December 2014 - Issue #62 France to investigate INSIDE ... · Chimney Sweeping When should you get...

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December 2014 - Issue #62 Limousin Don’t let the banks cash in! www.hifx.co.uk Save time and money by sending your international money transfers Consistent bank beating exchange rates online or over the phone. Move money, pay people and settle bills within seconds. Make and track payments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Norton security used by 97 of the world’s top 100 banks. HiFX Europe Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2009, registration 462444, for the provision of payment services. Develop a healthy one that actually saves you money! We all have bad habits. INSIDE > > > NEWS - Guéret doctor sentenced to 2 years The doctor implicated in the death of a young wom- an from Aubusson has been given a 2-year suspended sentence. >> Page 3 T he French government has agreed to investigate claims that retailers are charging female shoppers more than male consum- ers for apparently identi- cal products - a so-called “pink tax”. After a peti- tion launched by a women's rights group gathered 30,000 signatures, the finance min- istry has ordered an inquiry. The Georgette Sand femi- nist group - whose name is an ironic take on the fa- mous French female author who wrote under the name George Sand - is citing the example of razors being sold at Monoprix: a pack of 10 blue disposable razors, aimed at men, was being re- tailed for €1.72, whereas just 5 apparently identical razors in pink were being sold for €1.80 (see photo on page 9). Campaigners called on Monoprix - whose name translates as “one price” - and other shops to stop sex- ist pricing policies, accusing it of imposing a “woman tax”. “At Monoprix there’s no single price! In fact, for similar products, women are paying more than men,” the campaigners wrote. “The company takes advantage of the fact that women’s and men’s hygiene products are in different sections in or- der to apply different prices on products that are mostly similar, if not identical.” The campaign has the sup- port of Pascale Boistard, the secretary of state for wom- en’s rights, who tweeted: “Is pink a luxury colour?” The Georgette Sand group said that price inequalities >> continued on page 9 NEWS - 10 reasons to be proud of France In response to grow- ing international criti- cism, the government has released a list of ten reasons to be proud of France. >> Page 12 The government has said it will investigate claims by a women's rights group that companies routinely charge more for products and services aimed at women, with the most glaring example being razors at one supermarket which cost twice as much in pink. Napoleon's iconic hat sells for €1.9 million The hat, worn by the famous French leader, was one of 1,000 Napoleonic items owned by the royal family of Monaco to go under the hammer. >> Page 8 France to investigate "pink tax" on women The Bugle Business Directory 8 pages of listings for local English-speaking businesses - your essential guide to finding just what you’re looking for. >> Pages 18-25 FRENCH LIFE - Chimney Sweeping When should you get your chimney swept, can you do it yourself and what are the legalities? We an- swer these questions and more >> Page 14 Elephants could soon be found roaming across the hills of the Haute-Vienne >> Page 7 © 2011 - Muhammad Mahdi Karim (WikiPedia)

Transcript of December 2014 - Issue #62 France to investigate INSIDE ... · Chimney Sweeping When should you get...

December 2014 - Issue #62

Limousin

Don’t let the banks cash in!www.hifx.co.uk

Save time and money by sending your internationalmoney transfers

Consistent bank beating exchange rates online or over the phone. Move money, pay people and settle bills within seconds. Make and track payments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Norton security used by 97 of the world’s top 100 banks.

HiFX Europe Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2009, registration 462444, for the provision of payment services.

Develop a healthy one thatactually saves you money!

We all have bad habits.

INSIDE > > >NEWS - Guéret doctor sentenced to 2 yearsThe doctor implicated in the death of a young wom-an from Aubusson has been given a 2-year suspended sentence. >> Page 3

The French g o v e r n m e n t has agreed to i n v e s t i g a t e claims that retailers are

charging female shoppers more than male consum-ers for apparently identi-cal products - a so-called “pink tax”. After a peti-tion launched by a women's rights group gathered 30,000 signatures, the finance min-istry has ordered an inquiry. The Georgette Sand femi-nist group - whose name is an ironic take on the fa-mous French female author who wrote under the name George Sand - is citing the example of razors being sold at Monoprix: a pack of 10 blue disposable razors, aimed at men, was being re-tailed for €1.72, whereas just 5 apparently identical razors in pink were being sold for

€1.80 (see photo on page 9). Campaigners called on Monoprix - whose name translates as “one price” - and other shops to stop sex-ist pricing policies, accusing it of imposing a “woman tax”. “At Monoprix there’s no single price! In fact, for similar products, women are paying more than men,” the campaigners wrote. “The company takes advantage of the fact that women’s and men’s hygiene products are in different sections in or-der to apply different prices on products that are mostly similar, if not identical.” The campaign has the sup-port of Pascale Boistard, the secretary of state for wom-en’s rights, who tweeted: “Is pink a luxury colour?” The Georgette Sand group said that price inequalities

>> continued on page 9

NEWS - 10 reasons to be proud of FranceIn response to grow-ing international criti-cism, the government has released a list of ten reasons to be proud of France. >> Page 12

The government has said it will investigate claims by a women's rights group that companies routinely charge more for products and services aimed at women, with the most glaring example being razors at one supermarket which cost twice as much in pink.

Napoleon's iconic hat sells for €1.9 millionThe hat, worn by the famous French leader, was one of 1,000 Napoleonic items owned by the royal family of Monaco to go under the hammer. >> Page 8

France to investigate "pink tax" on women

The Bugle Business Directory 8 pages of listings for local English-speaking businesses- your essential guide to finding just what you’re looking for. >> Pages 18-25

FRENCH LIFE - Chimney SweepingWhen should you get your chimney swept, can you do it yourself and what are the legalities? We an-swer these questions and more >> Page 14

Elephants could soon be found roaming across the hills of theHaute-Vienne >> Page 7

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www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 20142 ♦ IN THIS EDITION

Welcome toThe Bugle

CONTACT usTel: 05.55.41.17.76

General:[email protected] (EN):[email protected]

Publicité (FR):[email protected]

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Editor:Steve Martindale

Write to:The Bugle

Les Quatre Chemins23150 St-Yrieix-les-Bois

France

Well, like it or not, Christmas is fast a p p r o a c h i n g . This will be a

very special Christmas at Bugle Towers as by the time you are reading this, there is a very good chance that my family will have grown by one. It has been a frantic few weeks as B-Day approached, but the littl'un has very kindly stayed put while I put this paper together and you can almost certainly look forward to me complaining about a lack of sleep in next month's paper! I don't have an advent calendar yet this year; in fact, now I think about it, I haven't been given one for several years now... maybe I should take the hint and buy one for myself. I remember when I was a kid that calendars were the most exciting things ever, promising as they did untold riches once the 24 windows had been opened. Then, just when you thought that excitement levels couldn't get any higher in December, some bright spark thought of putting a chocolate behind each window!! The 10-year-old me

I think about it - but this one particularly caught my eye. My two current ideas, guaranteed to make me my first million, are scented fire logs and investing in a metal detector. I was stood by my back door recently, enjoying the smell of my first log fire of the year, when it occurred to me that you could “add” some scent to the logs (apple, or a hint of vanilla maybe?) to give a little treat to your neighbours. Hmmm, maybe not, but a metal detector must be a winner. I've not heard too much about this particular pastime in France, and given that France is 5 times as big as the UK where valuable items are found relatively frequently, there must be loads of buried Roman treasure here in France just waiting to be discovered!! I digress, back to elephants. It turns out that his project is deadly serious and being very professionally undertaken by a couple of former zoo workers with a wealth of experience and plenty of other experts already on board (see page 7). Can you imagine a herd of elephants grazing on the rolling hills south of Limoges! I very much hope that they secure the backing to get this project off the ground - it can only be a good thing for the region. While writing that I have had another idea to make a million - borrow money from a millionaire! I am convinced that most people could turn one million into two fairly easily. High-end property, artwork, gems and antiques have only

could hardly believe his luck. But looking through the shops this year, it is almost impossible to find a calendar with “just” a picture behind each cardboard flap. Chocolate is now the minimum requirement, and many calendars now seem to have a toy for each of the 24 days. I even saw a feature on a daytime TV show (my wife had it on and I was just passing through the room, honest!) in which they were reviewing popular calendars. One example, presumably aimed at men, featured a bottle of real ale for each day leading up to Christmas and cost well over 100 pounds! I may be coming across as slightly indignant at this break from “tradition”, but please feel free to buy me one of these!! With my email address well and truly in the public domain, all sorts of random things turn up in my inbox. This month was no exception and included one email from a sender who is going to create an elephant retirement home locally! I've heard some crazy business ideas - mostly my own, now

been increasing in value, even in a recession. People may laugh at someone paying €1.9m for one of Napoleon's hats (see page 8), but you can bet your bottom dollar that it will only go up in value as the years go by. So if there is anyone out there with lots of millions, perhaps you could lend me one - I will give it back in 5 years' time, I promise! Hmm, I may have seen the flaw in this scheme. I don't think there will be many multi-millionaires out there and if there are any, I doubt they got that rich by lending out money to deranged expats! Still, if all goes well, I will soon have another pair of hands to help me scour the Limousin countryside with the metal detector that is definitely going on my Christmas list now that logs and lending are off the table! Wishing all our readers a very Merry Christmas!!

Until next month!

Steve Martindale, Editor

INSIDEthis edition

3-7 Local News

8-12 National News

13 French Life

14-15 Practical

16-17 Classifieds

18-25 Directory

26 Language & Games

27-29 Community

30-32 What’s On

3 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu LOCAL NEWS ♦

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Former Oradour mayor honoured The former mayor of Oradour-sur-Glane, Raymond Frugier, has been awarded the Ger-man Order of Merit at a recent ceremony in Li-moges. The honour was presented by Germa-ny's Bordeaux Consul, Hans-Werner Bussmann and Gerda Hasselfeldt, German MP for the Dachau region, in rec-ognition of the mayor's work campaigning for peace and reconcilia-tion between Germany and France. In 2013, Raymond Frugier saw his dearest wish come true when, for the first time, the presidents of France and Germany, François Hollande and Joachim Gauck, jointly visited the ruins of Oradour-sur-Glane, the site where 642 inhabitants were massacred on 10th June 1944 by a Nazi SS division. ■

S&P rates Limousin as "AA" Ratings agency Standard & Poor's has confirmed the long-term rating of “AA” for the Limousin region. The agency says that this reflects the very predictable and balanced institutional framework of the region. The report states that the socio-economic indicators are favorable and that “Limousin will be able to partially offset the reduction in financial support from the State, with strong governance and financial management”. The agency also believes that the Limousin has quality budgetary man-agement, a realistic financial strategy and prudent debt and cash manage-ment policies. However, the forecast for the future remains negative. “If the long-term rating of France were to be lowered, then it stands to reason that the same should be the case for the Limousin,” said the agency, which believes that local government can not be rated higher than that of the State. ■

Guéret doctor sentenced over deathThe Guéret doc-

tor at the centre of the 2010 death of a 23-year-old student

from Aubusson has been hand-ed a 2-year suspended prison sentence. It brings to an end a tragic court case that has been ongoing for several years. Four years ago, the female pharmacy student was diag-nosed as having a possible pulmonary embolism and transferred to the emergency department of Guéret hospi-tal. The doctor who treated the student wrote a covering letter which was sent to Guéret with the patient, explaining his sus-picions. The patient was admitted by doctor Thierry Dumas, the head of Guéret's Urgences (accident and emergency department), who ordered tests to confirm the diagnosis. Several hours later, but before the results had been received, the patient appeared to be recovering and was sent home. Back in Aubus-son, her symptoms returned, at which point her father called the emergency services. When they did not arrive, he took his daughter to the local hospital in his own car, transferring her to an ambulance that they finally met half way.

