to know what the special of the day is. I’m looking forward to a busy and rewarding summer and hope that locals and holidaymakers alike, will enjoy what I have done with this charming 1680’s townhouse – which is now chez moi!

You can find Sarah and her lovely teashop on the little road that leads from the bottom square of Montaigu de Quercy (82150) to the top square with the church, post office and Mairie – up the hill.

Or park at the top square and walk down a short distance. Opening times are Monday – Saturday 10-4pm.

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

14 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

SAT CONSTRUCTION (82150)

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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

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

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

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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 • July-August 2016

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 17

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

18 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

HISTORICAL DURAVEL Does it hold a secret?

General Description 2

3

interested in further details (in French) go to www.duravel-histoire.fr.

Their most recent project took five years working with volunteers to reconstruct and repair the medieval ramparts on the northern side of the town.

Is Duravel Diolindum?

Duravel is situated at the crossroads of four departments, Dordogne, Lot, Lot & Garonne and Tarn & Garonne, north of the Lot River approximately half way between Cahors and Villeneuve sur Lot and close to the medieval town of Puy l’Eveque. The town is built on the edge of a wooded escarpment and spreads into the flat valley area contained within a large ‘U’ formed by the River Lot. Evidence of occupation has been found going back to the Neolithic, Palaeolithic and Bronze Age. A few traces of Roman occupation have been found – a round building still in existence called the Roc de la Pile, Roman mosaics found in 1 the same general area and a beautiful stone carved frieze placed inside the church.

The church dates to the 11th Century and contains a crypt which is also thought to date back to the Roman period.

CHVP Le Comite pour l’Histoire et la Valorisation du Patrimoine de Duravel et des Vallees Olt-Theze works alongside the Mairie and their web site has been a rich source of information for this article. If you are

Now the ramparts project is finished the CHVP is about to undertake a survey of ancient roads or ‘voies’ from the Roman period which may prove or disprove that Duravel is the site of Diolindum situated between Excissum (Eysses, Villeneuve sur Lot) and Bibona (Cahors) on the Peutinger map.

Historians have mentioned that two Roman roads crossed in the proximity of Duravel, which went east to west from Cahors to Villeneuve sur Lot and coming in from the south between the two regions of MidiPyrenees and the Aquitaine, crossing the River Lot at Vire and continuing north/eastwards towards Clermont Ferrand and Lyon. The CHVP group will be searching for evidence of both routes.

The CHVP research group will be working alongside and using the same research techniques as the group AA47 based in the Lot & Garonne, who have been tracing the main and secondary ‘voies’ between

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Agen-Massels, Villeneuve sur Lot-Perigueux, Tournon d’Agenais – Couloussac (border between L&G, Lot and T&G), Touffailles-Tournon d’Agenais-Maux-Duravel, and Agen-Villeneuve sur Lot. To aide these areas of research both groups will work together sharing resources, which will include flights to take photos from a light aircraft, and possible targets chosen for the use of a drone which has full authorisation.

There will be an intensive study of all maps from the Napoleonic period up to the present including the internet mapping services of Google, Geoportail and Flashearth. Both groups are enthusiastic and hopeful that evidence of Roman buildings and roads could eventually lead to the discovery of Diolindum, which we all hope is Duravel, but are determined not to force the facts.

Although there is an absence of any large Roman buildings in Duravel there is part of a round tower called Roc de la Pile. It is believed that Duravel served as a military station during the 1st century – further evidence is needed and surveys are in progress.

Medieval History This artist’s picture (courtesy of the CHVP website)shows the original fortifications surrounding the town (called Durviel in tales by Froissart), which was fought over during the 100 years war. French troops from Cahors were sent to assist in defending the town during the siege of over five weeks in 1369, against invasions by the English who were led by Robert Knoles chief aide to Betrucat d’Albret, a Gascon Captain for the English King. Nicolas Savy, a specialist Middle Ages historian has brought to life this period during the 100 Year War in his publication ‘Betrucat d’Albret’.

Behind the rampart walls of the medieval town stands the Chateau Boutier situated on the Route de l’Onde (already known by this name in the 11th Century). The origins of the Chateau date back to the 13th Century with additional surrounding properties and renovations during the 15th, 16th and 19th Centuries. There are other interesting medieval properties in the surrounding area.

Church of St Hilarion It is believed that the church (situated on a secondary Chemin de St Jacques de Compostella between Agen and Cahors), was originally constructed in wood with a stone crypt on a pagan site. The crypt has stone pillars from the Carolingian period and is classed as a European Historic Monument. The original church was owned by the Seigneurs de Gourdon and was then handed over to the Abbey of Moissac in the 11th Century.

The present church was started in the 11th and 12th centuries by the Benedictine monks.

Placed behind the altar in a 12th Century sarcophage, and brought out during ceremonies were the three important relics of Hilarion (patron of the Romanesque church), Poémon and Agathon, previously housed in the crypt. Also set

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

20 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

beside a doorway on the right hand side of the nave is the decorative Roman frieze.

Frongrande Spring and Lavoir This spring, situated behind the Hotel de Ville, is supplied from two areas called Combe de Bacchus and Combe de Botié or Boutié, and arrives from underground with a massive Gothic

arch dating to the 13th and 14th centuries. Two other springs can be found near Gary and La Barre. These three important water sources would have been enough to supply all the needs of a Roman town (Diolindum/ Diolindunum) and during the medieval period a lavoir was added.

Duravel is a town with an intriguing past and well worth a visit. Their restaurant, Cafe de la Mairie has a good reputation. It is therefore a good idea to book your table in advance. 05 65 35 29 43.

Article by Angela Murray, AA47 Thanks to Daniel Lafon, CHVP (Le Comite pour l’Histoire et la Valorisation du Patrimoine de Duravel et des Vallees Olt-Theze – www.duravel-histoire.fr.)

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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 • July-August 2016

22 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Let’s hear it for the Staycation!

In the United States during the economic crisis of 2007-2010 they coined the word ‘staycation’: to have your holiday at home as opposed to putting down two months of your salary in exchange for stress, traffic jams, queues and other discomforts. to live without them – remember?) Do the same with the computer and if possible, unplug the telly. The reason is simple: When you go on holiday, you go partly to escape routine, distractions and interruptions. So the same applies to staycations. You are going to spend your time enjoying yourself by doing something different.

2. Treat your staycation days as special days.

Don’t slip into your usual routine. Avoid doing domestic chores. Leave the washing machine alone. You wouldn’t do the laundry on holiday, would you? Staycations are to enjoy and to have fun, not to tidy, wash and clean.

T

he idea of the staycation is to save money.

But the other advantage, if you get yourself well organized, is to avoid stress, anxiety and to spend your time in a more advantageous manner.

In other words – you don’t have to worry or bother about packing, you don’t have to fret about turning off the gas, electricity or water, or run the risk of coming home to discover that all your plants are dead and you have a plague of ants or squatters (or both) or that your worldly possessions have been robbed including your Calvin Klein Garden Gnome collection. Neither do you have to worry about squirming on one of those uncomfortable plastic seats at the airport waiting for your plane that still hasn’t arrived (due to the fact that it’s still on the tarmac in Brussels) or trapped in a solid traffic jam on the A-20 watching the temperature go up and the fuel gauge go down.

3. Plan to do something different. A friend of mine had to repair the roof of his house which meant that his family had to sleep downstairs all together in the living room. They had to reorganise all the furniture so they could have a big space for the mattresses (they had two boys aged 7 and 9). They spent three nights playing board games, telling stories and singing. “It was like camping but indoors” he said. And when the repairs were over it was even a little sad to return back to normality. So try to break with your usual way of living.

Staying at home can be a real blessing for you and your family if you do it correctly and a great opportunity missed if you don’t. The following is a list of a few things to bear in mind if you want to make the most out of a staycation:

4. Don’t be frightened to spend money. If you feel obliged to ‘staycate’ then it’s most likely to save money, and depending how much you need to save then this recommendation may or may not be for you. But given that even for a cheap one-week holiday for a family of four (including food, board and travel) you don’t get much change out of 2000e, the amount of money you’re saving is considerable. Therefore you can afford to fork out a bit more than usual during your staycation.

You can try a few of those nice restaurants that you usually shy away from (plenty of them advertised in this magazine!) or even try out a catering service. Make an effort to explore the area paying for the guided visits when possible. Go to a health spa and opt for the super deluxe package. Not only would splurging out on a local treat be fun and/or relaxing – you’d be helping the local economy as well.

1: Disconnect. Disconnect the phone line and your mobiles. Hide them if necessary. (You used to be able

5. Invest quality time with your family. Plan to do things together. Sports, games, painting, origami, mega-

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 23

jigsaw puzzles, plasticine, dancing, yoga, anything that’s physical and fun. If it’s just you and your partner then learn how to give a proper massage or spend the whole day in bed (in a sensual way, not in a snoring-your-head-off way). If you have young kids, make the effort to play with them.

Take them pony riding, carting or even paintballing.

Explore your neighbourhood on foot or bike and take time to investigate the local flora and fauna.

6. Remember the whole objective is to enjoy yourselves. It’s important that at the end of the week you feel relaxed and rejuvenated. Choose activities that will allow you to do this. Why not try doing some stretching or tai-chi before breakfast, or make an effort to have a leisurely swim each morning. We’ve already mentioned yoga, but you could try mindfulness, meditation or even just taking time to read a good book in the hammock.

But be careful. There are risks associated with staycations. It’s important to define when it starts and when it ends. This would be obvious if you were going away for a week. If you work in the area, don’t be tempted to ‘pop into the office for moment’ to check if all’s well. People not included in your staycation won’t understand and try to impose themselves (like the in-laws). Your objective is to relax, not to check your e-mails or social media or pacify grandparents. And above all, don’t watch the telly!

To summarise: Whether it’s by choice or necessity, spending quality time at home this summer can be relaxing, fun and cheap! It’s an opportunity to spoil yourself, reconnect and explore. By planning well and not being afraid to pay for the occasional luxury you can avoid stress and travel sickness but at the same time recharge your batteries and be ready to face things when September arrives. So let’s hear it for the staycation!

Ian Gibbs Personal Coach and Writer

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

Restaurant ‘La Sirene’ Place de l’Hotel de Ville Montaigu de Quercy (82150)

Varied cuisine & a warm welcome guaranteed

Open for lunch Tues – Saturday Plus monthly quiz night Open any time for groups Available for group bookings by prior arrangement

Catering service, either here or at your venue.

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

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

24 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Julia Hall,

President of Cancer Support France, Dordogne Est & Lot, speaks to The Quercy Local about her Association’s work in this region What is CSF? CSF is an association, a charity as we would know in UK, operated by volunteers with the objective to provide support to English speaking people living in France, who are affected by cancer.

Where does it work?

There are branches of CSF throughout France, each headed up by a President, Secretary and Treasurer.

Support is provided by Active Listeners, each of whom, once successfully through an interview process, are guided by our team of experienced trainers.

How long, and how, has it been helping people in the Quercy region?

