The Local Buzz November - December 2021

For those living, working or visiting Dordogne, Lot et•Garonne, Gironde, Haut Garonne, Tarn et Garonne & Gers A Lifestyle Magazine & Website for • Gironde • Dordogne Lot et Garonne • LotLot, • Gers • Tarn et Garonne • N.Haute Garonne

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2021

REGIONAL WHAT’S ON GUIDE

NOËL THROUGH THE AGES

FREE

I’m priceless

T

Seasonal Gift Guide Time to Sell?

Flu, a Cold or COVID?

Get Your Skates On!

CHRISTMAS &

New Year Pazzazz!

Finance • Food & Drink • Gardening

Precision & Procedure No two words better describe how to practise French Law.

France, like no other country, is a legal and administrative obstacle course.

This is why when you choose a lawyer to handle a French matter, you need to work with a firm who only specialises in French Law. We have English French-trained lawyers (avocats), living and working in Toulouse.

Being there on the spot is certainly practical, but the secret of Bright Avocats’ success is simple: listening, asking the right questions, and finding the most effective course to a satisfactory conclusion.

+33 (0)5 61 57 90 86 - brightavocats@orange.fr 16 place Saint-Georges 31000 TOULOUSE

www.brightavocats.com

Welcome

The Local Buzz is the only A4, glossy magazine and comprehensive website for English speakers living or working in, or visiting these regions.

Magazine

Lifestyle focused, the free, bi-monthly magazine is informative and fun with regional what’s on highlights, timeless editorial and vibrant imagery. If you are unable to pick up a copy, every issue can be read on our website at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online or can be sent by post.

DORDOGNE H PERIGUEUX H BORDEAUX

GIRONDE

Website

Looking for a an English-speaking local business, more listings of what’s on, articles, blogs and area information?

Then visit our website which works hand in hand with the magazine, giving you easy search facilities for all kinds of businesses, organisations and events. You can find all the details at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com.

LOT

LOT et GARONNE AGEN H

H CAHORS

TARN et GARONNE H MONTAUBAN

By Post

GERS

You can also choose to have your copy delivered direct to your door with a postal subscription. Please complete the form at www.thelocalbuzzmagcom/subscriptions/

H AUCH

TOULOUSE H

N.HAUTE GARONNE

Hello from our Queen Bee The street and shop decorations are going up and, if you hadn’t quite realised that Christmas and another year are just around the corner, this issue should bring them into sharp focus! We make no excuses, we love this time of year and, anyway, we reckon we are due a bit of glitz, sparkle and happiness in our lives after the last 20 months.

With the festivities in mind, you might like our low cost, easy ideas on how to make the party go with not just a bang but a pop or two too. We take a look at French traditions from Christmas past and, for Christmas present (boom boom), our gift guide will help to kick-start ideas, at least online. We also have a round-up of some of the fabulous Christmas markets in our region, several of which start in November! Whilst there, if you are planning a visit to a pop-up rink, you might find our sports pages useful, especially if you are taking your first steps on the ice.

Wondering about what to serve over the festive season?

www.facebook.com/TheLocalBuzzMag

We hope the delicious seafood suggestions in our food and drink pages will help, along with the pretty, soft financiers from our latest guest chef. You could even use the left-over oyster shells outside as explained in our gardening section and, if these suggestions haven’t planted an idea, you could think about planting a tree – including the Christmas one!

Meanwhile, we can’t forget that it’s winter and many of us will be concerned about whether we have a cold, flu or COVID. It can be tricky to tell so we’ve turned to a leading health organisation for some practical advice and guidance in our well-being section. On the subject of advice you can also find out why now is a good time to sell your property and, on another note, read about the changes to the French succession law that have come into effect from November.

Finally, we would like express our sincere thanks for your ongoing interest and support, and be amongst the first to wish you a very merry Christmas and a healthy, joyful 2022.

www.instagram.com/the_local_buzz_mag

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

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EUROPE GRANITE Specialists suppliers of marble, granite, ceramic and quartz materials Decorative marble, kitchens and worktops, creative bathrooms

www.sarleuropegranite.com

Providing expertise, advice and a tailor-made service in Gironde, Dordogne, Lot et Garonne.

Please contact us for a free quotation: Tel: 06 48 97 09 36

Email: europegranite@gmail.com

We hope you enjoy this issue.

Please spread the word about The Local Buzz and let our advertisers know that you saw them in this magazine.

For all enquiries please contact buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com Editorial & Managing Director: Lesley Ashburner

CONTENTS November & December Issue REGULARS

Layout: The Magazine Production Company

7 What’s the Buzz

Photography: Shutterstock or Jeff Ross unless otherwise stated

8 The start of our

Regular contributors: Katie Gardner, Emma & John Gilchrist (Les Caulins), Sue Adams, Puzzles-to-Print.

regional guide to what’s on

Our thanks go to our regular contributors as well as Sarah Bright, Andrea Glover, Hotel Edward 1er, Agence Eleonor, Paul de Ath, The Trading Post and, of course, our advertisers.

Cover: Shutterstock

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Emergency Numbers: 15 - SAMU Service on a nationwide basis – call for medical assistance 17 - Police (gendarmerie) 18 - General emergency you will need to ask for ambulance, gendarmes or service d’incendie (feu) or sapeur pompiers

28 Gardening – Tree Time!

30 Oysters

in the Garden

31 Buzz Bits

The Local Buzz is free and is published by SAS The Local Buzz, 102 Chemin de la Plaine, 47120 Saint Pierre Sur Dropt Publishers: Lesley Ashburner, Jeanette Hyde, Pamela La Forgia.

ISSN 2516-8134. RCS AGEN Siren 842 643 173.

Printed by Rotimpres

SA on paper from

a renewable source.

All trademarks are trademarks of the companies concerned.

No material may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

The general editorial and articles in this issue do not necessarily reflect the view of the editor or publishers.

Please ensure that the company you are dealing with is registered in France.

To become a distribution point, to advertise, to send us information, or for any other enquiry contact buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

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3 Hello

Advertising: buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

32 Food & Drink 52 Puzzle Page

53 Business Directory 58 Just Droning FEATURES

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45

34 Guest Chef

36 Seasonal Gift Guide 39 Christmas Markets 40 Traditional

41

French Noël

42 Party On!

44 Taking to the Ice 46 Legal Query 49 Succession

58

Law Changes

17

112 - European standard emergency number for anywhere in EEC 114 - Text messaging service for the deaf or hard of hearing 119 - National helpline for children in danger

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

50 Regional Property

51 Good Time to Sell?

49

WELL BEING 46 Ask Katie

47 Cold, Flu or COVID? PLUS…

48 Reader Offer

57 Prize Competition 5

WE NOW HAVE FREE COLLECTION POINTS IN: DORDOGNE – BERGERAC, EYMET, EXCIDEUIL, NONTRON, PERIGUEUX, SARLAT-LA-CANEDA, RIBERAC HAUTE GARONNE – TOULOUSE, SAINT MARTORY GERS – AUCH, CONDOM, L’ISLE JORDAIN, MIELAN LOT – CAHORS, FIGEAC LOT ET GARONNE – DURAS, AGEN, FUMEL TARN – ALBI, CASTRES, MAZAMET TARN ET GARONNE – CAUSSADE, LAUZERTE +MORE IN SURROUNDING AREAS, SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR UP-TO-DATE SCHEDULES & LOCATIONS FREE DELIVERY* - NO MINIMUM ORDER

what’s the

BUZZ

DORDOGNE H PERIGUEUX H BORDEAUX

GIRONDE LOT

LOT et GARONNE AGEN H

H CAHORS

TARN et GARONNE H MONTAUBAN

GERS H AUCH

TOULOUSE H

N.HAUTE GARONNE

OUR PICK OF WHAT’S ON IN YOUR REGION DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: Vide Greniers • Langon, 20 Nov (33) • Biras, 26 Dec (24) • Lafitte-sur-Lot, 19 Dec (47) • Biars-sur-Cère, 11 Dec (46) • Montréal, 19 Dec (32) • Montauban, 14 Nov (82) • Caubiac, 19 Nov 31)

Bourses d’Objets • Mérignac, 4 Dec (33) • Les Eyzies, 28 Nov (24) • Agen, 19 & 20 Nov (47) • Biars-sur-Cère, 27 Nov (46) • Tasque, 5 Dec (32) • Caussade, 12 Dec (82) • Toulouse, 11 Dec (31)

Marchés de Noël • Le Bouscat, 21 Nov (33) • Issac, 18 Dec (24) • Moncrabeau, 5 Dec (47) • Lacave, 5 Dec (46) • Ornézan, 12 Dec (32) • Valence, 12 Dec (82) • Donneville, 27 Nov (31)

The What’s On pages are colour coded for quick, easy department identification.

Don’t forget, for lots more What’s On listings visit our website at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com France comes alive with money raising events over the next two months as the 35th nationwide Téléthon kicks into action.

Culminating in a 30-hour TV programme on 3 and 4 December, this epic event is supported by celebrities, zillions of volunteers and millions of participants taking part in local events as well as the grand finale which is watched by millions across France. This year’s theme

is Le Téléthon A Tout Changé and, as a result of its work, will continue to change the lives of people suffering from a genetic, rare, progressive or severely disabling illness such as a neuromuscular disease.

It also supports the development of innovative therapies by paving the way for new medicines and treating and caring for patients with rare diseases.

To donate or find out more, visit www.afm-telethon.com

IN REMEMBRANCE The Great War (WWI) ended in an armistice at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 and, in honour of those who lost their lives, villages

throughout France lay wreaths, ring bells, raise flags at half-mast and hold L’Armistice services at their cenotaphs, as well as in churches and cathedrals.

Now a national holiday in France, this Memorial Day also remembers all those who have been lost in wars up to the present day.

Are you buzzing?

Don’t forget to add your event, for free, to our What’s On pages at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/whats-on

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

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GIRONDE

what’s the

BUZZ GIRONDE

Go Vintage

As if it was yesterday, the Salon du Vintage opens for its sixth year, bringing vinyls, furniture, classic motors, tattoos, street food, luxury items and everything that is chic and stylish from years gone by. Some 150 exhibitors from across Europe will be displaying quality, authentic items and sharing their passion for colourful vintage in Hangar 14 in BORDEAUX on 27 and 28 November.

The past does, indeed, have a future! www.salonduvintage.com

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Whilst correct at time of writing, these events may be subject to change.

More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

Infini Choreographer Boris Charmatz sets out to conquer infinity with Infini, a dance performance that counts time, gestures and markers.

Feverish, incessant and unstoppable, the rapidly changing movements demand that the six talented dancers interweave their energies and their imaginations in this breath-taking piece at La Manufacture CDCN in Bordeaux on 21 and 22 December. www.billetterie.lamanufacture-cdcn.org/

TRAD JAZZ

DORDOGNE

This evening with the Guillaume Nouaux Trio is all about the tradition of original jazz, where the best of the blues swings with popular tunes from New Orleans. Held in ARCACHON on 18 November, Jeudi’s Jazz welcomes Guillaume on drums, Jérôme Gatius on clarinet and pianist Alain Barrabès for a trip along the Mississippi River with a Soirée New Orleans. www.arcachon.com

STILL ROCKIN’

If we said “Golden Brown”, “Always The Sun” or “No More Heroes” what would you be thinking? If The Stranglers springs to mind then you won’t want to miss this!

Also featuring tracks from their new album, Dark Matters, The Stranglers rock up at Le

Krakatoa in MERIGNAC on 6 December! The show, as you would expect, is sure to be full of the unexpected with an astounding energy and message that has remained provocative since their formation in 1974. Arguably one of the most exciting and influential English bands of recent decades, they are likely to both delight and surprise. www.krakatoa.org

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

How well do you remember your childhood? This exhibition

by Columbian artist, Fabiana Peña Plault may help you to recall some special moments. Through her paintings Fabiana portrays childhood memories that could be forgotten as we age, imaginary worlds where colours transport us to a moment of pure happiness – our childhood. Now living in south Gironde, Fabiana’s exhibition, “Je me suis fait tout petit” opens in LANGON on 18 November. www.lescarmes.fr

The traditional gong bath is an ancient ritual from Kundalini Yoga and involves a total immersion in gong vibrations. It is said that the gong can free us from emotional blockages and drive away physical and mental tensions.

