FOURTEEN schools across theDordogne will lose a class next year aspart of nationwide measures to reduceeducation costs.

A series of protests by parents andteachers have been held in recent weeksagainst the cutbacks, which will meanthe loss of 14 teaching posts, althoughtheir demands so far have only beenmet by one school in Sarlat.

La Boëtie College, Aquitaine’s largestsecondary school, has agreed to add anextra class to the school’s quatrième, orthird year, at the start of the next schoolyear. However, parents are still callingfor a class to be added to the sixième, orfirst year after primary school.

Martine Ginestet, the vice-presidentof the Sarlat branch of FCPE, the par-ents association, said that without theextra class there would be 28 pupils ineach of the ten sixième classes.

“That is too many,” she said.

“All children suffer in such a situa-tion, but particularly those who havedifficulties in school and need extraattention in class, not less.”

This view was echoed by teachers.

“Adding on an extra two children does-n’t sound much but it can make all thedifference,” said Fanny Coinon, amaths teacher at the school.

“We can’t easily give pupils individual

attention, which is badly needed by theless-able students, and those who areaverage can easily fall into the wrongside in an oversized class.”

Parents are also

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AdvertiserThe

DORDOGNE FREEGRATUIT

May 2011 - Issue 27

PérigueuxrobberiespromptwarningPOLICE in Périgueux havewarned business and home-owners to be extra vigilantfollowing a spate of burglariesin the town.

Bakeries have been the maintarget, with four stores recent-ly being broken into within aweek. While nothing wastaken from the first break-inat a bakery in Coulounieix-Chamiers, burglars escapedwith €90 from Lehoux bakeryon rue Pierre-Semard the nextday. Two more bakeries in thetown were also hit: one inFournil de la Cité, the otheron the corner of rue Wilsonand rue Thierst.

Since early April, police havestepped up the surveillance ofbakeries in the town.

“There aren’t any miracles,unfortunately,” said a police-man at Périgueux station, whoasked not to be named.“Business owners just need to

be on guard, particularly atclosing time or shortly beforeit. And don’t leave the till fullof money, it’s commonsensereally.”

He played down fears of adrastic rise in break-ins,adding that the incidents werea “coincidence” and that“these aren't once a weekevents”. He continued:“We see these things happen-ing during the year, it’s notfrequent or seasonal. “Although we do see a slight

rise in the theft of gardeningequipment during the springand summer seasons.”

Meanwhile, there have beenrobberies at other businessesacross the region, particularly

Turn to Page 3

Parents, teachers and children have held several protests against the cutbacks at schools across the Dordogne

Parents and teachersunite in fears overclass overcrowding

www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Protests as 14 classesto be cut from schoolsBy JANE HANKS

Turn to Page 2

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HOSPITALS AND CLINICSPérigueux Hospital: 05 53 45 25 25Emergency 24h / 24: 05 53 45 26 38Polyclinique Francheville: 05 53 02 11 11Emergency 24h / 24: 05 53 02 12 20

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2 News The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

From Page 1angered by the lack of quali-fied replacement teachers atthe school.“The headmaster had to go tothe job centre to ask for peo-ple with a degree in therequired subject, but not nec-essarily any teaching experi-ence,” said Marie-PierreProdéo, also vice-president ofFCPE. “This is happening in key

subjects like maths andEnglish. Many teachers havebeen ill this year and there

just aren’t enough qualifiedteachers to replace them.”

A list of the 14 schools thatwill lose a class has been pub-lished, while a decision ontwo others will be made inSeptember.

Meanwhile, four schools willget an additional class and thefate of 10 others will be decid-ed in September.

The Education Authority forthe Dordogne said there willbe 130 fewer pupils in thedepartment next year andthat class sizes are reasonable

with an average of 23 pupils.However, SNUipp-FSU, the

teachers union, is unhappywith the news. “Fewer classes are beingclosed than last year but weare losing more members ofstaff in the department thanever before, a fact whichremains hidden from thepublic as some of them arejobs where the teacher didn'thave his or her own class,”said Alain Barry, who repre-sents primary school teachersat the union.

Concerned: Marie-Pierre Prodéo and Martine Ginestet, joint vice-presidents of the FCPE

Union says teachingresources threatened Bergerac S.Lacore

Ribérac Mussidan infant schoolBelves Bergerac-Alba Bergerac J.Moulin Boulazac J.Curie Le Buisson de Cadouin Le Lardin Saint LazareClos-Chassaing, Périgueux Razac sur l'Isle Ribérac J.FerryMussidan primary schoolThiviers

ExcideuilMenesplet St Pierre de ChignacSte Alvère RPI Chantérac, St Vincent de ConnezacRPI St Méard deGurçon, FougueyrollesRPI Nabirat, SaintMartial de NabiratRPI Grèzes, Ladornac-ChavagnacTwo replacement teachers posts

Schools and teaching posts which will be opened according to numbersenrolled in September

Carsac-Aillac RPI Eglise-Neuve-de- Vergt, Saint-Paul-de-Serre, ChalagnacCénac et Saint Julien Marsac-sur-l'Isle

Schools which will have a new class

RPI Saint-Paul-la-Roche, Jumilhac Le GrandRPI Auriac du Périgord, Aubas

Class closures to be decided in September

Class closures

Is your localschool affected?

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News 3The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011 www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Fraud doctorjailed for 2 yearsA DOCTOR in Ribérac hasbeen sentenced to two yearsin prison and fined €20,000for fraud. Between 2004 and2007, Jean-Marie Bresqueforged hundreds of healthinsurance invoices for ficti-tious consultations. The fraudcame to light when staff at theCaisse Primaire d’Assurance-Maladie de la Dordogne(CPAM) noticed the invoiceswere made for night consulta-tions, which never took place,or for people who were not inthe region at the time.

Fire at Périgueuxapartment blockFOURTEEN residents of atower block on rue Agonacwere rescued when an apart-ment on the fourth floorcaught fire. The fire, whichwas extinguished by 25 fire-men, is believed to have beencaused by a short circuit fromone of the bedrooms. Nobodywas hurt in the incident.

Bergerac airportset for record year2011 is forecast to be a recordyear for travellers passingthrough Bergerac airport.According to estimates fromairport officials, 290,000 trav-ellers will use the airport thisyear. This is mainly due toairlines increasing the numberof flights from the airport.

News in brief

AN EXHIBITION of the work of American sculp-tor Edmund Ashby, who died at the end of March,will be held in Ribérac in July.

Mr Ashby, who lived in Champagne Fontaine, wasknown in the area as much for his height andhumour as he was for his offbeat monuments.

Originally from Chicago, the sculptor, who was 55when he passed away, moved to the region in 2007and soon drew the affection of the local population.

He had already made a name for himself with hismonuments, such as a large fountain in Ribérac inthe shape of a left hand. Its mirror image, a righthand, is in Rietberg, Germany.

However, the creation that made him both popu-lar and unpopular was the fluorescent pink lion,according to an article published in a Germannewspaper in 2007.

On the day it was placed outside La Verticalle inVerteillac, a bistro which had just been taken overby British couple, Chris and Samantha Stacey, astorm started to brew among the town’s largeEnglish-speaking contingent.

Mr Ashby had intended the move as a joke todraw attention to an upcoming art exhibition takingplace above La Verticalle.

The 1,100lb concrete masterpiece had, in fact,been bought from a garden store and spray-paintedfluorescent pink.

However, instead of seeing the funny side, a groupof English residents accused Mr Ashby of offendingthe French with ‘garish taste’.

According to the article, the lion did not aggrieveany of the French residents; still, the pressure fromthe English contingent, which included a call fordebate among town councillors, was enough to haveit removed from the steps of La Verticalle.

Still, all was not lost. The mayor of the neighbor-ing Vendoire, Alain Lucas, took a shine to the mas-terpiece and allowed Mr Ashby to place it outsidehis office building, which used to be called Le Liond'Or (Golden Lion).

Sadly, after Mr Lucas was voted out of his post,the lion moved back to Verteillac, where it wasplaced outside Huw’s Brocante.

The monument became so famous that a

Facebook page is dedicated to it.Mr Ashby’s funeral in April was marked with a

ceremony at the Ribérac fountain where he sculptedthe left hand.

His two brothers from the US attended along witha number of British and French artists and friends.

René Corsino, a local councillor, recalled MrAshby’s “artistic talent, conviviality, humour and joyof living in this region.”

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Commemorative exhibition tobe held for pink-lion sculptor

Alzheimer’s centreopens up in Sarlat

From Page 1

in and around ChampagneFontaine. Thieves broke into abar and grocery store in thetown, while more than€2,000 worth of scaffoldingwas taken from a building sitein the area.

Alex Lancashire, who wasworking at the site, hasoffered €500 for informationwhich could lead to catchingthe thieves.

“They’re opportunists,” hesaid.

“They took the scaffoldingand nothing else. We have togo and replace it now, whichis hard at this time of year. Ifanybody can give reasonableinformation then I’m quitehappy to stump up €500towards it. You never knowwho it might bring out.”

Mr Lancashire added thatthe spate of burglaries hasprompted him to install aCCTV system at his home.

“It might not actually stopthem, but at least you mightsee who it is.”

See our feature on pages11-14 on how to keep yourhome and business safe from thieves.

Thievestargetsmallbusinesses

A CENTRE for Alzheimersufferers and their familieshas opened in Sarlat.

The centre, which was joint-ly financed by the local coun-cil’s social fund and the RedCross, will eventually be ableto welcome up to 50 patients.

Initially, it will open one daya week for a therapy sessionwhich can accommodate fif-teen people.

The centre has beenplanned for some time, butwas held up while approvalwas sought from the AgenceRégional de la Santé (ARS).

“I'm delighted for the fami-lies on the list who have beenwaiting for months,” saidFrançoise Lauvinerie, thepresident of the Red Crossbranch in Sarlat.

The centre will initially be

staffed by a director, a nurseand a healthcare assistant,while a full-time psychologistwill eventually be in place.

The Lions club in Sarlat, acharity, is a partner in theproject and provided a newminibus to take patients toand from their homes and onexcursions.

The centre’s yearly mainte-nance costs will be fundedbetween the ARS, the localcouncil and families of thepatients. The centre aims toprovide patients and theirfamilies with a warm andwelcoming environmentwhile also giving them asocial outlet.

Activities will also be organ-ized with the aim of helpingpatients adapt to the diseaseand give them independence.

Centre aims to provide a warm, welcoming environment

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Mr Ashby’s troublesome lion and the funeral service for Edmund Ashby held at Ribérac fountain

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MANY of you will be familiar withITV1’s The Lakes and The Dales, programmes produced by ShiverProductions which depict the lives ofthose living in the UK’s Lake Districtand Yorkshire Dales.

Both shows were extremely popular,with The Lakes pulling in four millionviewers for each of its 12 episodes,making it the most-viewed factualseries on Monday nights to be aired on

British television.The second series performed equally

well from this January onwards, onceagain attracting an average of overfour million viewers per episode.

As a result of its success, ITV1 com-missioned another 12-part seriescalled The Dales, which again follows anumber of characters over the summerliving in the Yorkshire Dales and isnarrated by the actor and comedianAdrian Edmondson, who played punkmetal fan Vyvyan in The Young Onescomedy series.

The series recently started its peak-time run on ITV1, with the firstepisode watched by an incredible 4.4million viewers

So, following on from their success,Shiver Productions decided to bringits next series to the Dordogne, hometo one of the biggest communities ofBritish expatriates in France.

Provisionally called Little England, itwill be a 12-part series centred aroundthe British community in the region,with filming taking place throughoutMay until around June 10.

4 News Feature The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Pensioner robbedof €6,500 in‘home-help trick’A 95-YEAR-OLD pensionerin Périgueux was robbed of€6,500 after two women stolea cheque book from his apart-ment. Disguised as homehelpers, the women, aged 41and 25, tricked the man intobelieving they would help himwith domestic chores.

Super U toreplace CarrefourTHE Carrefour store inBoulazac will be renamedSuper U from January 1, 2012.The move comes after thestore’s owner, La CoopAtlantique, decided not torenew its contract withCarrefour in a bid to lowerconsumer prices by between“two and three per cent”, saidSerge Salles, the consumer-watch director at the firm.The firm hopes the changewill help increase turnover by10 to 15 per cent a year.

Town to holdAugust book day THE town of Saint-Laurent-des-Hommes will this yearhost a day celebrating books.Organised by Cult’Art, thelocal library and the book-shop at Isle in Mussidan, thetown will welcome a numberof authors on August 15.

News in brief The makingof LittleEngland in theDordogne

Bumping into a film crew in the Dordogne is nothingunusual. With its beautifulscenery and historic buildings, the region hasbeen the location for manyperiod films. However, thismonth will see a film crew ofa different kind quietly goingabout its business

Adrian Edmondson, who played Vyvyan in the 1980s comedy hit, The Young Ones, narrated The Dales. A narrator for Little England is yet to be announced

By KIRSTEN STROUD

It is scheduled to be broadcast in asimilar peak-time, mid-week slot onITV1, and will probably air in theAutumn of this year.

“It is well-known that the Dordogneis highly populated with expats and wethought the area also offered us lots ofinteresting stories about what peoplehave done with their lives since mak-ing the move abroad,” said SimonPaintin, the series producer, who alsoproduced 60 Minute Makeover, thehome transformation show for ITV1.

“Many people have set up their own

businesses, there are people who haveventured into keeping vineyards orhave taken on huge renovation work.”

While there have been plenty of sto-ries about people moving back to theUK or of how their dreams turned tonightmare, Mr Paintin said he wantedto capture the positive side of expatri-ate life in the area.

“We want to film normal peoplegoing about normal lives in a gentleand warm manner,” he added.

As Mr Paintin pointed out, thetheme for all three series is one of sim-

plicity. The crew follows peoplearound as they carry out their every-day lives, there are no orchestrated sit-uations.

Their aim is to show off the beautyand appeal of the local environmentand to celebrate the positive side ofpeople’s lives.

Although the crew has already beenin touch with several residents, it isstill looking for people to take part inthe series.

Filming can last from a couple ofhours to a couple of days, depending

on events happening at the time. Thecrew would particularly like to meetthose who are having a big celebrationin their family or who are undergoinga major challenge either in work orhome life.

If you have an interesting story to tellabout life here, how you have integrat-ed into the French way of life andwould like to feature in the series thenplease contact us at angela@dordogneadvertiser.com and we will put you intouch with the film crew. Please includea daytime phone number.

News Feature 5The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011 www.dordogneadvertiser.com

MANCHESTER has becomeone of the most exciting,smart and cosmopolitancities in the UK.

Great shopping, fashion,gigs and festivals, museums,art galleries and theatre, allthis surrounded by some themost stunning countrysidethat can be found on theBritish Isles. For more infor-mation and accommodationopportunities, please visitwww.visitmanchester.com

Book now for the best seatsat the lowest prices.

Flybe also flies toSouthampton every day withconnecting flights available(with a follow through lug-gage service) to Aberdeen,Dundee, Glasgow, Inverness,Stornway, Belfast, Dublin,Guernsey, Jersey, Isle of Man,Newcastle and Leeds.

Booking flights for thesedestinations is just as easy asfor direct flights - you won'teven notice the difference.

Prices to Dublin start from€90 (taxes included) duringthe height of the summerseason.

For more information,check the website:www.bergerac.aeroport.fr

DiscoverManchesterwith Flybe

The Dordogne is home to one of the biggest British expatriates communities in France. The crew is looking to capture the positive side of expatriate life

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EACH year, students at theEcole Hôtelière du Périgordin Boulazac not only puttheir culinary skills to the testbut also their English lan-guage ones.

With just a month to gobefore their end of yearexams, teachers of the BacPro students devised a novelway for them to gain confi-dence for their oral Englishtest: host a dinner where allthe guests were English-speakers.

The students then had tocome up with a theme for thedinner and plan a menu.

The pressure was on thisyear as they had the extraknowledge that the BordeauxBritish consul, AlastairRoberts, was going to be theguest of honour.

The evening began in apanic as the consul was heldup in traffic. However, thestudents coped wonderfullyand went on to serve aninteresting combination ofEnglish food with a Frenchtouch. In between coursesthey performed, in English, amodern adaptation ofShakespeare’s Twelfth Night.

If you would like furtherinformation about othermeals taking place pleasecontact Amanda on 05 53 35 72 72.

By KIRSTEN STROUD

Students hostmeal to sharpenEnglish skills

REPETTO, the prestigiousballet and fashion shoe makerbased in Saint-Médardd'Exideuil, is making a specialedition fashion shoe in aneffort to raise €200,000 forvictims of the recent earth-quake and tsunami in Japan.

The shoes will be made atthe Repetto factory in theDordogne and will go on salein the firm’s shops in Franceand Japan at the beginning ofthis month, with all sales pro-ceeds going towards charitiesinvolved in helping victims ofthe disaster.