Your local association, Dordogne Est & Lot, was formed in 2007. We have no public funding, therefore we rely solely on donations to ensure that we can provide this vital support to those people who request our help, frequently at the most challenging time of their lives.

In the early days, this association was a small team, with frequently just 3 or 4 members at committee meetings. At our latest meeting we were in total 23, so we have developed enormously in recent years. Professionally, this was imperative in order to provide the support our clients were requesting.

We currently have 28 clients, each one supported by an Active Listener, who In turn has a buddy (another volunteer who can help, and step in as and when it is required).

Support is provided for as long as the client requires it, sometimes for several years, and comes in many different forms. It is not only emotional support, but could be helping with translation, or research. Frequently we hear the words..”It’s comforting to know that there is a support group out there “.

What is your history with CSF and why did you decide to become involved?

I became involved with CSF some 7 years ago, initially to help with fund raising as I had worked for an international children’s charity prior to retiring to France. Amongst my responsibilities was to recruit specialist volunteers to work with abandoned children in Eastern Europe and Africa.

Following retirement of the Founding Director, managing The Donor Support team was added to my responsibilities.

I travelled and worked in Romania, Croatia and Bosnia.

Locally, do you have any connection with La Ligue?

Our relationship with ‘La Ligue Contre Le Cancer’ has been cemented in recent years. This is a national association, similar to Cancer Research and MacMillan in UK. Should

we need to locate information, practical support or require advice, we can rely on them for help.

With statistics, which say that one in two people will at some point in life be affected by cancer, I cannot see the demand for support from CSF diminishing – quite the contrary. But on a positive note many people live with cancer, indeed survive cancer, and treatments here in France continue to be highly rated, added to which we benefit from no long waiting lists for referrals.

Can anyone be a member of CSF and what can people do to help the Association?

The area we cover is vast and we continue to struggle to raise awareness in northern and eastern areas of The Lot. I would be delighted to hear from anyone who would be willing to do leaflet drops at pharmacies, doctors and dental surgeries, and Mairies in this area.

We have supporters and we have Members. Members join us at a cost of 5e annually and have voting rights at our AGM each January to elect our officers, President, Secretary and Treasurer. We warmly welcome new Members, they provide the strength and backbone to our work. At the moment we need more volunteers who have IT skills and can help with organising events. If anyone is interested in joining CSF, please do contact me at csfdordognelot@yahoo.com Are there any CSF activities this year that we should put in our diaries?

Future events include: an evening of Vernissage, showing the work of local artist Susie Griffith at Le Perchoir des Paons, Tournie Gindou 46250 on Friday 8th July from 4pm -8pm; a Coffee Morning on October 6th where a local Notaire will be answering an open question session (open to all); and on August 8th there is an Americana Concert/Picnic at ‘Theatre de Verdure’ in Puy l’Eveque.

For further information about these and other events please contact csfdordognelotsupporters@orange.fr. Lastly, in September, CSF National are organising ‘Activity for Life’ events all over France - watch out for further information about our local Activity!

Lastly, what motivates you at CSF? If we can provide support, and help make the day brighter for someone then our work is worthwhile. Sometimes just to talk through a practical problem can remove those dark clouds.

Sophie Bagnall, Press Office. Cancer Support France press.office@cancersupportfrance.org

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

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 25

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

26 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Orrom Informatique All your Computer, Website & Graphic Design needs English Spoken - Free Quotations Mark Orrom

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The Club is a friendly group of people of all ages, nationalities and green-fingered abilities. We meet every second Tuesday in the month, usually at the Salle des Fetes 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.

Keeping pace with the increase in temperature is the increase in our summer activities. In May we visited 2 very delightful, yet very different, gardens in Prayssac and in June, as this edition of Quercy Local goes to print, we are off again on our bus to glean even more inspiration in Provence, as we visit some exquisite gardens there.

Our updated 2016 Annual Programme is as follows: July 12 Visit to the beautiful Manoir d’Erygnac +

Lunch – Perigord August 19 Summer Hog Roast September 13 Visit to Jardin de Quercy in Verfeils and to Des Espiemonts Nursery en route home – with lunch in St Antonin Noble Val Sept 24 CJL Garden Show in Lauzerte –

see below* October 11 Talk on Saffron & Truffles November 8 Meeting – details tba Nov (tba) La Journee de l’Arbre Nov (tba) Christmas Table Decorations Workshop December 13 Club Christmas Lunch Please note: information given above may be subject to change

www.orrom.fr

Garden Show Saturday – 24 September 2016 from 2pm to 6pm Salles de Fêtes, Lauzerte – Entrance is free.

Join members and friends of the Club de Jardinage de Lauzerte for an afternoon filled with entertainment for the whole family! We would also encourage you to bring along your non-British friends and introduce them to this very traditional British event. In addition to displays of plants and flowers; a garden photo exhibit; ask a garden expert; children’s corner; garden-related items for sale; a tombola; the ubiquitous refreshments and delicious home-made cakes – for only 50c per entry, you can also enter the following competitions: 1. 5 of the same vegetable 2. 5 of the same fruit 3. 5 mixed vegetables 4. 5 mixed fruit 5. A pumpkin or a squash 6. A display of cut flowers 7. A pot plant 8. A jar of jam or chutney 9. A funny-shaped vegetable 10. Children’s Competition: a decorated flower pot 11. The Apple Challenge: a home-made cake or pastry, made with apples, which will be tasted, and judged, by the public!

Prize-giving will take place at 4pm For further information on the Garden Show or to request an entry form and general advice for the competitions, please contact Ingrid Batty on 05 65 31 91 52 or ingridbatty@caufour.com If you would like to join in a meeting or to know more about the club generally, please contact our Secretary, Pam Westcott: 05 63 94 19 25 or pamwestcott47@hotmail.com

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

28 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

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

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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

Festival Bruniquel This is the 20th year that the Festival Bruniquel has paid tribute to Jacques Offenbach with its unique Festival, bringing together singers and professional musicians to create stunning performances. All set in the stunning Château de Bruniquel – in one of the most beautiful medieval villages in France.

This year the production is of MADEMOISELLE MOUCHERON, a comic opera in one act.

After each performance the audience can dine in the courtyard of the castle. As many as 7000 spectators are expected during the festival. You can find out all about the main events and all other activities on www.bruniqueloff.com

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

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30 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Since leaving the ark animals and birds have been depicted by man. It started with early cave paintings and it was animals that formed the basis of many childhood stories leaving us with endless happy memories; we engage with these creatures adoring their form and individual charms.

Ceramicist, Christian Pradier, born in Paris in 1949 and settling in the Tarn et Garonne (between Moissac and Valance d’Agen) in 1977, has found a way of paying tribute to the world’s animals; animals that are often seen as simply being there to provide food or clothing for mankind and that often suffer at mans’ hands.

Christian’s work doesn’t attempt to reproduce the precise anatomy of any bird or animal, instead he evokes the sense and charm of each of them individually. His creations often have spherical

bodies and an exaggerated feature or two, they all have faces and expressions that embody each with a real sense of personality.

The works are made of stoneware, iron and bronze and vary in size from something to sit quietly on a shelf to something that would create a centre-piece in even the largest of gardens. All the works are suitable for living both indoors and outdoors.

If you missed Christian’s exhibition in May at the ‘Points de Vue’ in Lauzerte then you can catch up with his work during Les Rencontres Estivales de Montjoi (82400) from the 9th July to the 28th August. Montjoi is a very pretty village and well worth a visit at any time but this exhibition makes it a virtual ‘must’.

You can see more of Christian’s work on http://www.christian-pradier.book.fr/

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

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 31

Restaurant Le Moulin de Dausse

Restaurant Gastronomique

Le Bourg, Dausse

Terrasse Couverte

Tel: 0553412600

www.moulindedausse.com

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

32 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

UK PENSIONS IN FRANCE Whether you are resident in the UK or France, if you are retired or approaching retirement you should review your pension holdings to establish how they can best be used for your personal circumstances. There are two key issues you need to consider and understand: how pensions are taxed in France and what the options are for your funds, especially following the UK pension reform.

Taxation in France UK state retirement and disability pensions, pensions derived from professional activities and private pensions are all taxable in France. They are taxed at the income scale rates of tax up to 45%. The tax rates currently range from 0% for income under e9,700 to 45% for income over e152,108.

There is a 10% deduction (maximum e3,711) for private pensions. Also, in France you are taxed as a ‘household’, which benefits couples where one spouse receives a much higher income than the other.

UK government service, civil and military pensions remain taxable in the UK, unless you have transferred out before the pension commences (and usually before age 59). However, you still need to declare the income. It is included in the calculation of your taxable income and you are given a credit equal to the French income tax and social charges that would have been payable.

Lump sums from UK pensions are taxed at a fixed 7.5%, provided there is no possibility of taking another lump sum in future. So if you take your entire UK pension at once as a lump sum, it will be taxable at 7.5%; otherwise it will be taxed as income.

There are advantages for some in taking their pension as cash and reinvesting in a tax efficient Assurance Vie, but not for everyone. And there are differences between Assurance Vie providers and jurisdictions. So you need to sit down with your adviser to consider if this option is suitable for you.

Besides the tax rates above, all pension income is subject to social charges at 7.4% each year. However, this is waived if you do not yet have access to the French health system or have EU Form S1.

Receiving your pension without UK tax So that you do not pay tax twice, you need to arrange to receive your pension and annuity income gross. You need to file a form FRA/INDIVIDUAL (FD5) with your local French tax authority, who will stamp the English part to confirm that you are tax resident in France.

UK pension reforms If you have a defined contribution scheme and are over 55, you can now make withdrawals of any amount whenever you need to, including the whole amount, with any balance remaining invested. You can also continue to take regular income through income drawdown, as before.

For UK residents, pension income is taxed at the income tax rates of 20%, 40% or 45%. 25% of lump sums is tax-free, with the rest taxed as income.

You still have the option to take a secure regular income through buying an annuity. From April 2016 the restrictions on buying and selling existing annuities will be removed. You will be able to take capital as a lump sum or place in drawdown to use the proceeds more gradually.

The new freedoms do not apply to defined benefit (final salary) schemes. There is an option to transfer to a defined contribution scheme or Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS), but this would mean losing valuable benefits. Note that, under Financial Conduct Authority rules, you can only transfer with advice from a regulated specialist.

If you already have a QROPS, you may not yet have the freedom to withdraw all the funds. The rule where 70% of the relevant transfer fund (broadly the transfer value) made to a QROPS must provide an income for life currently remains in place for non-EU QROPS. If you still plan to contribute to your pension and use the new flexi access, unless your pension is worth £10,000 or less your annual allowance will fall from £40,000 to £10,000.

The 55% death tax on pensions has been abolished. If you die over age 75 your beneficiaries will still pay tax, but at their marginal rate on income or at 45% on lump sums (this will change to income tax rates from April 2016). This also applies to annuities, but not final salary schemes.