She died later that night of a pulmonary embolism and sev-eral days later, consumed by grief, her father took his own life. When her test results were finally checked at Guéret hos-pital, they showed that mark-ers for a pulmonary embolism were 8 times higher than nor-mal. Despite initially not facing legal action, experts later con-cluded that the woman “should never have been allowed to leave. She could have been saved with an anti-coagulant - the doctor of the Samu should have been more efficient.” Legal proceedings for “in-voluntary manslaughter” were subsequently taken against the doctor, who claimed at his trial that he did not remember if he had read the letter diag-nosing a pulmonary embolism and admitted that he had not waited for the test results be-fore discharging the patient. He also said in his defence that the service was unusually busy on that day and that there had only been two doctors on duty instead of the usual three, a statement that the victim's family described as “shock-ing”, adding, “He has no ex-cuse - he destroyed our fam-ily”. ■

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 20144 ♦ LOCAL NEWS

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Campaign continues for RN21 dual carriageway

Aquatic centre to open

Terror of Limoges is back

Campaign groups are once again ap-plying pressure on authorities to proceed with a €2.4 billion project to widen the RN21 to a dual car-

riageway from Limoges in the Limousin to Tarbes in the Hautes-Pyrénées - a distance of 385km. The journey today takes a staggering 6 hours 15 minutes at an average speed of just 60km per hour, with countless towns on the route having to endure the seemingly endless stream of HGVs swarming through each day. Were the road to be widened, it is estimated that the journey time would be reduced to just 3 hours 45 minutes, and Périgueux would be only 1 hour from Limoges by road. Partner-ships with private firms - and therefore the creation of a toll road - would appear to be the current preferred option for Jean-Claude Pouxviel, president of “Euro 21”, the as-sociation created with the sole objective of bringing about the widening of the RN21: “Tendering the project is the simplest solu-tion, because it is the fastest to implement. If the State gets involved we will be here for 50 years. If it is in the hands of the banks and private firms, things will move much faster.” As if by way of proof, the group points to letters signed by the bosses of Colas and Eiffage, two of France's largest infrastructure

construction firms, who have both indicated their willingness to take part in the project. “Administrators can sometimes be a bit pre-cious with their projects, but road users do not understand why we are quibbling about how this project comes about,” said Mr Poux-viel. The lack of road infrastructure is also hit-ting the local economies along the length of the route, according to supporters of the project. “I can cite dozens of examples of businesses that have either left the region or not established themselves here,” explained François Gaumet, head of economic develop-ment for the CCI of the Dordogne, and part of the Euro 21 lobbying group. There does appear to be considerable po-litical support for the project as well, despite a 2013 report by MP Philippe Duron dampen-ing any immediate prospects; the new mayors of Limoges and Périgueux have both made public their support. The Route Nationale 21 runs from Limo-ges to Périgueux via Châlus, before passing through Bergerac (Dordogne), Agen (Gers) and Tarbes (Hautes-Pyrénées). Any eventual route could then easily be extended along ex-isting roads into northern Spain. ■

The new aquatic centre in Limoges will be opening its doors in January, less than 3 years after the first stone was laid in March 2012. The centre aquatique de Limoges Métropole features an Olympic-sized swimming pool, as well as smaller pools, sau-nas, hammams, jacuzzis, massage rooms and even a gym.

The new centre will officially open on the 16th January, and will soon be put through its paces when it hosts the French national swimming championships in March. The main pool area can seat 800 spectators, with a further 3,500 seats available via temporary removable stands. The €50 million project is one of the biggest undertaken by the city in recent years, but aims to be accessible and affordable for locals. “The price of entry will be around five euros,” explained Gérard Vandenbroucke, the newly elected president of the conseil régional du Lim-ousin. “Discounts will be available for groups and young people.” Will the ambitious project prove to be a worthwhile investment, however? “Yes in terms of fulfilment, but perhaps not from a shopkeeper's point of view. We are in the realms of invest-ment in the future,” explained the region's top administrator. “This is an iconic building, like the Zenith from several years ago. Our youth needed a top-class swimming pool.” ■

For years, residents of the region's capital lived in fear of the “Terror of Limoges”, an adolescent behind a spate of crimes in the city. The pattern was always the same: a violent act was committed, the boy was apprehended, taken back to his legal guard-ians and released. He would then go on to commit another crime, sometimes the very

same night. In one 8-day period, he was known to have committed a theft from a parked vehicle, a mugging and threatened someone with a Stanley knife. Early in his “career” he had at least 17 thefts and one suspected rape to his name... and these were just the crimes the authorities were aware of! The problem for the police was that the boy started his campaign of terror when he was just 12 - under French law, the police cannot detain a child under the age of 13. He was eventually taken off the streets last year, not long after celebrating his thirteenth birthday. He was finally brought before a judge, for the first time ever due to his age, who charged him with aggravated theft and placed him in a secure educational unit in the Puy-de-Dôme. Many breathed a sigh of relief, believing his reign of terror to be over. Unfortunately, those same people are once again holding their breath following the news that his 12-year-old young-er brother has now been caught smashing his way through the front window of a pawn brokers with a telescopic baton. “We cannot legally place him under garde à vue [police custody] as he is not yet 13,” said one weary police officer in January 2013, speaking about the boy's older brother. The young-ster, who looks to be following his infamous brother into a life of crime, is due to appear before a youth magistrate in December. ■

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www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 20146 ♦ LOCAL NEWS

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Walking around the Limousin coun t ry s ide , there is always plenty of wild-

life to see: cows, sheep, buzzards, deer and even wild boar are never too far away. If you live in the south of the Haute-Vienne, how-ever, you will soon be able to add another animal to the list of local wildlife... elephants!! Although this may sound rather far-fetched, a project is under way to build Europe's first sanctuary for old and retired elephants on the rolling countryside outside Ora-dour-sur-Vayres in the south-west of Haute-Vienne. Under the name “Elephant Haven”, the sanctuary is the brainchild of Flemish couple Tony Verhulst and Sofie Goetghe-beur, who each have 20 years' ex-perience working with animals at Antwerp Zoo - before embarking on this adventure, Tony had been a full-time carer for the zoo's el-ephants since 2001.

The Bugle got in touch with Tony to find out more about the unusual and ambitious project. Firstly, why an elephant sanctu-ary and why choose the Limousin?

“A big factor in deciding to launch this project is the gradual phasing out of live animals from circuses across Europe. Belgium, Austria, Denmark, Croatia and Bulgaria are already in the process of banning animals from the circus and many other European countries are look-ing to follow suit,” Tony told The Bugle. “Animals which have been part of a circus, such as elephants and lions, cannot usually be re-turned to the wild and we want to provide somewhere they can live out their days in peace as the alter-native is often euthanasia.” Having decided to establish a sanctuary for these ageing pachy-derms, the couple began search-ing for locations, but their native Belgium did not provide a suitable environment. “Land is more scarce in Belgium, and elephants need a lot of land,” explained Tony. “We soon began searching further afield and the Limousin had everything we needed: rolling hills in a na-tional park, with plenty of water

and readily available supplies of hay.” There is already a good deal of interest and support on a lo-cal level. “In smaller communes

such as ours, we should certainly be encouraging this type of pro-ject,” said the mayor of Oradour-sur-Vayres, Guy Ratinaud. “If this project takes off, we will see real returns for the local economy. El-ephants have a very positive image and tourists being able to come here and see these animals will be a boost for us, the Périgord-Lim-ousin Regional Natural Park, the department and the region.” Whilst the Elephant Haven will be open to the public, its founders are keen to stress that they are not creating a zoo. There will be not be any other animals at the sanc-tuary, there will not be any breed-ing programmes and the public

will remain separated from the elephants at all times. According to Tony, they will be looking to provide educational opportunities, encouraging school trips and run-ning workshops. The land for the project has al-ready been found and the couple have moved permanently to the region, but their project is still in its early stages. The plan is that the 25 hectares found for the Elephant Haven will allow a maximum ca-pacity of around 10 elephants, with the first arriving as early as 2016, although there is a lot of work to be done. Thanks to their decades of experience, the team know what the elephants need and how to build

it, but finding the money to do so is now crucial. It can cost as much as €100,000 per year to house each elephant and the estimated total in-vestment required in the long term will be around €5 million. Exactly how this money will be raised and how much will be invested by regional authorities is not yet known, but public do-nations will play a crucial role. To find out more about Tony and Sofie, their project and how to get involved or to make a dona-tion, please visit their website www.elephanthaven.org Alter-natively you can meet them on 7th December at the Christmas Mar-ket in Saint-Laurent-sur-Gorre. ■

Europe's first elephant sanctuary to open near Oradour-sur-Vayres

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www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 20148 ♦ NATIONAL NEWS

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Ref 1928 – €71,500. Two bedroom cottage in good condition ten minutes from the market town of Bourganeuf. Ground fl oor: kitchen/dining room, lounge, utility room, bathroom/wc. 1st fl oor: two bedrooms. Cellar and workshop. Needs work on sep-

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Ref 1914 – €141,700. Farmhouse with many outbuildings & 17,150m² of land in private hamlet location. Ground fl oor: k itchen, living room, hallway, storage room, toilet/shower. 1st fl oor: four large bedrooms, shower room, dressing room. Oil fi red central heating as

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Napoleon's hat sells for €1.9 million

Tiger spotted near Paris

A hat worn by Napoleon Bona-parte has sold for €1.9 million at a

recent auction in Fontaineb-leau on the outskirts of Paris - nearly 5 times the guide price for the item. The icon-ic, two-pointed, bicorne hat was one of 120 estimated to have been worn by the French leader throughout his life, although only 19 are known to still exist to-day and most of those are in museums around the world. Other items that were sold at the two-day auction at Fontainebleau included a pair of Napoleon's stock-ings, a scarf, a shirt, a lock of his hair and even a leath-er razor strop. The 1,000 items that made up the sale were originally collected by Prince Louis II of Monaco (1870-1949) and they had remained in the royal fam-ily's possession, housed in the principality's Napoleon Museum in Monte Carlo. The family said that they were selling the items to make room for a new mu-seum dedicated to Prin-

cess Grace of Monaco, the former Hollywood actress Grace Kelly. The hat, the star of the auction, was initially ac-quired by Joseph Giraud, a vet in Napoleon's house-hold, and remained in his family until 1926 when it was sold to Prince Louis' collection. “It's a very well-known collection, the prov-enance of the pieces is in-contestable,” Thierry Lentz, director of the Napoleon Foundation, told AFP news agency. Interest was high and many of the items that went under the hammer sold for up to ten times their guide price. The South Korean chicken magnate that even-tually won the bidding war for the iconic hat said he would have gone higher to secure this “priceless” piece of history. “I can understand and relate to many passages of his life,” Kim Hong-Kuk, the 57-year-old founder and chairman of the poultry giant Harim Group, told AFP. “I've always thought there were certain similari-

ties between him and me in terms of thinking and decision-making, though I'm nowhere near being as great as Napoleon. Napo-leon struggled a lot when he was young and trying to be successful but never gave up. For years I've ad-mired his challenging spirit that nothing is impossible. Napoleon had this sense of optimism even in the most trying circumstances and was also a very meticulous leader, something all entre-preneurs including myself should learn from.” Napoleon was something of a sartorial pioneer, wear-ing the bicorne hat parallel to his shoulders and contra-ry to the fashions of the day. This was apparently so that he could be easily identified on the battlefield. The “little emperor's” red leather wallet, estimated at €3,500, fetched €22,000, a gilt metal watch key es-timated at €600 fetched €6,500 and even the leather razor strop from his toilet bag fetched an impressive €9,500. ■