The earthquake has leftthousands of families home-less, children without parentsand food and fuel shortages.

“Japan is a country whichhas contributed towards thesuccess of Repetto,” said Jean-Marc Gaucher, the company’smanaging director.

“We are very popular inJapan and have 14 boutiquesthere. It’s normal to extend ahelping hand to a friend.”

Repetto fashion shoes havebecome known throughoutthe world as a must-have lux-ury item, although the brandbegan with ballet shoes. In1947, Rose Repetto createdher first pair following arequest by her son, RolandPetit, a choreographer anddancer who trained at theOpéra de Paris.

Almost ten years later thefashion shoe was born whenin 1956 actress Brigitte Bardotasked Rose to create her a

pair of Cinderella, ballerina-type flat shoes. The shoeswere made using the tradi-tional ‘stitch and return’method (where they are sewnand put together inside out), aprocess still used today.

By 1967, the Repetto brandhad grown so popular thatRose opened her first factoryin the Dordogne.

In the 1970s, SergeGainsbourg, the French

singer/songwriter, actor anddirector, fell in love withRose’s Zizi lace-up model andRepetto’s fame spread evenfurther. Since then celebritieshave been seen wearing thefamous pump across theworld.

Following Rose’s death in1984 the company fell intodecline. In 1999, Jean MarcGaucher took over Repettoand breathed new life into it.

Business links outside ofFrance were made, especiallywith top fashion designers inJapan. Yet despite the world-wide success of Repetto, thecompany has remained loyalto its roots in the Dordogne.

“The company has a feelingof responsibility towards itspersonnel because they arethe ones that have allowedRepetto to become the label itis today,” said Mr Gaucher.

6 News The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Forest fires may be arson

THE fires which sweptthrough forests in theDordogne recently may havebeen started deliberately, saypolice. Two fires destroyedtwo hectares of forest atMilhac-de-Nontron andGrosse Motte in Nontronnaisin April. Fires also erupted inSaint-Crépin-de-Richemont,burning 130 hectares, andSaint-Pierre-de-Côle.

Drug bust onSpanish borderTHREE Périgueux residentshave been arrested at theSpanish border for the posses-sion of drugs. Customs offi-cials found 500 grams ofheroine, 14 grams of cocaineand seven grams of cannabisin a car which was on its wayto Périgueux. A 23-year-oldwoman and two men, aged 24and 27, were arrested.

Hotels booking upfast for summer

HOTELS and gîtes in theDordogne enjoyed a busyEaster thanks to the goodweather and people decidingto take a holiday closer tohome. Reservations are alsolooking good over the nextfew months, according toAlain Lebon, the president ofthe Hotel Association forPérigord Noir. “Many placesare full,” he said, with “morereservations than usualbetween June and September.”

New owners forRibérac bakeryLA SOUFLAMME bakery inplace Debonnière, Ribérac,has new owners. Catherineand Alain Beaumont havetaken over from Mr and MrsBourland, who ran the bakeryfor 19 years.

Burglary at clinicin PérigueuxTWO men will appear incourt on June 8 after breakinginto Francheville clinic oneevening. The men, fromPérigord, took handbags, wal-lets and keys from the lockersof nurses and careworkers.

News in brief

PLANS to install solar panelsin a village in the Dordognehave split the community.

The mayor of Grèzes, Jean-Marie Chanquoi, said theopportunity was “too good tomiss” and that the movewould not only contribute torenewable energy sources butwould generate €40,000 ayear for the village.

However, opponents havecriticised the project as apotential “eyesore” and “mon-strosity” which could destroyan important ecological siteand popular tourist attraction.

The plan involves installingthe solar panels across a sevenhectare site, which runs alongthe length of the south-facingslope of a hill just aboveGrèzes, which has a popula-tion of 170.

From the hilltop, there are360 degree panoramic viewsover six departments, includ-ing the Massif Central.

Residents have formed agroup called ‘Sauvons notre

coteau de Grèzes’ (Save ourhillside) in protest against theenergy plans.

“We are not against renew-able sources of energy butthey should be put in placesthat are suitable for them,such as old quarries andindustrial sites, not in areaslike ours, and especially noton such a big scale,” saidCoco Jakubiak, the secretary

of the group.“If the council had talked to

us about it earlier we mayhave found a compromise,perhaps for a smaller site, butthe first we knew about it wasin the New Year. We think itis all about money, but ourcommune is a small one withmodest needs and we don’tneed the extra finances.

“The whole thing has creat-

ed a bad atmosphere in ourvillage - there are even dis-putes within families.”

However, Mr Chanquoiclaims that only about twentyper cent of the population areagainst the scheme.

“I am utterly convinced thatthis is the right thing to do,”he said.

“The land in question hasno agricultural value, while

the panels that will be putthere will be non-reflectiveand the visual impact will belimited. We won't touch thetop of the hill where visitorswill still be able to go.

“We have been promised anincome of €40,000 a year forthe next 20 years, which willincrease the revenues of thevillage by a third. With thatmoney we can improve theschools, local buildings andthe roads. The council votewas unanimously in favour.”

But the couple who live onthe other side of the valleyand who will have an uninter-rupted view of the panels isnot convinced by the argu-ments.

Jean-Claud Blondel, alsopresident of the protest groupsaid: “I was born here andhave looked across the valleyto the beautiful hill oppositeall my life. The plan is a mon-strosity.”

The group intends to fightthe proposals to the end.

There is an ongoing publicenquiry to change the use ofthe land concerned in orderto make the project legallypossible.

If given the go-ahead, therewill be a second publicenquiry before the panels canbe installed.

Solar power plan dividesGrèzes hilltop community

By JANE HANKS

The protestors group claims the shaded area will be affected by the solar power plan

Solar power couldgenerate €40,000annual income forvillage but residentsare against the move

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Shoe-maker tohelp Japanesequake victims

Repetto hopes to raise €200,000 from the sale of a specially-designed fashion shoe

By JANICE MOODY

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Wine 7The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011 www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Maison des Vins de Bergerac 1 rue des Récollets

24100 Bergerac

Tel 05 53 63 57 55 www.vins-bergerac.fr

Visit the Maison des Vins

and local vineyards

News from the Dordogne’s wine regionBERGERAC

PECHARMANTMONBAZILLAC SAUSSIGNACMONTRAVEL

ROSETTE

THERE’S never a shortage ofevents taking place in Bergeracwine country and this month it’sthe French love of jazz that takescentre stage with a five-day jazzfestival and wine tasting in thecentre of town.

But if jazz isn't your thing, thenmaybe an art exhibition at one ofthe local vineyards is more to yourliking, or even a browse around ashow dedicated to local food products.

By JANICE MOODY

Festival Jazz PourpreTHE Festival Jazz Pourpre runs fromWednesday May 11 to Sunday May15 at four different venues aroundthe town.

Of course, at each event, as well asenjoying the music, you can enjoytasting a selection of Bergerac wines.

Don't miss one of the first events ofthe week at the Centre Culturel onThursday May 12; a commentatedconcert by Antoine Hervé thatattempts to unravel the universe ofOscar Peterson, a famous jazzpianist.

For further information call 05 5373 12 25 or visit the following web-site to view the whole programme:www.jazzpourpre.com

Jazz concert and wine tastingFor something a little more intimate,Jazz en Chais takes jazz out of thetown and into the vineyards. Jazzband, Chamber Orchestra, will beperforming on Saturday May 28 atthe Julien de Savignac estate, Closl'Envège, in Monbazillac. ChamberOrchestra entertain their audience

with a mix of Big Band and soundsfrom the 1930s. The concert starts at 9 pm. Entrance fee is €10, withfree wine-tasting at 8.15pm.Reservations recommended on 05 5373 12 25.

As well as being a wine merchantwith shops at Le Bugue, Sarlat andMonbazillac, Julien de Savignac is awinemaker himself and it is at hisvineyard at Monbazillac where youcan enjoy a relaxing evening sam-pling Bergerac wines.

Art exhibition and wine tastingChâteau Masburel at Fougeyrolles isa beautiful property whose vineyards

date back to 1740. The vineyard isa favourite among art lovers as theproperty regularly hosts small exhi-bitions with wine tasting: this monthis no exception with an exhibitionentitled Nature Wakes Up on FridayMay 6 from 7.30 to 9.30 pm. Entryis free, English is spoken. For furtherinformation call 05 53 24 77 73.

Château Ladesvignes at Pomport isanother impressive property thatalso boasts fantastic views across theDordogne river valley. On the week-end of May 28 and 29 the public isinvited to come and enjoy an artexhibition in the chais which fea-tures art and sculptures from 30

artists. Free entry and wine tasting.For further information call 05 53 5830 67.

* It is not necessary to book at eitherof the two vineyards, you can justturn up.

A show of foods from aroundFranceAnd for something completely dif-ferent…the Domaine de Tirecul issituated in the Monbazillac vine-yards and is open all day on Saturday8 and Sunday May 9 to play host to adisplay of local food products alongwith those from other regions of

France. Wine tasting included. For further information call05 53 58 37 09.

La Maison des VinsBut if you prefer to have no specificagenda, then why not visit LaMaison des Vins in the old part ofBergerac town. The building datesback to the 17th century and is of amonastic architecture with a superbvaulted room. This is the place to immerse yourselfin the history surrounding the localwine industry. Exhibition and wineshop.

La Route des VinsBefore heading out of Bergerac town,equip yourself with a tourist map ofthe wine-tasting spots in the region. The La Route des Vins map is avail-able at La Maison des Vins or thetourist office. The map features vineyards plusaccommodation on vineyards(B&B's, camping car parks, hotelsand holiday gîtes) which welcomevisitors to their property and to tastetheir wine. Visit the following website for fur-ther information www.route-des-vins-de-bergerac.com

Destination VignoblesUseful to know for the wine touristis a network of vineyards, restau-rants, producers of local foods,hotels and tourist sites, in fact anyestablishment linked to Bergeracwine in some way, that welcometourists and ensure a level of qualityin what they offer. For more detailsvisit www.destination-vignobles-bergerac.fr

Music and wine can be found atvineyards across Bergerac in May

The French wine industry employs 340,000 people in France.

Wine is one of the country’s top 10 export earners.

Wine has been exported from France since the founding of Massalia (Marseilles) in about 600BC.

The oldest traces of a wine-like substance were discovered in China

President Nicolas Sarkozy does not drink wine but his wife, Carla Bruni, does.

In the area that is now Iran, wine jugs were discovered that dated from around 7000 years ago

Wine did not actualkly make the way to French and English soil until thousands of years after its birth

There are more than 10,000 grape varieties used in wines around the world

DID YOU KNOW?

Chambre Orchestra will be entertaining wine-lovers at the Julien de Savignac estate on May 28

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So which Bergerac wines go with strawberries?THIS month, the local strawber-ry season is in full swing andBergerac’s semi-sweet(moelleux) wines are the pre-ferred choice of many to accom-pany this delicious, delicatefruit.

There are four semi-sweetappellations: Côtes de Bergeracblanc, Rosette, Côtes deMontravel and Haut Montravel.

Côtes de Bergerac blanc andRosette wines are slightly straw-coloured.

They are elegant, light, freshand fruity wines that are slightlysweet but not so much so thatthey overpower the delicatearoma and taste of strawberries.

These wines are best drunkwhen young, for example, it isperfectly acceptable to drink a2010 this spring.

Staying with a semi-sweetwine but that is slightly morecomplex, then a Côtes deMontravel with its floral aromasis a good choice, as is a HautMontravel wine which is moreconcentrated and richer. BothMontravel wines are better forageing.

Semi-sweet wines usually havea rate of sugar at around50g/litre whereas the sweeterwines of Saussignac andMonbazillac have a rate superiorto 50g.

MUSEUMS across France will open their doors for nocturnalvisits on Saturday May 14. Now in its sixth year, the so-calledNuit des Musées allows people to explore sites and monumentsin a different light. Held in the evening, the museums take on amysterious and sometimes magical feel, and all for free.

See the Roman artefacts of the Vesonna museum in Périgueuxlit up or the beautiful Château de Hautefort, pictured above,near Périgueux. Museums across Europe participate in the event.For more details see www.nuitdesmusees.culture.fr

CHELSEA Silver Gilt winnerMiriam Hammond is bring-ing her floral design skills toMonteton on May 7 and 8 aspart of a flower festival atEglise NotreDame.

Organised by Miriam andcalled “Hats off toMonteton”, the festival willshowcase the designs of 26ladies.

Some have come withexperience in flower arrang-ing, while others have not.

“To help those ladies whowanted to have a go but hadnever done this before, Ihave held a couple of work-shops which have beenenjoyed very much,” saidMiriam.

“Floral art is a great activi-

ty to be involved with and asuccessful way of raisingfunds for charity.”

One of Miriam’s passionswhen she lived in Englandwas floral art. As a memberof the National Associationof Flower ArrangingSocieties (NAFAS), Miriamvisited many clubs inLondon’s home counties,sharing her passion anddemonstrating the art ofarranging flowers.

Miriam also exhibited herdesigns in competitions andin various churches includ-ing Westminster Abbey.

Now living in France,Miriam was invited in 2008to do a flower arrangementin Sainte Croix Church tocoincide with the first VideGrenier to be held there.

In 2009, Miriam entered acompetition in Fonroque atthe Fête de l'Arbre and wasthrilled to be placed first.

“If people have ever visiteda flower festival in England Iknow they will be temptedto join us,” said Miriam.

“If you have never been toone before, please come

along, you will be pleasantlysurprised!”

She added: “I understandthat a flower festival is a newconcept in France. It wouldbe good if this was the firstof many. Maybe next yearwe could hold one inLevignac-de-Guyenne at thechurch in my own village.”

The flower festival is tak-ing place on Saturday May 7,2-6pm and Sunday May 8,12-6pm at EgliseNotreDame, Monteton.

8 What’s On The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Community notice boardMay 1 – Fête du sport, demon-

strations of different sports:canoeing, horse riding, basketballand football. Stadium, Saint-Julien-de-Lampon

Call 05 53 29 46 11May 21 – A dragon in my gar-

den! Discover the amphibianworld. Bring boots. 14.00 onwardsat The Château, Varaignes

Call 05 53 56 23 66May 22– Guided walk around

the Sentier des Fontaines lookingat how man lived to the rhythmof the seasons. Eyvigues.

May 28 – Theatrical visitaround Sarlat. Leaves touristoffice at 19.00

Call 05 53 62 07 69May 29 – Farm visit, Ferme

chêne de Greletti, La CroixMarafret, Chaleix

Call 05 53 62 07 69Every Wednesday – guided

visit of Sarlat in English, leaves11.00 from the tourist office.