For many people, their pension savings provide financial security and income for the rest of your life, so do not rush into any decisions. You must ensure you take the right route for your circumstances and objectives, and you need to examine all the options to establish what this is, always taking the French and UK tax implications into account. Pensions are a highly specialist and complex area, and so is French taxation, so professional guidance is essential.

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.

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

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 33

“With so many options for my UK pension funds now, what are the best solutions for French residents?”

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

34 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

ALLEZ SOUTH WEST FRANCE DIRECT Do you have a property to sell?

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Les Heures Musicales d’Aujols was founded in 2008, in collaboration with Aujols Culture et Loisirs, by the English conductor and Aujols resident Martin Yates. Its reputation for presenting international artists of the highest calibre, in the stunning setting of the Eglise St. Jean-Baptiste, has ensured its success as one of the most enjoyable chamber music festivals.

This year the festival opens with a concert by the Fejes Quartet on Friday 22nd July with works

by Schubert, Vierne and Dvorak; the celebrated cellist Raphael Wallfisch returns on Saturday 23rd July with the six solo suites of J S Bach; and the virtuoso pianist Rustem Hayroudinoff makes his festival debut on Sunday 24th July

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

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with works by Schumann, Chopin and fellow Russian Rachmaninoff.

All concerts start at 8.30 pm.

In addition to the concerts, there is also a Young & Amateur Musicians’ workshop on Thursday 21st July where the pupils are tutored by the professionals, culminating in a concert given by all at 6.00 pm.

WWW.AUJOLS-MUSIC.COM

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

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 37

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).

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www.sable-quartz-mangieu.com Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • July-August 2016

 

38 • THE QUERCY LOCAL





Lou Faouré

In the Heart of Cahors Vineyards In a small village, 25km from Cahors

former smithy completely restored for 4 persons 2 bedrooms, kitchen/dining room, living room, bathroom, terrace, garden & swimming pool



Discover French Vineyards around Sauzet & pretty villages such as  Albas, Belaye, Saint Cirq-Lapopie, Lauzerte, Martel, Montcuq,  Toulouse) Rocamadour, Padirac, Mercuès, or  Prayssac (1hr drive from 

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Lou Faouré – Le Bourg – 46140 Sauzet  frale4692@gmail.com    

      

La Troupe D’Acteurs Du Quercy present Rich Ruby 



The World Premier of this play, directed and written by Stephen Mercer, was performed in May at the Salle des Fêtes, Montaigu. A superb set gave great flexibility for the cast to appear through secret panels and windows – as well as the more conventional entrances!

The company gave terrific performances and the show had pace and excellent comic timing. The convoluted plot and well-drawn characters kept the audience intrigued as two rival gangs competed to find stolen money and open a magic box.

However, ex-hippie, Aunt Dotty and her niece Ruby, the owners of a dilapidated, secret passage riddled, Victorian B&B have other plans. When a guest dies unexpectedly, leaving a bag containing half a million in stolen cash and a strange un-openable box, Dotty (amusingly played by Lesley Blake) thinks it’s their lucky chance to get rich.

The plot thickens when two villains from a London gang, well played by Peter Buck as the “Brains” and Chris Gibbs as his gun happy side kick, desperately try to recover the stolen money from the rival bleach-blond, leather-clad, Eastern European gang; played rather too convincingly by Jan Emery and Pamela Duker (with a nod to French and Saunders). Dead bodies litter the stage as Lady Agatha, an aged and highly eccentric permanent guest at the B&B, excellently played by Shirley Burton, bumps off the villains one by one and disposes of the bodies in the window seat.

Ruby, of the title, played with flair by Louise Blackmore, is a forty-something ‘pure of heart virgin’,



has, unwittingly, just the right credentials to open the   box. Inside Dotty and Ruby find an ancient scroll with  instructions and a dubious saintly holy relic, said to  wield enormous powers. With the help of another guest, appropriately named Willy, (played to great comic effect

by Ian Blake), the meaning of the scroll and relic are revealed. Willy is seeking the ‘love of his life’, beautiful 18 year old ‘Michelle’ encountered on an internet sex-chat room, not knowing that this is none other than Aunt Dotty, who has been lucratively running the chat room for years under that alias.

Ruby’s middle-aged purity enables her to use the box’s magic to good effect, unravelling the plot to bring the piece to a satisfactory conclusion. Even her admirer, the local and very timid community PC, played with aplomb and amusing Welsh and American accents

by John Blaus, becomes the hero of the hour as well as winning Ruby’s heart. The cash is found to be forged but the last bit of magic, uncovers some hidden paintings, early Impressionists and worth a fortune, so Ruby really does end up rich!

The audience thoroughly enjoyed both nights, the picnic Thursday and the excellent five-course meal, prepared by Viv Woffinden, on the Friday, as well as very entertaining show.

Next Production: September 30th and October 1st 2016. For information: latroupeboxoffice@gmail.com www.la-troupe.org Tel: 05 53 49 19 51

The Quercy Local • July-August 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

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40 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

RECETTES DE CHEFS MEET THE CHEFS AND SHARE THEIR RECIPES

Here we meet three local chefs, three of the faces behind some of the great food served in the area, from two local restaurants. Guy and then Gilles and Paul are working in two very different kitchens, two very different locations – but all with a passion for fresh local produce and sharing their love of food with others. We hope you will enjoy the recipes they have shared.

GUY HÉRAULT FROM CHÂTEAU L’HOSTE IN SAINT-BEAUZEIL (82150) www.chateaudelhoste.com

Rabbit Rillons with Coloured Asparagus, Red Lentils and Tomatoes, Herbs and Hazelnut Juice

Serves: 4 Main ingredients:

Guy Hérault has been the Head Chef at Le Château de l’Hoste since 1999 and has delighted their diners ever since. Guy was born and brought up in Paris and was first inspired to enter the culinary world as his father was a pâtissier. He first worked in macaroon restaurants, before moving to other large restaurants and then settling here in the Tarn et Garonne.

Guy knows exactly how to bring the best of each season to his menus. He keeps reminding diners of less well-known and sometimes almost forgotten vegetables and his recipes are full of (delicious) twists.

Don’t be surprised if he serves you guinea fowl with prawns or perhaps a crispy mille-feuille of lamb-shoulder with beet crêpes.

Guy’s food calls for fine wines and the Maître d’Hôtel, Mark, knows how to find the perfect choice to accompany his food.

You can also share some of Guy’s skills in a practical way as he also runs cookery courses, see the website or call for more information.

Le Château de l’Hoste is a charming hotel and restaurant with a wonderful garden, welcoming guests from April to October.

You can begin your evening with a glass of wine in the Hotel’s wine bar, open during the evenings from Tuesday to Saturday.

(Happy Hour from 6.00 to 7.00 pm every Thursday) Guy has kindly offered to tell us about one of his favourite recipes and so we hope you’ll find this an inspiring culinary idea.

• 2 rabbit legs • 4 white and 4 green asparagus • 120 g red lentils • Spinach leaves • 2 tomatoes + 1 onion • 100 g duck fat • 2 Shallots, Chives • Beetroot sprouts (ruby chard) • Crushed hazelnuts • Olive oil – Sherry vinegar Method: • First braise the rabbit in stock, slowly in covered pan for 2 hours • Cook the asparagus in boiling water for 13 min and cool • Meanwhile, cook the tomatoes with onion, olive oil, salt and pepper, blend and sieve.

• Cook the red lentils • When rabbit legs are cooked, remove the meat and crush with a fork whilst pouring on the meat the lightly-warmed duck fat • Add salt and pepper and mix in order to get ‘Rillettes’ • Mix the lentils with chopped shallots, tomato pulp, asparagus ‘stalks’ cut into small pieces, salt and pepper.

To Serve: Using a metal ring, layer the mixed ‘lentils/tomatoes/ asparagus’, pressing firmly with a table spoon. Then add a layer of the rabbit rillettes. Remove the metal ring, add some beetroot sprouts to the top, and then arrange the asparagus ‘heads’ and spinach leaves on the plate along with some of the tomato sauce.

Herb Juice: Use the juice from cooking the rabbit legs, add a few drops of hazelnut oil (if not, olive oil), Sherry vinegar, salt and pepper. Mix and add the chopped herbs.

Sparingly cover the rabbit rillons and asparagus with this herb juice and finally add some crushed hazelnuts.

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 41

GILLES HERVE AND PAUL BAQUIE FROM LE PIGEONNIER IN MOISSAC (82200)

Apple and Black Pudding Tarte Tatin

www.facebook.com/Le-pigeonnier-de-Moissac-

Gilles and Paul met at High School in Montauban, 16 years ago.

They were both passionate about art, literature, music and travel. After leaving school they went their separate ways, meeting up occasionally to travel in Europe and cook for friends.

Their individual careers did not suggest that they would go on to open a restaurant but they both came back to the area and wanted to do something together that would allow them to use their passion for food and for meeting people.

They took over Le Pigonnier in Moissac, an ancient building in the city centre which had been in complete ruination and was now restored and waiting for a whole new purpose.

These young chefs delight in bringing people to this small, simple restaurant – where people all sit on one table, so that people can enjoy the very best of home-made, locally sourced food. It’s their passion for what they do that’s the real and very good reason to go and see what they do. People will find that they start their meal (fixed menu, but with vegetarian option) with a mezze of delicious small starters. These two chefs have set out below – just how to make one of the most popular items they serve – at home for yourself.

To make 8 small tarts The Pastry ingredients: • 200g strong flour • 100g butter, cubed and at room temperature.

• 6cl water • 1g salt Method: • Mix the ingredients gently with finger tips (no kneading) • Once mixed leave in a fridge for about 20 minutes.

Topping ingredients: • 4 apples • 1 onion • 40 g butter • 30 g caster sugar • 1 cooked black pudding approx. 400g • 8 x 10cm ramekins Method: • Heat the oven to 170°C • Hollow out and peel the apples. Then cut into 2 pieces • Fill each of the ramekins with 5g butter and 1 teaspoon of sugar and add ½ apple • Put into the oven for 20 min • Take out of the oven and cover the apple with a slice of onion and 3 over-lapping thin slices of black pudding • Mix the pastry and roll it out and cut 8 x10cm circles to place on the top of Black Pudding • Cook the ramekins for 30 min more at 180°C • When cooked, turn out the ramekins.

The tarts have to be eaten slightly warm...

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

42 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

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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.

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 43

MAYARTE : l’art maya Fair Trade Products

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

44 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Le Clos Triguedina has been a family vineyard in the South West since 1830 it’s home to the Baldès family, who were pioneers of the AOP Cahors wine status. The vineyard has specialised in the production of great wines from its superb territory for 7 generations.

A Vineyard, a Passion… a Wine Discover the secrets of our family know-how. We offer ‘Three types of visit’:

Classique: 30 minutes = 5 €

Visit the vines and taste 3 wines

Prestige: 1 hour = 8 €

Visit the vines, cellar and taste 5 wines

Exception: 1 hour 30 minutes = 15 € Visit the vines, cellar and taste 7 wines

Magical Thursdays Reservation Required!