This moment in time on 12 November at SALLES presents a deep vibratory experience, with the vibrations of the gong permeating every cell, every tiny part of the body and stimulating the chakras. Take a blanket and groundsheet, and wear a comfortable outfit as much of the event will be enjoyed lying on the ground. www.facebook.com/ Kundalini.Mata.Shakti

GIRONDE

GOING FOR A GONG Memories

Burtonian

Whilst remaining faithful to the emotions of Victor Hugo’s writings, this stage production in Les Carmes, LANGON on 23 November takes on a new facet. Adapted by William Mesguish, this “Burtonian” version, “Misérables”, includes a mix of pop, jazz, blues and rock influences, with the actors singing, acting and playing instruments. The story, which is in French, tells of the meeting and relationship between Cosette and Jean Valjean, of resistance against poverty and violence, and of two lives that are turned upside down. Not to be missed! www.lescarmes.fr

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Tom Leeb in concert, Andernos-les-Bains, 9 Dec • Sophie Jourdan art, Marchéprime, to 4 Jan • Chronic(s) 2, Dance,

Blanquefort, 23 & 24 Nov • Journées Pépinières, Belin-Beliet, 7/14/21/27 Nov & 5 Dec • La Raisin d’Or, Sauternes 13 & 14 Nov

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

• Eliasse, Concert, Lesparre-Médoc, 3 Dec • Paysans Designers, Bordeaux, to 16 Jan • Rallye, Lesparre-Médoc, 11 & 12 Dec

Vivaldi Concert, Saint-Julien-Beychevelle, 12 Dec Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

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Countryside, on the edge of a small village with bakery, 10 min. from shops, schools, 35/40 min. from Bergerac airport.

Beautiful modern house (4 bedrooms/3 bathrooms) with independent guest bedroom, double garage, pool with pool house and large terrace.

On the outskirts of a lovely small country village, open view and tranquillity, 10 min. toward Eymet.

Price : 265 000 € FAI

Price : 556 500 € FAI

• Commission basis, with no set up fees

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• All payments in advance of Guest arrival - £GBP or €EUR payments

• All bookings pre-confirmed with Owners Tel: + 33 (0)5 53 09 33 45 Fax: + 33 (0)5 53 09 36 12 • High level of repeat bookings You have the property ready, We will do the rest.

• English and French language website Remove all marketing, enquiry, booking and payment admin

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Contact us for further details, or download the Owners information on the website The new style for Halcyon Leisure

P a p i l l o n

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Tél 05 53 09 33 45 - Mobile 06 87 45 15 79

e-mail: contact@papillonarchitecture.com

Siret: 488 165 564 00011

website: www.papillonarchitecture.com

Colourful Energy Passionate about Creole rhythms, the Akoda Trio offers both an original and inventive musical version of jazz with a colourful energy that generates lively music. Thanks to the compositions created by pianist Valérie Chane Tef, its jazz is interpreted both instrumentally and vocally to create a unique sound based on original Creole jazz from Biguine to Maloya via Pop. Upbeat, joyful and different to the norm, Akoda performs with keyboard, percussion and guitar at Jazz en Chais in MONESTIER on 19 November.

06 27 77 50 54.

ELECTRO RAVE

DORDOGNE

Whilst correct at time of writing, these events may be subject to change.

More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

what’s the

BUZZ DORDOGNE

OUT, DAMNED SPOT! The classic end-of-year electro party welcomes the new generation of the French rave scene at PERIGUEUX on 4 December from 21:30 to 04:00. Acidcore is first up with PROTOKSEED delivering live heavy kicks and a dark atmosphere. Then comes VORTEK’s live tribecore which draws inspiration from tribe to frenchcore to hardtek. Violent kicks and bouncing bass mixes mentalcore, tribe and acidcore in a live, frenzied rhythm from TEKSA, then the turbo-charged SEROTONIK performs live hardcore before FURYTEMPO closes with a techno DJ set. www.sans-reserve.org

Verdi’s Macbeth is coming to LE BUGUE via direct transmission from the Metropolitan Opera House in New York on 27 November.

As with the original Shakespearean tragedy, the opera is black in both content and musical writing and tells the story of how three witches tell Scottish General Macbeth that he will be King of Scotland.

His wife eggs him on and Macbeth kills the king, taking his place but ends up killing more people out of paranoia. Civil war follows to oust him and brings yet more death, including that of Macbeth and his wife.

It may not be a happy tale but it is one of the classics!

Reservation is required and food and wine is available during the transmission.

06 80 63 33 08.

Nearly Classic This sounds interesting! Fredéric plays the guitar like an orchestra and Frank, his musical partner, plays a variety of unusual and rare instruments. Neither have been classically trained but, together, they revisit hits from the classical music genre, expertly presenting a unique and personal sound. You can catch their inspirational “Le Duo Presque Classique” performance at Le Séchoir in CARSAC-AILLAC on 4 December.

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

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DORDOGNE

Go Cycle Whether you are a participant or a spectator, the Critérium de France UNCP promises a busy and emotional day as the cyclists compete at BERGERAC on 27 November. With courses all morning from 09:30 for riders of all ages, the races continue into the afternoon with the opening event for VIPs at 14:00. and the professional elimination round setting off at 14:40 ahead of the grand final at 16:00. To register as a Pupille, Benjamin, Minime, Cadet or even for those who are 2 to 4 years old, visit www.uncp.net

IT’S A DICHOTOMY In 2014 Daniel Zimmerman was the first trombonist to be nominated for the prestigious Victoires du Jazz. Prior to that accolade he won first prize for a soloist at the Concours de La Del Fense in 2002.

Since then he has worked with Claude Nougaro, Manu Dibango and Tony Allen, and founded a trio with Manu Codjia and Vincent Peirani. You can find out what makes his performance so special in EYMET on 18 December as he takes to the stage with his Jazz Off concert, Dichotomie’s.

If you are a fan of the trombone, you won’t be disappointed! Are there no notes he can’t reach? 07 68 88 86 95.

ALL ABOUT WOMEN

Thought to be one of the best sopranos of her generation on a global basis, Natalie Dessay joins no less famous pianist Philippe Cassard for an exceptional evening of “women’s words” on 19 December in PERIGUEUX. The performance, which is full of humour and tenderness, centres around a recital entitled Portraits of Women and combines French and international song in this, their latest collaboration. 05 53 08 69 81.

DORDOGNE

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Expo Guyom Photo, Bergerac, to 31 Dec • Jazz concert d’Anthony Hendrix, Eymet, to 31 Dec • Natural Healing

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Workshop, Lalinde, 18 Nov • Cyclo-Cross Event, Montpon-Monesterol, 28 Nov • Nordic Randonnée,

Fraisse, 26 Nov • Piano Recital, Zyad Kreidy, Brantôme, 5 Dec • Jonglerie Théâtre d’Objets, Neuvic, 17 Dec • Feu D’Artifice 23:00,

Brantôme, 18 Dec • Réveillon Dinner Dance, Augignac, 31 Dec Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

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Other offices at Villeréal, Bergerac, St. Cyprien, Monpazier, Lalinde, Issigeac

Ref: 9743-EY 392,200 € HAI. DPE: Vierge Very pretty stone farmhouse, just a stroll to a popular bar. The property offers 5 bedrooms, 2 living rooms, fabulous kitchen, two bathrooms, shower room and large cellar. It is set on approx. half an acre of land and includes some barn ruins. (6% fees inc)

Ref: 9624-EY 388,500 € HAI. DPE:Vierge A rural setting for this large, light & airy 4 bedroom house with terrace & pool, requiring some modernization. Situated in 24 acres of woodland, with stables, double garages, possibility to create extra accommodation if required. Exclusively with Agence Eleonor!.

(5 % fees inc)

Ref: 9755-MO 522,500 € HAI. DPE: G Ideally located stone properties comprising two houses, barn and swimming pool on 7.25 acres of meadow land. Six bedrooms in total, with 4 in the main house and 2 in the guest house.

Plus stunning covered terrace overlooking pool.

Exclusive to Agence Eleonor! (4.5% fees inc)

Ref: 9602-MO 203,300 € HAI. DPE: C Contemporary house set on half acre of fenced land. On a single floor, the house offers a living/ dining area with fireplace, open plan kitchen, covered terrace, 3 bedrooms and shower room.

In the basement is a garage, heating room and cellar. (7% fees inc)

Ref: 9760-EY 574,750 € HAI. DPE: F Two houses overlooking the Dordogne River, on the edge of a popular town. The first house, completely renovated, offers six bedrooms and a large open plan living space. The 2nd house has three bedrooms. Plus heated pool, barn and garage on two acres. Exclusive to Agence Eleonor! (4.5% fees inc)

Ref: 9714-VI 107,000 € HAI. DPE: Vierge Large stone house full of character, offering an exciting renovation project! In a village with a bakery, school, café & restaurants. The property offers a 5-bedroom house on two floors, plus various outbuildings; large adjoining barn, leanto and independent barn. All set on quarter acre plot. (7% fees inc)

Ref:9771-VI 349,800 € HAI. DPE: C Beautiful modern countryhouse, offering light and spacious living, with much to offer; including 4 bedrooms. Plus various outbuildings, 8 x 4m heated swimming pool. Set on large, flat, well established garden in an elevated position that benefits from gorgeous views. (6% fees inc)

Ref: 9697-VI 262,150 € HAI. DPE: Vierge Former Benedictine property, renovated with respect for its heritage and identity, offers a large living room with semi-open kitchen leading to a patio offering breathtaking views over the valley and magnificent, terraced garden.

The 3 ensuite bedrooms complete this especially stunning property (7% fees inc)

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LOT ETDORDOGNE GARONNE

what’s the

BUZZ LOT ET GARONNE

Whilst correct at time of writing, these events may be subject to change.

More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

Cabaret Time!

ENCHANTING!

Arpa Latina

Conducted by Philippe Mestres, the Aquitaine Symphony Orchestra is joined by harpist Maïa Darmé along with composer Carlos Andrès Mejia Zuluaga in MARMANDE on 19 November. The colourful programme concentrates on a transatlantic musical itinerary, from the Iberian Peninsula to Latin America. As a multicultural instrument with origins dating back a thousand years, the harp lends its own special tone to this invigorating and energising classical music concert.

05 53 64 44 44.

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This will be a real treat for Christmas! You can see Mozart’s wonderful opera, La Flûte Enchantée, at Théâtre Ducourneau in AGEN on 17 December. Performed by Chants de Garonne in two acts, The Magic Flute includes both song and spoken dialogue. Said to be shaped by the composer’s interest in Freemasonry, it starts with the initiation of Prince Tamino who is then tasked by the Queen of the Night to rescue her daughter Pamina from Sarastro, the high priest.

Being an opera, there are musical instruments with magical powers which, together with Papageno the bird-catcher, Tamino can use to overcome the trials and tribulations that follow. At one stage, they even bring a forest to life! Of course, it doesn’t go according to plan and there is a lot of angst and raw emotion in store.

05 53 66 26 60.

Song, music, humour, glitter and feathers, lots of feathers, are the order of the day at the dinner show, Soirée Cabaret Plaisir, in SAINT-SYLVESTRE-SUR-LOT on 12 and 26 November, and 3 and 17 December.

The curtain goes up at 19:30 as various artists take to the stage to entertain, thrill and delight at the equally colourful Château Le Stelsia. For tickets call 05 53 01 14 86.

DORDOGNE

Unique Sounds

If you listen to the first bars of LAAKE you may well be lulled into a false sense of musicality. This fascinating, talented pianist soon opens up to reveal pulsating electro. Self-taught, his compositions bring a “simple” image, but it’s one of clear obscurity.

By that we mean that his pieces are balanced between shade and light, sweetness and fury with sharp beats, devastating piano, vocal subtleties and deep bass. This is techno-classical hymns mixed with experimental music and pop – and it’s scintillatingly different. You can tune in to his wavelength at le Florida in AGEN on 27 November. www.le-florida.org www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

We are promised a magical touch to the entire show as Vincent Peirani, François Saique and Les Chanteurs d’Oiseaux (bird singers) form an unusual quartet for a fabulous musical journey.

Inspired by traditional breath-voice techniques, the singers reinvent the primitive song of an exaggerated nature. At the same time, Vincent and François apply sensitivity and virtuosity, bringing different musical languages to the scene. The birds come home to roost in “Migration, Un Voyage du Nord au Sud” at Espace d’Albret in NERAC on 6 December. www.espacedalbret.fr

A LOVE STORY?

Young and in love, Orpheus and Eurydice are on a beach where Orpheus proposes. At their wedding, they dance but she feels warm and steps outside. There she meets a stranger who takes her back to his apartment. He has a letter from her deceased father in the Underworld. She tries to grab it but falls down the stairs to her death.

Eurydice arrives in the Underworld via an elevator but ….. So goes the story of the opera Eurydice which is being relayed direct from the New York Metropolitan Opera House to VILLEREAL on 4 December. 05 53 36 00 37.

LOT ET GARONNE

MIGRATION

Fancy A Run?

Make some room for the calories that are sure to come with the 20th Course des Sables from CAUDEROUE to BARBASTE on 12 December.

The 9km trail is open to those born before 31 Dec 2006 and the 15km version to those born two years earlier. Both events leave at 10:00 and registration is €9 and €11.

As well as appropriate shoes and clothing, everyone taking part will need to hold a licence or medical certificate.