There was shock and mild panic in No-vember when sight-ings began to emerge

of a “large cat” prowling around a built-up area not far from Paris. The alarm was first raised when a local resident in the small town of Montévrain, around 40 kilometres east of the capital, spotted the animal in a supermarket car park. Pho-tos were soon circulating of the “orange and black striped cat” and local residents were warned to stay indoors. Experts from a nearby wild-life park were sent to the scene and identified the animal on the loose as an “adolescent” tiger from paw prints although no one seemed to be missing one of the deadly predators. More than 200 firefighters and police officers were deployed in the search, as well as a thermal im-aging camera and a dog trained in tracking bears and large game. Local schoolchildren even got a police escort home as the hunt for the tiger contin-ued. As more and more sightings emerged, panic levels amongst local residents rose. “It's be-coming hysteria. That was to be expected,” said a police source. Speaking to Le Parisien, Frédé-

ric Edelstein, an animal tamer from the Pinder Circus, said that the best thing to do if com-ing face to face with the animal would be to shout at it! At one point, security staff at Disneyland Paris, which is lo-cated just 2km from the initial sighting, were on the lookout in case the mysterious animal got into the park. A Disneyland Paris spokeswoman said at the time: “There is no reason to worry; we’re aware of it and we’ve done all that’s necessary for the safety of our custom-ers - we’ve already got security staff, who are watching out, and the prefecture is doing all that’s needed too. I really don’t think it will come as far as us.” Addressing concerns that visitors to France's most popu-lar tourist attraction may have confused the escaped tiger for one of their own costumed characters, Tigger, the spokes-

woman added: “Tigger is bright orange; his colour is completely different, I don’t think they can confuse the two”. After a frantic 24 hours and almost constant specula-tion on rolling news channels, the threat level was eventu-ally downgraded, as what was initially thought to have been a 70kg animal was subsequently believed to be “between a do-mestic cat and a bigger feline,” according to Eric Hansen from the national hunting office. The local director of public safety, Chantal Baccanini, said there was “no danger for the general population” and the Seine-et-Marne administration concluded that the “presence of an animal of the tiger species is now excluded”, although at the time of going to print, the ani-mal was yet to been found or positively identified. ■

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France investigates so-called "pink tax"

Ryanair loses fine appeal Low-cost airline Ryanair has lost a high-profile appeal against an €8.3 million fine for avoiding French social security pay-ments. The appeal court in Aix-en-Provence upheld a verdict that the Irish giant flouted French employment regulations and avoided social charges by employing 127 staff at its Marseille hub on Irish contracts between 2007 and 2010. Ryanair said in a statement that the staff were “employed on Irish contracts, operat-ing on Irish registered aircraft (defined as Irish territory) and have already paid their taxes, social taxes and state pension contri-butions in Ireland, in full compliance with Irish and EU regulations”. The company will now take their case to the French Su-preme Court on the basis that they believe European employment law clearly allows mobile workers on Irish registered aircraft to pay their taxes and social taxes in Ireland. French pilots’ union SNPL welcomed the ruling saying it showed that low-cost com-panies were not above the law. Lawyers operating for Urssaf told journalists that the court’s message was clear: “European law is not a means of defrauding the social welfare system.”

In Ireland, social charges amount to just over 10% of wages, whereas in France they are a rather more hefty 40-45%. ■

Intervieweroffered a job A 60-year-old French woman has been of-fered a job after questioning President Fran-çois Hollande live on television about the lack of employment opportunities for older people. Joëlle Mediavilla, who has been out of work and on benefits for 2 years, has now secured a 6-month contract as an office administrator following her prime-time ap-pearance. She has her local employment agency to thank in part, who sent her CV along with a tape of the interview with the president to a local business in Drancy, just outside Paris. “This contract is great news for me,” said Mme Mediavilla. “It will allow me to pay off some debts and to once again be in active employment, which is important to me.” “She came across very well on the televi-sion,” said Jérôme Laverny from the local Mission Emploi agency, who has long cam-paigned against unemployment among older workers. “But there are plenty more Mr and Mrs Mediavilla's out there.” ■

Man fined over impounded van A French man is involved in a bitter legal dispute after receiving ten fines, five of which were for speeding... despite the fact that the police confiscated his car more than 3 years ago. The man, named as Laurent T by Le Parisien newspaper, had his Mercedes Sprinter van taken away by police in 2011 following an investigation into handling stolen goods. He told the newspaper that he had already spent €1,500 in legal fees fighting the fines and was now close to losing his licence due to the number of penalties accrued. However, the police in question have allegedly accepted that they did not inform the relevant authorities of a change in ownership and said that the details had now been changed. They say that any future fines will be addressed to the police, although these will presumably be ignored as the police are allowed to break motoring laws in the course of their duties. ■

aren’t limited to supermarket products, citing a French hairdressing salon where a cut and blow-dry was found to cost men €8 while for women it costs €13. Back-packs, pens and even food have also been highlighted as having discriminatory pric-ing policies. “We know that there have been in-vestigations in the United States and we knew that we would find differences, but not as many as we did and not as easily,” said Géraldine Franck from the campaign group, speaking to Le Parisien newspa-

per. “After a three-hour walk in my area I had already taken about fifteen photos that speak for themselves.” “And let’s not forget that women earn around 27% less than men and have pen-sions that are 42% lower than men’s,” the group added. Responding to the group's claims, Monoprix denied any policy of price dis-crimination, saying the cost differences were linked to elements “intrinsic” to the items and production costs. It argued that because more men’s razors were bought than those for women they could be sold at a lower price. ■

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Artificial heart success

French worst at EnglishFrenchman winsprestigious Route du Rhum yacht race

The second recipient of a revolution-ary, artificial heart is apparently in relatively good health nearly 100 days after receiving the transplant,

according to the French team which per-formed the pioneering surgery. The heart, powered by watch-style batter-ies that can be worn externally, was first put into a patient at Paris’ Georges Pompidou Hospital in December 2013. The 76-year-old man, who was suffering from severe heart disease and had only days to live, died from complications 75 days after receiving the transplant. The artificial heart, which is designed to operate for as long as 5 years, uses a range of “biomaterials”, including bovine tissue, to reduce the likelihood of the body rejecting it. Unlike previous artificial hearts, created mainly for temporary use before live trans-plant, the design by the French biomedical firm Carmat is intended to be a permanent replacement for a real heart. The latest recipient of the 900g prosthetic

at the University Hospital Nantes has not been named, but the operation is known to have taken place on the 5th August. Speaking to Les Echos in early November, Professor Alain Carpentier, cardiac surgeon and scien-tific director of Carmat, said the patient was doing well: “He is able to take care of him-self and move around unaided in his room where he regularly uses an exercise bike,” said the professor. “Accompanied by doctors and physiotherapists, he makes regular trips around the hospital, where he is undergoing a rehabilitation programme to restore lost mus-cle mass.” He went on to say that the patient, whose morale he considered exemplary, had made a very important contribution to medical sci-ence and highlighted his “courtesy and pa-tience in allowing the team to proceed with post-operative assessments”. The team behind the artificial heart is hop-ing to perform a further 20 transplants in the near future into patients with less severe heart failure, as clinical trials continue. ■

According to a recent report, France has the lowest level of English proficiency among EU member states and only Russia,

Turkey and Ukraine speak less English in the whole of Europe. The report, produced by in-ternational language training company Edu-cation First and covering 63 countries, gave France a score of just 52.68, ranking it just below Indonesia and its close neighbour, Ita-ly. Denmark took the top spot with an English language proficiency of 69.3, followed by Holland with 68.98 and Sweden with 67.80. Unlike other European countries, the level of English in France has not improved over recent years. “While the rest of Europe is al-ready proficient in English, or steadily work-ing towards that goal, France is on an entirely different trajectory,” the report stated. “There are a few reasons we struggle to learn English, and I think one of the main ones is that we lack exposure to English here in France; for example, we don't get many films in VO [original version - undubbed],” explained Adeline Prevost, from the Paris of-fice of Education First. “Because French is a widely spoken language, we get translations without a problem. In other countries, for example Sweden, where the language is not

spoken around the world, translations from English are not available so easily so people have more exposure to English.” Speaking to The Local, Mme Prevost ac-cepted, however, that Spain does not follow this same rule. “Spain is in the same position, with Spanish being spoken around the world and translations easily available, but Spain has made huge improvements in their levels of speaking English, where France has not. This is because their government has invest-ed properly in the learning of English. The Spanish government has made English one of the main areas of study in Spanish schools, whereas in France it is not prioritized as much - French school pupils are not required to have such a high level of English by the time they leave school.” “We need to be a bit less protective of our language,” she added. “If you look at Swe-den, they have the best of both worlds: they keep their own language and culture but they have a high level of English. The French have to understand that just because they are talk-ing, reading or listening in English it doesn’t mean that we will kill our own language. Of course that won’t happen. This is the wrong mentality.” ■

For French sailing great, Loïck Peyron, it was a case of seventh time lucky as the 54-year-old finally won the prestigious Route du Rhum transatlantic yacht race,

in a record time. The Frenchman crossed the fin-ishing line near Guadeloupe in the Caribbean in 7 days, 15 hours and 8 minutes, shaving more than two hours off the previous best for the 6,560 km race, which is held every four years. The Frenchman took the lead just 6 hours out-side of St-Malo following a fierce storm which claimed several other contenders, including his compatriot Thomas Coville who had been among the favourites for the race. It was a lead he would not relinquish. Peyron, who described the early conditions as “Dante-esque”, had only signed to skipper the boat two months prior to the event following a hand injury to Armel Le Cléach’h. Upon his ar-rival, Peyron commented: “It is a very nice vic-tory, a team victory. I was not supposed to be on this boat two months ago. I was supposed to do the Rhum race on a very small yellow trimaran, which will be the case in four years time, when I come back. But it is not a surprise because I knew that the boat was able to do it. I knew that the team was able to help me a lot.”

“I never imagined that I would win a Route du Rhum on a boat like this,” the veteran skipper added. “A race like this is never simple and that is what is so exciting and incredible about it. It is also very stressful for the boat to withstand such high speeds in bad seas. I was able to sail the boat well but was scared. This is what the multihull game is all about. You have to constantly man-age the boat. One night I fell asleep at the helm and nearly capsized the boat. This is a great vic-tory, possibly one of the nicest and breaking the record is the cherry on top of the cake.” ■

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11 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu NATIONAL NEWS ♦

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Euro 2016 mascot unveiled 10 reasons to be proud!

Organisers of the Euro 2016 Championship, which will be held in France, have un-veiled the tournament's mascot. At the last two major football tournaments held in France, the 1984 European Championship and the 1998 World Cup, the mascot has been a cockerel, but this time the gallic rooster has been replaced by a cartoon boy.

The mascot does not yet have an official title and a competition is ongoing to find him a name: the current choices available are Driblou, Goalix or Super Victor. The UEFA website provides some back story and describes the mascot as follows: “Half child, half superhero, the mascot is a curious, witty character who will encourage fans from all over the world to celebrate the art of football. He was brought up in France, and one day acquired special powers when playing football with his friends. Having kicked the ball behind a fence, he went to explore and discovered a mysterious chest with a cape, a ball and football boots, which enabled him to fly as well as play superb football. His outfit is inspired by the French flag and the colours of the host country.” The mascot will now travel around Europe before returning to France for the start of the tournament on June 10th 2016. ■

It would be fair to say that France - and more specifically the French government - has come in for a bit of criticism recently, be it from international markets, EU bureaucrats or John Lewis executives. In response, under the headline “Stop au French bashing”, the govern-

ment has released a list of 10 reasons why we should all be proud to live in France.