The world of wine is a fascinating one as you can discover at Clos Triguedina

Introduction to wine tasting How the land affects the wine Vintage tasting workshop:

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capturing the magic of wines that stand the test of time

Price: 15€ /per person Every Thursday in July & August, 10.30 – 12.30

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on presentation of this edition of The Quercy Local – the classique tasting visit is free Reservations: 05-65-21-30-81 / contact@jlbaldes.com / www.jlbaldes.com ‘Les Poujols’ - 46700— Puy-L’évêque

Caussade and its Hats!

Situated in the Tarn et Garonne, Caussade is perhaps best known for its historical hat production.

Mme. Petronilla Cantecor was born in Caussade in 1770 and in 1796 she opened her first hat-making workshop in the nearby village of Septfond. Having developed a skill for making straw hats, she then passed the skill to other members of her family and then when she died in 1846 her grandson took over and eventually he was producing 5000 hats per day.

In 1857, a grant was offered by the town of Caussade to move the business there, this along with the arrival of the railway and electricity heralded a period of great good fortune for this now regional trade.

At the start of the 20th century there were at least 3000 people employed in the millinery business; Caussade was at the centre of the French hat and thereby fashion industry.

However, there were huge problems with the depression in the 1930s and the industry had to diversify and start to create hats of different fabrics and styles.

This history is not necessarily immediately apparent when you visit the town. However, each July there’s a festival dedicated to the hatting business and it is still possible to find courses to teach the artistry involved. So for anyone with a love of fashion, hats, history or all three do try and get along to their festival. www.chapeau-caussade.fr The Quercy Local • July-August 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 45

Château Le Brézéguet Vins AOC Cahors ~ Vins de Pays Vins Chemin de Compostelle and Château Grand Chêne

Free Entry to Exhibition of Barriq’Art Free wine tasting English spoken

Jean Longueteau Château le Brézéguet, D656 46800 SAUX 09 61 32 82 70 / 06 82 84 56 30 chateaulebrezeguet@orange.fr You are welcome to visit and try our wine

+33(0)5 65 20 13 26 | saint.sernin@sfr.fr 46140 Parnac – FRANCE www.chateau-st-sernin.com

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

46 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Deux Vignobles Wine is everywhere around us, we drive past it on the vines, we are surrounded by a huge variety of producers and offered the opportunity to ‘taste’ on many a roadside sign.

What more can our vineyard owners do to ensure that their wines are tried and appreciated?

In this edition we look at two ways that producers have brought their public closer.

Firstly the Domaine de Belfort, which has opened its own high-end wine shop in Cheshire and then secondly Château de Chambert which has opened its own Bistro at its vineyard in Floressas.

domaine de belfort

M

uriel Lismonde, tells us about her family’s vision, passion and expanding horizons which meant starting a business in the Lot and exporting this in turn to the stylish British town of Hale, Cheshire.

“Ten years ago, my father, Eugene Lismonde, fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a wine producer. He cajoled his entire family to join him in his adventure, he chose a location in the Lot in South West France, a region which had been my mother’s family home for many generations.

He bought the tumbled-down, bramble-choked ruins of an ancient bastide with only its 13th century tower still standing, he allotted my mother the task of

restoring it and creating guest accommodation, whilst he set about, quite literally, putting down his roots by planting the vineyard.

With seven vintages behind it, Domaine Tour de Belfort, has continued to build upon its selection of wines; known as Tour de Belfort – from just one to nine including; reds, whites, roses and sparkling. The wines have also earned a number of prestigious industry awards and accolades along the way.

Our vision was always to not simply make wine for our own personal pleasure but to create a selection of high-quality, authentic and organic wines. As a family we were committed to the idea of organic wine production and strongly believed in the need to protect the environment. Our lands lay within an EC-protected Natura 2000 zone which means there is no risk of cross contamination from neighbouring lands.

At the beginning we invested heavily in the technology necessary to ensure that our wine would not only be organic but that it could be produced with a minimum requirement for chemicals such as sulphates.

Our wines are produced and available in France but we view the UK as our primary market. Since moving to Cheshire, with my English husband, we have been actively being selling our wines there.

Over the years we have participated in many wine events, including Three Wine Men (with Oz Clarke, Tim Atkin and Ollie Smith) and the Manchester Big Indie Wine Festival. We have attracted positive reviews from wine writers including The Independent Newspaper, The Guardian, Fiona Beckett and The Cambridge Wine Blogger.

In 2012, we opened our own shop, Le Vin La Table, in the leafy village of Hale in Cheshire where we sell our wines and where I host wine tastings. We have been commended by Cheshire Life, Manchester Evening News and most local magazines and newspapers.

In Hale, our customers are mostly local people that we’ve met at other wine events, at tastings in

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

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 47

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our shop and who’ve heard of us by word-of-mouth.

Our customers are wine-lovers and we hope they have found, in us, a way of enjoying the very best of what the South West of France has to offer.

They receive our newsletters, follow us on Facebook and Twitter and we are able to meet regularly when we organise wine tastings in our shop, taking the chance to introduce new vintages and wines. Happily, many of our customers have also come to France to visit our vineyard and stay in our lovingly restored guest houses.”

Tour de Belfort – Le Vin La Table, 10 Broomfield Lane – Hale WA15 9AQ. SCEA Le Domaine de Belfort, Rue du Château, 46230 Belfort du Quercy Website and email for both France and the UK: info@tour-de-belfort.com www.tour-de-belfort.com Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • July-August 2016

48 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Our second vineyard is Château de Chambert where bio-dynamism and a great new Bistro offers the Château’s visitors a chance to really appreciate and understand what they produce.

Château de Chambert

I

n 2007 Philippe Lejeune, originally from Paris, bought Château de Chambert; as he changed his career from IT to wine production. Childhood family holidays had left him with a love of the Lot region and he was confident that the AOC Cahors wine had an ever flourishing future.

People who know this region are generally familiar with the wines of Chambert, its familiar logo with the 3 towered Château and the building itself sitting proudly in the sweeping landscapes of the Lot valleys.

Château de Chambert is also the largest certified organic vineyard in the AOC Cahors region.

As you approach the vineyard it is clear that the environment is the heart of Chambert’s exceptional vineyards. All work is carried out with respect for the land, biodynamics are always used to achieve a balance between the estate, the vines and the wine.

So there’s a great location, there are great wines but perhaps the real key to Chambert’s popularity is Philippe himself. People rarely mention this vineyard without also mentioning the gentle and welcoming nature of the man in charge.

Chambert takes its wine production seriously and was noted in 2015 by Decanter Magazine as having wine in

the World’s Top 50. However, Philippe and his team do feel that the appreciation and discovery of wines can be less-formal and also great-fun.

What better way is there to get people involved and enjoying what the vineyard has to offer than to open a Bistro on site? So during July and August the team will, once more, open up their lovely traditional building into a place where people can not only taste the wines but can stop a while and enjoy some great food; with an emphasis on ‘local’ and ‘quality’.

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 49

They are open from 10am to 7pm (10pm on a Friday by reservation) with platters, such as cheese and meats available all day and then over lunchtime a more extensive menu is available. A large terrace, overlooking miles of vineyards will be opened for the start of July providing a perfect place to sit, relax and enjoy some fine foods, wines and stunning views. Naturally the Bistro will be serving its own wine but it will also offer a selection of other popular wines, artisan beers as well as coffee, cakes and soft drinks.

There’s also the option to tour the vineyard and this can be done in either English or French, this takes about an hour and a half and includes visiting the vines, cellars and tasting rooms (7e /adult, children free). For those that would love to gain a deeper understanding – learn how to taste and appreciate wine, Chambert will be running in-formal, sessions for small groups. These are designed to be fun and for everyone to enjoy. In each case you will need to reserve, so please check the website for full details and times.

You can also just call in to simply taste the wines, for free, and perhaps buy some from the shop if you wish.

During July and August this tasting will be available, 10am to 7pm, 7 days a week. The shop and wine tasting area are all in the lovely Bistro building so it would be almost a shame to not linger a little longer and have something to eat. The choice is yours!

For the children there are some small pigs and sheep to admire as well as a selection of games in the Bistro area. You can find out all you need to know by visiting www.chambert.com Château de Chambert, Les Hauts Coteaux, 46700 Floressas 05 65 31 95 75 info@chambert.com Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • July-August 2016

50 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

SARL TAXI OCCITANIE Séverine DALPOZO

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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

Gone Dead Train: Bruno Faderne, Tony Smith, John Bentley

Landscapes, a Rock Band and a Folk Club...

Since 2006, Tony Smith, a long term English Quercy resident has been the regional organiser for the national association Paysages de France. The association has had a lot of success in having illegal outside advertising removed nationally (and locally in the Lot, Tarn, Tarn et Garonne and the Gers). The Prefects of the Tarn, Tarn et Garonne and the Lot have been condemned for ‘carence’ and fined for allowing ugly ad hoardings to remain in place despite being informed by Paysages de France of their illegality. Over 600 4x3 m ad hoardings and giant signs have been removed since 2006 in the Lot, Tarn, Tarn et Garonne and the Gers thanks to Paysages de France.

Tony is also a musician and now that he can’t find any more disgraceful ad hoardings illegally installed in the region he’s put a band back together! Last year, John Bentley,an old friend who happens to be top UK band Squeeze’s bass player, co-wrote and produced the 2nd Gone Dead Train album and he’s done all the backing vocals on the latest 15 track album ‘Just Drive’ that’s just been released.

Sam Flynn, who played keyboards for Eurythmics (98-2002) is on several tracks and Martin Winning (the UK‘s best sax player according to Van Morrison who’s band he was in for ten years) is on sax on one song. All songs were written by Tony, Bruno Faderne, Tony’s partner in a previous group ‘The Unsound, and John Bentley. The album is receiving a lot of radio play.

Watch out for the band, there are several local dates coming up. The 25th September Gone Dead Train is the group on scene for the end of the day’s events at La Foire Bio de Montauban.

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Tony Smith also hosts ‘Le Quetzal Folk Club’ in Montauban every first Sunday of each month from 7pm till late which features a house band and an open mike.

Tony Smith: gonedeadtrain1@gmail.com Quetzal Folk Club 05 63 66 15 34 Paysages de France http://paysagesdefrance.org/

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

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 51

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52 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

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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

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.

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

SUMMER CONCERT FOR THE CHORALE DE CAHORS La Chorale de Cahors will present its summer concert on Sunday, July 3rd at 18.30 pm in the Eglise St Barthelemy in Cahors; under the direction of N. ACCAULT and accompanied by A. DERCKSEN on the Organ. The choir will perform two pieces of religious music from the 19th century with 4 voices and 2 organs.

The mass in D major from A. DVORAK and the solemn mass from L. VIERNE. The Choir is always looking for new singers to join them and will be happy to welcome you. Please call 06 83 46 50 31 or simply come to one of their regular gatherings on Tuesdays at 20.30 pm in the Auditorium du Grand Cahors.