Call 05 53 31 45 45Every Thursday – Gold

prospecting course, ExcideuilCall 05 53 52 29 79

Every Saturday – Free botani-cal workshops, 15.00-17.30pm,Espace découverte nature et pat,Saint-Barthelemy-de-Buissiere

Call 05 53 60 96 41

All month – Rock climbing inthe château rock face, Excideuil

Call 05 53 52 29 79All month – Photo competi-

tion for adults and children withthe theme ‘Le nez en l'air’ - Nosein the air. Photos have to be fromthe Excideuil and Coulaures area

Call 05 53 52 29 79

May 1 – Guided hike for all fitness levels. Discover theHautefort area on a 11km circuit,meet 9.30 in front of the touristoffice

Call 05 53 50 40 27May 1 – 13km walk, meet

11.00 at Bayac cemetery or 12.00

at Beauregard-et-Bassac churchMay 1 – Lily of the Valley walk,

meet 8.30 at Salle des Fêtes Saint-Crepin-de-Richemont

Call 05 53 60 96 04May 4 – Hike, Saint-Cyprien,

leave 13.30 from the Foyer ruralMay 8 – 16km walk with

music, animations and picnicalong the way, leave 9.00 Sigoulès

Call 05 53 58 48 16May 14 – Walk to discover wild

orchids, 14.00 Salle des Fêtes,Valojoulx

Call 05 53 51 82 60May 14 – Walk to discover the

Terrasson-Lavilledieu areaCall 05 53 50 37 56

May 15 – Walk Saint-Pierre-de-Frugie, meet Salle LouisUrbain at 8.30

May 15 – Guided walk lookingat history of the Forest of Bessède,Meet Camp de César, Belvès

Call 05 53 29 10 20May 18 – On the trail of wild

orchids, Sentier des Fontaines,Eyvigues

Call 05 53 28 81 93May 21 – 3km guided walk to

discover the fauna and flora ofthe Saint-Estèphe area, meet RocBranlant car park

Call 05 53 60 74 75May 22 – Botanical walk to

discover edible wild plants, Saint-Jory-de-Chalais

Call 05 53 52 05 40May 22 – Walk along the

plateau of La-Rochebeaucourt,exhibition of orchids at thechurch. Meet 10.00 at the plateaucar park

Call 05 53 55 36 00May 29 – Guided walk, 10

km, followed by visit to localfarmers

market and guided visit aroundthe Jardins de l'Imaginaire,Terrasson-Lavilledieu

Call 05 53 50 37 56Every Thursday morning–

Guided visit around the medievaltown of Issigeac

Call 05 53 58 79 62All month– Free guided visits

around the old town of ExcideuilCall 05 53 52 29 73

May 7 – Saint-CyprienCall 05 53 30 36 09

May 8 – Grives-le-Lavoir,10am-12pm

Call 05 53 29 10 20May 15 –meet at Loubejac

churchCall 05 53 29 98 37

May 22 –meet salle des fêtes,

Saint-ChamassyCall 05 53 29 98 37

May 1 – Piano recital, 16.30,Place Boucharel, Nontron

Call 06 79 91 79 54May 6 – Concert by group Vox

Vesunna, Ancien Gymnase,Montpon-Ménestérol

Call 05 53 82 30 54May 6 – Rock concert by Mark

Robson, 22.30 Chez Minou,Monpazier

Call 05 53 22 68 59May 6 – Contemporary and

classical concert with the choirsof Villefranche-du-Périgord andVergt, 20.30, Place de la Halle,Villefranche-du-Périgord

Call 05 53 29 98 37May 7 – Spanish guitar

concert, 20.15, grande salle de laMairie, Belvès

Call 05 53 31 91 84May 7 until 4 June –

International music festival,Chambre en Charente

Call 05 45 98 57 18May 13 – Bordeaux Aquitaine

National orchestra, 20.30,Odyssée theatre, Périgueux

Call 05 53 53 18 71May 13 – Concert Méli-Mélo,

20.30, church, Saint-PancraceCall 06 77 86 38 43

May 13 – Concert given by thegroup the Dusty Bottoms, 22.30,Chez Minou, Monpazier

Call 05 53 22 68 59May 20 – Medieval chants by

the Rosa Salvatja company, Salledu Temple, La-Roche-Chalais

Call 05 53 91 18 48May 21 – Concert by A Travers

Chants, Salle Jean Orieux,LeBugue

Call 05 53 35 43 83May 27 – Music from Tudor

times, 20.00, Church, Saint-Barthélemy-de-Buissière

Call 05 53 56 46 64May 27 – Organ and trumpet

concert, Chapelle de Montignac,Montpon-Ménestérol

Call 05 53 82 23 77May 28 – Pop/rock group

Parysyane, centre socio-culturel,Bassilac

Call 05 53 05 56 96May 29 – Clarinet trio

Libertrio, Château les Olivoux,Pomport

Call 05 53 58 48 46

Out and about

Family

Event listings are free in The Advertiser. Send details toevents24@connexionfrance.com Check out what events

are happening every day at twitter.com/whatsondordogne

Nordic walking

Music

Flowers inbloom forMontetonfestival

Museums open at night

Gilt winner Miriam Hammond

Japanesetheme fororchid andplant show FOR the seventh edition ofJournées des Orchidées, thebeautiful Manoir d'Eyrignacwill once again open its doorsto delight all orchid and plantlovers.

Exhibitors this year includenot only orchid producersbut also rare plants such asBonzaï and Liloo Tillandsias.

There will be workshopsaround the theme of Japaneseculture, Ikebana floral com-positions, origami and ono-matopoeia and also how tolook after orchids.

Coupled with art exhibi-tions, conferences and guidedwalks to discover the wildorchids in the area makes fora weekend with something tosuit everyone.

The event takes place onApril 30 and May 1.

For further information call05 53 28 81 98

Climb Château Excideuil

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Authoritative Third sucessful year Up-to-date In clear English

Buy a print/ digital version at www.tinyurl.com/taxguide2011 or call (free from France) 0800 91 77 56 or 0844 256 9881 from

UK (4p/min) to pay by credit card

Connexion helpguide for yourFrench Income Tax form

NOW ONSALE

€9.50(PLUS P&P)

Our 36-page 2011 guide takes youthrough the forms step by step

AVAILABLE NOWShows how to declare

your income such as pensions, rent, ISAs, shares,savings and interest with a visual guide to theFrench tax forms

Explains how France’s tax system works andhow your income is assessed and charged

Choose between PDF digital edition or apaper copy posted to your French home

Car boot sale dates for the month:May 1 - Bayac; Bergerac; Bertric-Burée;Celles; Coulounieix-Chamiers; Douville;Fouleix; La Rocque-Gageac; Lamonzie-Saint-Martin; Lanquais; Le-Bugue; Le-Buisson-de-Cadouin; Lembras; Maurens; Meyrals;Montpon-Ménestérol; Notre-Dame-de-Sanilhac; Paleyrac; Périgueux; Peyrillac-et-Millac; Prigonrieux; Proissans; Saint-Barthélemy-de-Bellegarde; Saint-Georges-de-Montclard; Saint-Laurent-des-Vignes; Saint-Méard-de-Gurçon; Saint-Pierre-de-Frugie;Simeyrols; Terrasson-Lavilledieu; Verteillac;VillarsMay 2 - Hautefort; Montignac; PérigueuxMay 7 - Montignac; Montpon-Ménestérol;PérigueuxMay 8 - Allemans; Bergerac; Calviac-en-Périgord; Chancelade; Colombier; Coursac;Lalinde; Le-Lardin-Saint-Lazare; Le Fleix;Monsac; Montignac; Montpon-Ménestérol;Périgueux; Saint-Astier; Saint-Crépin-et-Carlucet; Saint-Front-d'Alemps; Saint-Geyrac; Saint-Léon-sur-l'Isle; Sarlat;SauveboeufMay 14 - Ribérac; Thenon

May 15 - Alles-sur-Dordogne; Bassillac;Beauronne; Bergerac; Brantôme; Calviac-en-Périgord; Cours-de-Pile; Échourgnac; Eyzerac;Fougueyrolles; Ginestet; Hautefort; La-Force;Lalinde; Lamothe-Montravel; Le-Fleix;Monpazier; Montignac; Neuvic; Orliac;Périgueux; Prats-de-Carlux; Ribérac; Saint-Cyprien; Saint-Laurent-des-Hommes; Sarlat;Sarliac-sur-'Isle; Varaignes; Villefrance-de-LonchatMay 22 - Bergerac; Bouniagues; Le-Buisson-de-Cadouin; Chancelade; Cherveix-Cubas;Le-Buisson-de-Cadouin; Les Eyzies; Marnac;Monpazier; Montignac; Mouleydier;Mussidan; Parcoul; Périgueux; Saint-Front-la-Riviere; Terrasson-LavilledieuMay 28 - Antonne-et-TrigonantMay 29 - Faux; Montcaret; Moulin-Neuf;Issac; Nadaillac; Négrondes; Sainte-Nathalene;Sarlat

Food markets:Mondays - Les-Eyzies; Hautefort; Sainte-Alvère; Tocane-Saint-ApreTuesdays- Beaumont-du-Périgord; Bergerac;Brantôme; Cénac-et-Saint-Julien; Le-Bugue;

L'Isle; Mareuil-sur-Belle; Ribérac; Salignac-Eyvigues; TrémolatWednesdays - Bergerac; Cadouin; Hautefort;Jumilhac-le-Grand; La-Tour-Blanche;Montignac; Montpon-Ménestérol; Piegut-Pluviers; Sarlat; Siorac-en-PérigordThursdays - Domme; Excideuil; Eymet; La-Coquille; Lalinde; Monpazier; Saint-Astier;Saint-Julien-de-Lampon; Saint-Pardoux-la-Rivière; Terrasson-LavilledieuFridays - Bergerac; Brantôme; Le-Buisson; Le-Lardin; Ribérac; SarlatSaturdays - Beaumont-du-Périgord; Belvès;Bergerac; Le-Bugue; Lalinde; Lanouaille;Montignac; Montpon-Ménestérol; Nontron;Saint-Aulaye; Sarlat; Thiviers; Villefranche-du-PérigordSundays - Angoisse; Bergerac; Calviac;Champagnac-de-Bélair; Couze-Saint-Front;Issigeac; Jumilhac-le-Grand; Limeuil;Pontours; Saint-Cyprien; Saint-Geniès; Sarlat

TUCKED away in theDordogne Valley nearCastelnaud is the Jardins desMilandes, Parc JosephineBaker.

Miss Baker was the illustri-ous American-born Frenchsinger who decided to settlein a castle in Dordogne withher 12 adopted children.

Probably best-known for thebanana skirt she donned atthe Folies Bergère, Miss Bakerbecame an iconic figure in themusic hall world.

The Jardins des Milandeswas created to perpetuate hermemory. It is a place full ofhistory and emotions with amusic hall, cabaret andrestaurant.

This year, their summerprogram offers many a night

of great entertainment. As well as the traditionalcabarets, on certain Fridaysthey organise a jazz and tapasevening in the restaurant.

Two very talented groups ofmusicians can be heard ondifferent dates.

Alex Folh and her group

play and sing jazz standardsfrom the 1950s includingsome lovely Josephine Bakernumbers, while LuciaStanizzo and his group playjazz, soul and blues.

The atmosphere is relaxed,and there is a dance floorshould anyone wish to show

off their steps, and entrance isfree. This month, LuciaStanizzo plays on May 6 andAlex Fohl on May 20.

For other dates for the jazzand for the other eventsorganised go to: www.les-jardins-des-milan-des.com/calendrier2011.html

What’s On 9The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011 www.dordogneadvertiser.com

May 30 – Concert by the choirof the university of Maryland,Eglise, Monpazier

Call 05 53 22 60 38

May 29 – live transmission ofthe Bolchoï Coppelia ballet, salledu château, Limeuil

Call 05 53 07 22 83

Until May 12 – Exhibition ofpastels by Marie AnneChaigneaud Dupuy, PlaceGénéral de Gaulle, Riberac

Until May 15 – Artists andartisans have created works of artaround a letter of the alphabet,their reunited works make up thealphabet. Tourist office, Eymet

Call 05 53 23 74 95May 16-21 – Exhibition about

jazz music, salle des fêtes, MonsacCall 05 53 22 39 12

May 16-29 – Embroidery andribbon exhibition salle JeanMonestoer, Le Bugue

Call 05 53 07 27 13Until May 19 – Archi'Texture,

paintings and sculptures, salle ducastelet, Excideuil

Call 05 53 62 45 16Until May 20 – Exhibition of

collages by artist Helen Hill,médiatheque Prigonrieux

Call 05 53 61 55 40Until May 22 – Les Arts en

Folie, Galerie du Peyrou, SarlatUntil May 23 – By photogra-

pher Rip Hopkins, Salles duCaveau Issigeac

Call 05 53 58 79 62Every Saturday and Sunday –

Exhibition about gastronomicculture in the Périgord-Limousinarea, Le Verger-Chabanas, Abjat-sur-Bandiat

Call 05 53 56 85 59

All month – Painting exhibition, Galerie 5, Riberac

Call 05 53 90 93 38All month – Exhibition of

works by David Delesalle, CourRenaissance, Sarlat

Call 06 83 36 97 86

April 30-May 1 –de Printemps,Craft fair, 9.00-19.00, jardin pub-lic, Brantôme

Call 05 53 05 85 62

May 1– Fête de l'ail, tasting ofail nouveau, Place de laLiberation, Terrasson-Lavilledieu

Call 05 53 50 23 27May 1 – Craft fair, sale of

plants, fashion show and fishingcompetition for children,Manzac-sur-Vern

May 1 – Pétanque competition,14.00, Eymet

Call 05 53 23 90 69May 1 – CVillage fair, guided

walk, classic cars and motorbikesexhibition, pétanque competition,Coulaures

Call 05 53 05 06 20May 1-2 – Plant swap, 9.00-

19.00, Filature de BelvèsCall 05 53 28 44 46

May 7 – Country dance, salledes fêtes, Jouriac

Call 06 26 86 66 98May 8 – RVisit a remarkable

bird garden, Le Verger -Chabanas, Abjat-sur-Bandiat

Call 05 53 56 85 59May 8 – Plant swap, Saint-

Laurent-sur-ManoireCall 09 62 04 01 90

May 13 – Franco English quiz,20.30, Salle des Fêtes, Milhac-de-Nontron

Call 05 53 60 92 69May 14 – Fishing competition,

ExcideuilCall 05 53 62 42 40

Other

Art

Dance

Car boot sales and markets around in May

Jazz comes to the Jardinsdes Milandes hideaway

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Enjoy jazz and tapaswhile getting to know about the lifeof singing legend Josephine Baker

By KIRSTEN STROUD

Alex Folh and her group will include some Josephine Baker songs in their repertoire

STUDENTS at the Ecole Supérieure Internationale de Savignacwill be serving up feasts during May. The dinners are basedaround different themes, with the students organising every-thing from the budget and cooking to serving the meals on thenight. The events take place at The Park, the school’s onsiterestaurant. For reservations please contact thepark@laposte.netPrices are around �18 - �20 to cover costs.

Wednesday May 11 - Five sensesFriday May 13 - Chef ’s table/Le FoodingWednesday May 18 - Street foodFriday May 20 - Fairy talesWednesday May 25 - Soul food

Come dine with Savignac students

10 Food The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

A collection of restaurants in the Dordogne

Advertising Feature

To advertise your restaurant with us call 0800 91 77 56

Chefs battle to save egg mayonnaiseAN association has been set up tocampaign against its demise, while aFacebook page dedicated to it hasattracted 31 fans.

It might be a dish that comes withheaps of cholesterol and has disap-peared from the menus of mostrestaurants across France but thehumble egg mayonnaise starter isenjoying a revival.

This is mainly due to the persua-sion of food critic Claude Lebey,who is also the author of severalguidebooks and chairman of theAssociation for the Protection of EggMayonnaise.

So much so, restaurant chefs acrossthe country have been striving toresurrect the dish. And the hard work is paying off:

Brasserie Flottes, which is close toPlace de la Concorde in Paris,recently won an award from theassociation for producing the tastiestegg mayonnaise in the city.

With useful tips from Mr Lebey,Oliver Flottes, the bistro's owner, andhis team spent almost a year perfect-ing a dish that had long been miss-ing from the menu.“It's a traditional dish...Mr Lebey

came to the restaurant several timesand told us the best way to do it,”said Mr Flottes.

But it is not egg mayonnaise as weknow it in the UK, which usuallyinvolves mixing a mashed boiled eggwith mayonnaise and eating it in asandwich.

In France, it is more than simply aboiled egg covered in mayonnaise.

While one of the tricks is to com-pletely soak three relatively large egghalves with a mustardy mayonnaisewhich spreads well, the dish shouldalso be accompanied by mixed veg-etables, says Mr Flottes. This mightinclude freshly cooked carrots, peas,turnips and potatoes. The eggs mustalso be cooked for eight to nine min-utes, or just before they becomehard-boiled.

The new addition to the menu at

Brasserie Flottes comes at a cost of€7 and is proving to be a winnerwith customers.

“Egg mayonnaise is becomingincreasingly popular and with peopleof all ages,” said Mr Flottes. Egg mayonnaise might not be com-

monly served else-where, but MrLebey told Agence France Presse, thenewswire, that while the dish maylook simple, “it demands a lot ofcare” in preparation.

Being reasonably priced, the dishappeals to the “poor and rich”, headded, and saves the restaurantmoney as it is cheap to make.

While egg mayonnaise has gath-ered support on Facebook, with apage dedicated to its conservation, itis not for everyone. “I don't likemayonnaise...especially when it’smixed with mustard!,” said one com-mentator on the page.

Meanwhile, its fans came up with their own suggestions to vary therecipe.

One suggested garnishing the may-onnaise with a cherry, while anotherrecommended mixing it with chives.

Which classic French dishes would you like to see revived? Email comments to angela@dordogneadvertiser.com

The award-winning oeuf-mayonnaise served up at Brasserie Flottesin Paris costs €7. The restaurant spent almost a year perfecting it Which wine should I drink with this?

Julien Montfort, chief executive of Julien de Savignac winemerchants (www.julien-de-savignac.com) says:

It is always difficult to marry eggs with wine, and I would alwaysrecommend either a creamy white or a very light red.The best wine togo with an egg-mayo would be a full rich creamy dry white wine.The best example we have at the best price (€6.80) is ‘Chateau desEyssards blanc prestige’ in AOC Bergerac. This cuvee is made of oldvines of Semillon (70 per cent), Sauvignon (20 per cent) andmuscadelle (10 per cent). This white wine is dry, full bodied with aro-mas of peach, honey, gooseberries and vanilla.