1. Tourism: France is the top tourist destination in the world. 2. Economy: It's the 5th economic power in the world. 3. Youth: France is 3rd in the world for providing places for foreign students. 4. Wine: The country is the world's top wine producer. 5. Environment: Wind power grew 70% in first 6 months of 2014. 6. Talent: France has 58 Nobel prize winners (15 for literature, topping this category). 7. Culture: Its 1,200 museums receive 62 million visitors a year. 8. Attractiveness: France is 3rd in Europe for receiving foreign business investment. 9. Entrepreneurship: The world's biggest start-up incubator will open in Paris in 2016. 10. Innovation: In the past two years, half of the business employing 10 people or more, and one in six firms, have launched a new product that was not previously available on the market.

Bog standard H ave you ever had

to turn off the hob to pop upstairs and spend a penny?

Well, your problems could now be solved thanks to recent leg-islation passed in France that finally allows you to put a toilet in your kitchen! Described in the bill as “a process of simplification of regulations”, the change to the building code removes “the prohibition of direct communi-

cation between the closets and kitchens and living rooms”. This will now allow contractors for the first time to build new toilets in kitchens and living rooms, Metronews reported. Previously, toilets could not be directly accessible from these rooms under building reg-ulations. The move will likely be wel-comed by Parisian landlords, who have become famous in recent years for charging exor-

bitant rents for tiny apartments - one tenant was recently found to have been living in a 'flat' with just 1.56m² of living space for the last 15 years, paying €330 per month for the privi-lege. One man who is unlikely to be frying an egg from the pan, however, is Thierry Lepaon, secretary general of the power-ful CGT union. The union was recently revealed by satirical weekly Le Canard Enchainé to

have spent €130,000 renovating a 120m² apartment for its boss in a leafy Parisian suburb, in-cluding €1,397 for a new lava-tory seat (before plumbing), and €689 for a toilet paper holder and towel rack. Although the owner of the flat said it had been completely renovated before being rented to the CGT - including a new carpet, Ikea kitchen and freshly painted walls - the union de-cided it wasn’t in an appropri-

ate state for Lepaon, although initial plans for a home cinema and wine cellar were eventually abandoned. “Everything need-ed to be redone,” said treas-urer Eric Lafont, who agreed to hand over €130,000 of union funds. The union had claimed they had negotiated a rent reduction in exchange for shelling out on the renovations, but both the owner and the estate agent de-nied any deal had been done. ■

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13 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu FRENCH LIFE ♦

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There are signs that the weather is on the turn - snow on the higher ground

across France and much cooler weather than re-cently - though all is rela-tive and the autumn has been unseasonally warm. So there's still a lot of growth happening in the garden, al-beit slightly slowing down. Rather strange at a time of year when we're used to frosty seed heads and stalks picked out in ice crystals. But hey, don't knock it! Some of this extra growth can be cut down and just loosely heaped over the top of clumps - say for instance, asters, heleniums, chrysan-themums - to act as protec-tion against the cold. It also gives places for insects and beasties to overwinter. If you really can't stand the idea of such untidiness, re-member that the more you prune back, the more your plant will be exposed to the cold. A compromise would be to leave roughly a foot of stalk. Leaves are also very use-ful gathered up and piled onto beds and borders, or put onto the compost heap. Now is a good season to do 'organising' work in the gar-den - tidying out of sheds, cleaning up of tunnels and greenhouses, redoing edges of borders or paths, build-ing a new compost heap, etc. Don't forget to give your tools a good clean, and oil them once fully dry. Every year I mean to put up more shelves, hooks and brackets in the shed to keep them off the ground. Who knows, maybe this year...? Once you've finished mow-ing the grass, when it's too wet, often, put your mower away dry and clean, and think about changing the oil, filters, and having the blades sharpened ready for the spring.

If you want to plant bare rooted trees, now's the time - as long as the weather is not too frosty and the holes can be dug. If your ground is heavy, or the soil is soaked, make sure you incorporate some good drainage mate-rial into the bottom of the hole and plant on a little mound. Things like the dogwoods are often lovely now, their coloured stems bare of the leaves. This gives you an opportunity to see if they are suckering, and if there are young plants that need to be removed to avoid crowd-ing. Pot them up and give to friends. The same can be said for raspberries, other soft fruit and young speci-

mens of self sown hedging varieties. Spend an afternoon going round the garden if you can, with a trowel at hand ready to dig up all those self sown individuals that are too nice to get rid of, but will be in completely the wrong place next year. Pay particular at-tention to gravel paths and patios. Take out a certain quantity of nettles, if you have too many, and put them on the compost, or make nettle tea, but remember not to put the roots on the heap. Tie in climbers to trellises and posts to avoid breakag-es during the winter winds, and take care that pots which stay outside all win-

ter can't or won't get water-logged - raise them off the ground a little on blocks, and mulch well. If you need to wrap the plant in fleece because it's not hardy, make sure this doesn't touch the leaves. You might make a cage in chicken wire, or use a latticework of twigs or bamboo. If the weather allows, keep an eye on the weed sit-uation. Harmless types like chickweed or bittercress are easily taken out but you don't want the toughies like docks or thistles to be put-ting down their roots. With the majority of leaves off the trees, now is an ex-cellent time to go round and see what will need pruning,

what's getting too big, what might need moving, and it's time to get out your garden notes of the past year to re-fer to long forgotten impres-sions. It's in December that the polytunnels really come into their own, giving a 'warm', light place out of the wind to work, or potter, grow some veg or dream of next year's flowers. Even in an unheated one the difference between what is growing in-side and outside is flagrant, and things are still germi-nating reasonably so that a rolling production of baby salad leaves is possible, temperatures permitting. So, all the best for a very good gardening year! ■

In the garden - jobs for Decemberby Michelle Pierce

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The joys of awood burning stove

It’s that time of year again with the new heating season well and truly under way when we are all firing up our heating systems and lighting up those wood burners in preparation

for this season’s inevitable cold snap. It’s a busy time too for the trade as many people are having wood burners fitted or requesting chimney sweeps and this has prompted many queries about what the chimney sweeping regulations actually are in France and whether our chimneys need be swept at all. So in this month’s edition we are going to discuss the black art of the chimney sweeps and chimney sweeping also known as...

Ramoneurs and Ramonage

Always employ the services of a sweep that is professionally qualified, registered and insured to conduct a full and thor-ough chimney sweep whilst being able to give you advice where necessary about your stove or fire and the fuels to burn in them. The sweep should also be able to issue you with a valid chimney sweeping certificate known as a ‘certificat de ra-monage’. Chimney sweeping is a real and regulated profession in France just as it is in many other countries, so do not be led into thinking that just because you can buy a cheap set of flimsy flue brushes from the local DIY shop that you can legally sweep your own chimney for yourself. These brushes are for the most part unsuitable for cleaning the majority of flues that they sweep. We were called out a while back to retrieve a set of these bendy brushes from a client living in the Corrèze when his set of rods fell apart mid sweep and the brush head (known as the ‘herrison’ or ‘hedgehog’ due to its appearance) as well as half a dozen rods became trapped in the customer’s flue, paradoxically increasing the likely risk of a chimney fire rather than reducing it! Specialist equipment is some-times required in order to clean many flues as well as an experienced eye being cast in order to tell whether your chimney, fire

or stove is still up to scratch. Most people who choose to sweep their own chimneys for themselves simply neither have the necessary equipment nor the experience to know what is required when sweeping and inspecting a chimney.

The chimney sweeping scam(L’arnaque du ramoneur)

Be wary of the army of casual chimney sweeps that turn up on your doorstep un-announced every year offering to sweep your chimney. Some of these characters have neither the kit, nor the qualifications or the insurance required and their certifi-cates would not be worth the paper they are printed on. Be on your guard also of the seasonal sweep-cum-gardener/builder who has added chimney sweeping to his list of artisanal activities in order to make a few quid during the heating season. It’s likely the credentials of this chimney sweeping chancer may not stand up to legal scrutiny in the event of a claim arising from a chim-ney fire in a flue which he swept - even if he has managed to blag some form of insurance cover in the meantime.

Chimney sweeping logs(Les bûches de ramonage)

So what about these chimney logs or so called ‘bûches de ramonage’? How do these work and surely they can be used in-stead of a sweep’s brush to clean my chim-ney? No. According to the manufacturers, chimney sweeping logs work by emitting smoke with additives which attach them-selves to creosote deposits and reduce the likely chance of a chimney fire. Some of the creosotes may fall back into your fire-place or stove. These deposits will need re-moving. The regulations on this are clear. Chimney logs cannot replace a mechanical sweep using rods and brushes. They can be used prior to and in preparation for a proper mechanical sweep as they can help loosen certain types of soot deposits from the inside of flue walls before the interven-

tion of the sweep’s brush, but they do not remove all forms of build up from all types of chimney flue. Neither will they remove blockages caused by birds nesting or ob-structions caused by fallen masonry.

The Regulations

So what exactly are the regulations? Let's clear up this FAQ once and for all whilst forgetting everything else that you have read elsewhere before now which conflicts with the following. Having a chimney sweep is not a life-style choice but an obligation and a legal requirement in France in accordance with French regulations (DTU 24.1 Travaux de Fumisterie). For solid fuel and oil appli-ances this should be a minimum of TWICE a year according to the regulations (and more if necessary). Chimneys should be swept once at the start of the season and again during the period of use. For gas burners this should be at least once a year. This requirement is in fact fixed by your commune's Departmental Sanitary Regu-lations (RSDT) and not your insurance company. The regulations apply to ALL departments in France. Failure to comply with this regulation could lead to a fine of similar gravity to what you would receive from the police arising from speeding or other road traffic infraction. This is a fixed fine (known as an ‘amende forfaitaire de la troisième classe’) in France which can run into the hundreds. Additionally you may not be covered by your insurance and even if your insurer tells you that you are (as most household multi-risk policies will provide some cover in the event of a chim-ney fire) the amount of your claim could be significantly reduced (by over 50%) if you cannot prove that your chimney had been swept by a qualified sweep. You could also receive a bill from the pompiers for their intervention, which is sharply on the in-crease in many departments in France, for extinguishing the blaze. Remember that if you do have a fire in your chimney you must have it inspected and tested by a sweep before it is put back into service. Over 80% of chimney fires are caused by not having the chimney swept and with over 1200 chimney fires every year recorded in the Limousin re-gion alone there is a good chance statisti-cally that you will become a victim your-self if you do not have your regular sweep. Indeed there are many minor chimney fires which go undetected in many flues and most of us will have heard of someone who has already had a chimney fire. It’s an event that occurs much more often that you’d imagine, increasing in likeliness when moving into a new house or holiday home this essential service can be easily overlooked but it is not the sort of house-warming most people would wish for. There is of course nothing to stop you sweeping you own chimney and at this time of year you will see sets of chimney sweeping rods and brushes available most DIY shops. They can even be purchased in some supermarkets nowadays but you will not be covered by your insurance if you do not have a valid chimney sweeping certificate issued by a company which is registered, qualified and insured to issue them. We have also heard that some insurance brokers will tell you that you do not need to have to have your chimney swept at all! Whilst this may well be true from your in-surer’s standpoint if you do not have a fire in your chimney, as we have already point-

ed out, it is the RSDT who obliges you to have your chimney swept rather than the insurance companies – even though it may be the insurer who is responsible for set-tling your claim. Official confirmation of this can be found via the French fed-eration of insurers website, known as the FFSA (Fédération Française des Sociétés d’Assurance - www.ffsa.fr). Always read the small print of any policy regarding fire cover here as quite often you’ll find that insurance brokers in France, just like their counterparts in the UK, only give you part of the full picture unless you are specific. The devil really is in the detail and the detail in this case is the fine print of your French policy document. The old French proverb “les paroles s’envolent, les écrits restent” springs to mind in such cases reminding us that, compared to spo-ken words, the written word cannot vanish into thin air, leaving instead compromis-ing traces which could turn out to be (le-gally) incriminating.