To register visit www.pb-organisation.com

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Expo: Mémoire des Poilus de 14-18, Nérac, to 20 Nov • L’Hermone Lafayette, Lamontjoie, to 28 Nov • Les Virtuoses, Villeneuve

-sur-Lot, 20 Nov • 13th Salon du Chocolat, Marmande, 20 & 21 Nov • Les Frères Brothers, Moustier, 5 Dec • Faizal Zeghoudi Dance,

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

Marmande, 4 Dec • Igit, Jazz & Blues, Villeneuve-Sur-Lot, 11 Dec • Fête de la Saint-André, Monflanquin, 3-6 Dec

• Braderie de La Croix Rouge, Villeréal, 9-13 Dec Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

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Moscow Circus on Ice

All the way from Russia, the magical ice skating show, “Magie du Cirque, Féérie de la Glace” glides into FONTANES on 21 December.

Two hours of joy and laughter are promised in this extravaganza that includes fabulous skating as well as juggling, unicycles and, with it being a circus theme, clowns! What makes this so interesting, apart from the stunning performances themselves, is that it has brought together acrobats who have had to learn to skate, and skaters who have had to learn circus rules – no easy task. Full of energy and at least 250 costumes there are two performances at 18:00 and 20:50. We guess they won’t be needing our ice skating tips in the sports pages! 05 65 53 20 65.

LOT

Whilst correct at time of writing, these events may be subject to change.

More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

what’s the

BUZZ LOT

CHAMBER TRIO Rachmaninov, Schumann and Beethoven are the focus of this classical evening with Wanderer, one of the greatest piano trios of today. Presenting an exemplary display of the richness and high standards of chamber music, these three musicians offer an incredible union which, whilst remaining individual, retain an inspired respect for the musical phrasing. You can hear their astonishing and poetic performance in CAHORS on 26 November. www.saisonculturellecahors.fr

INSPIRATIONAL

As part of Les Musicales du Causse, Liat Cohen and Alvaro Zambrano join forces to bring us a night of classical music with a difference. A pioneer in the renaissance of classical guitar and contemporary creation, Liat has been playing guitar since the age of 14. Nicknamed “the princess of classical guitar” by the critics, her playing is said to be “inhabited, sensual, inventive and virtuoso”. Tenor Alvaro Zambrano studied singing at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile and has starred in operas such as La Travaiata and Rigoletto. As well as concerts throughout the world, he has also held master classes with his world class soprano colleagues. You can catch their inspired performance at Salle de l’Horloge in GRAMONT on 14 November. www.lesmusicalesducausse.fr

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

BLACK DIAMONDS

Along with “La Truffe en Pays Martelais” exhibition, the 14th Foire Aux Truffes at CUZANCE on 11 December takes us right into the world of the truffle, from excavation to plate. Starting at 09:00 with the truffle inspection, the ceremony of the Confrérie du Diamant Noir takes place at 09:30 prior to the opening of the truffle market an hour later.

Don’t forget to reserve your place for a special gourmet meal or enjoy the other catering options before joining the dig in two truffle fields at 15:00.

Throughout the day there will be horse-drawn carriage rides and all kinds of culinary entertainment.

05 65 38 13 87.

17

LOT

WHAT A NIGHT!

Jazz Quartet

Laurent Maur has come a long way since his days working the rounds as a musician in Paris and today, with 500 concerts in France and around the world behind him, he comes to CAHORS with “Chef Larry”, his third album as leader of The Laurent Maur Quartet.

Paying tribute to his friend, Larry Smith Chef from Chicago, the repertoire includes jazz arrangements from France. Brazil and the USA, and features melodies, groove, swing and lyricism. Have your jazz hands ready at the Auditorium from 20:30 on 3 December. www.saisonculturellecahors.fr

A mix of its original songs mixed with drum’n’bass, punkrock, dubstep, hip-hop and reggae is promised by La Phaze at The Docks in CAHORS on 19 November. Highlighting the sixth album from this Pungle group who combine the power of bass music with the positive rage of rock, it is sure to be an eventful night. Why? Also on stage are The Koppers, two guys with a message presented by outraged rock. Warning the population against future abuses in society, they invite the audience to join them in howling their anger at the loss of human dignity, the growth of individualism, and that the air is becoming unbreathable. www.lesdocks-cahors.fr

In The Present Organised by the lady volunteers at The Inner Wheel Club, the 12th Salon du Cadeau is taking place in FIGEAC on 27 and 28 November.

As well as seasonal entertainment, around 40 traders, artisans and artists will be displaying gourmet delights, ceramics, jewellery and all kinds of gifts, making it the perfect opportunity to pick up those presents ahead of the Christmas rush. From 14:00 to 18:00 on 27th and 10:00 to 18:00 on 28th. www.innerwheel.fr

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Expo “Resistances”, Les Arques, to 17 Dec • Les Frères Brothers, Pradines, 13 Nov • Franz Schubert, Concert du Mardi,

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Cahors, 16 Nov • Résurgence V: contemporary art, Souillac, by rdv to 5 Dec • Endurance Karting, Cieurac, 20 & 21 Nov

• Maceo Parker & DJ Mazykin concert, Cahors, 2 Dec • Mansfield & TVA, Gindou, 11 Dec • La Réveillon Spectacle,

Le Vigan, 31 Dec • Marché aux Truffes, Gramat, 31 Dec Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

www.myweddingflorist.fr We are an event company with a difference. Under one roof, we hire tables, chairs, tableware, props, lighting as well as styling, design and wedding coordination. And, of course, beautiful florals. We work with our couples to design a beautiful day that suits their personalities and source special items to create a bespoke look.

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The Just Kitchens team can offer you a completely personal service from design to finished space. We will take your initial ideas through to the reality of a beautiful and practical kitchen, fitted to the highest standards.

You are always welcome to join us for a coffee and chat about your project at one of our showrooms in the Gers, SW France.

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GERS

what’s the

BUZZ

Whilst correct at time of writing, these events may be subject to change.

More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

The 5th Element

GERS

CELEBRATING LA FLAMME

An Homage to Vivaldi

Classical song and a string septet presents “A Fleur de Peau” at Théâtre Le Méridional at 20:30 on 11 December in FLEURANCE. Dedicated to Antonio Vivaldi and performed by the Ensemble Baroque de Toulouse, this beautiful and sensitive operatic performance is directed by Michel Brun. Tickets range from €7 to €12 at www.villedefleurance.fr Not to be missed at this time of the year is La Flamme de l’Armagnac which takes place from end October until around the new year. The festivities will, literally, be set alight on 25 November outside the Cathedral at EAUZE, with cocktails and a jazz concert.

The next day “the talents of Armagnac” will be honoured in an annual competition.

Saturday will bring a treasure hunt for children and, in the evening, there will be a series of shows and celebrations as well as the “ArmagnacsAwards”.

You can also enjoy signature cocktails and special meals in partner restaurants until Sunday evening. www.armagnac.fr.

(You can read more on the ritual of La Flamme in our Sep/Oct 2019 issue online on our website).

20

AFRICAN INSIGHT

DORDOGNE

Inspired by the female frame, Le Cinquième Elément is an exhibition of full-size metal sculptures

by Denis Fourez. Held at the Galerie Laurentie in FLEURANCE from 6 to 19 November, each piece is made of steel and offers a new perspective on the sensual silhouettes of women in all their forms (mothers, lovers, prudish or fickle). The metal, as described by the artist, brings unexpected undulations that disturb our senses, no longer recognising the initial female figure but a new form, a new world. www.villefleurance.fr

You can discover the works of contemporary photographer, Françoise Nunez-Marie Hernandez at Abbaye de Flaran in VALENCE SUR BAISE until 19 March. The exhibition, La Profondeur des Champs, Ethiopie, offers a strong yet sensitive insight born from experience, revealing the changes in rural black Africa from 1981 to 2001. It forms part of the Abbey’s focus on the rurality of our planet, shown through original works of various guest photographers. www.abbayedeflaran.fr

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Lumière So Jazz is an explosion of dance and music to be shared by young and old alike at the Halle Aux Grains in SAMATAN on 18 December. As a tribute to one of jazz’s essential instruments, the drums, three artists intertwine songs, body percussion (stomping, clapping and snapping, etc.,) and frenzied swing to the rhythmical beat of drummer Lydie Dupuy. The promoters say this is an invitation to curl up in the dark and enjoy some jazz as, little by little the clarity gives way to the first stars, a rainbow is born from the dark, and the hall resonates to the soft, sensual notes of the blues. www.halleauxgrainsamatan.com

NO APPLES! HalluciHere’s something to throw yourself into! Take your first steps into the world of the circus with an introduction to juggling on 23 November in CONDOM. You won’t need to bring your own balls or apples though. “Arrête Ton Cirque” by Laurent Pareti at La Mediathèque shows you how to make your own juggling balls before learning your first movements. You can then continue this fascinating voyage of discovery with a performance by the Point Fixe circus company at the Théâtre des Carmes on the 26th. 05 62 28 47 21.

GERS DORDOGNE

SEE THE LIGHT!

natory

Together, the duo that is Al’Tarba et Senbeï presents a “powerful, hallucinatory and incredibly accomplished sound”. Watching them perform at Le Cri’Art in AUCH on 2 December, you are sure to feel and hear influences from DJ Shadow, Prodigy and Fatboy Slim as well as the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane.

Pushing the boundaries with Ninja Tunesque influences, psychic samples and Hip-Hop energy, they certainly have an unclassifiable and fascinating style. www.imja32.fr

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Shai Maestro Quartet, Marciac, 13 Nov • Concert: Tribal Voix, Tournan, 20 Nov • Azulenca en Concert, Flamenco and Song

Auch, 20 & 21 Nov • Edda Bel Abysse Concert, Auch, 25 Nov • Art workshops, Lectoure, 3 to 5 Dec • Evelyne Delfour Expo,

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

Contemporary Art, Lombez, to 8 Dec • Expo: L ’Art du Santon, Lavardens, to 2 Jan • The Other Voices,

Concert, Auch, 10 Dec • Téléthon Randonée, Aignan, 5 Dec Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

21

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About Syria Two war photojournalists help us to learn more about the Syrian conflict at Sur Le Front Syrien, a photographic exhibition by Véronique de Viguerie and Virginie Nguyen Hoang.

This extraordinary, emotional and often poignant exhibition at Pôle Memoire in MONTAUBAN is aimed at enabling us to understand the Syrian conflict as well as the daily life of the combatants and those living through it.

You can see the free display until 30 November.

05 63 66 03 11.

TARN ET GARONNE DORDOGNE

Whilst correct at time of writing, these events may be subject to change.

More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

what’s the

BUZZ TARN ET GARONNE

BOHEMIAN HELLO FREDDA

With French song and Americana, this outstanding performance by singer, songwriter Fredda, explores fiction and autobiography, happiness and sadness, intimacy and openness, and both her quieter and wilder sides. Highlighting the luminous and poetic nature of her sixth album, Les Dérives Sonores, with arrangements by Pascal Parisot and co-operation with Nicolas Repac, this new aspect to her repertoire can be enjoyed at Médiathèque Mémo in MONTAUBAN on 18 December. www.rio-grande.fr

DELIGHT This exhilarating performance of Carmen Flamenco intertwines the grace and chiselled movements of Andalusian flamenco dancers with the powerful lyrics of writer Mérimée, and the music of Bizet. Featuring Cante Jondo, an unspoiled form of Andalusian folk music, this heady mix promises to be breath-taking. Combining musical theatre with Bohemian influences, it can be seen at Théâtre Olympe de Gouces, MONTAUBAN, on 7 December. www. spectacles.montauban.com

REGGAE REGGAE

Two bands come together to bring a night of reggae to Le Rio Grande in MONTAUBAN on 10 December. With over 200 concerts to its name, Ryon brings a positive, strong blend of reggae, rock, song and pop. Influenced by artists such as Clinton Fearon, Steel Pulse, Dub Inc and Danakil, the five band members are no strangers to French reggae festivals.

Joining them is Païaka, an experienced group of eight musicians with strong messages and hypnotic, rhythmic and powerfully brassy reggae. The party is on! 05 63 91 19 19.

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

23

TARN ET GARONNE

AU SECOURS!

FLAMENCO VOCALS

All Dressed Up

Rocío Márquez achieved European fame in 2008 when she was awarded La Làmpera Minera, the equivalent of a flamenco Oscar, winning three categories simultaneously.

Today, with four albums and many international appearances to her credit, she remains ambitious and still fascinated by the variety of the flamenco vocal tradition.

Combining singing styles from Cante Jondo to Cante Chico, she uses her voice like a flexible instrument, embodying the essence of flamenco, and resonating with the past whilst looking to the future. You can see her captivating performance at Espace des Augustins in MONTAUBAN on 10 December. www.espacedesaugustins.fr

Oh no! Whilst Father Christmas was taking a nap, his bag containing his list of gifts for all the children in the world was stolen! How can he let the elves know what they need to make and, once made, where should they be delivered? The prime suspect is Frizzi the joker elf so “FC” asks Miso, a more trustworthy but, as it turns out, a very shy and timid elf, to find him. Will he overcome his shyness and fear? Will the children receive their toys in time?