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Egg-mayo is becoming increasinglypopular withpeople of all ages

“

Home security 11The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011 www.dordogneadvertiser.com

PETTY acts of delinquency amongyoungsters in the Dordogne might bethe most talked about “crime” in thedepartment, but that does not meanother crime does not exist.

In fact, with an abundance of holi-day homes lying empty for most ofthe year, the region is an appealingtarget for burglars, with some casesbeing quite severe.

So much so, burglary is the mostcommon crime in the Dordogne,Thierry Quintard, the commander of

the department’s police force toldThe Advertiser. “Houses are notclumped together in villages, they areall over the place," he said. “It is difficult for the gendarmes tokeep them under surveillance.”

Mr Quintard said that while thenumber of burglaries is static, theproblem the police face is with get-ting people to come forward.

Forty break-ins took place acrossthe region between January and Maylast year, occurring mainly duringthe day and affecting French and for-eign homeowners. Meanwhile, bur-

Keeping out the thieves Your village might be free of violent crime, but your homes and businesses are vulnerable to burglary.Failing to put stringent measures in place to protect your home could be potentially costly

Security in numbers

12%*

324,000 (+5.1%)*

The increase in burglaries across Francebetween August 2008 and July 2009

In total, there were almost 324,000 burglariesacross the country last year, a 5.1 per cent risesince 2009

€€1,000 - €€1,500 The average cost of equipment for a good-sized home with an alarm system

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4 Page Security Special

By ANGELA GIUFFRIDA* Source: Observatoire National de la Délinquance (OND).

12 Home security www.dordogneadvertiser.com

glaries across France surged by 12 percent between August 2008 and July2009, according to figures from theObservatoire National de laDélinquance (OND).

The increase was the first since2002 and was mainly attributed to theonset of the global financial crisis.

In total, there were almost 324,000burglaries across the country lastyear, marking a 5.1 per cent rise since2009.

While permanent homes were themost affected last year, second homes,as well as businesses are also populartargets.

Many people, particularly in ruralareas, keep dogs as a deterrent and fittriple-locked doors.

Although crime in rural areasremains relatively low, people are stillinclined to leave their doors or carsopen, making them prime targets forsavvy thieves.

According to the OND, most break-ins are the work of organised special-ist gangs. They know exactly whatthey are looking for and choose hous-es which are likely to have high-valueitems such as jewellery that can besold on relatively easily.

The organisation believes that theftsfrom people’s homes are on the risebecause they are more vulnerablethan cars and shops, which tend tohave better alarm systems or CCTV.

Every effort must therefore be takento protect your home and discourageburglars, especially if you live in arural area and are away for long peri-ods of time.

Among the basic advice from theFrench police is to ensure yourdoors and window shutters are

locked and that you do not leave keysunder a plant pot or doormat.

Garden equipment which mightalso be used to smash a windowshould always be kept inside.

You may already be taking theseprecautions, but in a tougher eco-nomic climate, homes as well asGites, hotels and small businesses are vulnerable to theft.

One business owner who has learntfrom her experience is Joyce Sheard.Last summer, eight sun-loungerswent astray from her gite overnight. “We'd had guests in, their rooms wereoverlooking the back garden and thepool, but they heard absolutely noth-ing,” she said.

But it was only after the theft thatMrs Sheard discovered her Frenchinsurance policy, which had beentaken out with AXA, did not coveroutside equipment unless therehad actually been an attempt tobreak-in to the propertyitself.

“Apparently anything that’s in yourgarden - plants or anything that canbe lifted - is not covered unless theyactually tried to break into the house.”

To better protect the property, asolid gate with a lock has beeninstalled in the back garden, meaningthat if somebody did attempt tobreak-in, it would be covered byinsurance.“We were also warned to keep thehouse door locked because if peoplethought we were in the back gardenthen they'd be inclined to just walkthrough the front door and takethings,” said Mrs Sheard

Most people might be reluctant toinvest in home security systems, butif your property contains expensiveitems, it could be a wise step to take.

Measures might include installingdouble-glazing, a motion-sensor bur-glar alarm and outside lighting.Some homeowners have also installeda remote internet system whichallows them to keep an eye on theproperty while away.

Derek Harnett, the co-founder ofsecurity firm Aquitaine Alarms, saidhome security was something peopleoften neglected unless they had fallenvictim to crime. In fact, a survey bythe firm conducted last year foundthat 78 per cent of those seeking aquote had already been a victim oftheft, or knew somebody who had. “It's something that people don't wantto think about, especially in Francebecause you move here to get awayfrom crime in the UK, so it's alwayssomething that people almost deliber-ately put out of their minds becausethey don't want to associate that sortof activity with their new life here,”

“Apparently, anythingthat’s in your garden –plants or anything that can be lifted – is not covered (by insurance) unless they actually tried tobreak into the house

Hotels and gites are particularly vulnerable to theft. Garden equipment should be kept inside overnight Installing a secure locking system in your home is a must...“a padlock on a chain

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THE authoritative guide to buying a home in France

Available in English from The Connexion, priced €7.50 or £7 ((pplluuss ppoossttaaggee aanndd ppaacckkaaggiinngg))

Written by the Notaires de France and published by Conseils des Notaires.

See our website www.connexionfrance.com

The Advertiser, Dor

Home security 13www.dordogneadvertiser.com

n” is not enough to ensure compensation for any loss or damage, says insurance expert Holly Bartley

said Mr Harnett.The price of an alarm system

can range anywhere between€450 and €22,000, dependingon the type and size of theproperty.

Holly Bartley, a home insur-ance expert at AllianzInsurance Mayenne, also advis-es keeping all receipts, particu-larly for valuable equipment.

Some insurers will compen-sate according to the age of thegoods (valeur d'usage) that havebeen damaged or stolen, whilethere is a "new for old" optionprovided by other insurers,meaning the goods will bereplaced according to their cur-rent value.“We replace it with the newprice, even though it might beseven years old,” said Ms Bartley.

Valuable objects must also be written into theinsurance contract in order to ensure the cor-rect value is reimbursed.

Ms Bartley also advises including equipmentstored in out-buildings.“A lot of people put tractors and electrical

material in these buildingswhen they're re-doing thehouses, and if they're not cov-ered they won't get their moneyback.”

Doors must also be properlypadlocked in order to ensurefull insurance coverage.

Homeowners away for longperiods of time might also wantto consider signing up to opéra-tion tranquillité, a nationalservice provided by the Frenchpolice to regularly check emptyhomes.

The service, which is free, isavailable during or outside ofthe school holidays.

The police will put yourproperty on a list for routinepatrols while you are away. Toqualify, you have to be away forlonger than seven days. If theproperty in question is residen-

tial it must be completely vacant, or closed if itis commercial premises

You need to notify the police at least 48hours ahead of your departure, either at yourlocal police station or the Service d'Accueil, deRecherche et d'Investigation Judiciaire (SARIJ),

It’s something thatpeople don't wantto think about, especially inFrance becauseyou move here toget away fromcrime in the UK,so it’s something people almost deliberately put tothe back of theirminds...

“

Opération tranquillitéThe police will routinely patrol your home if you are away for a long period oftime. You need to notify them at least 48 hours ahead of your departure, eitherat your local police station or the Service d'Accueil, de Recherche etd'Investigation Judiciaire (SARIJ), open 24 hours a day, seven days a week or atthe Unité de Police de Quartier (UPQ) open Monday to Friday, 09.00-20.00.

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TIPS ON KEEPING YOUR HOME SAFE

Remember to lock all doors AND window shutters before you go out

Inform a neighbour if you are going to be away for a long period of time, or sign up to opération tranquillité

Keep all garden equipment inside overnight or if you are away

Keep all receipts for valuable good

If you have a holiday or second home, install a motion-sensor burglar alarm or outside lighting to deter thieves

rdogne May 2011

14 Home security The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

The cost of a home security system can range between €450 and €22,000

open 24 hours a day, sevendays a week or at the Unité dePolice de Quartier (UPQ)open Monday to Friday,09.00-20.00.

It is also advisable to informyour neighbours of yourabsence and ask someone topick up your mail and have itdiverted to another address,and to keep the garden tidy,in order to avoid any obvioussign of absence. Creating anillusion of the presence ofsomeone in the house is alsoa good way to thwart bur-glars. This can be donethrough a timer on lights, thetelevision and radio, whichcan be switched on and off atcertain times of the day.

Some areas of the countryhave neighbourhood watchschemes in place. The initia-tive started in the UK in the1970s but has gatheredmomentum in France overthe last few years.

The Alpes-Maritimesdepartment was the first totake the lead, with forty-fivelocal councils helping to formneighbourhood watchschemes since 2005.

Others have been set up incities including Nice andParis, as well as in townsacross the north of France.

Many people away for longperiods of time have also hadinternet surveillance systemsinstalled, allowing them tomonitor their homes onlineand give them peace of mind. "We have had quite a bit ofcall for that," said Mr Harnett."I think people like to knowwhat's going on. But the prob-lem is that if it's a secondhome, people often don't haveinternet access.

“If you don't have internetaccess it makes it very diffi-cult and expensive to uploadthe pictures, because you haveto do it using a mobile phone.It can be done, but it's not asgood."

Another strict require-ment of homesecurity inFrance ismaking sureprivate swim-ming pools are equipped withan alarm system to preventthe risk of children drowning.

Although the rules were

introduced in 2003, they weretightened in 2009 following aspate of drownings.

According to French law,every private pool must havean alarm system which oper-ates around the clock.

The system must be capableof detecting the fall of a childweighing 6 kilos; be child-tamper proof; be immune toatmospheric conditions andinclude a signalling devicethat clearly shows the systemis operating satisfactorily.

Mr Harnett said that a basicswimming pool alarm systemwould cost about €450, asmall price to pay against a€45,000 fine for failing tohave one in place.

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SWIMMING POOL ALARM REGULATIONSPool-owners must ensure that they use at least one of the approved safetyalarm devices which complies with standards set by AFNOR, the Frenchstandards agency. The specification code for swimming pool alarms is NFP90-307. Failing to have the correct alarm system installed could result in a€45,000 fine. You should seek advice from a reputable pool firm in yourarea. A list of pool professionals can be obtained from the Fédération desProfessionnels de la Piscine (FPP). See www.propiscines.fr

Investing inhome

securitymight cost

money,but it will help to

thwart burglars

Business 15The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011 www.dordogneadvertiser.com

FINANCE

I live in the Dordogne but work in the UK during theweek due to the ease of commuting. I am paid insterling and all my savings and investments are inthe UK. Is this the right approach as even though I donot have any euro income, I am resident in France?”

Under EU law, you are permitted to work wherever you wishwithin the European Union, so there is nothing wrong withcommuting back and forth, if this suits you.

The residency rules are clarified both in Article 4B of theFrench tax code (the Code Général des impôts or CGI) andArticle 3 of the UK / France Double Tax Treaty. Residency isdefined using a series of tests:

Clearly, your economic ties are with the UK, which is justone of the rules to be considered when defining your residen-cy. Where your economic ties are is not commonly the decid-ing factor, but it comes into play where the residency situa-tion is close between the two countries and serves as a 'tiebreaker'. The main factors (and I am greatly simplifying thisas there is not the space to cover all relevant points) are:

Where is your home?If your only home is in France, then you are French residentand how much time you spend in or out of France is irrele-vant (this is often a shock to many who, oddly, try to definetheir residency of a foreign country using UK law). A familyor friend’s address is not a UK 'home' and the French fiscalauthorities will not accept it as such. The home must beyours, meaning either you rent it from someone with an offi-cial rental agreement or you own it. If you own a propertyand you rent it out, this also does not apply, as it must beavailable for your use. An important point to add is that legalprecedence has demonstrated that where your children go toschool is viewed as the home, as this is where the family unitis; important dependent if you have children of school age.

If you have homes in both countries then the next rule is:Where do you spend most of your time? Let’s be clear, that this does not mean 6 months, as you couldspend 5 months in France and still have spent most of yourtime in France if you travel between more than two countries,meaning some people, unwittingly, become residents, becausethey take a break in a third country.

If you have home available for your use in both countriesand spend an equal amount of time in both countries, thenthe economic ties test comes into play.

Hopefully, from this you can work out your residency situa-tion. Under the terms of the double tax treaty between Franceand the UK, your earned income is taxable in the UK, thoughit must still be declared in France.

"Is this the right approach?"From a fiscal point of view, the danger is exchange rates andthe volatility between the currency you are earning in and thecurrency you spend in. There are other variables that wecould discuss, like personal taxation, succession law etc. butwe would need more details on your situation to offer helpfulguidance.

You had no experience of running apub, so how and when did you decide tojust go for it?Jo: Having spent so much time eating outand about in France, we realised therewas a gap in the market for ‘pub grub’.Not being a great fan of four-course/two-hour lunches (as quite often we would betravelling a fair distance) we would findourselves looking for somewhere moreconvenient, meaning we'd often end upin a well-known fast food restaurant justoff the main roads, which we wouldnever have done in the UK!

How did you find the process of settingup a business here?Well, not being completely ‘au fait’ withthe language, we did rely a lot onEnglish-speaking estate agents, expatforums and websites. Eventually, having found a property and written abusiness plan, we plucked up the courageto walk into the Chamber of Commercein Périgueux. There we were introducedto Périgord Développement, the

Dordogne Inward Investment Agency,which pointed us in the direction of anEnglish-speaking French accountant,who in turn referred us to several bankswho he thought may be interested inhelping us with our project. PérigordDéveloppement also introduced us toPérigord Initiative, which helped us fundthe business through an interest-freemerit loan.

Is there anything you’d have done dif-ferently with hindsight? We probably could have asked morequestions to other businesses andaccountants. We were unaware of the actual cost of liv-ing here and the financial implications ofrunning a business. Social charges are expensive, but nobodyreally prepares you for the real costs andhow they have to be paid i.e. in largeamounts and very quickly, even beforeyou have had a chance to earn a livingsometimes! That was difficult to get ourheads around - and still is at times!

Four years on, where are you at andwhat would you say the pros and consof running a business here are? We are more knowledgeable about manythings: we have learnt how to optimiseour resources and how best to run ourbusiness. We have got to know the areawhere we live really well and our Frenchhas improved lots! It makes day- to-day living less frustrat-ing, and we know what to expect nowadmin-wise. The way of life is priceless:far less hectic in as much as we don’ttravel for three hours a day for work, wehave our own space, garden etc. We gotmarried and had a baby...I don't think wewould have had time to even consider itin the UK, let alone afford it!

What lies ahead for the Fiddler’s Rest? This year we are revamping our website,making it more ‘French-friendly’ andconcentrating on boosting the localFrench trade. We have a fantastic andloyal English-speaking customer baseand really hope to 'crack' the local Frenchmarket too. It would be the icing on thecake in terms of social and professionalintegration for us.

Any tips you wish to give anyone want-ing to set up a business in theDordogne?Don’t be afraid to ask, and ask again!There is always someone willing to giveyou advice, it's just a matter of findingreliable information.Sometimes you do not always hear whatyou want to hear but do take on the neg-atives and try and to turn them into posi-tives. It is not always a walk in the park,and the process can be downright infuri-ating at times but even if the journey isundeniably bumpy, it is an exciting one!

ALEXANDRA THEVENEThas more than 20 years of international business experience, four of whichwere dedicated to setting up and developing the Franco-British Chamber of Commerce & Industry inthe Dordogne, from 2005 to 2009

alex@thelinkservices.fr - +33 (0)6 70 11 58 88 www.thelinkservices.fr

Sponsored by

Joanna and Ronan McIntyre left the UKin April 2005. After having spent thesummer travelling around France andSpain, they went home and immediately knew they had to return to France.In October 2005, they found a long-term rental property in the Deux Sèvresand from there started to unfold their masterplan pour une vie à lafrançaise...with an Irish twist! They opened an Irish Pub, The Fiddler's Rest, inChalais in Périgord, just outside Thiviers on the N21. Four years on, they tellus about their journey...

Pub grubventure

JUST as Jo and Ronan soon found out,funding is the backbone of any businessventure. They were given a helping handby Périgord Initiative, which belongs tothe France Initiative network and is thecountry’s top associative network dedi-cated to financing entrepreneurs.

Périgord Initiative was created by theDordogne Conseil Général (county coun-cil) and consular Chambers along withthe support of around 30 partners.

François Gaumet, managing director ofPérigord Initiative, says that its mission isto help entrepreneurs either creating orbuying a Dordogne business by grantingan interest-free merit loan which doesnot require any personal or professionalguarantee. These loans are designed toprovide further resources to those entre-preneurs investing personal funds intotheir business ventures.

Périgord Initiative merit loans aim atsupporting initiatives that generate jobopportunities. They provide financial and

technical support to help set-up or takeover existing businesses, and help entre-preneurs source additional funding.