Christmas Competition

Therefore, with all of this in mind we’ve teamed up with our partners at The Bugle for a Christmas competition in the form of a Chimney Sweeping Challenge! That’s right, we’re giving away a free certified chimney sweep (not that you’ll need one paradoxically if you can prove otherwise!) to the first Bugle reader living anywhere in the Limousin region who can provide written proof to the Editor from their in-surer that they do not indeed need to have a chimney sweep when a fire is used or a stove is fitted in their fireplace, and that in the event of a claim arising from such a ‘feu de cheminée’, their policy will cover them in full without applying an excess or reduction for the total amount of the dam-age caused being claimed.■

So what about us? What qualifiesStovesellers to make any of the above

stated claims?

To the best of our knowledge, we are currently the only company to hold simultaneously both the UK HETAS and French QUALIBOIS qualifications relating to the proper & legal installation

At The Bugle, we are regularly asked for the rules and regulations surrounding having your chimney swept and this year was no exception. How often do you need to sweep your chimney, can you do it yourself and what are the rules with regards to home insurance? Barry Creighton from Stovesellers answers these questions and more.

The art of the chimney sweep

15 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu PRACTICAL ♦

FRENCH LESSONS WITH A NATIVE FRENCH SPEAKERIndividual/Group lessons, all levels - Skype lessons via the INTERNET also available

Free trial lesson!Lessons in La Souterraine & Dun-le-Palestel (23)

OTHER SERVICES: Accompanying and interpreting - house purchase, arranging new utilities,car registration, healthcare, liaison with French administration, etc...

I am always looking for new students in the English Library in La Souterraine!Sophie Arsac - 05 55 89 15 74 - [email protected]

How to Avoid Double TaxationMany people who moved

to France last year, and completed their first French tax return this

year, will have noticed that on their tax assessment “Avis d’Imposition” they have actually paid tax twice, since HMRC is still taking tax at source on their UK income. So, what can be done to avoid dou-ble taxation? Well, the UK and France have a Double Tax Treaty which ensures that you cannot be taxed twice, but how double taxation is eliminated depends on the type of income you are declar-ing. For UK government pensions (civil or military service, police, teachers, etc.) the UK will always have the right to tax and it is the French who give you a tax credit to ensure that your pension is not retaxed in France. For share dividends, you should have received a tax credit in France, equal to the amount of UK tax paid at source. For all other income (UK state pen-

sion, private pensions and bank inter-est), it is up to you to request from HMRC the repayment of the tax paid in the UK, since you left the country, and the right for your pension provid-ers and banks to pay income gross for the future. This problem is resolved by com-pletion of the ‘France/Individual’ form, available from the HMRC website. The form is in English with a copy in French; both copies should be completed and submitted to your local French tax office at the same time as filing your French tax return. The French tax office will stamp the form to confirm you have appropri-ately declared the various sources of income to the French tax authorities and then send it, via their head office in Paris, to the HMRC non-residents centre. Thereafter, HMRC will change your tax code and contact the providers of your various sources of income, ar-ranging for them to be paid on a gross basis, and calculate a refund of tax paid since you became liable to French

tax. Unfortunately, this process can take several months to resolve as you will have to wait until the submission and assessment of your French tax decla-ration. As a consequence, in the short term, you will have been taxed twice on the same sources of income, until the refund is calculated and paid. One ongoing problem with this form is that UK banks normally refuse to pay interest gross, even after receiving the instruction from HMRC, so, if you wish to avoid being taxed twice on UK bank interest, you may have to repeat the re-quest for reimbursement every year, via the R43 tax repayment form. ■

David Hardy is Regional Manager of Siddalls France, Independent Financial Advisers, specialised in tax, inheritance, pension and in-vestment planning for the British community in France since 1996.

Telephone 05 56 34 75 51Email: [email protected]: www.siddalls.fr

Don't let the bed bugs biteYou may think

an article about bed bugs in the

December edition of The Bugle is in bad taste. The festive period is a time when neighbours and families get together and hotels are full, a time for giving and sharing pre-sents… not bed bugs! Unfortunately, there is a worldwide resurgence in bed bug infestations, especially when peo-ple get together in large numbers. After the 2000 Olympics, for example, there was a 2,500% in-crease in bed bug infes-tations in Sydney. There is also a peak every holi-day, especially at Christ-mas time. A ten minute check before you leave and when you arrive could save you the stig-ma, stress and cost of bed bugs. Bed bugs do not jump or fly, but they are very accustomed to hitchhik-ing their way into peo-ple’s lives, attaching themselves to luggage by the claws on their feet. An adult is clearly visible and resembles a brown apple pip. The eggs are opaque (around 1mm long). Before adult-hood, a bed bug will shed its skin 5 times (instars). Before each instar, the bed bug needs a blood

meal. The speed of change from egg to adult depends on temperature and the availability of a food source (your blood). First rule: never put your suitcase on the bed... or any bed, ever! The best place for pack-ing and unpacking your case is in the bathroom. You often see spiders in the bath and that is be-cause the surface is too smooth for them to get out; the same is so for bed bugs. Before you pack, shake your case over the bath, check the bath for signs of bed bugs, vacuum the zips and seams. Place clothes in plastic bags, then pack.

Upon arrival, (don’t forget, bag in bath!) check your surround-ings for live bed bugs, faecal stains, cast skins, blood smears. Check the bed, sheets, seams and buttons of the mattress, the headboard, bed legs, bedside cabinet, in and under drawers, screw holes and handles, and behind any paintings above the bed. They can hide in tiny cracks, peel-ing wallpaper or paint and behind light fittings. When you get home, wash everything, not just the clothes you have worn. People react differ-ently to bites, from an almost immediately vis-

ible red welt, to no reac-tion after several weeks, so you shouldn’t assume that the last bed you slept in was the source of the problem. Bed bugs need to have direct contact with the host’s skin in order to feed, so if in doubt... wear pyjamas! Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

For more information on bed bugs, or how to deal with them, please contact Robert Moon from Applicateur 3D:

02 48 60 83 7206 74 33 02 38

www.applicateur3d.com

of solid fuel appliances. With nearly ten years of trading experience in France we have knowledge of and access to all of the building regulations relating to our profession and we have been called on by local maires, architects and legal advocates in the past who have required our assistance as acknowledged specialists in our field. In addition Stovesellers are registered as wood heating installers and qualified chimney sweeps and are affiliated with the French confederation of small business building professionals (CAPEB).

If you’d like to know more about the topics raised here, take a look at Stovesellers' website for more information on wood burning stoves and cookers, central heating systems, chimney installations and chimney sweeps at www.stovesellers.com or call05.55.63.78.72

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 201416 ♦ CLASSIFIEDS

St-Sébastien (pl. du Champ de Foire) 18h-20h Wed 03-Dec Bourganeuf (Esp. Martin Nadaud) 18h-20h Thu 04-Dec Châtelus-Malvaleix (Auberge de Voyageurs) Fri 05-Dec Sardent-Masmangeas (Auberge du Lac) 18h-21h Sat 06-Dec Bonnat (Bar des Sports) 18h-20h Thu 11-Dec Marsac (Chez Jacques) Fri 12-Dec Boussac (pl. de l’hôtel de ville) * Note, 2nd Sat this month Sat 13-Dec

St-Sébastien (pl. du Champ de Foire) 18h-20h Wed 07-Jan Bonnat (Bar des Sports) 18h-20h Thu 08-Jan Marsac (Chez Jacques) Fri 09-Jan Sardent-Masmangeas (Auberge du Lac) 18h-21h Sat 10-Jan Bourganeuf (Esp. Martin Nadaud) 18h-20h Thu 15-Jan Boussac (pl. de l’hôtel de ville) 18h-20h Sat 17-Jan

Please try to email your order in advance to avoid disappointment All 6pm - 8.30pm unless stated - Please consult our website for any updates.

www.ohmycod.netE:- [email protected]:- 05 55 80 34 26 SIR

EN: 5

20 80

7 660

X

Wishing all our customers a wonderful Christmas

WWW.HOUSESONINTERNET.COM

The Bugle CLASSIFIEDS are brought to you in association with

FOR SALE: Lurcher bitch pups - last two Home bred from champion winning and excellent working lines. Mother (chip no. 900008800112108) - collie/greyhound x collie/greyhound/bedlington and father - deerhound x deerhound/greyhound. Both parents can be seen, are good with livestock including cats and are loyal, affectionate, calm and well-behaved. A black and a fawn bitch available. Wormed and well socialised, these gorgeous pups will make great working dogs or fantastic family pets. Ready now. Photos available on request. €250 to loving responsible homes only. Tel: 05 55 60 14 18 SOS Romeo 21⁄2 old month

kitten, recently abandoned, living out in the woods. He/she is very sociable, purrs when in contact with people, loves petting. Romeo urgently needs to be adopted before the snow arrives! We could bring the kitten to your home. Tel: 07.85.78.42.31 (English/French) Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Home needed for Leo, English Setter X Border Collie Urgent home, or foster home, required for this young male (around 1 year old), who was found abandoned by the road. Tel: 02 54 38 81 76

FOR SALE: Record Power power chuck RP 300X. €150.00ono Tel: 02 54 62 01 87 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Various new

electrical fittings Wall sockets, wall light switches, ceiling light fittings, reels of new electrical wiring, ducting etc., All for 35 euros. €35.00 Tel: 05 55 62 25 18 FOR SALE: Patio or path bricks Pinky grey wavey edged bricks that fit together. 24x15x5cm. Approx. 380 bricks (previously used but in good condition), would make an attractive patio of around 330 x 370 cm. Email for photos or more info. Bussiere Poitevine area. Buyer collects. €60.00 Tel: 05 55 60 06 53 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Woodturning Hardwood Bowl Blanks Professionally prepared hardwood various timbers. 15no - 5 euros each. Tel: 02 54 62 01 87 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Industrial/Construction Grade Transformer 240V to 110V - great for all 110V power tools. €60.00 Tel: 02 54 62 01 87 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: QUANTITY OF RECLAIMED ROOF TILES Some with a distinctive 'diamond' shape in them but with no makers name moulded into them and these are probably the oldest of the styles. The majority of the tiles have 'ROUMAZIERES and PASCAUD - POLAKOWSKI moulded in. Another style is a JEANDELAINCOURT - MEURTHE & MOSELL DEPOSE tile. Sizes of all tiles approximately 23/24cm x 40/41cm. 55 euros the lot. €55.00 Tel: 0555 787902 (near Rochechouart)

FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL DISPLAY/DRINKS UNIT Featuring a cupboard with glass door, 3 drawers and a shelf, in light oak finish. Excellent condition, can be used as a TV cabinet. H.76cm. W.100cm D47cm. Sainte-Severe Area 36. €50.00 Tel: 02 54 30 76 86

FOR SALE: ELECTRIC RECLINER CHAIR Light brown velour with wood handles, good condition. Sainte-Severe area 36. €100.00 Tel: 02 54 30 76 86 FOR SALE: Furniture 4 Beech Carver Chairs. Strong well made chairs, but the finish needs some attention. 60 euros. Solid Oak Refectory Table 6ft x 2ft.6 / 183cm/75cm. 60 euros. Tel: 05 55 03 15 82 FOR SALE: Various - Furniture Pine headboard - 4ft 6in - medium stain - 20€; Ikea pine effect kitchen doors, drawer fronts, side panels, etc. Reasonable offers. Text 06 41 99 57 40 (St Yrieix la Perche) FOR SALE: Dining Furniture DUCAL PINE DINING TABLE, MATCHING SIDEBOARD and 8 DINING CHAIRS (including 2