You can find out with your 2 to 7 year olds at Le Violon Dingue, MONTAUBAN, from 18 to 23 December, in French. www.leviolondingue.fr

Recently extended to 31 December, you can now view some of the most beautiful costumes from cinema and television at “Costumer la Renaissance” at Château de GRAMONT. This journey into fashion via creations for the screen includes some 30 costumes and designs from the most prestigious European stage costume houses. Unveiling secrets and tips from their creators and unusual and surprising anecdotes from filming, it features costumes worn by Sophia Loren, Cate Blanchett, Roger Moore, Isabelle Adjani, Daniel Auteuil and Lambert Wilson. Some of the designs have received an Oscar or César Award and the exhibition also includes screenings of films such as “La Reine Margot”. www.chateau-gramont.

DORDOGNE

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Soirée Musicale Vigneronne, Montpezatde-Quercy, 20 Nov • Soirée Jeux, Le SalvetatBelmontet, 26 Nov • Rap, Geogio, Montauban,

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27 Nov • Ballet du Capitole, Montauban, 28 Nov • Randonée, Montpezat-de-Quercy, 21 Dec

• Creative Workshops, Caussade, from 29 Nov to 5 Dec • Artisans d’Art Expo, Bruniquel, 4 to 5 Dec • Faraj Suleiman Piano,

Lafrançaise, 16 Nov • Petit Détail Show, Bioule, 4 Dec Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

N HAUTE GARONNE

what’s the

BUZZ

Whilst correct at time of writing, these events may be subject to change.

More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

N.HAUTE GARONNE

SORCERY The Muséum de Toulouse has joined “forces” with the Musée des Confluences de Lyon to open this oneof-a-kind exhibition on magic and witchcraft. With historical collections from both museums and a variety of magical implements, it explores the universality and timelessness of this mystical craft. Ghost tours, art, self-hypnosis and mad scientists add up to a mysterious, enchanting and, we bet, surprising event in TOULOUSE until 31 December. Between reality and illusion, knowledge and belief, the magic seeks to give meaning to events and both happy and unhappy moments in time. Magic up some more information at www.museum.toulouse.fr

26

HANDY! All forms of puppetry and animated models will be popping up in and around TOULOUSE from 16 to 21 November with the 24th Festival Marionnettissimo. Some 26 companies, including international masters from Quebec, Germany, Portugal and Belgium, will be taking part in puppet-making and puppet-handling workshops, behind-thescenes creations, a puppet marathon and, for young and old alike, daily, impromptu shows in TOURNEFEUILLE. Other events include a concert, a Quasi Mario night and two soirées featuring Séquence Court-Métrage. 05 61 62 80 72.

DORDOGNE

ClariJazz

The 9th edition of the ClariJazz Festival brings jazz and world music to LABASTIDECLERMONT from 19 to 21 November.

A tasty cocktail of Afro-Caribbean jazz opens the event on the 19th with the Irina Gonzalez Trio and its Brazilian guitar, catchy bass and drums, followed by lively Jazz Manouche from the Benjamin Bobenrieth Quartet on the 20th. Pascal and Jérémy Rollando plan to immerse the audience in a mixture of sounds with classical, electric, 12-strings and folk guitars as they perform flamenco and world music to close the event on the 21st. www.clarijazz.com

THE CREATIVES

Unique pieces fashioned in the greatest traditions from a wide variety of materials including wood, earth, stone, glass, resin, paper, paint and metals, etc., can be found at the Salon Créateurs & Artisans d’Art in AUSSONNE from 8 to 12 December.

Recycling plays a large part in the exhibition too which features fashion, accessories, pottery, jewellery, toys, decorative objects, tableware, furniture and, amongst others, fascinating sculptures. It could be the ideal place to find that special Christmas present! www.salon-artisansdart-toulouse.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Guitars, saxophone and a double bass are the chosen instruments of Clap Swing, a band known for its strong Jazz Manouche and Tsigane style. Presenting a series of original jazz compositions, their uplifting performance will also feature classics from the incredible Django Reinhart. Join them and your feet will definitely be tapping at Eglise SaintMartin in PORTET-SURGARONNE on 19 November.

05 61 72 43 00.

Pure Vintage

The Salon Toulouse Vintage in TOULOUSE on 27 and 28 November is a must for lovers of all things vintage.

50 exhibitors will be bringing furniture, clothes, décor and vintage accessories from all over France to combine new with reclaimed items from the 1920s to 1990s.

As well as DIY workshops, a vinyl café and a free vintage photo booth to immortalise the moment, you can enjoy a selection of food trucks as you take in the authenticity and charm of this 5th show.

It could be the ideal place to pick up ideas and props for a vintage New Year party too! www.facebook.com/ events/426654161622192/

CARMEN

As part of the Saison Culturelle – Danse, Carmen Flamenco has to be on any danceenthusiast’s agenda! Coming to SAINTGAUDENS on 9 December, this spectacular stage performance tells the story of Don José and the murder of the rebellious Carmen.

Produced by Luis de la Carrasca, powerful voices bring together lyrics and cante jondo (vocal flamenco) with duende (gypsy) piano and guitar as passionate dancers use their dazzling skills to showcase the very best of flamenco dance. 05 61 94 78 28.

N HAUTE GARONNE DORDOGNE

CLAP CLAP

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Salon Auto Moto, Toulouse, 10 to 14 Nov • Big Band et Harmonie Concert, Revel, 20 Nov • Toulouse Game Show Occitanie, Aussonne,

27 & 28 Nov • Classical Guitare, Zoran Dukić, Toulouse, 3 Dec • Course Hippique (Trotting), Grenade, 4, 12 & 19 Dec

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

• Smoothies, Toulouse, 11 & 12 Dec • Swing Vandals, Eaunes, 18 Dec • Marie Tene Abstract Art Expo, Grenade,

30 Nov to 30 Dec • Suivi Mission Alpha, Cité de l’espace, to 31 Dec Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

27

Tree Time!

HOMES + GARDENS

Early winter is the perfect time to plant or move bare rooted trees and shrubs.

Bare rooted trees are usually deciduous. They will have been grown in the ground by the nursery and then uplifted and promptly delivered to you with the bare roots exposed for immediate planting.

Trees bought this way tend to be cheaper than container grown ones but, providing you re-plant them while the tree is dormant, they are usually easier to establish, especially if not too mature. The trick is to plant them early enough in the winter for the roots to establish themselves before the tree needs to expend energy on growing leaves.

SELECTION Choose a bare rooted tree with a generous root structure which spreads in all directions from its base. Check that the roots are not damaged, diseased or dried out.

Replant your chosen tree promptly to keep the roots moist. If this is not possible immediately you will need to heel it in as a temporary measure. This means keeping your tree with its base in a trench, covering the roots with earth which remains well watered until you can plant the tree properly.

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PLANTING When ready to plant the tree dig a large hole, at least twice the diameter of the tree’s root network, and remove nearby weeds or grass which could compete for water and nutrients.

Incorporate some good quality compost and/or leaf mould into the soil taken from the hole. Put some of this back into the base of the planting hole and then gently check over the tree’s roots, trimming back any which appear to be damaged.

Position the tree in the centre of the hole and then, before you back fill, drive a stake of wood into the hole. Position the stake so that it is at the windward side of the tree

(i.e. if the prevailing wind is from the south west put the stake at the south west side of the tree). Now fill the planting hole with the remaining enriched soil.

Gently lift/shake the tree while planting it so that the soil level around the base of the planted tree is the same as it was previously.

Once you are happy, and your tree has been firmed in, give it a good water and mulch around (but not right up to) the trunk. Tie the tree to the stake firmly but gently in several places.

Don’t use something which could cut into the bark (I use the leg of an old pair of tights) and make sure that the tie cushions the bark

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HOMES + GARDENS

Un arbre pour Noël What about the Christmas tree….?

from the stake to avoid abrasions.

If there’s any risk that deer or rabbits could attack the tree take suitable precautions to provide protection. This needs to be done straight away because, if a tree has had its bark ringed (i.e. eaten all round), it will die above that point.

During the first year water your tree at least every other day and,

for the next two years, water it whenever there is a risk it could dry out. Keep the surrounding area free from weeds and encroaching grass. Mulch it each spring and check the stake and the ties regularly. As your tree settles in you may need to prune it to improve the shape and remove dead or crossing branches.

Sue tells us that it is possible to buy a Christmas tree in a pot and plant it in your garden after the holiday.

Choose a tree which is in good condition, i.e. it hasn’t been allowed to dry out and looks bright needled and bushy branched. Check that it’s not pot bound and keep it outside, in a sheltered place, until you want to bring it in and decorate it. Water it and spray the needles with water regularly while it’s outside.

Once it has moved into the house continue to keep it well watered and try not to expose it to too much indoor heat. As soon as you can bear to, remove the decorations, take it outside, water it again very thoroughly and plant it.

The same planting principles as already outlined apply, except that when you take the tree out of the pot you should roughly rub the root ball to encourage roots to spread out into the soil. You may not need to stake your Christmas tree, but, if you do, take great care not to damage either the tree or the root ball as you position the stake.

Sue Adams has lived in SW France for 15 years and is developing a small field into a garden with orchard, vegetable and soft fruit garden, flower beds, dry garden and a wildlife haven. It’s still a work in progress. You can read more from Sue at www.jardinpaysan.com

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

29

HOMES + GARDENS

November & December

In the garden

It’s Oyster Time!

Making the shells work for you – in the garden

The annual tidy up Sue Adams explains that it might appear that the garden is gradually going to sleep, but don’t be fooled.

The work you put into your garden now is the foundation for next year’s success.

• Rake up leaves. Pile them into bins made from either pallets or chicken wire and leave them to rot down naturally. A year later you are left with rich leaf mould which you can use as a mulch or to enrich compost.

• Cut back, remove and compost remaining dead or decaying foliage from perennials – leaving anything which will look attractive over winter, such as grasses or ornamental seed heads.

• Clear away debris from around the base of plants.

If it accumulates it can encourage rot and can also harbour pests over winter.

Compost or dispose of the debris as appropriate.

• Dry mulch over tender plants for winter protection.

For instance, use straw or wood chips to protect dahlia tubers or cannas which you leave in the ground. Use the dead leaves of banana plants

30

to protect the crown over winter.

• Move tender pot plants indoors. Cut back on feeding/watering them.

• Dig over areas of your borders as appropriate.

Any winter frosts will help break the soil down further.

• Take hardwood cuttings of deciduous trees, shrubs and climbers.

• Plant and move bare rooted deciduous trees and shrubs.

• Insulate outside taps/ irrigation systems.

• Use a few logs and branches to create a wildlife haven or a bug hotel (as shown above) in a quiet corner of your garden and start your winter bird feeding regime.

• Plant new tulip bulbs.

• Plant broad beans for early crops next year. I find that Aquadulce Claudia is the best variety to use.

• Plant garlic cloves.

They need some cold weather if they are to clump up into bulbs next year.

• You can still sow some winter salad crops such as mache, mustard, mizuna and rocket.

• Prune soft fruit bushes and check over canes.

Suffering from slugs and snails in the garden? Did you know that crushed oyster shells are a great deterrent? Not only that but their high levels of calcium carbonate also help to regulate PH levels in the soil. In addition, they can improve fertilisation when used as a mulch, or can be left whole and used for drainage in the base of plant pots.

OPENING OYSTERS Shucking (opening) oysters is easy if you know how.

You will need a tea towel and, preferably, an oyster knife (they have rounded blades which reduce the risk of cutting yourself). If you don’t have one, use the most rounded knife in your knife drawer.

Place a folded tea towel on the work surface and put an oyster, curved side down, at one end. Fold the towel over it, keeping the oyster flat and securely in place. Slide the knife at a downward angle into the oyster at the thinnest end, the end with the “knobbly bit”.

Now for the clever part; twist the knife so that the hinge opens up. Slide the knife along the top shell to release the muscle, flick out any broken shell and then replace the lid. Now place them in the fridge, leaving the bottom muscle attached to the oyster. (The French way is to serve them with the muscle attached to prove their freshness). If you want to make it really easy for your guests, just before serving slide the knife under the muscle to free the oyster at the base, making sure that you retain as much of the precious liquor as possible.

Bon appetit et bon jardinage!

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

NEWS

NOTEW

ORTHY

BUZZ BITS

A few news snippets of interest to our region TROT ON!

Help!

As the winter months approach and the nights draw in, more and more charities are seeking volunteers to care for animals, work with first responders and help with alcohol or mental health concerns. Could that be you? You don’t necessarily

have to speak French for many organisations and they will be delighted to hear from you.

Details can be found in our Lending A Hand article in the February to April 2021 issue at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/ read-online

WE’RE ON THE MAP!