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g s es tin nt né ui e ré cr Ag Py Re es idil Sa M e th

in

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

54 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses are a useful addition to our French gardens, being both versatile and easy to maintain.

Muhlenbergia Capillaris

T

he vast range of sizes – from the small 25cm/10in to the gigantic 5m/17ft – means they can both fill in a small space in a border or command a significant place in a typical large French country garden. They can be planted in single or small numbers as specimen plants or in larger groups as backdrops or hedges of varying heights.

They can add volume and height to the garden as well as movement, and further sensory appeal with rustling leaves and tactile feathery plumes. They make excellent screens, forming a fluid, semiopaque barrier for a terrace, patio or pool area, and capturing the sun’s rays in their flowers and seed heads.

They are drought tolerant and can handle full sun and dry soil, while some varieties will also tolerate part shade and clay soils. They are not troubled by pests and diseases, and an annual cutting back in the spring (allowing winter interest) and occasional spring division (every few years) make them a very low maintenance, trouble-free plant.

There are many varieties to choose from. The following are all are hardy and do well over here.

Pennisetum villosum 50 cm. Full sun.

The profusion of feathery plumes makes this one of the most asked for grasses in our nursery. It is very pretty and soft to the touch, and at only 50 cm high it doesn’t

Stipa Gigantea

Pennisetum Villosum

have to be placed right at the back of a border.

It’s good for softening edges and corners.

Miscanthus Yakushima 60/70 cm. Full sun.

Pink flowers, in mid/late summer, gradually turn silver, providing late winter interest.

Miscanthus zebrinus 1.8m. Full sun.

Attractive horizontal cream bands on the leaves give this plant its name. Long-lasting flowers bloom from late summer, making it good for winter interest.

Its size makes it good for planting as a specimen or in small groups.

Panicum virgatum Rotstrahlbusch 1m. Full sun.

Red tinged leaves make this grass useful for winter colour.

Festuca glauca 40 cm. Full sun.

Grey-blue coloured, needle-like leaves form tight mounds, making this a small, compact grass, with a neat appearance.

Stipa gigantia 2.5 m Full sun.

This clump forming grass flowers from June/July to early

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Delosperma Red Mountain

Papaver Royal Wedding Poppy

Miscanthus Yakushima

winter. The long stemmed flowers make it an excellent choice for movement and for use as a specimen plant.

It is also good for using in dried flower arrangements.

Calamagrostis brachytricha 1m. Full sun or part shade.

Another clump forming grass. The tall fluffy flower heads are an attractive silvery grey colour with pink/ purple tints.

Muhlenbergia capillaris 1 M. Full sun or partial shade.

This is one of the more dramatic grasses, with a profusion of billowy pink flowers in the autumn.

It’s a good one to include if you have clay soil as it is tolerant of poorly drained soil.

Miscanthus Zebrinus

Calamagrostis Brachytricha

Nasella tenuissima 40 - 60 cm. Full sun.

Formerly called Stipa Tenuissima but renamed, as it is not a stipa, because it is not mound forming. Unlike other varieties, this grass is not cut back, but simply requires dead-heading, raking out any dead leaves and flowers in the spring.

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 • July-August 2016

56 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Nature doesn’t do anything randomly everything has a purpose It’s up to us to discover just what!

Borage

A

part from those plants which are easily recognisable as edible there are plenty more; foraging for the less well-known is becoming increasingly popular. It’s important to do this carefully and preferably with the help of an experienced nature-guide; to learn what to pick and how to prepare your finds. Much of what you discover will provide essential nutrients.

Our region is rich in edible plants, amongst the edible things you may discover are plantains, brambles, comfrey, dandelion, poppy, meadow sage, figs, mushrooms, lime tree flowers and nettles. It’s important to respect biodiversity and leave areas as viable as before you visited. Don’t forage at the roadside, or from cultivated fields.

When you’ve collected plants, all you need is a recipe – maybe fresh pasta with nettles, or donuts with comfrey leaves; a glass of nettle and mint syrup or yarrow, borage or dandelion flowers in a salad. We must stress that it’s important to get help and advice.

Sylvie Delmas (near Moissac) is a nature-guide, 0671398141, cassandre82@sfr.fr – you can join her walks.

All plants tell a story. Ethno-botanist, Rémi Kulik, discusses the world of plants on local radio CFM where he chronicles his findings on hikes around St Antonin Noble Val. (www. remi-kulik.wix.com.) An ethno-botanist studies the relationship between plants and man; they know the earth is rarely naturally bare it covers itself with plants. We spend so much time trying to control weeds when wild-plants know how to adapt and grow without any chemicals to kill off their neighbours.

Nature restores natural balances, when unwelcome aphids gather on a plant, useful insects, such as ladybirds, will feed on them restoring order. So it’s very important to encourage habitats for useful insects.

Simply allow areas of brambles to flourish; this creates a habitat for insects and birds will control their numbers.

Plants provide food, medicine, oxygen, dyes, fabrics and even a simple ball of string. So anything we can do to create harmony, has to be good. A great place to start would be reducing the use of chemicals in gardens. Are there plants that can help us do this?

One of the most useful plants is one, we guarantee, you’ve been trying to rid yourself and your garden of

Nettle

– the nettle. Firstly, the good news, if you’ve a nettle patch it indicates that you’ve good humus levels.

Nettles can also create a liquid plant feed. Soak I kg of crushed nettles in 10 Litres water, cover and leave for 15 days – then dilute 1 Litre of this nettle liquid into 10 Litres of water – a very economical feed for plants and vegetables. You can also prepare the same nettle infusion, this time leaving it only for 12 hours and then use in the same dilution as an insecticide.

Cut nettles can also be laid on the soil around tomato plants. Firstly, this reduces weed growth but then the nettles decompose, fertilize and aerate the soil. Comfrey or rhubarb leaves can also be used in this way. Some plants such as clover (rich in

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 57

phosphorus), mustard (rich in nitrogen) and buckwheat (great for potash) make excellent ‘green’ fertilizers.

If you plant them in spring or autumn and let them grown for at least 1-2 months and then dig them into your soil, they will enrich the ground.

Borage is useful for 2 good reasons. It attracts pollinating bees and also deters beetles and pests like the tomato worm (marigolds and dandelion also do this). Clover, thyme and nasturtium help ward off moths and caterpillars, whilst absinth, mustard flowers, and nasturtium (again) make aphids

uncomfortable. Virtually every nuisance insect seems to dislike garlic and elderflower; and then finally there’s lavender seeds which repels ants; all whilst attracting bees and butterflies.

So having protected many insects from a chemical death – if one should, very selfishly bite you – remember you can always rub the area with a plantain, mint or sorrel leaf!

Research by Valérie Roussseau With thanks to Eric Maes, Sylvie Delmas and Rémi Kulik

“La vie ce n’est pas d’attendre que les orages passent, c’est d’apprendre comment danser sous la pluie” Sénèque Ce matin. J’ouvre ma fenêtre et regarde benoitement devant moi le paysage et son horizon. Cette perspective, composée en gros, d’une prairie, de quelques haies, d’une route de campagne est toute simple, mais combien agréable à ma vue. Que de détours, de chemins parcourus par mes ancêtres pour m’amener devant cette fenêtre à contempler ce paisible paysage du Quercy.

Mes arrières grands-parents, sujets italiens, sont venus en France pour fuir un régime politique trop dur à leur goût et essayer de construire une vie plus heureuse pour leur future famille. Ainsi, mon père travaillant sur la région parisienne, c’est à Rueil-Malmaison que je vis le jour. Puis un autre jour de ma vie je partis la construire dans le Sud-Ouest. Un deuxième mariage me prit par la main et me guida devant cette fenêtre.

Le Quercy, mot magique à mes yeux, respire la sérénité, le calme, le plaisir de poursuivre mon itinéraire de vie. Devant moi aussi, légèrement à droite, une église et son cimetière. Dans cette église (Pervillac) des fresques murales : Les sept péchés capitaux, le jugement dernier, la cène… Tout un journal pictural offrant en son temps, à des personnes ne sachant ni lire, ni écrire, une saine orientation de vie et aujourd’hui dans la simplicité du trait, le charme désuet d’une vision de vie morale. Tant de personnes se sont assisses en ce

lieu, la tête baissée, frissonnantes avec ces dessins de diables à pieds en formes de pinces de crabe au-dessus de leurs têtes. Hier les fresques murales dans les églises, aujourd’hui les vidéos d’internet sur le portable.

Le Quercy, “jardin nature” avec sa foultitude de fleurs aux multiples couleurs, aux multiples senteurs : ancolies, primevères, glaïeuls et autres orchidées, sauges, serpolet, millepertuis ou aubépines, sureaux et plantain… Ainsi à chaque saison, depuis la nuit des temps, c’est la continuité d’un plaisir visuel, olfactif qui s’offre gracieusement.

Le Quercy, dans sa “construction” géologique est à l’image de l’Homme. Ses serres et ses rivières forment un paysage à notre dimension, ni immense, ni restreint, juste à notre grandeur. Les chemins sont autant de voies de circulation pédestre pour prendre et goûter ce temps qui nous fait si souvent défaut le long de nos activités de vie.

Simplement merci le Quercy et merci ses habitants, ni trop envahissants, ni trop indifférents, juste à l’image de leur pays, j’oserais dire simplement “humains”. Ils ont offert à un “étranger” comme moi, dans le geste et la parole, un espace de vie agréable.

Michel MARIO Pervillac le 29 mai 2016

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 Septembre, à vos choix de sujets, à vos billets d’humeur ou toute distraction onirique pour ravir nos lecteurs de toutes origines.

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

58 • 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.

Taming The Terroir Super Summer?

Hopefully, by the time you read this, the summer sunshine will have finally reached the Quercy region and decided to spend some time here! For those living here permanently, with a second home, or just weather watching prior to your holiday, you will know that spring in France was disastrous this year, particularly for the vineyards.

Spring Back To Winter!

The Champagne region had snow in April! Burgundy has been repeatedly targeted by the capricious weather. In mid-April the Maconnais region was badly damaged by a severe hailstorm; this was followed by significant and widespread damage to vines caused by the late April frosts throughout the region; Chablis and the Chardonnay region of Burgundy were then hit by more of the devastating grêle at the end of May. Late frosts affected Côte de Beaune, and to varying degrees, many other wine growing areas. The Cognac region has also been badly hit.

Unseasonal flooding has also been a widespread problem.

Paris suffered more than her fair share.

Hail, frost, storms, flooding; at times it seemed never ending. There is expected to be an impact on at least the 2016 vendange quantities, and possibly the harvest of 2017 too.

Quercy’s Lot The Cahors appellation was also hit by hail, late frost and significant rainfall. Domaine des Sangliers had hail on at least three separate occasions in April and May. Sitting inside, watching hailstones, which have appeared from nowhere, fall from the sky and seriously damaging your only crop (read year’s income!), is soul destroying. You watch helplessly as these little ice bullets smash holes in your leaves, knock off your buds and eradicate your flowers. Sometimes the effects can be long term.