Merit Loans, which have a zero per centinterest rate, can vary from €5,000 to€40,000 over a period of two to fiveyears. The amount granted by PérigordInitiative cannot exceed the total amountof funds provided by the entrepreneurand his/her partners. The financial planmust also give evidence of a bank loanhaving been granted.

To date, Périgord Initiative has grantedover 146 merit loans for a total amountin excess of one and a half million euros.

The Périgord Initiative team can helpentrepreneurs fine-tune their businessand financial plans, as well as loan appli-cations - major banks being involved inthe Périgord Initiative project as partners- and other grants and subsidies that mayapply. If a merit loan is granted, a person-alised coaching service is also availablethroughout the duration of the loan, and

entrepreneurs are introduced to localbusiness support networks.

François Gaumet also heads PérigordAngels, part of France Angels, a nationalnetwork of private investors who investdirectly in private companies over five toten years, in return for a shareholdingaveraging 33 per cent in the investeecompany and possibly a position on theboard of directors. Investments rangefrom €25k to €250k.

Established in October 2009, PérigordAngels have received about 50 applica-tions, selected 20 of these, have finalised2 and have 5 pending.

Potential investors benefit from signifi-cant tax credits under the August 2007TEPA tax measures.

For more information on either Périgord Initiative or Périgord Angels,please email François Gaumet atf.gaumet@dordogne.cci.fr or call 05 53 35 80 55.

THERE are several ways inwhich a business can grow.One of them is by reaching acompletely new set of cus-tomers with existing products- also called a market devel-

opment strategy. Anotherpopular growth strategy isdiversification whereby thebusiness targets new cus-tomers with new products.

Market development strate-

gies are interesting in asmuch as existing services orproducts can be leveraged onto grow the business.

This is exactly what Jo andRonan are now trying to dowith their Irish pub by reach-ing out to the French cus-tomer base.

Key questions to be askedbefore deciding to implement a market development strategy are:

*Will current products need

to be modified or adaptedand if so, what will be thecost and impact on margins?In Jo and Ronan's case, thiscould mean offering newdishes on the menu to suitFrench tastes or even makingsure menus are in bothFrench and English for example.

* Is the targeted customerbase well enough researchedand understood?

* How profitable can it be(market potential)?

So what can Périgord Intitiative do for you?

Marketing tip of themonth...market development strategy

Working in UK,living in France

16 Directory The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Find registered tradespeople quickly and easily

English-speaking firms near youFor your security, we check that the French businesses in this section are officially registered with the authorities

ArchitectRenovation - new construction.

Projects, all phases of construction.Sarl d'Architecture

David Besse Architecte dplgGrange Neuve 24140 Saint Martin des Combes.

05 53 82 44 75 - 06 17 51 26 00besse_archi@yahoo.fr

PARKES et DUCELIER

ArchitectesUK and French Registered

ArchitectsDossiers for Permis de

ConstruireInterior and

Landscape designOrdre des Architectes No. 1867

Tel: 05 53 09 33 45E: mail@parkes-ducellier.comW: www.parkes-ducellier.com

Depts: 16,19,24,33,87 Siret: 488 165 564 00011

HHOOUUSSEE PPLLAANNSSPlans drawn & submittedfor as little as €1,500 HT

Visit:www.houseplansinfrance.com

Tel: 05 55 85 25 63Email:info@houseplansinfrance.com

Landscape ArchitectFREE CONSULTATION

Site analysis, schematic designs,construction plans, cost estimates

construction observation, Contact Michael Stanton

Tel : 05 53 54 63 65www.landplan.fr - E-mail: mike@landplan.fr

Animal CareHouse Sitting Yours/mine

First Aid 4Animals Cert, Referencesestablished Animal Charities

Tel: 06 43 28 32 32animalcarer1@hotmail.fr

Siret ; u47011658505

The Cats InnLuxury Cattery - Cales near

Lalinde - Very SpaciousLots of Love and Attention

Tel: Paula 05 53 24 14 42paulaL24150@aol.com

Siret No.520 980 269 00010

La Creme de la CremeSmall, Caring, purpose

built DOG FREE catterynear Nontron.

Tel: 05 53 56 05 17email: colfi.day@gmail.com

www.la-creme-de-la-creme.comsiret 51963554400017

GOLDENWAYINTERNATIONAL PETS

World Wide Pet Transporter /

RelocatorMinistry approved

No. 61195004 – 61195001Offices CDG Airport Paris

Offices and Kennels NormandyTel: 01 48 62 87 25 CDG ParisTel: 02 33 38 41 32 Normandy

www.goldenwaypets.comSiret: 397549551

ANIMAL COURIERSExperienced couriers specialisingin pet travel between France / UK /

Spain or within France. Pet passport advice.

Tel: 0044 (0) 1483200123Email: animals@animalcouriers.com

Web: www.animalcouriers.com

THE DORDOGNE CATTERY

PENSION POUR CHATS NEARSARLAT, OPEN-AIR, INSULATED

AND HEATEDCONTACT ANNA MASLEN

05 53 31 95 88 / 06 86 94 85 78p.maslen@wanadoo.fr

www.dordognecattery.fr

WAGS AND WHISKERS

British owned boarding kennels and cattery35 years experience

Tel: 05.65 35.46.51tina.wagsandwhiskers@googlemail.com

SIRET: 500607858

CLOS FLEURILuxury Cattery

Between Bergerac and BordeauxIndividual Love Care and Attention Given

Tel: 05 53 24 16 08Susan.fairweather@sfr.fr

www.closfleurionline.comSiret: 524 348 596 00015

Chenil Les Mille Calins

English Run5 Star accommodation

for Dogs/CatsComprising of underfloor

heated kennels Qualified staff

Top Quality food and exerciseOnly 45 minutes south of Caen

Convenient Ferry AccessSAFETY COMFORT AND CARE FOR

YOUR PET, PEACE OF MIND FOR YOUwww.goldenwaypets.comTelephone 02 33 37 49 19Emergency 02 33 38 41 32

Fax 02 33 38 44 16

Advertise here AALLLL YYEEAARR fromjust €116655HHTT Call free on 0800 91 77 56 or email directory@connexionfrance.com

By advertising in ourdirectory you get the chanceto run advertorials(the news stories you see onthese pages.) 1/3 page, maximum 500words plus photo, €200HT

2/3 page, maximum 1,000

words plus photo, €400HT

We will keep you up todate with features andspecial events in your area ofFrance in all our publica-tions that could help toboost your business.

Your ad included in ouronline directory for FREE.

Want to advertise in ournational paper TheConnexion or sister paper inNormandy? Get 50% offyour second directory advert

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DORDOGNE DIRECTORY

Directory 17The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011 www.dordogneadvertiser.com

ADVERTISING FEATURES

IT HAS taken a few years to build uptheir successful renovation businesssay James and Phil Boreham, butnow extensive word-of-mouthmeans that business is booming.

Originally based in the UK, thetwo brothers are highly skilled andhave a strong background in renova-tion and design work.

Their parents ran a successfulkitchen and bathroom business inEngland for over 25 years and bothPhil and James were trained in thatbusiness by their father.

"One of the main reasons for thatbusiness's success was the fact thatwe did everything, such as knock

down walls, electrics, plumbing,plastering and tiling," said James. "Infact, no other tradesmen were need-ed when we were on the job."

The brothers take on a variety ofwork, from a simple revamp of exist-ing kitchens and bathrooms to fullrenovation work. The company alsooffers a planning and design service.

Having followed their parents outto France four years ago, the broth-ers have established a life for them-selves - and have followed in theirparents' footsteps to create their ownsuccessful renovation business.

While the brothers are based inand around Bergerac they are keen

to broaden their client base and trav-el where necessary.

An area that clients find particular-ly advantageous when contractingthe brothers for work is that they areat liberty to shop for their materialswherever they choose. "Customerscan go to any shop - or country - and buy whatever bathroom or kitchen they like," said James. "We will provide a quote(devis) for the installation or workrequired so no client is tied to a par-ticular brand or manufacturer."

In addition they are also happy toprovide plans and material listsbased on the product that the clienthas chosen.

One reason for their popularity isthat they aim to complete one proj-ect at a time, meaning that each cus-tomer gets 100% of their focus.

"Although it is very nice to havethree or four jobs on the go at the

same time, your luck normally back-fires because at the end you have dis-satisfied clients," said Phil.

"We have found it best, whereverpossible, to complete one job at atime, to the satisfaction of the client,before moving on to the next.Reputation is extremely important tous. We take an immense amount ofpride in our work."

The brothers receive regular posi-tive feedback from their clients.

“My husband and I have had lotsof works done by James and Phillipand we can certainly receommendthem as being hard working, thor-ough and trustworthy,” said recentcustomer Barbara Auzonne.

“We are having our kitchen updat-ed by them in May and are confidentthat the work will be done to theirusual standard,” she adds.

05 53 61 77 28renovation4u@hotmail.com06 12 36 33 18 (Phil)06 85 16 35 69 (James)

Brothers offer complete renovation serviceIf your property needs renovating or redesigning then James and Phil Boreham are on hand to help

James and Phil Boreham offer acomplete renovation service

“Customers can go to any shop - or country - andbuy whatever bathroom or kitchen they like

LANDPLAN is a landscape architec-tural practice based in the Dordognethat offers a range of landscape plan-ning and design services. The com-pany is run by versatile landscapedesigner Michael Stanton who hasover 30 years' experience of provid-ing outdoor design solutions.

The company's aim is to createinnovative, sustainable environmentsin both small gardens and largerscale urban projects. Michael worksclosely with clients to ensure thattheir individual needs, particularlyin terms of scope and budget, aremet. "Our measure of success is thelong-term satisfaction of our clients,"said Michael, who is based inMontanceix, around 15 kilometreswest of Périgueux.

"Landplan welcomes any enquiryfrom the Dordogne and adjacentdepartments," said Michael. "Ourfees are competitive and initial on-

site discussions are free of charge,"he added. Following this, the compa-ny's consulting services include siteanalysis, schematic plans, designdevelopment, construction drawings,cost estimates and, where requested,project management.

Landplan uses the latest landscapesoftware to ensure its clients can geta life-like view of their ideas during

the planning process.Michael has completed successful

projects in New Zealand andAustralia, such as the design andproject management of theTirhatuan Park golf course inMelbourne, and it is this wealth ofexperience that enables Landplan todesign such high-profile landscapingprojects today.

Current ventures include the devel-opment of gardens at Château HautBarit in the Gironde. "The gardens ofthis 18th century château had suf-fered neglect over many years," saidMichael. "Following the renovationof the building, Landplan wasengaged to re-design the groundsaround the château in the Frenchgarden style and project manage the construction work."

While completion of the project isscheduled for autumn 2011, clientsMike and Maria Smith are delightedwith the progress of the project sofar. "Landplan has done an excellentjob on scoping and re-designing our18th century garden and park," said

Mike. "This has been a major projectin four stages and has involveddetailed graphic design, extensivelandscaping, planting, irrigation andlighting," he added.

Landplan is also currently land-scaping a large outdoor area for arecently-converted grange nearBergerac, which was initially com-pletely undeveloped. "Landplan has

designed a summer garden in whichthe clients and their children canfully enjoy their annual retreat inFrance and completion is scheduledfor July 2011," said Michael.

mike@landplan.frTel: 05 53 54 63 65Mob: 06 77 36 45 14

Transform your exterior space

This exquisite pergola is just one of Landplan’s many inspired creationsMichael Stanton runs Landplan

Looking for a landscape designer? Michael Stanton's

stylish vision could be just what you need

CORREZE-based Ray and SophieHicks have been living on their farm,L'Audrerie, with their two children,since 2008.

Having worked in catering whileliving in the UK, as well as runningtheir own butcher's shop, they havebuilt up quite a reputation for pro-ducing high quality, delicious Britishsausages, burgers, bacon, gammons,beef, pork and lamb.

Although they use their own meat

from their farm animals, authenticspices and mixes are even sourcedfrom the UK to ensure a traditionalend product.

The flock of 55 ewes consist mainlyof Texel crosses, which they breedwith Polled Dorset rams to producedelicious tasting lamb which is avail-able from June through toChristmas. They are sold butchered

as half or whole lambs, or you canbuy separate cuts if required.

The cattle are made up of Dextercows, one Saler cow and anAberdeen Angus bull. There are sixyoung Saler cows that are being usedfor butchering at the moment andthe meat is available in mixed beefboxes or separate cuts.

“The Saler beef is proving to bevery popular as it is an old breed thathas marbling through the meat,making it moist when cooked, and itis very tasty,” said Sophie. “There aresome Dexter calves that will be ready

in late 2012,” she added. The pigs,which roam in a large woodlandarea, are a Large White/Duroc cross.

When orders are amassed and ananimal has to be taken to the abbat-toir they are taken in a small trailerand travel the short distance to St Yrieix where they are humanelydealt with.

The carcasses are collected in arefrigerated van and butchered attheir on-site butchers, which is regu-larly visited by inspectors.

To make an order you can go to thewebsite, see the products list and:

order and pay online withPayPal;

order and pay on collection ordelivery;

telephone or e-mail your order.Deliveries are made to local areas

and those further afield, such asBergerac and Argentat.

The courier service to anywhere inFrance is growing and is a very pop-ular way of receiving your order. Theboxes are designed to keep tempera-tures down for over 48 hours and

customer feedback has been verypositive so far.

“The pork arrived yesterday morn-ing as you promised and, despitetravelling to the centre of France,was still in great condition,” saidhappy customer Michael Cooke.“Unable to resist temptation we triedsome bacon and sausages in theevening. Wow, by far the best meatwe have bought in France during thefive years we've been here.”

www.boucheriealaferme.cominfo@boucheriealaferme.com 05 55 97 95 66

The pigs are free ranged in a large woodland area

“There are some Dexter calves that will beready in late 2012

Texel ewe with her twin lambs

The young herd of Saler cows

Knowing where to buy freerange, high quality meat isn'teasy, but now Boucherie à laFerme delivers authenticBritish produce to yourdoorstep in France

British sausages set to sizzle in France

18 Directory The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

pools-piscines.comSwimming pool construction and repairs

Natural pools - Replacement liners standardand liner 'armé' 150/100

NW Dordogne/South Charentetel 06 89 46 15 08 / 09 77 90 94 51

www.pools-piscines.comsiret 322 963 190 000 36

IN DEEPPISCINES

Maintenance, leak detection, servicing, repairs

tel: 05 53 22 79 18 / 06 84 68 84 92email: indeeppiscines@gmail.com

regions: 47, 32, 82, 24, 33 - siret: 504576802100020

Roots & ShootsProfessional tree surgeryCall Mark for a free quote

05 53 75 05 48 - 06 89 79 05 02rootsandshoots.fr@gmail.com.

www.roots-shoots.frSiret number 452-803-539-00017

24 SERVICESComplete Home and Garden Maintenance

Bourdeilles 24310Tel: 06 02 34 85 38

www.24services.frSiret: 52841725600013

TIP TOPGarden &

Property ServicesGarden Maintenance

Hedge Trimming - TreesCutting - Strimming

General Property MaintenanceProperty checks/Keyholding

Photo updatesContact Barry OnTel: 05 53 29 03 52

Mobile: 06 24 07 31 14E: paula.grainger@wanadoo.frDept 24 - Radius 50 kms Sarlat

Siret: 49372365400015

PISCINE AMBIANCEMore than 20 years

as regional leader in reinforcedconcrete pools.

Thanks to exclusive technologyand no outsourcing, 98% of ourclients readily recommend us!

With PISCINE AMBIANCEinvest in happiness!

PISCINE AMBIANCE - ZAC du Mazaud19100 BRIVE - + 33 (0)5 55 18 98 18

contact@piscineambiance.comwww.piscineambiance.com

BOUCHERIEA LA FERME

Traditional English family butchers andfarmers in France.

British style Beef,bacon, Sausages,

gammons pork & lambBespoke insulated packaging used for

delivery throughout France.Raymond&Sophie Hicks

www.boucheriealaferme.comTel: 05 55 97 95 66

Mob: 06 45 51 34 58Siret: 509 528 014 00012

EXECO PARTNERSCertified Accountants (FR)

Serving English Clients in France

Accounting, Payroll, Business Setup and

registration, Individual& Business Taxation

and more...Please feel welcome to contact:

Mr Pierre CHERON(Expert-Comptable)

on Tél: 05.53.54.48.91Email: contact@execopartners.com

www.execopartners.eu

FRENCH INSURANCE - IN ENGLISH

For people who live in/ own property in

FranceStraight-forward, honest advice onthe best house, car, life & health

insurance policies for youOver 15 years experience inFrench insurance markets

English, Dutch & German spoken.Philippe Schreinemachers

www.insurance.frTel: 33 00 05 62 29 20 00Email: cover@insurance.fr

RCS Auch B479 400 657 - Regions: All France

FRENCH MORTGAGESERVICES

Rates from 1.9%Professional & Independent

sample, 100k, equity release from 200euros per month*

Tel FR: 05 53 79 43 62 / 06 84 47 62 76UK: 0044 ( 0)1491 571 955

E: david@frenchmortgageservices.com* subject to terms

AXA INSURANCE

J. LECLUZEST HILAIRE DU HARCOUET - 50600

HOME - CAR - HEALTHWe insure UK registered cars

ENGLISH SPOKEN(call Angeline) - 02 33 49 12 34

agence.lecluze@axa.fr

AGENCE CLASSICFRENCH HOMESExclusively Prestige Property

€750,000 plus.Knight Frank Representative

For Dordogne, N Lot-et-Garonneand E Gironde

Floor Plans, Virtual Tours,Elevated Photography as standard

Contact Michelle or Anick05 53 23 32 13

www.classic-french-homes.comSiret: 491 449 328 00021

HOUSES ONINTERNET

Do you want to sell yourhouse quickly?