Yes, we know it’s a while away but the 2022 route has just been announced and Cahors is on the map for the third time with an exciting race-againstthe-clock finish during the 19th stage which leaves

Castelneau-Magnoac on 22 July. The next day, the riders depart from LacapelleMarival for Rocamadour on the penultimate stage, ahead of the final stretch in Paris. www.letour.fr

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

Have trottinette électrique (e-scooter) will travel? Not without a fine if you are under 12 or wearing headphones! Reaching speeds of over 25km/h could land you with a penalty of €1500, riding on the pavement could set you back up to €135 and not having insurance could cost you up to €3750. Other rules and fines apply and can be found in the latest, 2021 legislation details at https://bit.ly/3BEVbmj

Eye In The Sky

If you haven’t declared your swimming pool to the local authorities you could find yourself in the deep end as far as the French taxation system is concerned. Aerial shots are now being looked at using Google and other technology to search for offenders in an initial four regions. According to reports they aren’t looking in our region just yet so you may have time to register yours and make sure that your taxe foncière calculations are amended correctly.

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FOOD + DRINK

‘Tis the season for

Emma and John Gilchrist

Struggling to think of something different to serve as an apero or starter during the festive season? Not any more with these fabulous suggestions!

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d o o f a e S

Even though he worked in one of the UK’s best seafood restaurants, Emma and John have tasted some of the finest oysters they have ever eaten since moving to France.

Emma tells us, “People often assume oysters are slimy but they aren’t. They taste of the sea and are fresh, vibrant and beautiful. We serve them three at a time, one with a splash of fresh lemon, the second with red wine and shallots, and the final one with a drop of Tabasco.

Sometimes we change things up and serve them crispy.”

Here is her recipe.

Crispy Oysters, Chorizo & Parsley Mayonnaise

(Serves 4) 12 Large fresh oysters, shucked 2 Eggs, beaten 100g Plain flour 100g Breadcrumbs Salt and pepper to taste 200ml Vegetable oil Lemon wedges 75g Pan fried Chorizo, mild or hot 100g Mayonnaise (without Dijon mustard) 1 tbs Parsley, chopped Mix the mayo and parsley with half the chorizo. Drain the

shucked oysters in a colander.

Add salt and pepper to the breadcrumbs. Dip the oysters in the flour, then the egg and, lastly, the breadcrumbs (coating thoroughly). Set aside to dry for at least 15 mins.

Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan until hot (chip frying hot).

Without overcrowding the pan, fry the oysters until golden brown on both sides, turning them over carefully and frying for approximately one or two mins on each side.

Remove them from the pan and place on kitchen towel,

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FOOD + DRINK

Bordeaux Blanc and Oysters

If you are enjoying oysters as a canapé then look no further than a glass or two of white fizz from a local vineyard. However, if you are having oysters as a starter, an indulgent white may well be a better marriage. Here are three from around Bordeaux.

sprinkle with a pinch of salt.

Place a dollop of chorizo mayo in either an oyster shell or a dessert spoon. Place the oyster on top, sprinkle with crispy chorizo crumbs and serve with lemon wedges.

(See page 30 of this issue for tips on shucking.)

Scallops and Linguini with a Fish Cream

(Serves 6) 120g Good quality linguine 400ml Water 150ml Crème Entière 1tsp Fumet de Poisson* 20g Chopped chives 6 Prepared scallops Splash of oil In a large pan whisk the Fumet in cold water to dissolve, and bring to the boil. Add the pasta and cook for five mins. Remove the linguini, retaining the liquid.

Refresh the pasta in cold water and place on kitchen roll, pat dry.

Add the cream to the water and simmer for five minutes until the liquid thickens

slightly. Heat a frying pan until very hot. Add a splash of oil and cook the scallops on one side until caramelised.

Add the linguini to the cream.

Turn the scallops over and cook the other side.

Place equal amounts of linguine in scallop shells or on small plates. Top with a scallop and sprinkle with chives. Squeeze over some lemon juice if you wish. *Fumet de Poisson is a powdered fish stock and is available from any French supermarket.

Poached Oyster version

Staying with the oyster theme, you can substitute the six scallops for six oysters. Follow the above but, instead of frying them, add the linguini to the cream and heat for three mins, then add the oysters and cook for a further 30 seconds. Top with lumpfish caviar and, if you like, a squeeze of lemon.

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

Cuvée Clémence Blanc, EntreDeux-Mers is one of the many wines well-crafted from the Cheval Quancard Domaine. A blend of mainly Sauvignon, with a touch of Semillon and a hint of Muscadelle gives a blackcurrant leaf aroma with zippy grapefruit on the palate, and brioche and mild oak flavours. www.chevalquancard.com

The Sichel family, who produce Chateau Angludet in Margaux, craft the stunning Château Argadens in small quantities.

A Sauvignon Semillon blend with pineapple and zingy lime freshness and a beautiful mineral and white flower finish. www.sichel.fr

Perfect with Emma’s Cooked Oysters and Chorizo is Château Le Coin. A 100% Sauvignon Gris wine made a stone’s throw from Saint Emilion. It has a rich, spicy palate and is balanced with generous acidity that blends to create a velvety finish. www.lechaiauquai.com

Emma and John Gilchrist have been running their gîte and cookery school, Les Caulins, in Lot-et-Garonne since March 2016. Emma has worked with great chefs in some of the best restaurants around the world and John, a former UK Sommelier of the Year and winner of the Mondavi award for the best wine list in the world, is an enthusiast for the smaller wine producers. www.lescaulins.com

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GUEST CHEF

www.hoteledward1er.com

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t a e r T t e m r u o G A Michel Fredric, owner and chef at Hotel Edward 1er in the traditional bastide town of Monpazier, has a passion for local produce. So much so that he and his wife Isabelle have two restaurants. La Terrasse specialises in “market cuisine”, whilst the Eleonore features “gourmet” food such as Four Seasons Truffles and other delicacies from Dordogne. Here he offers one of his favourite recipes for a soft and meltingly delicious treat.

add the cooled brown butter. Let the dough rest in the fridge for 20 mins.

Butter and flour 16 small moulds (conical ramekins). Three-quarter fill the moulds, sprinkle lightly with cinnamon and bake at 180°C for 35-40 mins.

Leave to cool and unmould.

Sprinkle with icing sugar just before serving and enjoy with papaya jam in the afternoon, or serve just lukewarm with cinnamon or vanilla ice cream.

MINI CINNAMON FINANCIERS (Makes 16) 200g Ground almonds 600g Granulated white sugar 200g Plain flour 540g Egg whites 300g Beurre Noisette, cooled 5g Ground Cinnamon 20g Icing Sugar Sift the flour, ground almonds and icing sugar. Beat the egg whites until stiff and fold in the flour and almonds. Gently

BEURRE NOISETTE Drop the butter into a pan and heat it gently, whisking as it melts. It will foam and then start to turn brown and give off a nutty aroma. Take the pan off the heat to prevent it from burning and leave to cool.

Michel Fredric, propriétaire et chef de l’Hôtel Edward 1er dans la bastide traditionnelle de Monpazier, est passionné par les produits du terroir.

A tel point que lui et sa femme Isabelle ont deux restaurants. La Terrasse est spécialisée dans la « cuisine du marché », tandis que l’Eléonore propose une cuisine « gourmande » comme les Truffes des Quatre Saisons et autres délices de Dordogne. Ici, il propose l’une de ses recettes préférées pour une gâterie douce et fondante.

durant 20 minutes.

Beurrer et fariner les moules (ramequins coniques). Remplir aux ¾ de leur hauteur, saupoudrer légèrement de cannelle et cuire à 180°C durant 3540 mins.

Laisser refroidir et démouler.

Saupoudrer de sucre glace au moment de déguster. A manger avec une confiture de papaye l’après-midi pour les gourmands, ou servi juste tiède accompagnés d’une glace à la cannelle ou à la vanille

MINI FINANCIER À LA CANNELLE (16) 200g Amande en poudre 600g Sucre blanc cristallise 200g Farine 540g Blanc d’œuf 300g Beurre Noisette, refrodi 5g Cannelle en poudre 20g Sucre glace Tamiser la farine, poudre d’amande et sucre glace. Monter les blancs d’œufs en neige et ajouter la farine et amande.

Ajouter délicatement le beurre noisette refroidi. Laisser reposer la pâte au frais

BEURRE NOISETTE Versez le beurre dans une casserole et faites-le chauffer doucement en fouettant pendant qu’il fond. Il moussera puis commencera à brunir et dégagera un arôme de noisette. Retirez la casserole du feu pour éviter qu’elle ne brûle et laissez refroidir.

Michel has also let us have this recipe for Creamy, Flavoured Chocolate Pots. You can find it at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/articles

Michel nous a également confié cette recette pour Petits Pots Crémeux de Chocolat Parfumés.

Vous pouvez le trouver sur www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/articles

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

SEASONAL

Something for Everyone Shop online with these Christmas gift ideas for family and friends.

Complete with English translations and explanations, the fourth book from Gascon artist Perry Taylor will raise a smile every day with a humourous look at life in his part of SW France. Planète Gascogne, €29, www.perrytaylor.fr

Give a touch of the tropics with this Ananas Solaire.

Perfect for these dark, cold nights, it will light up your tree, terrace or pergola with 30 warm white, solar-powered LEDs set in a golden-coloured pineapple form. €18.95. www.jardiland.com

If gold is your theme this year, and even if it isn’t, look no further than this Sauvignon Wine Confit with real 23 Carat Gold Flakes from La P’tite Confiote. Serve alone, in champagne or alongside foie gras and terrines or cheese for a real treat. €10. www.confitures-gelees.com

A calendar that grows on you! Implanted with seeds, simply plant each of the 12 pages in the ground at the end of each month. 2022 has never looked so good! €24.99, www.lejardinperdu.fr

Art is at the heart of the home. These bold, expressive artworks by Ruth Dent mix colours with emotions to celebrate life on earth.

From €50 incl p&p. www.ruthdent.com

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Steer your little one in the right direction with this fun walking frame. With a horn and accessories that light up and play music, it’s designed to give babies older than six months a safe environment in which to take those first steps. €109.95, www.aubert.com

Budding furniture restorers will love this Chalk Paint Starter Gift Box from Velvet Pear Vintage for €54 or, for the more experienced, a Large Chalk Paint Set at €110. For a 10% reader discount use the code “velvetbuzz”. www.velvetpearvintage.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

SEASONAL It wouldn’t be Christmas without the odd sock or two and these are really odd! Sharing a colour theme, the socks just don’t match. Give him a pair for every day of the week in The Semainier Bambou Fines Rayures Dëpareillées. €49, www.lebarachaussettes.com Pamper away with this pretty Lavender Gift Set from Chloe’s French Boutique. As well as a white clay and lavender vegan soap it includes a body puff made with bamboo, two candles, three heart melts and a soy wax tea light. €20, www.chloesfrenchboutique.com

“Stay calm, drink a beer” is just one of Les Tabliers from Biére de La Bastide.

Interestingly, It Looks Like Reindeer is one of their beers too! €19.95, www.bierebastide.com

A BBQ and Plancha combo can be quick and easy to use all year round and, at just 2kg, this Weber version is portable too. The perfect present for campers and fans of outdoor eating. €49.90. www.gammvert.fr

New to DuPrem quality clothing, homeware and accessories are these Alpaca Fur Chickens at €45 each.

Ethically sourced and oh so huggable, each one is unbelievably soft and has its own character. There’s a Giant Alpaca Fur Teddy too at €100. www.duprem.com

Share the taste of the region with this Colis de Noël, a veritable collection of gourmet treats from Périgord including foie gras, confit d’oignons, canard à l’orange, desserts and wines. €75.80, www.foie-gras-sarlat.com

There’s no shortage of bracelets for both men and women at Poivre Vanille.

Handmade with a wide mix of materials such as real stones, silver and silk – the choice is yours! This Bracelet Grenat et Amazonite is just €35. www.boutique.poivrevanille.fr

Sure to brighten anyone’s day, this Calendrier de l’Avent 2021 includes 24 Yankee tea lights and a holder. Bringing the scents of Christmas Hot Chocolate, A Cottage Evening, Angel Wings and, amongst others, Christmas Cookies into the home, it is €29.90 from www.majoliebougie.com

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

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SEASONAL

This is surely a present to go nuts over! Made at Le Moulin de la Veyssière, this Coffret Noix includes walnut oil, ground walnuts, walnuts in dark chocolate, an oil pourer and a cute tote bag. €37, www.moulindelaveyssiere.fr This pretty blue box is filled with 220g of the finest chocolates from Maison Guinguet including chocolats gourmands, p’tits beurre, citron, petites noisettes and cœurs caramel. Miam miam! €10.90. www.maisonguinguet.com

Stocking fillers can be practical and fun! Warm them up with a cuppa and mini marshmallows with this Christmas Set Cadeau Chocolat & Mellows Chocolat Noir Blanc. One of a range of china cup designs at €9.95, www.casashops.com

How cute are these fake fur Fauteuils!