The flower or bud damage will certainly affect this year’s harvest, but if the shoots are also damaged, this will have consequences for the following year too, as grapes are produced on the shoots coming from one-year-old wood. Initially we feared that the effects were going to be significant, but despite the early damage, the vines have produced a potentially abundant crop (assuming and praying that we get enough hours of sunshine to

ripen the fruit). The Lot region generally suffered flood damage and Puy l’Eveque was underwater in early June. Fortunately for us, our vines are located high above the village, and escaped the damage suffered in some areas.

Resulting From Rain Excess humidity, as any gardener knows, is not a good thing.

Plants are stressed, insect and soil balances are knocked out of kilter and diseases, such as le mildiou, can get a foothold if you are not extremely vigilant. These problems are bad enough when treating with fungicides and pesticides, but become a serious threat to the organic vineyard if not managed very carefully.

Damage Prevention We have a holistic approach to the vines; healthy vines produce healthy fruit, so we aim to support the plants’ own immune systems, rather than just treating the symptoms of disease. One of the ways we do this is by also supporting the surrounding ecosystems, those within the soil, insect population and associated mammal population.

Healthy, biologically active soil increases the vines’ ability to resist disease. Soil health can be improved with organic fertilisers, by working the earth and with companion planting.

Healthy soil means healthy weeds and wild flowers. This in turn encourages a well-balanced insect population, limiting the possibility for mass plague like attacks, as every creature has its predator! Prolific insect life attracts birds and bats, which, day and night do their bit to control the population!

Damage Control Manual labour also plays a large part in our battle against disease. Air flow is crucial, bunches of grapes must hang freely, not nestled against each other forming vulnerable pockets susceptible to trapping moisture and harboring disease. Pruning well, leaf removal, fruit reduction and careful monitoring and removal of any infected growth, also contribute to healthy grapes. These manual tasks are ongoing throughout the year and vary according to the growth stage.

Lazy Lot? A slightly crazy, visiting Canadian friend recently asked me what

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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

on earth all the viticulturists were doing. She had noticed that numerous times a day, any given farmer can be seen wandering around his fields, from one parcelle de vignes to the next, seemingly staring into space. She was somewhat concerned at the lack of apparent activity. Was this just the lazy way of life in the Lot?

Connected To Nature My answer to this is that we love our vines; we nurture them, talk to them, sing to them (actually, the singing bit might be just me!). We mentally will them along throughout the year, hoping they will bless us with an abundance of sweet, flavoursome fruit as we reach autumn. Our fates are indelibly entwined for the duration of the relationship.

What we are also doing out there, is watching, checking, we are surveying our dendritic army, in order to protect it and anticipate its every need. We live and breathe this land, its history, its present and its future. We forge our lives from our incredible terroir and this sometimes pernicious climate, with the frequently unwilling compliance of the staggeringly unpredictable and untamable force that is Mother Nature.

And you thought that all I did everyday was admire the view and drink wine! Hopefully, when you drink your next glass, you will think of the farmer and the year that she (or he) spent growing the fruit just for you!

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

60 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

JARDIN DE COCAGNE DE BRASSAC EN QUERCY

H

Giving some meaning to your vegetables!

ere is your chance to take part in an initiative designed to give people second, life-chances; whilst you benefit from a weekly basket of local, organic vegetables. The team in Brassac are now incredibly busy in the gardens to ensure that the baskets will be ready.

To join this social/environmental initiative you will simply invest 20e and then you will then be able to receive a carefully selected weekly baskets of vegetable.

There’s a Family Basket (min. 5 varieties) for 15e and a Half Basket (min. 3 varieties) for 8e. These can be collected from a depot near to you (see below or contact the team for more information) or collected directly from the Jardin de Brassac.

The first baskets will be available at the beginning of July and are expected to include fennel, courgettes, radish, spring onions, lettuce and cucumbers.

Tomatoes, green peppers, chard, leeks, beans, beet, celery and herbs will arrive later. The vegetables are certified organic.

This association is part of the Cocagne Network; as a Jardin de Cocagne, the Jardin de Brassac helps train people, provides employment and offers experience of

a professional project. It’s also a local enterprise that allows everyone to do their part in building and helping the local economy.

Depot points include: ‘Le Relais’ in Lauzerte, ‘L’Auberge de Miramont’ in Miramont de Quercy, Chemist’s in Cazes Mondenard, the library in Lacour de Visa, and others depots will soon be announced for Montaigu de Quercy, Montesquieu, Roquecor, Fauroux, Moissac and Bourg-de-Visa.

Association Jardin de Cocagne de Brassac en Quercy, lieu dit Canazilles 82190 Brassac Jeannette Estève, chargée de mission / Emma Touzac, secrétaire 07.85.28.80.49 / 05 63 94 32 98 jardindecocagnebrassac@gmail.com

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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

English Church of Midi-Pyrénées & Aude

Update from the Cahors Congregation For detailed information visit our website: www.churchinmidipa.org

‘take hold of the life that is truly life’ (1 Timothy 6:19) The liturgically ‘quiet time’ continues throughout the summer months and provides opportunity for a number of outdoor fundraising events. A great deal of fun, enjoyment and companionship are had at these events and the funds raised go towards the support of our charities: Smile Train, Cleft Lip and Palate Children’s charity (www.smiletrain.org.uk) and Us – a church based charity working in direct partnership with Anglican Churches around the world (www.weareus.org.uk).

Service of Baptism Many of us have families visiting during the summer months with children and babies and we are always delighted when someone asks about Baptism for their baby or child while in France. We can help prepare for this important day. Baptism is open to anyone and it costs nothing. For more information, contact the Chaplain or one of the Assistant Chaplains who will advise on what is needed for the Service of Baptism.

The next such event is the Golf & Fun Day on July 12 at the home of one of our valued members in the vicinity of Montaigu-de-Quercy. The 6 fairway course with winter greens offers 60m - 185m. Entry costs e20 and includes refreshments and for a little extra, a light lunch will also be available. Other attractions are Tom-bola, swimming pool, fun and companionship! More information and contact details on our website. Over e1100 was raised last year and all proceeds went to charity.

Morning Worship – A Family Service ‘For I have chosen him, that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord’ (Genesis 18:19)

An advance notice for an autumn event for your diaries will be a Ceilidh on October 14 in the Salle de Fêtes in Mauroux.

Remember Ceilidh Dancing is FUN so don’t worry if you are not sure of the steps, you will soon learn and ‘jig yer way’ around the dance floor until you are breathless! But – more on that fantastic event in the next issue!

Worship is an essential part of being a Christian. Every two months, on the first Sunday there is a Morning Worship service in our Church at Terre Rouge in Cahors. The next one will be at 10 am on August 7. It is a family service and the children are most welcome (as at all our services) and toys are available at the side of the church. There is an irresistible impulse to pray for those whom we love; and not only to pray for them, but with them too.

Please join us as we sing songs of praise to God and bring all our joys and sorrows to Him in our prayers.

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

64 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Caylus Fête Le Tour avec un Marché Gourmand et producteurs locaux Thursday 7th July, 11am - 6pm Lac de Labarthe, Caylus

by Debbie Wilson

I

know that for many committed Tour de France fans, turning up 4 or 5 hours before the tour is no hardship, it’s just part of the process for securing a good spot to watch the race and making sure you’re in situ before the route closes. There’s always the caravan to enjoy, to break that long wait, plus maybe you can find some shade to save you from the baking hot sun, and you can always take along a picnic, and if you do find shade then maybe your sandwiches won’t be too squishy, your chocolate biscuits won’t melt and your water bottles won’t reach boiling point!

But what about those long suffering friends and partners who are dragged reluctantly along with their beloved die-hard tour fans? Well, for those who really don’t want to hang around aimlessly and uncomfortably for hours, we have a solution! Starting at 11 a.m. we have the perfect event to while away the hours: Caylus Fête le Tour.

There will be a large number of food stalls, with something to suit all tastes: from local providers of free-range pork, Fermé Basqui, to the vegetarian fare of Le Cheval Blanc, and the delicious Reunion Island specialities found at the Caylus Saturday morning market at the lavoir. There will be plenty of cold drinks to wash it down with as well, with local organic beers and wines from Domaine du Merchien and various soft drinks.

As well as feasting on freshly prepared foods, you will be able to browse the market stalls of local artisans, all in the beautiful setting of Le Lac de Labarthe, and safe in the knowledge that you are in an excellent spot to view the tour, which passes directly by the Lac, en-route to St Antonin Noble Val. There is plenty of parking throughout the village, and a large car park at the Salle dès Fête at the top of the hill, just remember to steer clear of the route itself!

The route follows the main road from Villefrancnche to Caylus where it turns left for St Antonin. It turns right

by Gazpacho onto Avenue Paul Benet, and continues straight on up the hill out of the gorge. Left at the top to Montricoux, and then on the main road into

11 am Marché/ Marché Gourmand opens 12 pm Route is closed (D926, Villefranche to Caylus, D19 to St Antonin) 2 pm Tour Caravan passes 4 pm Tour passes 5 pm Route re-opens Montauban. Just before the motorway it heads left to Leojac and follows a complicated route into the stage finish at Montauban.

A bit about The Tour de France and its history

By Peter Quaife

The Tour de France is like no other major sporting event.

There’s no need to buy a ticket or travel to a stadium; it’s free to watch and it comes to you. We take easy travel for granted in the 21st century, but in the early days of the tour when most of the French population lived in the countryside far from the nearest town and had little disposable income, bike racing was the only major sport they could watch. In England most people lived in cities, and in any case bike racing was banned between the 1890s and 1950s, so it was football rather than cycling that caught the imagination of ordinary people. It’s this history which has given the tour such an important place in French culture, especially in remote rural areas.

These days the tour is perhaps best known for drug taking, but cheating has been the norm throughout its history. Cycling is one of the most physically demanding mainstream sports and the Tour its most important race, so maybe it’s not so surprising. The earliest competitors caught trains, were given lifts in cars, took cocaine, morphine and amphetamines, and hired people to attack and poison their rivals and spread tacks on the road. Drugs were widely considered to be a sensible way to cope with the insane physical demands made of the riders. Jacques Anquetil, the first rider to win 5 tours famously declared “You would have to be an imbecile to imagine a professional cyclist who races for 235 days a year can hold the pace without stimulants”.

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The average speed of the Tour de France has dropped in recent years, which may mean drug taking has declined. If that’s true, this year’s winner may be one of a select few in the race’s history who’s won “clean”.

It’s shocking to realise that the last French winner of the Tour was Bernard Hinault in 1985, a humiliation for the host nation which has contributed to its declining popularity at home while interest abroad has never been higher. The last 30 years has seen cycling become much more international, which means French riders are now competing on a much larger stage. France has also not adapted well to the new science based training methods which have propelled Team Sky to three victories in four years. Unfortunately there seems no real prospect of a French winner in 2016, with last year’s winner Chris Froome the bookie’s favourite.