CARVERS). Also nest of 3 TABLES and a WINE TABLE. (Table 168 x 103cm, extending to 213 x 103cm, sideboard 173 x 44cm with height 87cm). €325.00 Text or tel 06 41 99 57 40. (St-Yrieix-la-Perche) FOR SALE: Pair of Occasion Tables (Mahogany) 24” W x 21”H – 1 has small patch surface wear - 25 euro the pair. Based St-Dizier-

Leyrenne, 23400. Email for photo. €25.00 Tel: 05 55 64 46 27 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: MYERS double bed Very comfortable larger size MYERS double bed (ideal for bad backs). Base has four drawers. VGC. Call Lili (Chateauroux area). €180.00 Tel: 06 95 91 53 09 FOR SALE: Large rattan & cane arm chair With upholstered cushions, made to order for us in Bali, Indonesia. Style is called Princess Chair. €90.00 Tel: 02 54 62 01 87 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Good quality dining room suite Comprising oval table (59 x 36 inches [194 x 90 cm], extending to 76 x 36 inches [194 x 90cm]), 4 chairs plus “carver” chair and sideboard on castors

(length 48 inches, width 17 inches and height 31 inches [L 122cm, W 43cm H 79cm]) with 2 cupboards and 3 central drawers. Excellent condition. Tel/email for more more details/photos. €220.00 Tel: Angus on 05 55 71 76 36 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Kitchen table Oval, extendable, beech or light wood colour. 4 matching chairs, upholstered with

cream seat covers. Size length 106cm extends to 135cm. Good condition. €100.00 Tel. 05 55 64 87 91 after 6pm, or text 0044 7722 032348 FOR SALE: BATHROOM CABINET All stainless steel, lockable with key. Vgc. €30.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Beautiful old oak dresser Top cupboards glass fronted with lock and key. There is a mirror under the cupboards 40cms x 24cms. There are two drawers and underneath two cupboards with lock and key. All the front of the dresser has hand carvings on the doors and drawers. €90.00ono Tel: 02 54 25 38 97 Dept 36 – Orsennes FOR SALE: Adjustable office chair Black. €15.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Large wall hung mirror With decorative gilt frame. €15.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Small chest of drawers With 3 drawers. Pine top, white drawers. Ideal size for side of bed. Excellent condition. €30.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Two seater sofa with cream covers Good condition. €30.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Sofa bed settee Makes full size bed. As new condition. €125.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Pine Headboard for double bed Excellent

condition. €18.00 Tel: 05 55 78 79 02

FOR SALE: 2 electric chain saws A MAKITA and a RED DEVIL (B&Q make). Both in good working order, but need new chains 16 inch (410cm). Both have long cables. Makita 40 euro, Red Devil 30 euro. Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Greenhouse heater Petrol (paraffin) with two burners. Good working order. €15.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: HZS280 In-line pool/pond pump Mono-phase pump, 50HZ and 280W, pumps 8000 litres/hour to a max height of 8m. Recommended for use with Polaris and similar pool robot cleaners. Only 6 weeks old and used for less than 10 hours. €80.00ono Tel Dave: 05 55 64 83 13 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Grey heavy duty plastic hostess trolley Ideal for garden use, top and bottom shelves both removable for cleaning. Boussac area. €10.00 Tel: 04 70 06 37 99

FOR SALE: Commercial Kitchen Equipment E500 Commercial Dishwasher 600€ ono; 900 x 300cm Falcon Grill with Shelving and S/S Splashback Plate 400€ ono; Large Hot Counter (approx 1,5 mtr. in length) 4 hot plates and hot cupboard underneath 600€ ono; 22" Firstline Colour TV with remote control 120€ ono; Convection Oven (needs attention) - offers; 12 x 1.5kg Catering Moules Bowls with lids (like new) 75€; 50 wine glasses, 14 x 25cl carafes and 8 x coffee liqueur glasses 50€; 6 x 8" and 6 x 7" Creme Brulee Dishes 25€; Job lot

How to placea Classified Advert

To place a classified advert, please email:[email protected]

BY THE 20th with the details you would like include. Your advert will appear online and in the next print edition of The Bugle.

Classified adverts are currently free for all small items (less than €500). For more expensive items and photos a small fee applies:

● Items more than €500 are charged at €5 per month● Photos are charged at €2.50 per month

ANIMALS & PETS

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17 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu CLASSIFIEDS ♦

FOR SALE: Lord of the Rings

Iron Rings, 1,60 in diameter, for flower beds or other. 7-8 cm wide. €25 for one, €20 each from 2 onwards. 5 left. Buyer collects (southwest Limoges). Call Katharina 06 66 24 85 49 FOR SALE: Various Full-size (board size 150cm x 100cm) floor standing engineering drawing board with professional engineering head & scale rules 150 euros; Cast iron fire surround (w 92cm, h 125cm) 80 euros; Swan's nest, fire dogs, and cast iron fireback (w 63cm) 150 euros; Black iron fire guard (70cm x 70cm) 25 euros; Cast iron fire front (40cm wide) 15 euros; Portable oil-filled radiator 20 euros; Pair of bar stools 20 euros. Tel: 05 55 60 08 06 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Collection of Pewter Ingots In rosewood case, inaugural edition from 1975 marking the opening of the National Railway Museum in York in 1975 with certificate of authenticity. €200.00 Tel: 02 54 62 01 87 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Old two wheel farm cart Great as garden decoration or large planter. €90.00ono Tel: 02 54 62 01 87 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: PAIR (2) 'SKYTEC' PA SYSTEM/D I S C O / K A R A O K E SPEAKERS Suitable parties,

karaoke, and events. 150watt. 8 ohm. 44x26x28 cm. €30.00 Tel: 0555 787902 (near Rochechouart) FOR SALE: Nardi insert oven Good working condition and has smoked glass oven door. €70.00 Tel: 05 55 60 64 03 FOR SALE: Steel Flue 8 metre length of 150mm stainless steel flexible flue, type 316. Also top plate (for chimney capping), register plate with 3 pre-cut blanked off holes, stove to flue pipe adapter, and top insert. All brand new and in perfect condition. Cost £200. Will sell for £140 or 170 Euros. €170.00 Tel: 0545 89 08 46 (Montrollet) FOR SALE: Uplights Matching pair. Chrome effect colour. 1.8m high. Domed top.

good working and cosmetic condition, inc remote control. Dolby sound, etc. Tel: 04 70 06 37 99 FOR SALE: Large quantity of boys clothes All in good condition, age 0-13 years. Some toys. Will not split. Offers. Tel: 02 48 56 74 73 FOR SALE: Cot x 2 + Child's desk Wooden pine cot, Mothercare, with mattress, as new, hardly used - 50 euros. Travel cot (collapsable) blue, with mattress, as new. 20 euros. Child’s desk, wood with lifting desk, wipe clean lid and chair. Good condition 20 euros. €50.00 Tel: 02 48 56 74 73 FOR SALE: Large antique cast iron standing Paris street lamp Ornate vine patterns, glass lantern top. Embossed with “Marquise”. Height: 3.36m. €985.00 Tel: 02 48 56 74 73 FOR SALE: Log burner Lovely blue colour. Good condition. €100.00 Tel: 02 54 24 29 76 FOR SALE: Why take Victorian? 1 sink left like on

photo from French chateau, 1920s, brand Porcher. Good condition, no cracks. With pedestal and original soap holder. Buyer collects (10 min from airport, Bellegarde 87). €50.00 Tel: 06 66 24 85 49 FOR SALE: 50 packs of 12 different English Christmas cards 2 euros per pack or 50 euros the lot. Tel: 05 55 68 08 42 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Various Super Kingsize duvet, unused. 10€. Also John Lewis duvet cover and matching sheet, unused. Pale blue. 15€. Mirror 80 x 65 cm. Painted wood - yellow with small decoration. Matching wall lights, toilet roll holder, shelf and soap dish holder. 40€. Ice cream maker - Philips. Little used. 20€. Text 06 41 99 57 40 (St Yrieix la Perche) FOR SALE: PVC white shutters Used for 6 months, various sizes with brand new hinges. They were made to measure.Quatre de 1350mm de haut X 1380mm de large( 2 vantaux).Un de 2160mm de haut X 1380mm de large (2 vantaux).Un de 1200mm de haut X 580 mm de large (1 vantail).Un de 1200mm de haut X 1200mm de large (2 vantaux).Un de 1150mm de haut X 890 mm de large (2 vantaux).Available for collection from Lubersac. €495.00 Tel: 0044 7747 851 971 Email: [email protected]

of crockery to include 3 x 16" Giant Serving Plates, 8 x 12" Large Dinner Plates, 25 x 8" Dessert Plates, 19 x 6" Side Plates, Tea & Coffee Cups, Espresso cups, variety of saucers, 2 Large & 3 Small Teapots, 3 small Milk jugs and 1 Large Milk jug, 8 Pepper pots and 1 salt pot, also 4 x 145ml s/s sauce boats and 2 x 275ml sauce boats and 6 glass vinegar bottles 150€; 12 x Wicker breadbaskets with detachable covers 8€. Contact Mrs M Taylor 05 55 48 92 84 or 06 04 09 03 10 FOR SALE: In ground pool kit - 36ft x 18ft Includes: pump, filters, liner, roman end steps, lights, pipework, fittings, etc. Original cost £8000.00. Email for further information. €5,000.00ono Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Wood Burning Fire (excellent condition) SUPRA, Model COLMAR 5-7 Kw. Flue size 125mm (rear). 61cm H, 56cm W,36cm Dp. Chenerailles area. €250.00 Tel: 09 72 31 69 61 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Sewing Machine Husqvarna Viking Sarah. In full and good working order. Buyer to collect please - Bourganeuf area. Photos available if required. €60.00 Tel: 05 55 64 22 25 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Various George Foreman Lean Mean Grilling Machine. New still in box. Ideal Xmas gift. 30 euros; Pressure cooker 6lt. Prestige. Never used. 25 euros; Duvet cover double. White background with poppies on. New. Never used. 15 euros; HP printer copier scanner with cartridges. Needs Bluetooth. Used 4 times. 30 euros; Dell 15 inch monitor and keyboard. Flat screen. Good condition. 40 euros; Computer table. Pine 3 shelves. H. 79cm W. 90cm. d. 49cm. 8 euros; Rustins wood dye medium oak. 2 x 1lt tins. 18 euros; Unibond wall tile adhesive. 13kg tub. Ultimate grab. 12 euros. Tel: 05 55 03 26 42 FREE: Tektronix 453 dual trace 50meg 'scope Needs some attention to the power supply, trace dead. But for spares, etc. a good item. Don't really want to throw it away. Will not ship, collection only. Tel: 04 70 06 37 99 Free to good home Samsung

flat screen 30"/76cm television with dedicated stand with one glass shelf. In silver and very