Whichever creature you choose, your young animal lover is sure to be snug and comfy in their own special place. €49.99 www.maisonsdumonde.com

This beautiful, large Nymphaea “Director George T. Moore” at €29 is just one of the many tropical waterlilies, hardy waterlilies, lotus, water-loving plants and gift cards that can be ordered online at www.latour-marliac.com

Give a little luxury with a hand painted, one-of-a-kind silk accessory by Ana Masse. With prices from €25 to €135, this beautiful range includes bag charms and scarves for every occasion. www.etsycom/shop/anatreasurebox

Vegan food is becoming more and more popular so how about giving a cookery course or gourmet weekend at Le Cheval Blanc? Who knows, this could be your supper!

A 10% discount is offered to our readers until 7 Jan using the code: Buzz10. Prices vary, www.lechevalblanc.net/ cookery-school/

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Barn-distilled from grapes and made with love for the love of your life, this artisanal Saint Amans Gin Rosé Gift Set includes two gin glasses and a bottle of all-natural pink raspberry gin. From €50, www.saintamans.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Les marches de Noël

SEASONAL

Christmas Markets are another great place to find Christmas gifts.

Here’s a round-up of some of the regional Marchés de Noël.

GIRONDE Saint-Loubès, 13 & 14 Nov Bordeaux, 26 Nov to 26 Dec Libourne, 27 Nov to 26 Dec Cenon, 28 Nov Saint Emilion, 4 & 5 Dec Vérac, 12 Dec Villenave-d’Ornan, 11 & 12 Dec

LOT Grézels, 4 Dec Vayrac, 4-5 Dec Figeac, 10 & 11 Dec Lissac-et-Mouret, 5 Dec Carnac-Rouffiac, 12 Dec Cahors, 18 Dec Saint-Cirq Lapopie, 18 & 19 Dec

N HAUTE GARONNE Toulouse, 26 Nov to 31 Dec Blagnac, 25 to 28 Nov L’Union, 27 Nov Fronton, 4 Dec Muret, 4 & 5, 11 & 12 Dec Portet-sur-Garonne, 11 Dec Saint-Gaudens, 11 to 23 Dec

DORDOGNE Issigeac, 28 Nov to 2 Jan Plaisance, 4 & 5 Dec Creysse, 5 Dec Queyssac, 11 & 12 Dec Villefrance-de-Lonchat, 11 Dec Bourgnac, 19 Dec Monpazier, 17 Dec

GERS Barbotan-Les-Thermes, 26 & 27 Nov Seissan, 27 Nov Condom, 10 to 12 Dec Marciac, 11 & 12 Dec Fourcès, 12 Dec Gimont, 19 Dec Auch, 9 to 23 Dec

These markets were confirmed at the time

LOT ET GARONNE Foulayronnes, 5 Dec Beauville, 11 Dec Astaffort, 12 Dec Tonneins, 11 to 23 Dec Roquefort, 12 Dec Fumel, 18 Dec Bon-Encontre, 18 Dec

TARN ET GARONNE Caussade, Sat’y, 13 Nov to 18 Dec Beaumont, 5 Dec Lauzerte, 11 Dec Larrazet, 12 Dec Miramont-de-Quercy 11 & 12 Dec Roquecor, 19 Dec Castelsarrasin, 18 Dec

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

of writing but we recommend that you check the times and dates before making the journey.

You will also find more Christmas markets at www.noel.org

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H I S TO RY

French Traditions through the ages

Religious or not, there’s no escaping Christmas in France with its many traditions, some of which date back centuries.

As with so many things, it was the Romans who introduced Christmas customs to France with what is believed to be the first French Christmas event taking place in Reims in 496 with the baptism of Clovis and 3,000 of his warriors. Later, in 800, Pope Leo III crowned Charlemagne on Christmas Day. The date took on both religious and secular meaning and continued to be popular throughout the medieval period, becoming more and more centred around the manger. When Queen Isabeau of Bavaria arrived in 1389, the French crowds were heard to cry “Noël, Noël!”

Interestingly, the first French market was held in Strasbourg in the 1500s and, from 1570 to now, is still the biggest in France.

centrepiece of many department store windows as they compete to produce the best display, often using animated figures to attract even more attention.

Nowadays the trees feature candles and lights, stars and, once the children have fallen asleep on Christmas Eve, small toys, sweets and fruit which have been hung up by “Père de Noël” in addition to the gifts he has placed in the shoes or, more recently, stockings left by the fireplace. Originally known as sabots, chocolate versions of these wooden shoes filled with sweets still serve as a popular reminder and special Christmas treat in certain parts of France. Today, the tradition of leaving shoes and

THE TREE Intended to symbolise the tree in the Garden of Eden, the first holy tree of Christmas was presented in Strasbourg in 1605, decorated with artificial coloured roses, apples, sugar and painted decorations. The Christmas tree is still a

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H I S TO RY

stockings by the fireplace or under the tree continues, in all sizes!

MANGERS AND PUPPETS

La Crèche (the manger) started as a drama in the 12th-century with the manger looking more like an altar placed inside or outside the portal of a church.

Many of the antique versions can still be seen in churches at Chartres, Nogentle-Rotrou, Chaource and Sainte-Marie d’Oloron, as well as in museums at Orléans and Marseilles.

Shops continue to offer a wide array of these delightful scenes which are positioned prominently in the home and include terracotta figures known as Santons (little saints) together with the people of the village from the butcher to the mayor. The centrepiece is, of course, the Manger of Bethlehem with the ox and donkey close to Jesus, and Mary and Joseph ready to welcome visitors. Such is the popularity of the Santons that a special fair has been held in Marseilles in December every year since 1803, rivalling Aubagne, the “capital of the Santons”.

Puppet shows are also popular in France, especially Marynbourg’s famous Christmas puppet play, “Bethlehem 1933”. It is definitely not to be missed if you have chance to see it.

LA RÉVEILLON DE NOËL The origins of celebrating on the 24th stem from returning from Midnight Mass.

The church or cathedral will have been beautifully lit and decorated, bells will have been rung and carols and carillons sung. A real child will have been placed in the manger in some areas of France.

Once home, the family would open their presents and enjoy a meal together.

Depending on the region, today’s meal might include goose, turkey and chestnuts, oysters, foie gras, seafood, cheese, macarons, a Bûche Noël and chocolate with wines and champagne.

French carols have changed through the ages with the first, in the 15thcentury, forming part of formal worship.

They became more rustic in the 16thcentury but, by the start of the 18th, included gavotte and minuet dances.

More grandiose forms followed with Placide Cappeau’s famous 19th-century’s Minuit, Chrétiens.

These carols were performed alongside biblical scenes which evolved from simple staged events in the 14th and 15th-centuries into full-on plays based on miracles, presented as Mystères de la Nativité. One of the most famous, Comédie de la Nativité de Jésus-Christ, was a medieval biblical “comedy” written by Marguerite, Queen of Navarre, in around 1535.

FABLES AND CUSTOMS

In days gone by minstrels wandered through villages with their magical stories and ancient legends such as the parable of the sower’s deception of King Herod, or the flight into Egypt.

Another is of dancers who were forced to dance for a year after their movements turned a priest’s thoughts during midnight mass, or the little homeless match girl who lit all her matches as she tried to imagine what Christmas would be like if she had a home. Christmas being a time of miracles, a group of golden angels escorted her to Paradise as the last match was struck.

Here in France, the traditions continue today, not so much with cards and carols, but with Christmas lights, advent calendars, and the ever popular Marchés de Noël.

Source: Ministère de l’Europe et des affaires Etrangères

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

Can’t decide whether to adopt the French tradition and celebrate Christmas on the 24th this year?

The 26th isn’t a Jour de Fête in France so, as there is no work next day, it kind of makes sense to celebrate into the early hours of the morning from the 24th to 25th. That said, many families are now opting for two celebrations.

So why not join them and have both?

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Party On! LEISURE

Looking for ideas for a New Year’s Eve Party? These might help…

Each of these ideas are easy to do but can make all the difference on the night.

FIRE PIT FIREWORKS Take your party outside for the fireworks and ooh and ahh in comfort, with a glowing fire pit, cosy blankets, hot toddies, toasted marshmallows and roasted chestnuts. You could even have a few foil wrapped sausages cooking in the base for a tasty snack.

SERIOUSLY?

SMILE! After the year we have had it’s going to be a night to remember so why not make your own photo backdrop with a balloon wall? Use different shaped balloons in your theme colour or go for holographic versions for extra glam.

Add some photo props on the side like feather boas, teddy bears, stars on sticks, glasses and hats.

Make and decorate some fun cards and add your questions. Shuffle them, let your guest pick a card but they must answer truthfully! Ideas: name your guilty pleasure, your most embarrassing moment this year, your worst nightmare, your best memory, your first love, etc.

You may be surprised at what you hear!

their Riojas, and their Camemberts from their Bries? Have a selection of wines at the ready, together with a varied cheese platter and ask them to write down what they think they are. The winner takes home a bottle!

WINE AND CHEESE

PICK A DECADE

Can your guests tell their Merlots from

Victoriana, roaring 20s, naughty 90s, swinging 60s, take your pick but don’t just dress up, turn back time with decorations, music, and, of course, the favourite food and drink of the period. You could also trawl online for a few added pieces of memorabilia for extra authenticity.

TABLE TOPPERS Striking, giant helium balloons can make a fabulous table centrepiece, towering over your guests and bringing a real party atmosphere. Or use as individual place settings and add their names. Keep them in place with streamers and weights and your guests will be blown away, not the decorations.

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LEISURE

A POP A SECOND We all wait for those last ten seconds so why not count them down with a pop of a balloon? Make sure you fill the tenth with glitter. Children will love to count the hours down too!

HAVE A BALL What can you do with a foam sphere, gold or silver wrapping paper, a circle punch and a hot glue gun? Make your own disco balls! You choose the size and simply layer and stick the circles on the foam, leaving one edge free to slip the next circle under.

BREAKFAST ANYONE? Think outside the box with your late night/early morning snacks. Wrap strips of steak around chips, pop sausages into mini Yorkshire puds, serve bitesize beans on toast, wrap bacon around quail’s eggs, stuff mushrooms with garlic breadcrumbs, encase scrambled egg in smoked salmon, and mix the bubbles with various juices.

FAIRY LIGHT THE WAY

out. You could add them to a chandelier or a round light fitting, tack them to an outside wall in the shape of a star or tree, etc., have them spilling out of hanging baskets, add them to twigs in a vase, or simply let the light shine in as many glass containers as you can.

THE BIG BANG Crackers aren’t just for Christmas so let’s make a giant one for New Year!

Simply roll a tube of lightweight card and sellotape it in a couple of places, score around 70% of the middle with a knife. (Don’t seal the roll all the way down or it won’t come apart when pulled.) Fill with noisemakers, confetti, party poppers, hats and headpieces, sweets, kazoos, harmonicas and whatever else takes your fancy. Cover in crêpe or wrapping paper, leaving an excess at each end. Seal the contents with ribbon. All that’s left is for everyone to grab the ends and shout bang!

Here’s wishing you a very happy New Year.

Who doesn’t love fairy lights? Hang a fallen tree branch and cover it with light strands, or make a feature of a metal watering can and let the lights tumble

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

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SPORT

Think like a penguin Ice skating should be fun so we triple-Salchowed through the internet and found some basic tips for that first venture onto the ice.

who want to go fast, turn often and stop quickly. Of course, none of this is possible if you haven’t mastered maintaining your posture, your balance and being able to stop. Both skates are fine for a beginner (although it is easier to balance on the longer blade of a figure skate and you may learn to skate more quickly) so decide which type of ice skating you are going to be doing and select your skate accordingly.

GOOD FIT

WARM AND COMFY First and foremost, be warm, comfortable and dress for safety.

That adds up to layering your clothing, wearing gloves and choosing socks that reach higher than the boot but which are not too thick. Thick socks may not only alter your balance but they can make your feet sweat and, ultimately, your feet will be colder. Try to avoid clothing like jeans which can soak up any water on the ice and make sure that clothing allows movement.

FIGURE OR HOCKEY? Generally speaking, figure skates are designed to help you jump and spin, whilst hockey skates are for those

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Skates should be snug but not tight, and allow you to wriggle your toes.

You should always try your usual size and one size larger to see which feels more comfortable. Lace them up so that your ankle is supported (but can still be bent) and your feet are able to move and feel comfortable. You don’t want the laces adding to the risk of a fall by coming undone, so tie with a double knot and tuck the ends into the top of the skate.

BE READY This is exercise and, like all sports, you will benefit from a warm up, moving your back, neck and shoulders and stretching your legs. Injury is less likely if the body is ready and a deep breath before stepping onto the ice will help you to relax.

When skating with children it is tempting to hold hands but, as hard as it will be for you, they really do need to find their balance on their own. Be ready to

catch them but try to let them skate on their own. Helmets are a good idea and skating aids are available at most rinks but, if a child has to bend over to hold one, their balance will be lost and they will be better off holding the barrier.