Despite all of this, the Tour de France remains not just one of the world’s greatest sporting spectacles, but a fantastic showcase for the beautiful French countryside.

Peter runs St Antonin Noble Velo (stantoninnoblevelo.com) offering fixed based cycling holidays from their 16th century auberge in St Antonin.

Caylus fête le Tour !

marché gourmand & producteurs locaux

avec un

!

jeudi 7 juillet 2016

11h - 18h au Lac de Labarthe à Caylus

Venez déguster nos produits locaux !

Renseignements & inscriptions : lejardindesespiemonts@gmail.com 05 63 67 00 28 Office de tourisme

www.velo-plus.net Repair and Rental will have a stall at the Caylus Fête le Tour. Do pop along and see us.

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

66 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Metse, Les Espiemonts, 82160, Caylus, Tarn et Garonne Phone: 05 63 64 68 76 Mob: 06 81 76 02 30 Email: lejardindesepsiemonts@gmail.com www.lejardindesespiemonts.fr 44°16'12.15"N 1°44'0.92"E Perennial and Alpine growers. Small, specialist nursery. Open Mondays 10 – 4. Visits on other days by appointment.

LES AMIS DES CHATS –

a charity dedicated to the welfare of pet and stray cats

HELP US TO HELP THEM! Our charity shops in Roquecor and Lauzerte are open and welcome you.

You will find books, clothes and bric à brac at very low prices!

ROQUECOR - Scenic viewpoint (behind the Place de la Mairie). Opening times: Tuesday - 10.00 am - 12.30 pm, Thursday - 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm Friday - 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm, Sunday - 10.00 am - 12.30 pm LAUZERTE - 10, rue de la Mairie (opposite the Mairie). Opening times: Wednesday- 3.00 pm - 5.00 pm, Thursday- 3.00 pm - 5.00 pm Friday- 3.00 pm - 5.00 pm, Saturday- 10.00 am - 12.00 pm For more information on forthcoming events, check Les amis des chats website www.les-amis-des-chats.com and our Facebook page

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All our rates are available on our website along with dates of publishing etc.

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The Quercy Local • July-August 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

68 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Enjoying Quercy

with your ‘Feet off the Ground’ You’ve looked around you now why not shake-thingsup and try looking down for a while? There are a number of off-the-ground activities available that may keep adventurous teenage visitors entertained as well as those a little older and certainly younger!

tourist office. We have included website addresses for you to discover more. Please note that some activities will have age/height restrictions, so do check things out and don’t do anything that may threaten your own personal well-being.

From adrenaline surging jumps to scenic high-level viewing the region has more than enough to make your summer entirely unforgettable.

We would love to hear how you got on trying out any of these activities. You could drop us an email or send us a photo, perhaps send us an update on facebook.

This is just a small selection of what is available.

A starting point for your adventures. You should be able to find these and further offerings from your local

No time for keeping your feet-on-the-ground this summer – get up there and see how much fun you can have...

Parachuting– Skydiving or tandem jump

Micro-lighting

Now this has to be a serious ‘feet of the ground’ adventure a chance to literally fly like a bird! Many people have thought about doing this at least once in their lifetime.

There is a parachute school here in Quercy – where you can do a course to jump alone or for a single jump, there is the option of jumping in tandem with an experienced instructor. If you’ve had an idea about doing this but didn’t know it was possible locally, that excuse has just gone!

Bouloc Skydive – Bouloc (near Montaigu de Quercy) (Tarn et Garonne), 05 63 95 39 46, www.bouloc-skydive.com

Free jumping

See the Lot (and a whole lot more) but from the sky! For a gentle ride with an outstanding 360° view above the Lot Valley and the Natural Regional Park of Causses du Quercy. You can also have a video made of your flight and all that you see. You do not need any experience or skill as you will be flown by an experienced pilot. All you need is to just want to get ‘your feet off the ground’ and to see things from a different angle.

Air Sol Images – Vers (between Cahors and St Cirq Lapopie) (Lot), 06 82 97 66 76, www.bapteme-lot-ulm.fr

This is where you get your ‘feet off the ground’ by jumping from different heights (4.5m or 6.5m) onto a large inflated cushion – just like a stuntman would use!

Assisted by the park’s staff you only have to think about jumping and recovering your heartrate after you’ve done it! This challenge will not be for everyone – but we guess there are one or two of you out-there that would call this real fun!

Parc en Ciel – Lacapelle Biron (Lot et Garonne), 05 53 71 84 58, www.parc-en-ciel.com The Quercy Local • July-August 2016 Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their advert in The Quercy Local

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 69

Hot-Air Ballooning A relaxed, slow and silent way to get those ‘feet off the ground’. An ancient, rather poetic, even romantic experience with vintage charm. An activity that’s accessible to most people, and allows you to see some amazing landscapes. Early morning and evening flights can be particularly lovely as the sun rises and sets. Do remember that all those involved may be required to help set-up and pack-up the balloon.

Air Libre Montgolfieres – Carnac-Rouffiac (Lot), 05 65 30 03 83, arlibremongolfieres.free.fr Lot en Ballon – Vers (Lot), 05 65 31 44 50, www.lotenballon.com Quercy Montgolfieres – Castelnau Montratier (Lot), 06 13 24 33 41, www.quercy-montgolfiere.com

Rock Climbing

Sky-walking

Maybe this is a little bit more physical than some of our other suggestions but it’s a great way to get your ‘feet off the ground’ and feel Mother Nature with your hands and toes. From practice climbing-walls for children to 12 meters high above the countryside there is something for everyone to experience.

In St-Antonin you will also find a Via Ferrata with its horizontal and vertical paths along cliff faces, as well as stunning rope and cable routes. Thrills will be hard to avoid.

Cap Nature, Pradines (Lot), 05 65 22 25 12, www.capnature.eu Kalapca Loisirs, Bouzies (Lot),05 65 24 21 01, www.kalapca.com Variation Sports Nature, St Antonin Noble Val (Tarn et Garonne), 05 63 38 25 25, www.variation82.eu

Follow routes around the forests above the ground and amongst the trees. This is great for both children and adults and most parks have different routes with different degrees of difficulty.

They include rope bridges, tight-rope walk, climbs, jumps and even zip-wires. All the safety equipment is provided and experienced staff will be on hand.

Some parks (by reservation) offer this exciting experience in the dark of night and at Kalapca Loisirs you can do the whole thing underground!

Cap Nature Pradines (Lot), 05 65 22 25 12, www.capnature.eu Parc en Ciel – Lacapelle Biron (Lot et Garonne), 05 53 71 84 58, www.parc-en-ciel.com Agrip Aventure – Montech (Tarn et Garonne), 06 78 29 24 40, www.agrip-aventure.fr Happy Forest – Pont du Casse (Lot et Garonne), 06 06 49 48 54, www.happyforest.fr Kalapca Loisirs – Bouzies (nr St Cirq Lapopie) (Lot), 05 65 24 21 01, www.kalapca.com Parc Aventure – St Antonin Noble Val (Tarn et Garonne), 07 60 35 53 14, www.parc-aventure-aveyron.com

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

70 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Plane A flight of fancy! We’re so used to large-scale, impersonal planes that maybe there’s a pleasure being missed? This flying experience is the perfect way to get your ‘feet off the ground’ and be a sky-high visitor to the region. It’s peaceful, smooth and there are a number of different routes the plane can take – maybe even over you own house! For a special birthday or anniversary this summer – what better gift?

Fb Aero – Montauban (Tarn et Garonne), 06 11 54 13 83, www.fbaero.com AeroClub du Quercy – Aerodrome Cahors Lalbenque Cieurac (Lot), 05 65 21 05 96, www.ac-quercy.fr

Flyboarding

Taking your ‘feet off the ground’ does not mean you have to land on the ground. What about taking off and landing on water?

Flyboarding means having your feet fixed to a board powered by two nozzles linked to a jet-ski engine.

Soon you can be up to 15m above the beautiful lake at Montaigu de Quercy. It’s very simple and everything will be explained to you – soon you will be ‘dancing in the air’. The lake is well worth a visit even if you are going to keep your feet on the ground, plenty to do, lovely beach and places to eat.

Montaigu Plage– Montaigu de Quercy (Tarn et Garonne), 05 63 32 50 07, www.montaiguplage.com

Les Cabanes de Brassac Log cabins in the tree-tops This has to be the ultimate ‘feet off the ground’ experience. You don’t need to love speed or adrenaline – but you can relax and sleep in the tree tops.

This gem of tranquillity was created by Béatrice and Frédéric who wanted to simply welcome people into the natural environment they so enjoyed. The comfortable tree-top cabins offer, private spas and a wonderful view of the woodland around. There are 3 natural springs below the trees which produce some watery musical notes.

Maybe as a reward for trying some of the other ‘feet off the ground’ activities you deserve a little tree-top peace?

Les Cabanes de Brassac (Tarn et Garonne) – 05 63 05 13 91 – www.lescabanesdebrassac.fr

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

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 71

The Association Maxou Brouelles Eglises et Patrimoine presents its annual concert

An Evening at the Opera Monday 8th August, 21 hrs Brouelles Church (commune de Maxou 46090) By popular request: Amira Selim, soprano, Loiseleur des Longchamps, baritone accompanied by l’Orchestre de la Crise with a programme of well-known operatic arias by Rameau, Mozart, Donizetti, Wagner and many others. You can buy tickets at the door – adults –10e, children up to 12 years free

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

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

72 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

Zen

and the Art of Bicycle Maintenance Classic or Romantic? Most people will fall into either one of these categories. A person of the “classic” persuasion is a mechanically minded person, maybe an engine builder or agricultural engineer. They work with matters of fact and get a feeling of satisfaction from knowing the exact function of each component and that it’s doing it correctly. A “romantic” person is the opposite, perhaps an artist or musician. The satisfaction for these people is obtained through aesthetics, sound, or even just the feeling the object in question gives.

O

f course, both views are perfectly valid and often you have no choice as to which camp you land. If you are not sure which camp you are in, and you own a bicycle, think about how often you get it serviced (or service it yourself). Do you get it checked every six months without fail and maybe before you head off on a long trip or adventure? Then you are probably more classically minded; knowing everything has been checked and is working as it should will give you peace of mind. The romantics amongst you will ride your bike happily away simply enjoying the ride and the freedom, not worrying about the mechanics until you need to.

Is there a middle ground that can work for the cycle rider? That depends very much on the person.

There are certainly things you can take from both persuasions; apply it to your cycling and maybe get something from it.

For the Romantics. It is not necessary to know the ins and outs of how every component works. After all buying the tools to fix everything would cost a fortune, but there are a few basic checks you could make on a regular basis to limit the chances of a problem.

1. Tyre Pressure: this is very important as the correct tyre pressure will greatly reduce the chance of a puncture, ensure the bike’s brakes work correctly and therefore make the bike more controllable. On the side of your tyre it will give a pressure range suitable for the tyre (or a max. pressure) in the units “psi”.