WWW.HOUSESONINTERNET.COM

The Bugle CLASSIFIEDS are brought to you in association with

Lovely look. Euros 35.00 the pair. Tel. 05 55 64 87 91 after 6pm, or text 0044 7722 032348 FOR SALE: Floor and Wall tiles FLOOR TILES 13 x 13inch (33 x 33cm) greyish white colour, approx 40 tiles 25 euro the lot. WALL TILES 4 x 4inch (10 x 10cm), approx 600 tiles, mixed colours sand yellow, white, rouge, 45 euro the lot. Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Electric Mincer With sausage making attachments. V. g. working order. €15.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: BLACK LEATHER 3/4 length coat Size 16 vgc. €20.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: HP printer and scanner Excellent working condition. Includes user guide and disc. €15.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Taps to fit on sink Black granite colour. Still boxed with all fittings plus instructions for fitting. Never used. €35.00 Tel: 02 54 25 38 97 Dept 36 – Orsennes FOR SALE: Cot and Travel Cot Graco travel cot approx 1m x 70cm. Folds to go in car, or store away, 20 euro. Wooden cot, 1.4m x 70cm. 25 euros. Tel. 05 55 62 25 18 FOR SALE: Pram/Pushchair 2 in 1 'Elite'. Winter and summer covers, zip cosy, hoods, parasol, nets, very smart, practical, adaptable, very big basket tray under. All folding. Suitable from birth to 4 yrs. All detachable, suitable also for use as carry cot for new born. Olive green and cream. Matching bag. Excellent around town, garden and farm. €140.00 Tel: 05 55 62 25 18 FOR SALE: Portaloo 'Thetford' Virtually new, only used 2 days. With some chemicals. €50.00 Tel: 05 55 62 25 18 FOR SALE: Child's pedal tractor with trailer Suit up to 5 years old. Replica of Claas tractor. Excellent condition. €25.00 Tel: 02 54 30 67 86 Ste Severe area (36) FOR SALE: Wii Sports Resort Pack Wii Sports Resort pack complete and hardly used - bargain price. €120.00 Tel: 02 54 62 01 87 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Rug Size 224

x 167 cm. Rose & cream coloured and in good condition. €25.00 Tel: 0555 787902 (near Rochechouart) FOR SALE: BIG OLD JERRY CAN US 1952. 16 litres. €15.00 Tel: 0555 787902 (near Rochechouart)

FOR SALE: Two vintage french wood burners (small) Both in good condition, one green one turquoise enamel cast iron. 85 euros each. Tel: 02 54 62 01 87 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: 2 Sleeping Bags Almost good as new and only used 3 times. 15 euros each. Tel: 0555 787902 (near Rochechouart)

FOR SALE: Leyland DAF Van Spares Brake shoes - €20. Brake pads - €20. Handbrake cable - €10. All new, unused (might fit Land Rover). Tel: 02 48 56 74 73 FOR SALE: 6 Leyland DAF Van Wheels With tyres. Might fit Transit. €60 - won't split. Tel: 02 48 56 74 73 FOR SALE: Yamaha 125 Black off road bike no papers. €500.00 Tel: 02 54 24 29 76 FOR SALE: Mazda Red. Full service history. Two years Control Technique and French registered 1994. Very good condition. €600.00 Tel: 02 54 24 29 76 FOR SALE: Land Rover - Left Hand Drive Headlights A pair of left hand drive headlights for a 300 TDI or early pre facelift TD5. Approx 2 years old and in near perfect condition. Cost almost £100.00, for sale at €60.00. Can post but prefer collection because of the delicate nature. For more info/images please phone. €60.00 Tel: 04 70 06 37 99 FOR SALE: Renault Espace 2.2 DCI, 10CV LHD Manual Silver/blue metallic in very good condition. Six seater. Partial glass roof and alarm system. Registered 23 November 2006. 99,000 km. CT November 2014. Please telephone evenings or leave a message. €7,500.00ono Tel: 05 55 60 77 69 FOR SALE: FIAT FIORINO 1.7d van White1997 94,000k. French registered, left hand drive. New tyres-cam belt-fan belt-battery, large roof rack. Good little workhorse, clean and tidy. Reluctant sale due to returning to UK. Sainte-Severe area 36. €1,000.00ono Tel: +44 07550010194 FOR SALE: 2002 Dethlleff Camper In good condition, 6

berth, fully winterized, with full size summer awning and half size winter awning. Ideal for living in while renovating your chateau. Caravan is currently not registered but I can deliver within 100km and will pass any inspection required to register. For further details or viewing

please email. €6,400.00 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Dog Guard to fit Jeep €60.00 Tel: 05 55 60 64 03 FOR SALE: To fit 1971 VW Beetle 1300, 4 wheels and tyres 2 Town and Country wheels and tyres with snow studs also numerous new spares. €175.00 Tel: 05 55 60 64 03 FOR SALE: Internation 454 tractor with heavy duty topper One owner from new 3600 hours. Recent full service with new oils and filters. Ideal for smallholder. €4,600.00 Tel: 05 55 68 22 04 FOR SALE: Trailer Enclosed timber trailer with sturdy tarp to roof to ensure watertight. Drop down rear door, spare tyre. Internal dimensions - length 3.6m, width 1.4m, height 1.15m. €250.00 Tel. 05 55 64 87 91 after 6pm, or text 0044 7722 032348 FOR SALE: Roof bars for Mitsubishi Lancer Adjustable, lockable. €20.00 Tel: 05 55 62 25 18 FOR SALE: 4 nearly new tyres - still with pimples on Only done 600km. Size 185/65 x 14n 6ply rated so therefore can be fitted to vans, trailers, or cars. Price new £270 now asking €130. Contact by email. €130.00 Email: [email protected]

FOR SALE: Curtiss DT 25 - 2 door fridge/freezer Height 148cms, Width 58cms, Depth 60cms. Volume Fridge – 197 litres, Freezer – 48 litres. Good working order. €60.00 Tel: 05 55 60 45 90 Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Zanussi Washing Machine 1400 spin cycle. Silver colour, 57 cm depth at widest point... too big for my new bathroom. Call Lili (Chateauroux area). €180.00ono Tel: 06 95 91 53 09

WANTED: Companion pony ... for our 12 y.o. mare who has recently lost a true friend. Tel: 05 55 76 27 18 WANTED: Digger or Excavator Any age or condition. Any other plant or machinery considered. Prompt cash buyer. Tel: 02 48 56 74 73 WANTED: Long reach hedge cutter/trimmer The longer the better! Electric or petrol. Tel: 05 55 78 79 02 WANTED: Log or Coal Burner Preferably with oven but not important. Tel: 02 48 56 74 73 WANTED: Piano Good price, preferably able to deliver to Chambon-sur-Voueize 23170. Anything considered. Email: [email protected] WANTED: Trailer - any age or condition Tel: 02 48 56 74 73

WANTED

VEHICLES / PARTS

WHITE GOODS

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 201418 ♦ DIRECTORY

Business DirectoryYour indispensable guide to finding local businesses & artisans

Animals & Pets >> pg 18Auto Services >> pg 18Building Services Architectural Services >> pg 18 Carpenters/Joiners >> pg 18 Electricians >> pg 18-19 Fosses Septiques >> pg 19 General >> pg 19 -21 Groundworks >> pg 21 Painters/Decorators >> pg 21 Plasterers >> pg 21

Plumbers >> pg 22 Sandblasting >> pg 22 Chimney Sweeps >> pg 22Computers/Satellites >> pg 22Engineering >> pg 22Food & Drink >> pg 22-23Garden Services >> pg 23Gifts & Crafts >> pg 23Handholding Services >> pg 24Health & Beauty >> pg 24House Clearance >> pg 24

Insurance & Finance >> pg 24Language Services >> pg 24Pest Control >> pg 24Property Maintenance >> pg 24Property Sales >> pg 24Retail & Commerce >> pg 24-25Transport/Removals/Storage >> pg 25General >> pg 25

The OrchardKennels & Cattery

(Farges, nr. Aubusson)Small & friendly, English run.

Viewings welcome.Certificat de capacité.

Also available: Pet foods, treats & accessories.

Mon - Sat: 9.00 - 7.00Contact Dave Grant: 05 55 67 58 87

www.the-orchard.eusiret: 504 584 228 00010

The Caring CatteryRochechouart

05 55 03 76 87 / 06 30 02 35 73Only 30 mins from Limoges airport.

Established, purpose built securecattery. Large individual/family units, tiled

floors, shelving, adjoining outside areas. Heated, individual needs catered for.

NEW - purpose built isolation unit.Certificate of Capacity. Contact Barbara:

[email protected]: 494 125 016 00019

ZE DOG (& CAT) HOUSEFamily, cage-free boarding for dogs and cats.

Positive dog training and counseling.We make sure that “Ze Dog (& Cat) House”

is a real home from home for yourcompanions so that they, as well as you,

spend a great time on holiday!June Altman, Le Puytren, 87800 Meilhac

Tel: 05 55 58 87 94 / Mob: 06 61 01 12 21Email: [email protected]

Certificat de capacité n° 87-203 RCS Limoges 750 912 057

ChamplongChatterie

Caring, quiet accommodation just for cats

JUNCT 22 off A20, Arnac la PosteAlison & Ray

Tel: 05 55 60 27 [email protected]

SIRET: 520 896 671 00010

Animal communicationGentle healing for people and pets.

Complementing conventional treatmentsby easing the side effects. Helping to identify

the causes of allergic reactions andbehavioural problems. More information at:

www.ame-et-corps.comTel: 06.66.24.85.49

English, French, German - and Animal - spoken! Katharina Maiss

Animals & Pets

AutoServices

RING BILL!Registered Car Mechanic

05.55.81.31.85See Display Ad pg 20

BuildingServices

Architectural Services

ArchitecturalDRAWINGSERVICERenovating yourFrench property?

New build?Dossiers prepared

Permis de Construire Déclarations Préalables

Tel: 05 53 52 36 [email protected]

SIRET: 493 770 358 00015

Plans, Permissions & Photo-Realisations

Comprehensive CAD drafting& design service for your planning

application. Dossiers compiled and submitted, including all local

& departmental liaison.Tel: 05 55 80 72 83Mbl: 06 33 07 29 72

web: www.masterplans.euemail: [email protected]

siret: 790 016 984 00011

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

LCS23 AUTOSLeft Hand Drive Specialists

Sales, Recovery and Transportwww.lcs23.com - see pg 17

CHARTERED STRUCTURAL

ENGINEERPre-purchase & Structural Surveys.

Verbal & written reports.Structural calculations & drawings.Redevelopment ideas & solutions.Tim Haw B.Eng C.Eng M.I.Struct.E05 53 56 72 59 / 06 05 56 42 81

+44 (0)7448 466 662Web: www.versineer.com

Email: [email protected]: 498 843 051 00018

BuildingServices

Carpenters/Joiners

WOODWORKMADE TO MEASURE 

DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, STAIRCASES, OAK FRAMES...

FROM LOCAL HARD AND SOFT WOODS.SHUTTERS FROM 35 EUROS.

Please explore our website for more information:www.scrollart.co.uk

[email protected] 55 14 12 43

Oradour Sur Vayres (87150) - siren: 752 051 482

Please mentionThe Bugle when

responding to adverts

Le CharmeDe Chêne

Handmade solid oak joinery and furniture

Our joinery expertise includesbarn doors, barn door frame

openings, staircases, kitchens, windows & doors.

We also make handmade furniture.Every item is bespoke and

made to measure.Please visit our website for recent

installations and references.www.lecharmedechene.com

[email protected] 54 25 65 0806 16 91 64 67

SIRET: 510 156 763 00011

BuildingServices

Electricians

INSTALLATION23- Electricity- Plumbing

- Air conditioning and heat pump- Small renovations

(bathrooms, kitchens, etc.)Dutch and English spoken

Creuse / Puy-de-DômeE-mail: [email protected]

Mob. 06 40 56 96 12Tel. 05 55 67 57 64

Siret: 753 054 030 00014

19 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu DIRECTORY ♦

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

For more information on advertising in the

Bugle BusinessDirectory, give us

a call or send us an email:

[email protected]

05 55 41 17 76

[email protected] 05.55.41.17.76

Pink ElectriqueRuth & Geoff Kowalczyk

All electrical work, home automation & security.Project management. See our website for more

information. French qualified and insured.30+ years worldwide experience.Departments covered: 23, 36, 87.