Our fee is only 2.5%Find out how on:

WWW.HOUSESONINTERNET.COM

Tel: 05 55 65 12 19

For all your electrical requirementscontact

AK Electrical30 years experience/Fully insured

ak-electrical@hotmail.co.ukTel 06 32 31 61 85

siret: 494 064 322 00014

Kennedy Electricite ServicesInstallation, rewires and repairs.

18 years experience.Fully insured. No job too small.

Contact Justin or Melissa Kennedy.Tel: 05 55 56 37 36

Email: justin.kennedy@orange.frRegions 87/24 Siret 503 417 04000014

Brian Macey - Electricianmaintenance, breakdowns, renovations,

rewires, new build, interior & exterior30 years experience

Tel: 05 55 97 18 10Email: brimacelectrical@supanet.comSiret: 517 566 196 00013 Regions Covered: 19,24,87

ALL ELECTRICAL/PLUMBING WORK

Underfloor Heating/ AerothermiePremiere service guaranteed

St Yrieux / Brive / Perigueux / SarlatTel: 06 37 09 55 13

Website: http://eurolec24.com/Email: james.gunn@club-internet.fr

Siret: 489 542 589 00010

LLaa PPeettiittee MMaaiissoonn ddeess LLaanngguueess

38, rue Jean Jaurès, 24800 THIVIERSTel: 05 53 52 49 91

E: lapetitemaisondeslangues@orange.frW: www.lapetitemaisondeslangues.comLearn French and feel at home again !

Small groups, 1to1, weekly orintensive courses and translations

French WithoutTears

Your Own PersonalLanguage Course.

Tuition with Accomodationwww.cours-a-cucugnan.com

Tel: 06 78 15 19 29Siret: 521701474

LE FRANCAISCHEZ VOUS

Tailor made tuition in French at yourhome or Castel-Merle, 24290 Sergeac.

Amanda and Emilie MillinshipTel: 05 53 50 04 68

www.lefrancaischezvous.comDordogne

CERTIFIED TRANSLATIONSAll legal transla-tions by French-English speaking sworn translator

Property-legal-birth cert.,driving licences

Administrative helpExpat assistanceValid everywhere

with 25 years of experienceRegions : All FRANCEKaren RENEL-KINGTel: 06 18 03 18 38

Email: karen.king@wanadoo.frWeb:

www.certifiedfrenchtranslation.comFast and affordable

Siret: 38058374000028

alan keenan

ti lingall wall & floor tiling, pool surrounds, terraces,

concrete & sand / cement work, plasterboardingTel: 06 19 50 34 28 or 05 53 23 24 54

Email: alankeenano@gmail.comRegions Covered: 24,47 Siret: 47794615600015

MGF CounsellingServices

English Speaking Counselor. M. Glenys Forrester

(B.Sc.psych.) (M.Sc. psych.)

Offering individual /couples counselling.

(Depression, Stress, illness,bereavement etc).

Tel: 05 53 50 07 28Mob: 06 47 17 60 78

Email: mglenys.forrester@gmail.comWeb: www.mgfcounselling.com

Regions Covered: All - Siret: 520 314 824

WEBSITESBoost your business with anaffordable, high-performance

website that you can edit yourselfwww.rob-tomlinson.com

Tel: 05 62 67 39 98rt@rob-tomlinson.com

Regions: All France Siret: 419 490 297 00027

Penny Graphicswebsites from

75€including design, hosting and

domain name

pennygraphics.net02 33 90 92 15

PC-TECHNICASolutions to all your computing needs...

PC Support/Sales & Website Design

Tel: 05 53 59 48 54 Email: contact@pc-technica.fr

www.pc-technica.fr

JUST PLASTERINGCeilings, walls, floors

Time served tradesman24, 33, 47, other regions possibleContact Mike Tel: 05 53 58 17 19

Mob: 06 67 03 30 48Email: thewebbsonweb@free.fr

Siret no: 42424381400011

SMALL BUILDING WORKS Repointing, Plasterboarding, windows,

doors installed.Translations, planning permissions.

Tel: 05 53 56 36 89 Email: daveindordogne@sfr.fr www.dordognedave.webs.com

Regions Covered 24,16,87 - Siret: 51913926500010

GENERAL BUILDERChris Danaher

20 Years ExperienceFREE ESTIMATES

Tel: 05 53 05 80 17 Mobile: 06 71 40 35 39danaherone@aol.com Siret:51064303400018

J-C-T Buildingand RenovationNo job to small Free Estimate

James Taylor 0673303753n°siret: 51381108300015

BergeracRenovation & Building

From groundwork, fosseseptiques, masonary,interiors, to rooves.

Free estimates & adviceTel: 05 53 81 60 73

christopher.jarrett@wanadoo.fr

3D CONSTRUCTIONFamily run building company with

over 30 yrs experience

All construction worksundertaken large orsmall incl. masonry,

carpentry and roofingBased nr. Sarlat

Free estimates - References availableTel: 06 31 21 32 04

Email: simon.dobson@neuf.frsiret: 505 346 676 00016

CDRCONSTRUCTION

DESIGNRENOVATION

ECO Timber Framed HousesRenovation a Specialty

Low Energy ConsumerEQUALS Income Tax Rebates

JULIAN WILKESTel: 05 53 53 96 97

Mobile: 06 72 16 46 26Email:cdrwilkes@neuf.fr

www.construction-design-renovation-24.com

Siret: 403926702

Team of English artisansfor all your renovation needs

in the Perigord NoirEmail: creation.ex@gmail.com

Telephone: Simon - 06 37 21 24 02Glen - 06 71 85 43 24

Siret: 5045 8000 2000 13 - 5206 6045 7000 18

BOIS D'ARBRECONSTRUCTION

______________

Specialists in Traditional Oak frames & Timber houses

______________

* Timber Frame homes - from supply of structural frames,through to turn-key homes

* Extensions, Gazebos, Dormawindows, sun terraces, Garages,

* Specialised in waterproofingtimber roofs, green roofs and

terraces.______________

Tel: 06-72-01-11-06info@boisdarbreconstruction.comwww.boisdarbreconstruction.com

SIRET: 4899 5394 30011

BÂTI-TOP SARL

CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATIONMEDIUM/LARGE PROJECTS

UNDERTAKEN10 YEAR INSURED GUARANTEE

www.bati-top.com05 53 73 02 88 - Siret: 9868562700016

C&C CONSTRUCTION SARLQualified Builder

15 Years Experience10 Years Insurance Guarantee

All Building/Groundworks undertakenTel: 05 53 62 13 38 / 06 63 84 79 99

Email: cc-construction@itcsd.demon.co.ukwww.cc-construction.fr

RON HARRISONGeneral Builder

City & Guilds qualified, 35yrs experience, reliable, ALL WORK GUARANTEED

Tel: 05 53 80 42 91 Mob: +44 759 286 5010

Email: angelaharrisson@orange.fr25km radius Mussidan(24) Siret: 51352715000017

ABPRenovation & Construction

Swimming pools and buildingsAll trades including new timber frame buildings

Tel/Fax: 05 53 56 68 87Email: abp.renov@orange.fr

Website: abpiscines.netSiret: 387 471 394 000 24

PLASTERING POINTINGRENDERING &

GENERAL BUILDING“Quality & Reliability” 35 Years Experience

Tel : 05 57 47 48 19Email : pessacweb@yahoo.co.uk

Areas 24,23 Other areas Considered. Based St Foy La GrandeSiret: 482 710 175

Directory 19The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011 www.dordogneadvertiser.com

ADVERTISING FEATURES

SOLVING electrical problems abroadis standard fare for Adrian Kewell,who worked in Portugal andBarcelona before arriving in Francefour years ago. Having set up AKElectrical in Eymet in 2006, the busi-ness is now going from strength tostrength as a result of word-of-mouth

recommendations and satisfiedrepeat customers. The company spe-cialises in electrical installation andelectrical repairs for homes and com-mercial properties.

With over 30 years' experience asan electrician, Adrian operates main-ly in department 24, covering thesurrounding areas of Eymet andBergerac, but is now keen to expandhis client base further afield.

"I started initially as an apprenticein the family business, G J Kewell &Sons based in Littlehampton, WestSussex," said Adrian. "My grandfa-ther founded the company in 1962and ever since then I have continuedmy career as a self-employed electri-cal contractor, contracting and sub-contracting projects throughout the UK."

The company provides clients withtotal peace of mind and can managean electrical job right from the begin-

ning through to completion. "We canprovide a complete package thatincludes conception, procurement,project management, installation,technical expertise, innovation, andelectrical design, as well as preventa-tive maintenance and emergencyrepairs," said Adrian. "We can alsoalways be trusted to be at the fore-front of electrical safety," he added.

The company can take on any typeof electrical project, whether it is fullrewiring, refurbishment or theupgrading of existing electrics that isrequired. Typical jobs include: imple-menting additional sockets or light-ing; installing garden and ornamental

lighting; connecting heating systemsand boilers; fixing up storage heating;fitting security and burglar alarms,and CCTV systems; putting in doorentry systems; kitchen refurbishment;fault finding; and consuel certifica-tion (which involves a visual inspec-

tion, testing and sign off by thenational authority).

"AK Electrical is fully registeredand all work carried out complieswith French regulations - the compa-ny is also insured and covered by aten-year guarantee," said Adrian.

"Each job is conducted diligentlyand efficiently to ensure that clientsreceive a top quality job whilst get-ting the best value for money."

06 32 31 61 85ak-electrical@hotmail.co.uk

No more electrical issuesCommunicating your electrical needs can be difficult if your French isn’t up toscratch, so why not contact Dordogne-based English electrician Adrian Kewell?

Adrian Kewell runs AK Electrical

Adrian operates mainly in department 24, but will travel further afield

“AK Electrical is fully registered and all work carried out complies with French regulations

A CAREER in French banking con-vinced Arnaud Campion that mostFrench banks gave poor financialsolutions to international customers.

Mr Campion set up WealthGeneration, his financial advice firm,after 12 years working as, amongother roles, a branch manager for aleading high street bank and as awealth manager in charge of interna-tional customers.

He said: “Trying to arrange equityrelease is a nonsense: they don’t offerit; and making an interest-only loanis very difficult or they ask you topurchase 70% collateral.”

One of the French banks offers ascheme that looks like equity release,he said, but it is more accuratelydescribed as a “reverse mortgage”.What is more, it is inflexible andexpensive and only aimed at theover-65s.

“I have partnerships with dedicatedmortgage specialists and offer cre-ative financial solutions: I can do an

equity release and refinance up to50% of the loan to value and I cando an interest-only loan with a 20%collateral and without any earlyredemption penalty.

“With my equity release you don’thave to demonstrate the use of the

funds, so you can use it to buy a pro-perty in or outside France, to investin a savings account, a pension plan,a car, or whatever you like.”

Mr Campion said he could alsoarrange mortgages to purchase prop-erties outside France as well asinside. Another plus point is that hislenders will consider all your world-wide income when deciding howmuch they can lend to you (such as

money held offshore), not justmoney declared in France.

He added: “I am not onlya mortgage broker but awealth manager.

“I have a brand newpension plan whichmeans your moneyremains always availableand you have at themoment at 4.5% lifetimeguaranteed income, witha ratchet effect.

“This means that if youinvest €100,000 you

have a guaranteed income of €4,500at 65. Whatever happens to

your investment then, includ-ing dropping to only€50,000 value, you keepyour guarantee at €4,500.

“If on the other handyour investment performswell and in 10 years isworth €200,000, then yourincome guarantee increasesto €9,000.

“There is a ratchet effect onthe highest-ever level, so

you always get that

amount at 65, even if the value of theinvestment drops.”

Wealth Generation (www.wealthgen.fr) also offers investments suchas French life assurance policies.

This is essentially a savingsaccount, but if you die up to€152,000 goes to your heir withoutinheritance duty, and the money isalways available.

“There are two kinds of invest-ments you can put your money in.One is eurofunds, which give 100%guarantee on your capital and allyour accrued interest. These cannever go down and at the momentthere is a 3.37% guarantee for 2011and 2012. That’s the most secureinvestment I can offer.

“I also promote an internationallydiversified fund that has existed formore than 21 years.

“It has, over the last 10 years, hadan average 7.25% income. It did noteven go down in 2008.”

Mr Campion also offers tax advice,including assistance with filling inwealth tax and income tax returns.

“I help clients to invest their taxinstead of throwing it away. Insteadof paying large amounts of tax youcan invest in property or small andmedium-sized businesses.”

He said that it is wrong to think ofFrance as being a high-tax country.

“If you compare two people earn-ing good money in the UK andFrance, they will pay more incometax in the UK.” For older retired peo-ple, in particular, it is much better tobe paying your tax in France thanthe UK, he said.

“I often advise people who havestill been making a UK tax returnbut living in France, that they shouldhave been making a French one.”

In such cases, he can advise on howto claim back UK tax paid and paythe French tax.

“You can go back three years andmy clients usually save 50%.”

Mr Campion said that his tax solu-tions are aimed at people who arefairly wealthy, however for mort-gages he can help with loans of€100,000 or more.

Get more out of your money in FranceHigh street banks maynot be the best bet forfinancial solutions fornon-French residents,says Arnaud Campion ofWealth Generation

“I have partnerships with dedicated mortgage specialists and offer creative financial solutions: Ican do an equity release or an interest-only loanArnaud CampionDirector of Wealth Generation

Phot

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20 Directory The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Regular collection /deliveries from

UK, and S/W France.Removals, on-line shopping, DIY prod-

ucts. Friendly professional service.Tel: 06 04 01 73 59

Email: info@aclighthaulage.com Web: www.aclighthaulage.com

SELF STORAGEDOVER

Convenient Flexible Consolidation PointWorking with the Movers Tel: +44(0) 1304 822844

doverinfo@aandsselfstorage.co.ukwww.doverstorage.co.uk

All France

George White European TransportSpecial rates to S/W France

13.6m/45ft trailer - Full/Part loadsRemovals/materials/vehiclesOwner driver. RHA memberTel: +44 (0)7768 867 360Fax: +44 (0)1773 570 090

Fr Mobile: +33 (0)6 23 03 85 59www.georgewhiteeuropean.co.uk

MOVE IN EUROPEThe removal company even the furniture recommendsUK - Europe - Europe - UKwww.moveineurope.com

contact@moveineurope.comTel: +44 121 3503111

Home Tel: 05 53 93 75 52

REMOVALS & STORAGEMurray HarperEuropean transport

& storageENGLAND, FRANCE, SPAIN

Scheduled collection anddelivery service guaranteed

Established 30 yearsin the industry

www.murrayharper.comTel: (0034) 952 793 422 or

(0034) 952 807 692info@murrayharper.com

MAKE YOUR OWNELECTRICTY & SELL IT,

USE ITBE SELF-SUFFICIENT/INDEPENDENT

YOUR POWERSOLAR-WIND-HYBRID KITSWWW.everkinetiq.frinfo@everkinetiq.fr

EEccooPPoowweerrThe World's

Leading SolarSystems

Tel: 05 53 62 31 35

www.ecopower.eu.com

SECURITY SYSTEMS

Alarm calls up to 4 numbers ifactivated.

NO ANNUAL CONTRACTSOR MONTHLY PAYMENTS.