2. Brake Blocks: before you ride make sure the gap between the brake block and the contact point on the wheel rim is not so great that the brake lever is almost touching the handle bar before contact is made. If it is, get it adjusted and some new brake blocks. When you are flying down a hill and you need to slow, you want them to work!

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

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 73

3. Wheels: are they straight? By simply lifting one end of the bike off the ground and spinning the wheel, looking at it end on, you can see if the wheel is bent; if it is, get it straightened as bigger problems will come down the road. Also, with the bike stood on the floor and you lightly gripping the seat, hold the top of the wheel and see if it will rock from side to side (perpendicular to the direction of travel).

If there is movement, don’t try too hard as the flex of the frame can throw you, you should be able to feel it with a grip of just your thumb and index finger. Another simple thing to get sorted to prevent future problems.

These three little tips will go a long way to a bit more confidence in your bike and, really, they are all just observations.

For the Classics. This is a slightly more tricky area.

As I have explained, the classics are more likely to be checking their bikes on a regular basis and get any issues dealt with as soon as they arise. My advice to those of you with a fondness for nuts, bolts, tools and a tidy workshop is to relax and let it go: not the attention to detail, but the tireless pursuit of perfection.

An example is the type of person who has a lovely, well maintained, bike. It’s covered in top of the range parts but it makes a noise.

“What sort of noise”? I ask.

“Well, it’s sort of a click, it doesn’t do it all the time and the bike works fine, but it really annoys me.

Can you sort it?”

This is a tough spot to be in. Firstly, the components are checked: cables, bearings, wheels etc. and everything is perfect. Secondly, a short test ride reveals no sounds to which the customer responds “It usually only happens after about 30 miles”.

This has happened many times and in the end you just have to say “let it go”.

A bike has many moving parts and moving parts will always made some sort of noise, that is science. If the frame, forks and wheels are carbon they will make noise (carbon resonates sound much more than aluminium or steel). So, if the bike rides well, I would put up with the odd click or creek before you drive yourself crackers chasing something that may never go away Tom, a Yorkshireman here in France, owns and runs, velo plus FIX, a cycle workshop based in 82190. www.velo-plus.net

WINE TASTING & FOOD PAIRING AT LE CAILLAU Every Wednesday, 5.30pm - 7pm July, August, September 2016 30€ per person RESERVE YOUR PLACE: Tel: 05 65 23 78 04 info@lecaillau.com www.lecaillau.com Le Caillau, 46700, Vire sur Lot Come to Le Caillau and join us for an early evening wine tasting in beautiful surroundings • Learn about the region and local independent wines • How to taste wine and match food & wine • Taste 6 local wines paired with regional produce • Advice on where to buy wines in the Lot Tasting The Lot runs wine tastings and food pairing events around the Lot region. Luci Cox, owner and founder of Tasting the Lot, is a passionate and experienced wine professional, having graduated from Brighton University (Wines and Spirits Education Trust).

Luci has made wine in SW France, New Zealand and the UK, and was wine tasting manager for Vinopolis, London’s only wine museum. She is also a wine judge for the International Wine Challenge Luci has lived and worked in the wine business for over 25years and is passionate about the Cahors wine region and the Lot Valley, bringing her experience to you and your guests. Tasting the Lot runs wine and food pairing events around the Lot Valley and is a great way to learn more about what the area has to offer.

Le Caillau, a 300 year old winery, set in the heart of the Cahors wine region is a family owned Restaurant, Café and Pottery Painting Atelier. We serve fresh and tasty food, inspired by local and home grown ingredients combined with flavours from around the world.

If you would like to eat in the restaurant after the wine tasting, please book your table in advance.

Tel: 05 65 23 78 04 info@lecaillau.com www.lecaillau.com Le Caillau, 46700, Vire sur Lot. Facebook.com/lecaillau twitter.com/lecaillau Instagram.com/lecaillau

Peach, Earl Grey & Vanilla layer cake A summertime afternoon tea

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 75

Now the warmer weather has arrived, take the chance to enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea with our delicious Peach and Earl Grey cake, using local juicy peaches. If time is a bit short, you could replace the home made peach and earl grey jam for a shop bought one, but you wont get that lovely fresh taste and the satisfaction of knowing you’re using seasonal produce! And seeing as it’s summer, we’ve used a classic French génoise, which has a lighter texture as it contains much less butter than a traditional sponge.

Peach, Earl Grey & Vanilla layer cake [serves 12] Method

Ingredients

To make the Peach & Earl Grey jam (can be made ahead)

For the génoise

Place the peaches in boiling water for about a minute, then refresh in cold water.

Rub the back of a knife over the peach to remove all the skin. Chop up and take out the stones from the peaches and place in a saucepan. Add the jam sugar, lemon juice and Earl Grey tea bags. Cook on a high heat, boiling rapidly, for between 5-10 minutes, or follow the instructions on the back of the jam sugar packet.

Take out the tea bags and place the jam in a bowl (or sterilised jars) to cool.

6 eggs 180g sugar 180g plain flour 40g melted butter 1tsp vanilla extract

To make the Génoise:

For the Peach &

400g peaches

Heat oven to 170°C. Fill a large pan with boiling water. In a large glass bowl, put in the eggs and sugar. With a whisk (electric or hand) put the bowl over the boiling water on the heat and start to whisk. Whisk until the eggs and sugar are pale and a mousse like consistency. Add the vanilla extract and whisk until incorporated. Take the bowl off the heat and gently sift in the flour. Fold it in trying to knock out as little air as possible from the eggs and sugar. Add the melted butter and mix in. Quickly put the mixture into your prepared cake tin and bake for about 30 minutes, test by inserting a skewer into the middle and if it comes out clean it’s ready. Leave to cool on a wire rack.

200g jam sugar

To make the Earl Grey butter icing:

Earl Grey jam (there’ll be some left over which you can keep in the fridge, perfect on a croissant for breakfast!)

juice half a lemon For the butter icing

Heat the milk and tip in the contents of the Earl Grey tea bag to infuse. Leave until it’s cooled down. Put the butter in a bowl or free standing mixer and beat until soft and pale in colour. Add in the icing sugar and continue to beat until smooth and fluffy.

Strain and add in the Earl Grey infused milk and beat again.

125g butter

To assemble the cake:

125g icing sugar

Cut the génoise into 2 or 3 layers. Place the first layer on a cake stand, pipe on butter icing, then a layer of peach jam. Continue until all layers are done. On the top and round the sides spread a thin layer of buttercream, scraping off as much as you can to get that ‘naked cake’ look. Decorate with roasted peaches and flowers. For a taller cake, multiply the recipe by half again (as in the photo) for a cake that serves 18. Serve on a summers afternoon, with refreshing fruit juice cocktails or a more traditional pot of tea.

2 Earl Grey tea bags

50ml milk 1 Earl Grey tea bag 1 x 20cm cake tin buttered and lined with greaseproof paper

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.

Opening Hours July & August: Restaurant: Lunch every day from 12pm, Dinner Wednesday – Saturday from 7pm Café Atelier: Monday - Saturday: 10am - 5pm, Sunday: 12pm - 4pm 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 • July-August 2016

Lauzerte du 1er au 28 juillet du 1er au 28 août

Marjolaine FAVREAU

2016

Espace Points de Vue

Florence FRICHET

Diane DE CICCO

Terres Neuves du Sud-Ouest

Christian GLACE

Muriel LHERMET

Expositions d’art contemporain 6, rue de la Barbacane 82 110 LAUZERTE Entrée libre, ouvert tous les jours 10h30 - 12h30 / 15h00 - 19h00 www.artpointsdevue.com

Carlos LOPES-NETO

GRAPH - Lauzerte

© 2016 - GÉO

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THE QUERCY LOCAL • 79

Au Matou du Montat L’HÔTEL POUR CHATS

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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

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

80 • THE QUERCY LOCAL

ARBRESERVICES Matt Strawbridge Tree Surgeon Elagueur Arboriste

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

HELEN MUDGE Helen Mudge is a South African artist who spends the European summers in Lacour-de-Visa. She went to Liverpool School of Art in the late sixties, and exhibits her work in several galleries in South Africa.

The exhibition in Lacour during August will be made up of work by local artist friends and herself. Her own works are high-quality prints which have been overpainted by her – thus making each print an original work of art in itself.

Being shown in a beautifully restored barn, the exhibition promises to be a highlight in the area and lots of fun, so don’t miss it. As you enter Lacour from the D7, Bourg-de-Visa direction, watch out for the EXPO sign on your right.

Helen Mudge can be contacted at helenattroy@gmail.com See you there!

Group Art Exhibition

in the Barn at Lacour de Visa (82190) For the whole of August. All Welcome

Emergency numbers Medical Help/SAMU 15 Police/Police Nationale (Gendarmerie) 17 Fire & Accident/Sapeurs Pompiers

www.libertedesanes.com

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SOS – All Services (calling from a mobile) 112 Child in Danger (child protection) 119 Missing Child

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

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 81

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 COMMON FELINE BEHAVIOUR PROBLEMS Sometimes our cats can develop behaviours that become a problem, impacting on the home environment and making owning that pet less enjoyable, even stressful. The behaviour may actually be quite normal for the cat but, due to the circumstances, it is deemed inappropriate by the owner. For example, it is quite normal for cats to mark their territories by spraying in the garden. However, that spray behaviour becomes unacceptable if the cat does it in the home. In some circumstances, the cat may actually be suffering due to the behaviour. The role of a cat behaviourist is to advise the owners about how best to deal with and address these problem behaviours.

Top Tip: Things important to your cat are called ‘resources’ – they are food bowls, water bowls, beds, litter trays, scratching posts, toys, somewhere to hide and high places to sit and watch the world go by. Keep competition down in multi-cat households by making sure there are plentiful resources for all concerned. A useful formula is “one resource per cat, plus one extra, positioned in different locations”

If you would like more information please contact Lynn Stone at www.chatsduquercy.com Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • July-August 2016

THE QUERCY LOCAL • 83

SUMMER 2017

LAS RAZES Your perfect large gîte

two glasses a day keeps the heart ok VIN DE FRANCE

Coeur du Quercy 2014

Vin BIO récolté, élevé et mis en bouteille par Anne GODIN vigneronne à F46800 SAINT-MATRE www.chateauventdautan.com

Own pool

75 cl

CERTIFIÉ FR-BIO-10 Agriculture France

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All rooms en-suite Snooker, wifi, table tennis...

Convenient for Lauzerte, Montaigu de Quercy and Montcuq www.lasrazes.net www.facebook.com/lasrazes.france Bookings for Summer 2017 – 10% discount if confirmed before 1st Jan 2017 & quoting QL10

Organic & Biodynamic wine since 1991 Without added sulfites Bottles or Wine boxes Chateau Vent d’Autan 46800 SAINT-MATRE 05 65 31 96 75 www.cahorsaoc.com

Las Razes, Touffailles (82190) Tarn et Garonne Published March, May, July, September and November each year The Quercy Local • July-August 2016

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 15,000 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