If they fall over and aren’t hurt be sure to have a good laugh, help to pick them up, and start all over again.

STARTING AND STOPPING Join the rink in the same direction as the other skaters, staying close to and holding onto the barrier until you feel you are balancing and are ready to let go. At that point, remember that the barrier is still your best friend so stay close, keeping your skates apart about the same width as your shoulders, with your feet either pointing forward or toes slightly opened out. Now comes the tricky bit. Your body weight needs to move from one foot to the other, so go gently, with a slight forward motion and no giant movements. Think penguin and you will soon be on your way.

Looking down can ruin all this balance so make sure you look straight ahead to where you want to go. Whilst you keep your head up, bend your knees to help keep that balance and maintain control.

Opening your feet will produce the first push and glide and you are on your way.

Now you need to know how to stop. With your feet straight and your knees bent, turn each foot inwards with your toes and push out from the middle of your feet. Don’t look down or lean forward

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SPORT

and you will come to a gradual stop.

Try this out at the barrier first as suddenly becoming stationery on the ice can lead to a fall.

HOW TO FALL AND RISE If you are set for a fall and are on the way down. the advice we found is to try not to use your hands to break the fall but, instead, fall onto your side. You can also lessen the impact by bending your elbows and knees and tucking your head and chin into your chest.

Now to stand up! Making fists with your hands, place them on the ice.

Move into a kneeling position and position one of your blades on the ice between your hands. Push and lift the other leg, keeping your knees bent until you have regained your balance.

Just keep going and enjoy!

This article is intended for advice purposes only. Please take care.

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

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ASK

KATIE!

ADVICE

Katie Gardner is a fully-qualified CBT Counsellor and 11-year expat based on the border of 47/24.

She’s here to answer your questions. www.kgcounselling.com

Q

Jessica R writes: My father, a widower, has always been very independent. He has recently moved very close to me and I find I am slowly becoming a full-time carer. I want to help but I work and have a family.

Can you suggest any coping mechanisms please?

Hello Jessica The feeling of being overwhelmed is

A

understandable, it would be a lot to take on if it was just your job and your father.

The practicalities of dealing with an elderly parent can be hugely alleviated by getting outside help (I speak from personal experience). You cannot do this all on your own.

First, go with your father to his doctor and find out what is available to you/him. There’s masses of help out there, from

LEGAL ADVICE Sarah Bright Thomas is an Avocat Associé and Partner at Bright Avocats. www.brightavocats.com

Q

Gerald J writes: We married again under the French Contrat Universelle to ensure that the remaining property would go directly to the other when we died, and received a Certificate d’Hereditaire. When my wife died and it came to selling our house it seems that the previous Notaire, now deceased, had not registered the document correctly and I needed succession

46

documents. This involved our children signing more paperwork and a €5000 bill from the Notaire. Why? Hello Gerald Speaking It is possible that with French friends builds on the death of your wife,

A

confidence

Caption

daily home help to equipment for hire (usually covered by your mutuelle). Doing this now will also help in the future when, inevitably, his needs will increase.

Once you have the necessary support, start making lists.

Divide your time up for who needs what/when but remember, crucially, to include downtime for you too, time to recoup and restore. Then, as much as possible, stick to the plan.

The elderly can be very frustrating and demanding, try to bear in mind that this isn’t about you or aimed at you personally. Perhaps your father

and in application of the marital contract that you adopted, the Notaire automatically applied the terms of the clause of “attribution” contained in the “Communauté Universelle” contract to enable the ownership of the property to automatically pass to yourself. However, this change in ownership must be published on the land registry and, following a death, it is a document called the “attestation immobilière” that serves as the title for the publication on the land registry showing the change in ownership of the property.

I do not have sufficient information to hand but I suspect that it is this document that was not drawn up at the time so

is feeling frightened or in pain or is just finding it difficult that his faculties are failing.

Talk to him, really talk to him, ask him what he is finding particularly tough; it will help you feel more sympathetic towards him, rather than just constantly irritated!

Finally, empathy and compassion go a long way.

Remember not to take the time that you have left together for granted, it will help you later.

Life concern questions can be sent to Katie c/o buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

when you came to sell the house it appeared that your predeceased wife was still indicated as owning the property and this obviously had to be changed to allow you to sell.

The Notaire in charge of the sale would have therefore prepared this document and the fees were due for what is called the “publicité foncière” and these are proportional to the value of the property.

As a disclaimer I should point out that this is a supposition based on the information provided and the only way to be certain would be for my firm to examine the documents that all the members of the family were made to sign so as to allow the sale of the property to proceed.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

WELL BEING

Cold, Flu or COVID? This winter we are all at risk from influenza (flu) as well as COVID-19 but, with so many symptoms being similar, how do we know the difference and what action do we need to take?

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses but both are infectious respiratory diseases.

The trouble is that they both spread in similar ways and share similar symptoms such as a cough, runny nose, sore throat, fever, headache and fatigue, making it very difficult to diagnose. Not everyone will feel the same. Some may have no symptoms, others will experience mild ones and some may suffer from more severe manifestations such as breathlessness, muscle pain, chills and a (new) loss of taste or smell. Both illnesses can cause pneumonia and both can be fatal.

Medical News Today highlights the symptoms of the common cold, flu and COVID-19 with a helpful table:

PREVENTION

FEELING UNWELL?

It is possible to be infected with COVID and flu at the same time. WHO explains that both diseases are spread by droplets and aerosols when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, sings or breathes. People who are nearby can catch these droplets in their eyes, nose or mouth. They can also be infected by touching contaminated surfaces then touching their own eyes, nose or mouth if they haven’t cleaned their hands.

Therefore, the same measures need to be taken to prevent infection. These include wearing a well-fitted face mask, keeping our distance from others, avoiding crowded and poorly ventilated places, cleaning our hands frequently, and opening windows and doors to ensure rooms are well ventilated.

As outlined by WHO and many other health organisations, vaccines play an important role in our protection against both diseases but different vaccines are required. Flu vaccines do not protect against COVID-19 and vice versa.

Older adults, people with chronic medical conditions such as cardiac, renal, metabolic, neurologic, liver or hematologic diseases, and those with immunosuppressive conditions such as HIV/AIDS, who are receiving chemotherapy or steroids, or malignancy are all at higher risk of severe illness.

The advice from WHO is that people should stay home if they don’t feel well and contact their doctor if they have any of the following severe symptoms: l Shortness of breath l Loss of appetite l Confusion l Persistent pain or pressure in the chest l High temperature (above 38°C) More from WHO can be read at https://bit.ly/3oNz4X8

This article is intended for information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If in any doubt, consult your doctor and/or go for a COVID test.

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

47

READER OFFER

Christmas has never tasted so good!

I

t’s nearly time to make those Christmas cakes and treats and here’s a way that will not only help you to find the often-illusive ingredients but, in addition, save you money! It will also put shopping for those chocolate stocking fillers, cards, crackers and Christmas essentials, including the turkey, right at your fingertips!

The Trading Post is kindly offering readers of The Local Buzz a 10% discount on its website “Christmas” section which now features special seasonal additions such as mixed peel, Christmas puds (complete with a gluten free version), and brands such as Mr Kipling, Paxo, Robertson’s, Rowntree’s, Cadbury’s, Bisto and, amongst many others, Colman’s and its bread sauce!

48

Simply place your order online and enter the code BUZZX10 to receive your discount, then select the date and location of the many collection points throughout our region.

(One use per customer and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.)

Don’t forget Santa’s mince pies and sherry! www.thetradingpost.fr

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

FINANCE

Andrea Glover

NEW FRENCH SUCCESSION RULES British nationals take note

In this edition, Andrea Glover, International Financial Adviser at The Spectrum IFA Group, writes about the changes coming into force in the French law on succession, which is effective from November 2021.

This new directive requires important consideration by British nationals who live or own a property in France, as they may need to seek appropriate legal guidance on how this new ruling impacts them, dependent on family circumstances and wishes upon death.

NEW LEGISLATION The French Senate recently passed legislation to tighten the civil code around inheritance law in France.

This law will effectively erode the EU Succession Regulation (ESR) of 2015, whereby British nationals had been given the option to avoid French succession in their Will by applying the succession law of the country of their nationality. Effectively, this meant they could dispose of their estate as they wished.

For many British nationals, this allowed them to fully protect a survivor on first death and then leave their

assets to their children on second death. It also allowed for estranged children to be disinherited.

WHAT CHANGES? The main purpose of the change in law is to allow children of the deceased to challenge a Will that adopts the ESR of 2015 if they believe they have been disinherited or unfairly treated. The rule applies if the law applicable to an estate is a foreign law without a system of forced heirship and where either the deceased or one of their children lives in an EU country.

The children could be awarded compensation by withdrawing from the estate their share of reserved rights under French succession law.

The new law is limited to French assets, meaning that assets located outside of France could not be obtained by the child or children

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

making a claim, but obviously this could have a detrimental effect on French property ownership and French savings accounts for the surviving party. The Notaire is now legally obliged to inform children of their rights under this new law, although it is not yet known how this will work in practice, particularly with estranged children.

This change has been widely criticised by cross border practitioners as it goes against the principles of the ESR of 2015 and it is highly likely that this will be challenged in the EU courts, but obviously this could take years to come to fruition.

THE OPTIONS In the meantime, my advice is to speak to a Notaire or cross border lawyer to see how this impacts you, particularly if you have already made a Will under ESR of 2015. It is also worth mentioning that, where applicable, there

are other legal mechanisms available for establishing property ownership to protect the survivor, such as the ‘en tontine’ clause.

Considering this new legislation, international assurance vie contracts could now play a more significant part in inheritance planning, as the assets are not held in France but with companies that are typically situated in highly regulated EU financial centres, such as Dublin and Luxembourg. It is an excellent vehicle to ensure that your moveable wealth is passed on to your chosen beneficiaries, outside of this new ruling. www.spectrum-ifa.com/ financial-advisor-france/ andrea-glover

The article above is provided for information purposes only.

It does not constitute advice or a recommendation from The Spectrum IFA Group.

49

PROPERTY

BUYING OR SELLING A HOME IN FRANCE?

“There’s never been a better time” The last 18 months have been extraordinary for the French property market, with many agencies recording the highest volume of sales they’ve ever had. Now, they want properties!

Sue Mowat

Sue Mowat, Agent Commercial, Agence Eleonor, Eymet, explains “As with many agencies, we were prepared for the buying frenzy leading up to Brexit, but none of us could have predicted how buoyant the market would continue to be after December 2020. That’s especially true when the UK’s withdrawal from the EU was swiftly followed by a global pandemic with its seemingly endless months of lockdowns and travel restrictions.”

THE COVID EFFECT On paper, COVID should have been disastrous for the property market but, just as the prospect of Brexit led to

50

record numbers of UK buyers taking the plunge and bringing forward their decision to buy a permanent (or holiday) home in France, the pandemic has had an unexpected, and very positive, outcome.

COVID, with all of its rules and regulations on working and travelling had the effect of stopping people in their tracks. For some, it introduced them to the concept of working remotely, giving them a golden opportunity to step off the treadmill for a bit and to reassess how, or where, they really wanted to live their lives.

For many agencies, that’s meant more Parisians, Toulousains, Bordelaises and other city folk coming through the doors, all on the lookout for maisons principales ou secondaires in the countryside. Thanks to much improved Internet connection, office-workers can carry on working from home whilst enjoying a slower and healthier pace of life.

NEW BUYERS This unexpected ‘new’ type of property buyer has been a welcome addition to the traditional core client base, which hasn’t really changed despite the politics and global viruses. There certainly doesn’t seem to have been a massive rush of Britons selling up and returning to the UK. In fact, we probably see more Brits moving within France, quite often for the weather – the Dordogne and south west offer a welcome change of climate for those in the north and south of France alike.

Others who have brought up their families here are now looking to downsize, or they’ve reached an age when they want to exchange their large and lovingly restored homes for smaller, single level properties where they can enjoy a comfortable retirement, with some equity in the bank.

In addition to those who are already resident in France, we are still seeing a steady

stream of Brits who may have missed the EU Withdrawal Agreement deadline, but who are continuing their plans to buy French property postBrexit. Along with others from places like Australia, America, Canada etc., they simply inform themselves of the regulatory requirements and make the necessary Visa arrangements.

TIME TO SELL? Sue concludes “Demand is very definitely outstripping supply right now so, for anyone who is considering putting their house on the market, I’d say there’s never been a better time. Increased demand often means properties are more likely to sell quickly and perhaps even at a higher price than prepandemic. Houses that are well presented, realistically priced and in desirable locations are definitely being snapped up.” www.agence-eleonor.fr

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

REGIONAL PROPERTY

QUALITY PROPERTIES REQUIRED Contact Eilidh McGinness, independent estate agent for your dream Dordogne property in the Valley de l’Isle and Foret de la Double.