Wireless or wired.Cameras with 24/7 recording +

Internet access. Security lighting.Tel: 06 27 76 95 91

E: contact@aquitainealarmes.comW: www.aquitainealarmes.com

Regions Covered: 24, 33, 17, 16SIRET 50793843900019

LOCKES GROUNDWORKS& LANDSCAPING

Digger / driver hire Fosse septiquesExcavations, Building, Renovations

Driveways, Fencing, Decking, Pergolas Tel: 05 53 79 77 61 or 06 42 86 85 31

Email: lockes@orange.frWebsite: www.lockes47.com

DIGITAL INSTALLATIONSWe do not only sell & install

We also repair digiboxesNOW!! All freesat systems available

WITHOUT CARD For more information call00 33 (0)5 45 98 25 37

FINNINGER & HELBACH GmbhLe Petit Fouine, 16210 Curac

Tel/Fax: 00 33 (0)5 45 98 25 37email: FinnHans@aol.com

www.digitalsatellitefrance.comSiret: 400 415 246 00026

PEST CONTROLDOMESTIC,COMMERCIAL

& RURALDept 19 & adjoining

Robin Loten0555 736918/0615186308lotenrobin@yahoo.fr

Siret: 523 767 705 00016

General BuildingRoofing, loft and barn conversion andproperty renovations. Depts 24, 19, 87

Full team of skilled registered tradesmencharles@hautefortrenovation.com

www.hautefortrenovation.comTel/fax: 05 53 50 12 39Mobile: 06 84 53 08 39

Balcony & Stair Railings

Window & Door Grills.

Manufacture/Repair/Installation.williamsonsteel.com

williamson_steel@yahoo.com05 53 90 20 17

Mini digger hire from100 Euros per day HT

Hammer, auger, dumper,roller etc available

Sarlat, Gourdon and Souillac areas

SARL MaximaTel April on 0613232249

or 0553312115see rates at

www.maximalocation.comSiret no. 498 524 032 00022

BEAMRENOVATIONS

The viablealternative tosandblasting or stripping.

Email:renaissance-beams@live.frwww.renaissance-beams.com

SURFACESPolished Concrete Floors, Walls, Worktops

Sinks & Furniture

STONE & TILERestoration, Colouring, Sealing.

Web: www.surfaces24.comEmail: info@surfaces24.com

Tel: 06 82 38 21 12 Siret 51500573400014

SAND AND BLASTSandblasting service for Wood,Metal and Stone. Floor sanding

service / hire available. Tel: 05 55 78 43 71 /

06 67 81 63 46www.sandandblast.com

Areas: 87, 16, 24 Siret: 488 522 921 00029

Experienced and registeredCeramic floor and wall tiler

For a professional Service / QuotationContact 2447 CarrelageTel: 05 53 57 12 19

Email: occitane6@orange.frRegions 24/47 and surroundingSIRET: 4844699200014

Masters EnergySolutions

The One Stop Shop forall your energy needs

www.masters-energies.comTel:05 55 78 66 35

Siret 451 371 579

Phil B EntrepriseAll Building Works Undertaken

Inc Electrical, Plumbing and HeatingBased 47, 24

Email: enquiries@stoves.frTel: 05 53 84 36 81

Mobile: 06 72 02 88 29

www.swansolar.euSupply & Installation of :

• Solar domestic hot water systems • Solar swimming pool systems

• Wood boiler stoves • Plumbing services Tel : 05 53 63 43 87 / 06 06 41 08 85

Email : maswan@live.co.ukAll depts covered Siret 50406233200011

PROPERTY ODD JOBS

Painting + Decorator, General PropertyMaintenance, 25 years experience,

Registered Artisan Tel: 05 53 23 77 05 (Rob)

Regions: Dept 24 - Siret: 501 098 883 00017

E B CreationsMetalwork

All interior and exterior ironwork.Dept 47,33,24 covered.

www.ebcreations.net.Tel: 05 53 83 68 15

email: edward@ebcreations.netSiret No. 452 215 403 00018

Plastering Servicesover 20 years experience in france

we undertakePlastering - Partitioning - Plasterboarding

COMPETITIVE PRICESTel: 05 53 56 27 58

Mobile: 06 02 26 17 75Siret: 381 076 967

www.realheating.cominfo@realheating.com

Tél: 05 53 90 46 34Siret: 4119 419 830

Plumbing, Central & Underfloor HeatingBathrooms, Solar systems,

Woodburners.GAS QUALIFIED INSTALLERS.

BOUCARA CHAUFFAGEPLOMBERIE

PLUMBING - HEATING - BATH-ROOMS - GEOTHERMIE AND

ALTERNTIVE - ENERGY INSTALLA-TIONS - GAS INSTALLATIONS

QUALIFIED ARTISAN - QUALIGAZREGISTERED - FRENCH REGIS-

TERED BUSINESS12 MONTH WARRANTY

ON ALL WORK FULLY INSUREDDEPT 24, 33 AND 47

Contact. Morris WhiteheadTel. 05 53 58 38 62

Email: morriswhitehead@wanadoo.frSiret No. 480 789 197 00013

PLUMBING & HEATINGINSTALLATIONS

SERVICING & REPAIRSRENOVATIONS, AIR-CONDITIONING SOLAR

SYSTEMS - TOTALGAZ APPROVED INSTALLERContact: Wayne MerryMob: 06 85 58 64 65Tel: 05 53 64 34 05

Email:wayne.merry@sfr.fr

HEATHROW LEFT HANDDRIVE CENTRE LTD

Rear Of 55 Cowley Road,Uxbridge UB8 2AE

Tel: +44 (0)208 8487407Tel: +44 (0)1895 81 23 23

Mobile: +44 (0)7811 784766We Specialise in buying

and selling Left HandDrive quality vehicles.

We have a variety of cars mostly onFrench/Spanish and English registrations.

We have over 11 years of professional experiencein the motor trade.

Web: Heathrowlhdcentre.comE: info@heathrowlhdcentre.com

LANDROVER*MG*ROVER*JAGUAR*

AUSTIN-MORRIS PARTSELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS &

GEARBOX REPAIRSWWW.LANDYPOINT.NET

0545622720

G. W.Makeovers & Design

English Kitchens/ Bathrooms/appli-ances direct from UK manufacturersFull range of French kitchens sup-plied Free design/planning service

Installations/Makeovers/Installations Only/Tiling

Granite and Stoneworksurfaces available

Areas: 24 33 47Call 05 53 58 09 32 or

06 58 92 09 97siret: 510 011 554 00019

One stop for all your renovation works. Specialistsin kitchens and bathrooms.

Free devis/quotes.Contact details.

Phone: 06 12 36 33 18 / 06 85 16 35 69e-mail: renovation4u@hotmail.com

Siret: 50281715800012 / 51110545400017

New Year–New Shape!

LOSE WEIGHT &REGAIN YOURSHAPEOur program includes:

• Personal Weight Loss Coach• Continuing Support• Long Term Coaching• Nutrition Education• Great Key Tips & Advice• Personalised W8Loss Profile

For FREE Sample Pack Text ‘W8L’ and ‘NAME’ to

06 26 54 98 77

LIMEUILCHURCH

(at Limeuil Haut)ANGLICAN SERVICES

EVERY SUNDAY10.30 AM

Everyone is warmly welcomedTEL: 05 53 31 18 04

www.chapaq.org

Café Churchin Bergerac

An English speaking approachto contemporary Christianity

SUNDAYSApril 24th and May 22ndTea and cake from 5pmCafe Church until 6:30

NEW FOR 2011SUMMER CHURCH

Every Sunday July and AugustSponsored by and held at L'Eglise

Evangelique Libre de Bergerac, 5 Rue DurouFor more details contact Rev. Derek & Pam Cook derekcook3@sky.com

05.53.57.83.30www.christiansindordogne.com

S.A.R.L St Pool Piscineset Construction

Concrete Piscines. Cost effectivelyengineered. No expensive over

design, expertly constructed Ordernow for 2011.

stpoolsfrance@gmail.comStuart Roberts B.Sc (c.eng)

Phone: 0553914518 - Siret 503932857

Prêt à Plonger Piscine installation, repairs &

maintenance. Bespoke pools, noproject too big or small.

Complete package includinggroundwork, terracing/decking

and pool security.

Simon & Julia Holt0619 071121 or 0553 620152

simon.holt@wanadoo.frwww.pretaplongerpools.com

Siret: 49397835700017

"We’ve received very positive

results using The Advertiser with

work ranging from liner renewals

to complete pool packages.

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the customer service provided by

The Advertiser team. "Simon & Julia Holt,

Prét à Plonger.

Directory 21www.dordogneadvertiser.comThe Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011

POLE EMPLOI JOBSHOME BASED LANGUAGE TEACHER JJoobbooffffeerr nn°° 443300995577WW - SSaaiinntt-NNiiccoollaass-ddee-llaa-BBaalleerrmmee - CCDDDD 33 mmoonntthhss - For a child in highschool you will give English lessons at theirhome on Wednesday afternoons. Beginneraccepted, but have degree or equivalant.ENGLISH TEACHER JJoobb ooffffeerr nn°° 883333220033CC -PPéérriigguueeuuxx - CCDDDD 33 mmoonntthhss - Language teach-ing centre are looking for an English teacherable to carry out a contract for a client inBergerac. Preferably bilingual with previousexperience in professional development. 1 - 5years experience preferred and degree orequivalent in languages. Must drive. 4 hoursper week.RECEPTIONIST JJoobb ooffffeerr nn°° 555588886611VV - SSaaiinntt-EEmmiilliioonn - CCDDDD 66 mmoonntthhss - Receptionist for atourist train you will be in charge of sellingthe tickets. Must be fluent in English and ableto work weekends with preferably previousexperience in the tourist trade. 35 hour work-ing week.LANGUAGE TEACHER JJoobb ooffffeerr nn°° 442288331133WW- TTrreelliissssaacc - CCDDDD 66 mmoonntthhss - You will be incharge of an intensive English course for highschool children during school holidays. Musthave degree or equivalent. Hours - 1h30 perweek until the end of AugustWAITER/WAITRESS JJoobb ooffffeerr nn°° 555555226644VV -SSaarrllaatt - CCDDDD 22 mmoonntthhss - You will welcomeclients, set tables, help with the upkeep of thedining room, you must know how to givechange. English necessary. Start beginning ofJuly, 24 hours per week over 6 days.SALES ASSISTANT JJoobb ooffffeerr nn°° 555533882200VV -SSaarrllaatt - CCDDDD 66 mmoonntthhss - For an estate agentyou will help create, write and format Frenchand English texts, make appointments forsales representatives, follow up clients, occa-sional visits. Hours 9-12 and 14 - 18.30between 30 and 35 hours per week, possibil-ity of CDI afterwards.RECEPTIONIST JJoobb ooffffeerr nnoo 556677775599VV -MMoonneessttiieerr - CCDDDD 88 mmoonntthhss - You will work on

reception day & night in a 4* hotel. 39 hourweek. Possiblity of CDI afterwards

OTHER JOBSLEGGETT IMMOBILIER are now recruiting forsales agents, full training provided. Excellentearning potential. Please call Sarah Edwardson 06 66 58 94 66 sarah@leggett.frwww.frenchestateagents.com GUIDE2LIMOUSIN andGuide2PoitouCharentes looking for people to:Work from Home - Full time or Flexible hoursCommission Based - Can speak French (pre-ferred but not essential) - Contactsales@guide2poitoucharentes for more info

ITEMS FOR SALE

BBEEAAUUTTIIFFUULL FFRREENNCCHH-CCRRAAFFTTEEDD SSOOLLIIDD OOAAKKttaabbllee ((mmoonnaasstteerree-ssttyyllee)) aanndd 1100 uupphhooll-sstteerreedd cchhaaiirrss €€11550000.. AAnnttiiqquuee ""ccooffffrree-bbuuff-ffeett"" iinn ooaakk €€885500.. LLaarrggee oolldd ccooffffeeee-ttaabblleewwiitthh 22 ddrraawweerrss €€330000.. DDeeccoorraattiivvee aannttiiqquuee""mmaaii"" iiddeeaall ffoorr ssttoorraaggee €€335500.. AAllll iitteemmssaarree iinn eexxcceelllleenntt ccoonnddiittiioonn.. CCoonnttaaccttGGwwyynneetthh aatt ppyyhhiillll@@bbttiinntteerrnneett..ccoomm""

BACCHUS IMMOBILIER

recruitsFrance based estate agency seeks repre-

sentatives for ALL regions of France. Carte Blanche Agent

Commercial Immobilier and generous(up to 70%) commission rates offered.

Contact Ivan Tredinnick.Tel: 00 33 (0)5 45 82 42 93Fax: 00 33 (0)5 45 36 27 95E: property@bacchus-french-property.comW: www.bacchus-french-property.com

Siret: 48034462100010

EVERY year thousands of seasonaljobs are created around France, fromsummer jobs on beaches or touristguides around towns to grape pick-ing in Autumn and oyster picking in

winter. In today's economic climateseasonal jobs can be a good gap fillerif you are between jobs and are nolonger seen only as holiday jobs forstudents.

So how do you go about finding such a job?

The first step, like with any job is toprepare your CV. Contact anywhere

that is likely to employ seasonal work-ers directly. A lot of these places willhave job offers up in their windows sovisit them and hand over your CV,you may well have more of a chanceof getting a job with them as they willhave met you straight away. It alsogives you the opportunity to size upthe establishment and decide whetherit is right for you as well.Visit websites such as www.pole-

emploi.com and www.emploi-saison-nier.com. www.anefa.org is a goodplace to look for agricultural work.Town halls will hold the job offers for

children's day care centres, state runholiday camps and so on.Finally try the various temp agencies.

Some jobs such as looking after chil-dren will require qualifications and allof them will be very tiring as althoughthey may be set in beautiful surround-ings they are usually very intense andinvolve long hours. Don't leave it untilthe last minute. Many contracts startearly in the season so potentialemployers will be recruiting fromspring onwards. It is unlikely thatyou'll find a job for August if you onlystart looking in July.

Make cash from your unwanted items. Classified adverts are FREE for private sales ofitems under €€250. Place your advert via our website www.dordogneadvertiser.comCLASSIFIEDS

Seasonal job opportunities

Caves & CastlesGuided Tours

with professional archaeologist Steve Burman

Lascaux II, Font de Gaume & more!www.cavesandcastles.com

cavesandcastles@gmail.comTel: 05 53 50 31 21 - 06 76 46 67 38

www.magasinanglais.comBritish food, cards, baby products,

sweets at FANTASTIC PRICES;order online - FREE local delivery!

tel. number 06 45 36 64 90

SIMPLY BRITISHINDEPENDENT BRITISH GROCERS

Large range of food includingfresh/frozen. Plus books, greetings cards and gifts

Tel: 05 61 64 98 89Email: simplybritfoix@aol.com

Web: simplybritish.frREGION: Shop 09, mail order throughout France

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Furniturefor France

A wide range of quality indoor furniture and sofas

supplied and delivered directto your French property saving

you time and money.New showroom

"Meubles New Ideas"near Brive(19) now open.

For full colour brochureplease e-mail

info@furnitureforfrance.co.uk or call 0033 (0) 6 46 49 73 45 or

0033 (0) 5 55 25 02 68www.furnitureforfrance.co.uk

PPAAIINNTT -- BBRRAANNDD NNAAMMEETop Quality Uk Emulsion White &

Magnolia 10LTS - Unbeatable PriceLocal Drop Off Points - Dept 24

Ring or Email for Further Details &Prices - Tel: 09 62 21 46 27/

06 78 17 47 53Email:paint4less@me.com

U.K. WOODBURNERSAARROWYEOMAN STOVAX

VILLAGERFrance Agent - P.E.P Leisure Ltd

UK 08717174097FR 0553732521

www.pepleisure.comemail: fires@pepleisure.com

Regions All France

WOODBURNERS.FRTraditional cast iron

multifuel and woodburningstoves. Option for fireback boilers on most

models. Delivered to yourdoor or installed. Also coal

now available.Contact us for renewableenergy air source pumps

to replace your gas oroil fired systems.See our website on

www.woodburners.frTel/fax or Email05 53 84 36 81

Mob 06 72 02 88 29enq@woodburners.fr

Siret no 45204687300017

OAKWOOD FLOORINGWide boards

Large stocks availablePrime & Character grades

Oiled & waxed finishesSpecial offersfrom 12 € / m²

www.oakwood-import.fremail: franceoak@gmail.com

tel: 06 80 33 93 57siret 49426348

FRENCH-MODE LtdClassic furniture

made in Italy by Retigritti- Anti-rust treated steel

outdoor Tables and Chairs- Natural quarry cut marble tables

with black cast iron legs, the typicalFrench Bistro and Cafe table.