ADVERT

Open Sesame

Competitive rates Mobile: 06 83 85 10 99 Email: immo24-7@orange.fr http://www.propertysouthwestfrance.co.uk

Renovations take many forms and this magnificent farmhouse has been transformed into an open-plan living space with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

Sat in 10 hectares of pasture, it also benefits from an outbuilding and close proximity to a hamlet with local facilities. A feature wood burner keeps it toasty in winter and a mezzanine lends itself to a library or further bedroom.

Ready to move into at EUR 490,000. www.immo24-7.com

A Working Château Now a luxury castle with B&B and gîtes, this charming château is full of history in the heart of the Black Périgord. The first trace of this impressive 7 bedroom, 7 bathroom property dates back to 1476 and, since then, it has retained much of the character and improvements it has seen over the various decades, including beautiful restored paintings on wood that date from the 16th century. The location and the contemporary, luxury fittings make this property one of a kind.

EUR 1,930,000, Ref 72029ERE24 www.frenchestateagents.com

Selling?

We need to talk!

We have registered buyers waiting for the right property. Is it yours?

Call: 05 56 71 36 59 Email: marketing@beauxvillages.com SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

Beaux Villages IMMOBILIER

International Associate of Savills

VOTED BEST ESTATE AGENCY IN FRANCE 2020/21

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

51

PUZZLES

Crossword

How many of these festive favourites will you be celebrating with this year? This bi-lingual crossword might be just what you need for your shopping list. The clues are in English but the answers are in French. Have fun!

ACROSS 1. the salmon 3. the turkey 5. the chocolate truffle 9. the champagne 10. the goose liver 11. the game meat 12. some oysters

13. the feast 14. the spiced wine

DOWN 1. the cheese 2. some candied fruits

4. the stuffing 5. the roasted chestnut 6. the yule log cake 7. the candles 8. the candied chestnut 10. the roast

With special thanks to Puzzles to Print. www.puzzles-to-print.com.

For the crossword solution go to page 56.

Wordsearch This fun wordsearch is perfect for those quiet moments in front of the fire. Some of the words are in the articles, some are things we come across in life. You will find them running from side to side, top to bottom, bottom to top and, just for fun, diagonally.

SKATING CRAFTY RIBBON FLUIDS TINSEL DISH GLOVES PRESENTS QUIRKY WONDER TREES ROBIN OVEN NEST BONDED ARTS BULBS

52

HOCKEY RAISE GIVE STRONG BEAN NOTAIRE WINTER GARNISH BLEAK SCARVES VALVES MISTY GREETINGS BOOTS TRADITIONS NOEL SOIN

YULETIDE BARE COVID CHRISTMAS FACTS HATS SELLERS COLD MANOIR PERE CRACKER MISTLETOE ABBEY PAZAZZ FLU PIZZA ROOTED

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Business Directory

NEW BUILD & RENOVATION 07 80 58 39 60 or 06 75 51 89 13 laquercyoak@gmail.com greyrobert4.wixsite.com/ quercy-oak

A family run business specialising in removals, storage and shipping throughout Europe.

Fully registered and insured.

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

Artisans & Services

Please contact us for advice and quotations: www.safehandshaulage.com Email: info@safehandshaulage.com In France: 05 53 79 26 48

The best place to get carpets and flooring for your French home!

Carpets, vinyls, laminate and wood flooring, and LVT (luxury vinyl tiles) from leading manufacturers.

Home visits free and without obligation in all of France You contact us - we come to you - job done!

Or visit our new showroom, see website for details.

www.jon-thecarpetman.com

Tel: 09 63 56 23 10 or 06 42 19 82 12 Email: jonthecarpetman@gmail.com

Buzz The Local

FINANCE

& Gers Garonne For those living, working or visiting Dordogne, Lot et•Garonne, Gironde, Haut Garonne, Tarn et Garonne &&Gers or For et Garonne A Lifestyle Magazine & Website for • Gironde • Dordogne Lot et Garonne • LotLot, • Gers • Tarn et Garonne • N.Haute Garonne those A Lifestyle Tarn • N.Haute living, Magazine working Garonne, et Garonne Websitevisiting Haut • Tarn for • Gironde Dordogne, • Gers Lot et•Garonne, • Dordogne • LotLot, Gironde, Lot et Garonne Gironde, Lot et Garonne • LotLot, Lot et•Garonne, Haut • Gers Garonne, • Tarn • Dordogne et Garonne Dordogne, Tarn et Garonne • N.Haute for • Gironde or visiting & Gers Garonne working & Website Magazine those living, For A Lifestyle 2021

DECEMBER 2020 & JANUARY

POSITIVE THOUGHTS

The Racing Line FREE

I’m priceless

Coming up

ROSES!

15 PAGE REGIONAL WHAT’S ON GUIDE

Working from home Taking care What’s in the sun Streaming?

Insurance Stocking thoughts Fillers & Last Renovation Minute Gifts Theme it!

Energy Savers

Summer

POOLS & Spas

JULY & AUGUST 2020

15 PAGE REGIONAL SPECIAL

Going Potty in the Garden

Outdoor Banquets Improving your French Property Update

MAY & JUNE 2020

REGIONAL WHAT’S ON GUIDE FREE

I’m priceless

✴

FREE

I’m priceless

T

Apéro Treats Taking to water Festive Fun! T

Local Entrepreneur • Seven Wonders • Reader Offer and Drink Boredom The Local BuzzBusters •2020 Prize Competition • Financial • May & June Competit ion • Food Advice Gardenin g • Prize 1

Postal Subscriptions click here

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

53

Business The size is 44.5 x 60mms (w x h) Directory

Artisans & Services Family business offering removal services UK/France

Charity Association Beauville 47470 Sous les cornières Place de la Mairie

2020 Calendar – A4, local scenes available at shop and on website www.boncoeur47.fr

We raise money through our shop (selling clothes & accessories, brocante, books…) and events like book sale / bazaars. We then pass funds on to other good causes (human and animal).

Over €75,000 gifted by Jan 2020

Boutique open: Tues, Wed, Fri – 2 -4pm

Established for over 30 years offering a regular and reliable service.

Thurs: 3 – 5pm Fri & Sun: 10 – 12noon www.boncoeur47.fr 0689 53 24 78 boncoeur@boncoeur47.fr Bon Coeur Contact us for large donations or if coming from afar

QUOTE

COLLECTION

DELIVERY

• • • •

Fully Insured Regular Service Containerised Storage Packing Services

Contact us for a FREE QUOTE: Call Stephen or Ben Franklin

on 0121 353 7263 or email sales@franklinsremovals.co.uk

www.franklinsremovals.co.uk

Roy and Janet Byrne Tel: 05 53 36 34 75 maconfiture@aol.com

Excavation & Levelling Vegetation, Tree & Woodland Clearance www.marsdengroundworks.com

D LEVELLING OODLAND CLEARANCE

Thursday – Eymet Friday – Ste-Livrade sur Lot Saturday – Villereal Sunday – Chateau Stelsia, St Sylvestre

Les Bons Voisins

property management throughout france

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no job too small, no project too large

exceptional service at competitive prices

key holding . caretaking . maintenance . supervision changeovers . cleaning . gardening . mail forwarding

. admin help . translation

friendly people providing professional help to home owners in france www.LBVfrance.com 54

e:info@LBVfrance.com

t:+33 (0)5 62 29 26 62

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

Alcoholics Anonymous If you or someone you know has a drinking problem join one of the English speaking AA meetings across SW France. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help others achieve sobriety.

Sharing experience, strength and hope Call Angela: 05 49 87 79 09 or Bill: 06 14 27 21 90 www.aafrance.net

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

FRANCE

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has been providing lifelong support to our Forces and their families since 1885. We understand the unique demands of service life, whether it’s on UK soil or overseas. Support is available for people at any stage in their military career – no one’s service is ever forgotten.

Email: france.branch@ssafa.org.uk Tel: 05 53 24 92 38 ssafa.org.uk/france

Registered as a charity Number 210760, SC038056, 20202001

Artisans & Services

Business Directory

55

Business Directory

Artisans & Services French Admin

C’est la vie...facile!

06 72 49 45 14 https://frenchadmin.fr contact@frenchadmin.fr Dealing with all your needs in French administration.

From Carte vitale to Residency permits, utilities, and driving licences...Sit back and we will deal with it all.

10% off (1st order): LocalBuzz

Specialist in Swedish and deep tissue massage

cgrasby@gmx.co m

ENGLISH SPEAKING DEMENTIA SUPPORT SOUTH DORDOGNE

We have funding to start a new group with professional support.

If you are interested in joining us as a carer or possible volunteer please contact us.

Tel: 06 09 21 06 09 or Email: cgrasby@gmx.com

www.francealzheimer.org/dordogne

Crossword

solution

Here is the solution to the crossword on page 52.

56

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

.

Win A Work Of Art Brighten up your home and your life with this fantastic competition prize

Paul de Ath “Nothing is ever black and white”

C

COMPETITION

elebrated artist, Paul de Ath, is well known for his iconic black and white street scenes with his trademark splash of colour. Full of movement and depicting daily French life with a stylish twist, his paintings have been sold throughout the world and he is kindly offering one of these fabulous original works of art in this exclusive competition.

Formerly an haute couture stylist in Paris and interior decorator in London, Paul, who lives in Lot et Garonne and has been painting for ten years, takes his inspiration from his regular visits to French towns and cities. Combining Indian ink and watercolours, his work is

instantly recognisable with its landscapes, buildings and chic passers-by with their umbrellas. Featuring a graphic style that defies classification, each piece is equally at home amongst the classics as well as modern and contemporary art.

Having exhibited at the Château de Duras for the last six summers, he was delighted to have been voted a favourite artist by the public for the third time. Many galleries throughout our region also display his art and, having been postponed due to Covid, his work will soon be on show at a New York gallery.

This easy-to-enter competition has a prize value of around EUR 300 and a closing date of 8 January, 2022. The winner can choose their painting from a selection presented by Paul via email. No refunds or exchange allowed. This is a competition without obligation to buy – the rules of the competition are deposited with S.C.P. Laurent Rodriguez and Gaël Peyssi Bailiffs Associates, 25 rue Louis Mie, 24007, Périgueux, Cedex.

These rules can also be seen online at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/win For a chance to win, all you have to do is answer the following correctly.

Answers can be found in this issue of the magazine which can also be seen at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online www.facebook.com/paul.death1

The Local Buzz • November - December 2021

Enter online at

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/win 1. Which skates are best for spinning a) Roller blades b) Hockey c) Ice 2. Tree bark that has been eaten all round is a) barked up b) bark ringed c) bark circled 3. W ho wrote Minuit, Chrétiens? a) Placido Domingo b) Placida Feliciano c) Placide Cappeau 4. Our latest bi-lingual crossword is all about a) Festivities b) Construction c) Sport

57

JUST DRONING

ok at...

A tongue-in-cheek lo

Fire ‘n ice

by the editor T

he autumn leaves are well on their way to becoming next year’s feast for the soil and the logs are being stacked, forming skyscraper hotels for bugs of all kinds.

That includes my worst nightmare, snakes. One was snaking its way up the wall the other day, sliding through a hole and slithering down the other side into a pile of logs. Going to fetch wood now involves a ritual of hand clapping, foot stomping and talking very loudly in the hope it will scare it off.

However, I am in love, not with Mr Slither but with my new heating! Having just moved to my third renovation in France, my only source of

58

warmth this winter is a very old, very beautiful and very rustic (not rusty) wood burner. It is also very big and I can’t wait to light it every day, watching those golden flames flicker, and feeling that heat radiate its way upstairs. No longer am I filling an oil tank but, instead, I’ve had five stère of oak delivered and, what a bonus, had it stacked for me!

It will be interesting to see how long it lasts with my new found enthusiasm for stoking and adding logs to the glowing embers.

One thing is for sure, I’m ready for snow if it comes

this year. It seems a long time, around 2003 in fact, since it last really snowed where I live here in France.

I’m not talking the odd flake, but the thick, cotton woollike blobs that settle on the ground and make tobogganing a probability, and being able to drive up my hill a definite no no. Log fires seem to burn brighter with snow on the ground and Christmas markets become even more magical with their vin chaud calling to you after a circuit on the festive outdoor ice rink.

Researching the ice skating tips took me straight back to when I was around seven years old. I was on an ice rink with mum and dad

and to say we were all a “bit wooden” would be an understatement. I will never forget the look on my dad’s face when he lost what little balance he had, careering over the ice, definitely about to go down with a bump, and reaching out to the first thing he could grab hold of. That turned out to be a lady’s skirt which, as it was elasticated at the waist, quickly ended up around her ankles. Thank goodness she laughed but my dad was horrified. The one thing I took away with me that day was to wear trousers!

I’m not sure I ever took to the ice again but maybe this year.

Probably not…

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

AP_GOURMET_DE_FRANCE_210X270_FU.indd 1

28/04/2016 16:01