Brian + Cheri Hewitt Lalinde Affaires

1 Rue Des Martyrs, Lalinde 24150Telephone: 05 53 57 54 06

Brian Mobile: 06 82 09 24 24Cheri Mobile: 06 48 42 04 93

www.french-mode.netemail: french-mode@orange.fr

DESIGNERDÉCOR

direct to the Dordogne- curtains, fabric, soft

furnishings, wallpaper- made to measure- delivered direct- top UK brands- competitive pricing- friendly, expert advice

www.fabricgallery.co.uk+44-1904-481101

MOVINGTO OR FROM

FRANCE?Weekly services to

& from FranceFull or part loads, 4wks free storage,

25 Yearsexperience

Contact:Anglo French RemovalsTel: +44 (0) 1622 690 653

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info@reflexmoodys.comwww.reflexmoodys.comCompany Regn No: UK 5186435TVA / VAT No: UK 864 7217 04

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HARD WORK: Seasonal work is often labour intensive, but you may get the chance to improve your tan

To advertise herecall freephone in

France0800 91 77 56 / from UK0844 256 9881 (4p/min)

or email directory@connexionfrance.com

IF you fail to find your dreamproperty in France, then buy-ing a plot of land and build-ing your own could be anoption.

The number of new buildsin the country is creeping up,mainly because it can be acheaper option than buying aresale property, even if theprice of the land is combinedwith construction costs.

People are also attracted tothe challenge of building theirown homes, which can takeup to two years or more,depending on the size of theproperty.

So what steps need to betaken to bring the dream tolife?

Finding a plotBuilding plots can be found inmost areas and can be boughtfrom estate agents or directlythrough the owner (usually afarmer). Price depends on thesize of the land, but you canpick up a plot for as little as€19,000 in parts of theDordogne. Plots tend to aver-age in size from between1,000m2 and 3,000m2. Most

plots (terrain à construire) aresold with a defined squaremetrage of building space.

Once you decide to buy theland, you will need to find anotaire who will be responsi-ble for calculating the varioustaxes involved. The buyer andseller usually use the same

notaire.Most land comes with plan-

ning permissions, but if itdoes not, it is often sold withthe view that you will beapplying for a certificat d'ur-banism, which gives permis-sion for property to be built.

You will also need a permis

de construire (building per-mit, obtained through thetown hall).

When applying, you willneed to provide details of theplans for the property.

Designing and building your home

French law stipulates that ifyour property is over 170m2,then you must hire an archi-tect to draw up the plans.

The architect will be able toadvise you on a design that ismost appropriate to the areaand in keeping with local reg-ulations. The architect’s plansshould include constructioncost estimates. You can eitherbuild the property yourself,which means you will beresponsible for commission-ing design, planning, hiring abuilder and overseeing con-struction. Or you can hire abuilding firm, which maypropose the most suitabledesigns and layout as well asarrange and oversee construc-tion. Finding a builder can bea lengthy process, as most arebooked months in advance.

CostOn top of land cost, it is

important to budget for thecost of construction, buildingmaterials as well as settingaside cash for any unforeseensetbacks.

Frenchman SylvainHoussard is nearing comple-tion on his first self-buildhome. He is working on asmall, two-bedroom houseclose to his own property,which he will eventually rentout. The project has so farcost him €60,000 and takenabout 100 days with two menon the job.

He told The Advertiser:“You need to really considerthe budget you have from thebeginning, as costs can over-run,” he said. “Also, make sureyou do your research and getprofessional advice.

“It’s a simple process, butyou need help.”

Did you self-build in theDordogne? Email details ofyour experience to angela@dordogneadvertiser.com

€19,000 will buy youplot for family homeSelf-build is growing more popular in France as people search for their dream home

Name: ____________________________________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Postcode: ________________Town: ___________________________________________

Telephone: ____________________________________Email: ____________________

We would like to send you a weekly email with news and practical information about life inFrance. If you do NOT wish to receive this, please tick here. You can unsubscribe at any time. We will never pass your details on to a third party. DA 05/11

SUBSCRIBE NOW

and have The Advertiserdelivered directly to your

door for the next 12 monthsA 12-edition annual subscription to the Dordogne Advertiser to your French homecosts €12* (£11.50). To become a subscriber, complete the form here and return witha cheque payable to The Advertiser to:

Subscription Services, BP 61096, 06002, Nice Cedex 1

Payment must be by euro cheque (from a French bank) or sterling cheque (from a UKbank). Please note: Subscriptions must reach us by the 16th of the month to ensuredelivery of the next issue.

Save money as a Connexion subscriber. Subscribe to The Advertiser for just €€9.50*a year

* French address only. UK addresses are €24 for non Connexion subscribers and €21 for Connexion subscribers

Write your subscription number here. Your number can be found on the plastic bag The Connexion is delivered in - or you can call us FREE from France 0800 91 77 56 or from UK 0844 256 9881(4p/min) to find out.

22 Property The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

D I Y t i p s

REAL wood floors are not only beautiful but they are alsomuch easier to keep clean than carpets and give off awarmer feel than tiles. Restoring them to their former gloryis not particularly difficult but it is time-consuming if youwant to get a good finish. Due to the fumes given off by thevarnish, now is an excellent time of year to do this kind ofjob as you can open the windows wide to create good venti-lation but even then it is advised that you wear a mask.

Sanding can either be done by hand or with the help of anelectric floor sander. Whichever method you choose, thefirst thing to do is to prepare the floor. Check there are nonails sticking up; if there are, hammer them in. If you wanta uniform finish, fill in gaps or holes with either resin, aflexible filler or strips of wood.

If the floor is uneven and has not been previously sandedit is best to start with a very course sandpaper such as a 24grit. If the floor is not too bad or has been sanded beforethen starting with 40 or 80 grit would probably be OK.Again, it is always good to seek advice from a professional ifyou are in any doubt.

Start at one end of the room, and begin by making thefloor as flat as possible. Do not be afraid to change the sand-paper quite often to achieve the best possible result. With amachine, work from left to right so that it does not leave anyrun marks. With hand-held sanders, work with the grain ofthe wood moving it slowly from side to side.

Once all the sanding is done it is very important to collectup all the dust; vacuum then go over the whole floor with acloth soaked in white spirit, once this is done leave to dry.

Apply the varnish with a large flat brush. Always start atthe far end of the room and work backwards. The first coatshould be diluted by 10 per cent with white spirit as it willapply easier. Respect drying time between layers. Once thefirst coat has dried, go over the floor with a very fine grainsandpaper and then mop gather the dust. Apply the secondcoat and leave to dry.

For a perfect finish, before applying the third coat go overthe floor, without pressing too hard with some fine steelwool and again make sure you get all the dust up. By follow-ing these steps you should end up with a lovely, hard finishto the floor. Tip: If you have chosen to hire a sander makesure a member of staff has shown you how to set it up anduse it properly. Vocabulary needed:Sander - PonceuseSand paper - Papier de verreSteel wool - Laine d'acierVarnish - VernisWhite spirit - white-spirit!

FINISHING ACT: Restoring is well worth the time

Photo: jinxmcc

Sponsored by

CC Auchan, 24650 Chancelade 05 53 02 29 20

www.leroymerlin-perigueux.frOuvert du Lundi au Samedi de 9H 20H

DIY Construction

Decorating Gardening

Now is the time torestore wood floor

Sylvain Houssard has so far spent €60,000 on his two-bed home, which is nearing completion

Property 23The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011 www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Buying or selling a property in or around Dordogne? We can help.

Our website www.connexionfrance.com carries detailsof more than 14,000 homes for sale across France.

We also feature properties for sale in this dedicated sec-tion of The Advertiser every month. Use the code under

each property tofind out more onthe website.

For sellers, the adverts are also displayed across a rangeof popular English-speaking websites which ensures theyare seen by thousands of potential buyers EVERY day.

Prices start at €119TTC for a year’s online advertising. Online advertisers can also place adverts in The

Advertiser for an extra €60TTC for one month, €150TTC forthree and €275TTC for six.

Contact us on 0800 91 77 56 (freephone in France) oremail sales@connexionfrance.com

More details on all these properties - and how to contact the sellerdirectly - can be found in the property for sale section of

www.connexionfrance.com Simply enter the code under each home to find out more

Houses for sale in and around Dordogne

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PROPERTIES AROUND FRANCE

PROPERTIES IN DORDOGNE

The adverts above cost from just €179TTC for a whole year of web advertising and one edition of advertising in The Advertiser. 10,000 copies of The Advertiser are distributed at key points across department 24 including Bergerac

and Brive-Vallée de la Dordogne airports. Let our distribution get you a sale.Contact our sales team on 0800 91 77 56 (freephone in France) or email sales@connexionfrance.com

JARDILAND ROUTE D'AGEN BERGERAC

OPEN 7am-7pm05.53.63.54.70

REF: FP-19426MC24

€€87,200

ENERGY RATING = Not given

Saint-Priest-les-FougeresA well presented house in a littlehamlet only 10 minutes awayfrom all amenities. The interioris finished to a high standard andthe property benefits fromSecondary Double Glazing.

REF: 11081

€€110,000

ENERGY RATING = Not given

La Rochebeaucourt-et-ArgentineDelightful stone house with2 bedrooms and a small manageable garden situated in asmall hamlet close to a villagewith all basic needs.

REF: FP-19041MC24

€€151,200

ENERGY RATING = Not given

Saint-Pardoux-la-RivièreA very well maintained restoredstone house in a hamlet close toall amenities in a popular village.The house has been extendedand has a well maintained gardenwhich is stocked with vegetables.

REF: 34648

€€165,000

ENERGY RATING = Not given

ThiviersThis recent house is set in 0.44acres of land with a garage. Itoffers living room (40m2), fittedkitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 showerrooms and wc's. It has oil firedcentral heating.

REF: IFPC19436

€€305,000

ENERGY RATING = Not given

NontronIf you want to live in the countrybut crave the town life too....thiswould be the perfect property.To the side is a heated swimmingpool (10m x 4m) with patio areaand outside shower.

New Consumption and Emission Chart- e.g. Energy rating C & F refers to C for Consumption and F for Emissions

REF: MCM09008

€€140,000

ENERGY RATING = Not given

RibéracConstructed by a local builder in1980, this three-bedroom houseprovides practical living with lowmaintenance costs, on the edgeof a historic village perched highabove the Dronne.

REF: RJF6830

€€236,000

ENERGY RATING = Not given

Ribérac3 bedroom house completelyrestored, sitting room with wonderful fireplace, attachedbarn, cave.

REF: 100425

€€184,000

ENERGY RATING = Not given

AquitaineCute 2 bedroom house in a village on a river in theDordogne / Perigord Noir. It hasa terrace overlooking the valleyas the house is situated in thehigh part of the village.

WARMER and longer sunshine hours means lots of growththis month. Frosts should be safely behind us and the gar-den is brimming with energy! Let’s get started:Jobs to do in the garden this month:

The flower gardenDeadhead your spring-flowering bulbs now but leave thefoliage until it yellows to recharge the bulbs for next year, aliquid feed will help. If you need to lift spent tulips, takethem up carefully with roots and soil intact and place in atrench, cover with soil and leave foliage to wither beforestoring. Dahlia tubers can be planted now but beware oflate frosts. Plant up hanging baskets now for a good summer show.

The vegetable gardenPlant that great summer vegetable, the runner bean, now,as well as French beans and sugar snap peas. Beetroot andturnips should be sown outside now and continue succes-sional sowing of lettuces, radishes and salad onions. Sowsweetcorn in squares, not lines, to aid pollination. Brusselsprouts, autumn cabbage and cauliflower seedlings shouldbe planted outside now for an early autumn crop.

The fruit gardenAvoid using insecticides when fruit bushes and trees are infull bloom to allow pollinating bees and insects safe access.Keep cherry, peach and plum trees well watered in dryweather. Weed the strawberry bed and mulch with straw asthe first fruits appear, try halves of citrus fruit placedaround your plants to trap slugs.

The ornamental gardenPlant evergreen and coniferous hedges this month, soakroot balls overnight if it’s dry. Minimise wind damage byerecting temporary windbreaks. Watch out for suckershoots appearing on roses, they usually appear paler incolour than the main plant, are very thorny and growquickly - trace them to their base and pull them off ratherthan cutting them to avoid more suckers sprouting.

If you don’t have one already, why not create a water gar-den/feature this month? It brings a wealth of wildlife toyour garden not to mention good luck - feng shui princi-ples require it to be to the left of your front door (insidelooking out). It can also be an excellent teaching tool ineducating your children or grandchildren about ecosys-tems, or just be plain good fun! There’s something irre-sistible about frogspawn to children.

Photo: Joel Behr - Fotolia.com

Gardeningjobs in May

Water features can attract wildlife to your garden

REF: 37156

€€103,075

ENERGY RATING = Not given

EvranThis stone house set in 630m2

of land has a garage and separated130m2 of land. Equipped withdouble glazed windows, this130m2 house is located nearDinan.

REF: 37248

€€116,600

ENERGY RATING = Not given

MohonThis property is a beautifullyrenovated cottage/longère, set inthe heart of a small hamlet just5km north of the market town ofGourin in the Morbihan department of Brittany.

REF: 36969

€€121,900

ENERGY RATING = Not given

PontrieuxThis stone house set in 817m2 ofland has an apartment, a stoneshed and 2 garages. There is a fit-ted kitchen, a dining room withfireplace, 2 bedrooms with 1 inthe apartment, and an attic.

REF: 06212

€€132,500

ENERGY RATING = Not given

Miramont-de-GuyenneSet in 2500m2 of grounds thisproperty has been well restoredand offers very comfortable accomodation. Outside there is acovered terrace a garage and 2workshops.

REF: JS306/1936

€€151,200

ENERGY RATING = Not given

Châteaubriant The three/four bedroom proper-ty has wonderful views over theopen countryside, and with itsown one and a half acre garden itis the perfect place to spend“quality” time.

REF: A01581

€€160,000

ENERGY RATING = Not given

ScionzierThis 160m farmhouse for renovation is situated in a smallhamlet of an alpine village locatedwithin 40 minutes of a number oflarge ski resorts as well as Genevaairport.

24 News The Advertiser, Dordogne May 2011www.dordogneadvertiser.com

POLICE in Bordeaux havestarted using high-poweredbinoculars to catch speedingmotorists.

The device is able to snare aspeeding car 600 metres away.

Tests have already been car-ried out in rue Fondaudège,where drivers have a tendencyto drive at more than 50km

an hour. The local authority said

police would patrol areasmost prone to accidents andclose to schools.

The move follows a 9.5 percent rise in speeding offencessince the beginning of theyear across the department.

A spokesperson forBordeaux’s Department ofPublic Safety said the authori-ty had tightened controls overspeeding “because we noticedthat motorists were gettingmore relaxed.”

Since January, 31 peoplehave lost their lives on theroad, nine of which weremotorcyclists, according tofigures from the department.

However, the latest meas-ures have not amused readersof Sud-Ouest, with one web-

site commentator saying: “Surely the goal is instead to

fill the bank account ofBordeaux town hall,” althoughanother said accidents couldsimply be avoided by slowingdown on the accelerator.

According to the mostrecent figures, 2009 saw aslight fall in the road deathtoll across France, from 4,275in 2008 to 4,262. This markeda major drop since the 1970s,when the figure stood at16,200 deaths.

There are almost 1,700speed cameras already inplace, while the government isinstalling another 800 this

year. Police also have a fur-ther 933 mobile cameras.

Ministers are also consider-ing installing average speedcameras, whereby cameras areplaced at the start, middle andend of a section of road andmeasure the average speed ofdrivers. One hundred of theseare expected to be rolled outthis year.

However, an opinion poll byIpsos last April revealed that72 per cent of people ques-tioned had had enough ofdrivers being targetedthrough speed cameras, say-ing they were being used as“cash cows”.

Motorists have been so irkedby the system that one speedcamera in the Lorraine regionhad its life cut short inFebruary when it was severedfrom its base with a chainsaw.

The camera was known asthe most effective in thecountry, notching up 89,351flashes during its short life.

The €80,000 system, on theA31 near the French borderwith Luxembourg, caught onaverage 245 vehicles a day.

The camera was found daysafter the suicide of a man whoadmitted carrying out abombing campaign on speedcameras two years ago.

Binocularssnare speedingmotorists in Bordeaux Safety measure follows an increase in the number of speeding offences and willbe used in busy areas and close to schoolsHowever, motorists are unimpressed

“We’ve tightenedcontrols overspeeding becausewe noticed thatmotorists weregetting morerelaxed

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Authorities in Bordeaux are tightening rules as speeding incidents have risen since January

Périgord has got the X-Factor

EPISODES of the X-Factor,the M6 talent show, are beingfilmed at Château deMarouatte in Périgord. HenryPadovani, one of the show’sjudges, said: “We needed abeautiful place, somethingspectacular and which wouldhave good music vibrations.”

69 acquire French nationalityALMOST 70 people from asfar afield as Sri Lanka andBrazil but living in theDordogne are now French cit-izens following a recent cere-mony at the prefecture inPérigueux. A number ofBritish people were alsoamong the 69 people whobecame French, a processwhich takes about two years.

Bordeaux stadiumwill go aheadA 43,500-seater stadium willbe built in Bordeaux, aspokesperson for the townhall confirmed. A contractorfor the project is expected tobe announced on July 18.

News in brief

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