Tel: 05 55 63 10 68Mob: 06 64 59 48 64

Email: [email protected]

SIRET: 788 709 871 00016

Lumiere Serviceet Energie

Steven Rofe20+ Years experience

• NICEIC approved Electrician for 8 years in the UK

• Wiring of new installations(including liaising with EDF)

• Rewiring existing houses/barns• External & garden lighting

• All aspects of electrical works• Fully insured - (10 year Decennale)• Departments covered 19,23 & 8705.55.69.75.67 / 06.89.47.69.71email: [email protected]

Siret No. 501.792.386.00010

SALAMANDREélectricitéKeith SLOPER

Tel: 05 55 64 94 20Mob: 07 86 38 09 61

* Qualified electrician* All types of electrical

works carried out* Free estimates* Fault finding

* Consuel certification arranged* Temporary and permanent

EDF supplies arranged* Departments 23 and 87

No Siret: 494 916 760 00015

BuildingServices

FossesSeptiques

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE...

BARWICKÉLECTRICITÉ

SHAUN BARWICK QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN

Available for all types of electrical workSmall jobs, new builds,

renovations, rewires Consuel assistance and

certification service availableFully insured with 10 year workmanship guarantee

Based near Châlus (87230)

Tel: 09 72 35 74 73Email: [email protected]

@iret: 794 282 368 00016

LES VIDANGES LIMOUSINES▪ Emptying septic tanks

▪ Unblocking pipes▪ Cleaning wells

▪ Group rates availablebetween neighboursCall David - 24/24 7/7

06 49 66 44 2587800 JourgnacSiret N° 750 725 780 00019

Steve JohnsFosse Septique

Specialist 20+ years experience

All aspects covered: Paperwork and permissions arranged

Installations (full/part) Upgrades (to current regs)

InspectionsDigger and dumper hire

Groundworks, foundations, driveways, etc.Building & Renovation services

Free devis and site visit

05.55.64.11.73We guarantee to beat any like for like quote !

siret: 514 556 208 00015

Please mentionThe Bugle when

responding to adverts

BuildingServices

General

Leigh DoddElectrical ServicesFull house rewiring, renovations

EDF/Consuel arrangementsFully qualified & Decennale insuredEstablished in France since 2007 Based near St-Yrieix-la-Perche

O5.55.48.95.86www.saraleigh.com

[email protected]: 507 643 336 00013

Max HuggettExperienced and fully

registered builder with 10 year Décennale Insurance

Offering a broad selection of buildingservices in depts. 87, 19 & 23.

From one off installations to completerenovations, construction,

landscaping and ground works.E: [email protected]

T: 05 55 69 37 64M: 06 80 92 23 82

www.maxhuggett.comEnglish & French spoken - Siret: 518 511 340 00011

Eurl Réno-Gén

ROOFINGSPECIALISTS

All types of roofingExternal insulation

Carpentry workDormer windows

Velux windowsZinc guttering

Chimney repointsLead flashing, etc.

Contact Phil Andrews:

Mob: 06 42 38 54 22Tel: 02 54 30 11 20

Email: [email protected]: 509 180 410 00011

HarlequinDevelopmentsAll aspects of renovationand refurbishment, big or

small, undertaken. Harlequin Developments are

a Distributor and Installerfor Solarventi, solar

dehumidifying and water heating products, as well as a range of

other renewable energies

05.55.68.67.5606.06.60.46.97

[email protected]

SIRET: 494.501.067.00016

Paul Jones Renovation

Experienced and fully registered artisan, offering a high quality

finish and service• 10yr Décennale Assurance• Full house/barn renovation

• Plasterboarding walls and ceilings• Tape and Jointing • Kitchen Installation

• Roofing works • Carpentry • Patios/Decking

Tel: 05 55 69 28 12Mob: 06 73 18 63 47

Email: [email protected]

siret no: 495  067  829 00020

ADVERTORIAL

Winter is on its way and what better time to start to perfect your language skills...Introducing “Ecole de Langue” - the

new language school which opened its doors in La Châtre (36400) on October 18th 2014.

The new school, situated on Rue Nationale in the centre of the town, aims to provide essential language skills that all too often the expat community goes without. The school is run by a British woman who has lived in the Indre since 2012. It was due to the lack of language schools in the area that she decided to open the school which has the motto 'high quality tuition for an affordable price'. “I have found learning French so difficult, everyone speaks English! But the speed at which our children were learning and leaving us in the dark was astonishing,” says Emma Pattinson, founder of Ecole de Langue. “Problems with the CAF, URSSAF and getting the

CT done on the car are only a handful of times where speaking French is essential. We can't all avoid answering the phone forever!”

Emma and her family previously lived in Germany before moving to the area and she hopes the school will be able to help others out when it comes to integrating into the local communities. “The idea is to get people talking - to get people involved

in what's going on right under their noses.” The school provides a wide range of languages: French, German, Spanish, Italian, Arabic and it will soon be offering Russian. The courses run on an individual basis, so you book your classes when it is convenient for you - and there are wide range of options available from 1-to-1 and group courses, to intensive week-long classes. Courses start from age 5 onwards, so there is also the opportunity for students to get language support that they may not receive at home. Running until 31st December 2014 the offer “Book 10 hours and receive 4 at a reduced price” means that 10 hours of 1-to-1 French tuition could cost as little as €345, with payment options including cheque, cash and PayPal. Perhaps a perfect Christmas gift for a loved one who has been saying for years “I'll learn French one day!” ■

All enquiries to:Emma Pattinson

[email protected], Rue Nationale36400, La Châtre

www.ecole-de-langue.net02 54 31 12 55

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 201420 ♦ DIRECTORY

BuildingServices

General

Davis & Davis30 years' Experience in Construction,Renovation & Project Management

Quality Workmanship GuaranteedInternal/ External Developments

Barn conversions, loft conversions, new-build, drylining, plastering, rendering, spray

rendering, tiling, installation of kitchens/ bathrooms, painting, carpentry, replacement doors & windows, velux installation, ground-works, landscaping, decking & much more...No job too big (or small). Give us a call for a free competitive quote.

05 55 60 29 50 / 06 04 13 30 57email: [email protected]

Based Arnac-la-Poste - Covering depts 87, 23 & 19Siret: 498 203 652 00017

R & B ConstructionALL ASPECTS OF

RENOVATION & CONSTRUCTION• House & barn renovations

• Garage/loft conversions• Bathroom/shower rooms• Doors/windows • Roofing

• Patios/decking• Plumbing & Electrical

• 10 year Guarantee InsuranceSee our website:

www.rb-first-construction.comTel: 05 55 37 74 06 (Dave)Tel: 05 55 69 75 67 (Steve)

(Depts 23, 87 & 19) siret: 501 792 386 00010

Dave Cardwell - Builder05 55 98 24 12

See our Display Ad - pg 9

Entreprise Hines

Building & Renovation ● Roofing - New & Repairs ● Masonry ● Plastering ● Dry Lining ● Sand Blasting ● Equestrian Buildings ● Digger/Scaffold Hire ● ... and much, much more28 years qualified experience

05.55.89.69.46www.entreprisehines.com

[email protected]: 503 169 237 00016

T J Renovations30 years experience in building tradeFull refurbishments undertaken

• Stone/Brickwork • Patios• Repointing • Studwork

• General Repairs & MaintenanceAll areas in the Limousin covered

Contact Tim05 55 61 08 02 / 06 52 23 89 54web: www.builderinthecreuse.co.uk

Email: [email protected]: 750 068 116 00011

La NoneixConstruction& Property ServicesEstablished, Professional and

Personal Building Services. Fully registered with décennale

insurance covering all works.●Renovations

●New builds ●Roofing ●Stonework ●Carpentry

●Ground worksLarge or small projects undertaken

- please view our website.Contact: Paul or Joanne Rands

05.55.66.44.06www.lanoneix.com

[email protected]: 501 144 596 00019

CoursonConstructionEvery aspect of building

& renovation work,groundwork, fosses, etc…

Concrete & formwork specialist,including concrete stairs.

Large scaffold stock.25 years + experience.

Honest & fair quotations.References available.

Rapid response estimates and start dates. Insured & registered

Call Dave: 06 42 73 83 37Email: [email protected]

Siret: 795 207 067 00013

siret: 503 169 237 00016

Entreprise Hines Building ServicesAll Internal & External Works, completed to a high standard.

We also supply KWIKSTAGE scaffold for hire - either DIY or full scaffold service provided.See website for more info - www.entreprisehines.com - 05 55 89 69 46 - [email protected]

KWIKSTAGE Scaffold Hire

DIY or FullScaffold ServiceSee our website

or phone for details

05 55 89 69 46www.entreprisehines.com

[email protected]: 503 169 237 00016

PropertyMaintenance Services

Qualified Tradesman 20+ years experienceOffering extensive handyman

and general maintenance servicesSmall jobs a speciality, able to work with

you on your renovation projectsAffordable & reliable, a quality job every timeServicing 23 and surrounding areas. Call Jim:

05 55 66 23 9706 27 25 07 78

Siret: 792 049 025 00010

La MaisonBuilding and woodwork

[email protected]

06 40 30 70 90 - see main ad, pg 9

Advertise your business here

[email protected]

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

RING BILL!Registered

Car Mechanic05 55 81 31 85

■ Services■ Brakes

■ MOT Prep(contrôle technique)

■ ... much moreDept. 23 & surrounding areasSIRET: 494 617 798 00017

Monte Sarginson House Renovations

Inside & Out Experience in Roofing, Tiling

Floors & Walls, Plumbing,Fitting Kitchens & Bathrooms,

Stonework & Rendering,Painting & Decorating

Tel: 05 55 63 88 70 Mob: 06 21 34 18 20

Siret no 507 516 748 00013

A. Robins ConstructionRoofing Specialist

www.robinsbuilders.com05 45 61 40 15 - see pg 3

French LilyKitchens & Interiors

05 55 80 92 91 - see pg 10

Building &Property Services

Pointing.Brick, Stone, Blocks laid.Handyman/Gardening.

Cleaning Services & Key Holding.Dept. 23 & surrounding areas.

call Barry or Kim:

06 42 19 20 06e: [email protected]

siret: 807 664 263 00017

Please mentionThe Bugle when

responding to adverts

Please mentionThe Bugle when

responding to adverts

WASTE REMOVALSERVICES

• house/barn/garden clearances• dechetterie runs• rubbish removal

• cash paid for scrap • general labouring service

• mini digger - with/without driver• Vehicle with 1.5 tonne crane

05 55 37 45 3506 74 21 47 71siret 532 981 198 00015

CHRIS STONE SERVICES

PLUMBING/ELECTRICITYINSTALLATIONS AND REPAIRSTEL: 05.55.06.05.69

MOB: 06.04.44.26.36Rochechouart

SIRET: 520 275 504 00022

Steve JohnsAssainissement

fosse-septique23.com05.55.64.11.73 - see pg 13

Creuse Property & Lake Services

- General maintenance including grounds- Change overs - Meet and Greets

- On call / Emergency help- Key holding - Handyman

Building projects also undertakenFor full details visit

www.creusepropertyservices.euor call 06 02 67 72 19

Siret No: 804 568 020 00015

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

RSW EntreprisesFosse Septique Specialist05.55.80.00.57See our Display Ad - pg 8

Old Style CreativityRural Renovations

Multi-skilled ProfessionalWorkmanship for every aspect of

your buildPlease see our portfolio at :

www.oldstylecreativity.weebly.comContact Kristian Woodgate on:

[email protected] / 06-48-77-79-19

siret: 511 277 527 00012

For more information on advertising in the

Bugle BusinessDirectory, give us

a call or send us an email:

[email protected]

05 55 41 17 [email protected] 55 41 17 76

Paul GoldsmithInterior RenovationsRegistered for 8 years in France

High quality work,excellent references available

• Kitchens • Bathrooms• Tiling • Wood flooring

• Loft conversions • Pointing• Windows • Plasterboarding

Covering Creuse and Indree: [email protected]: 09 66 03 52 89

SIRET 494 123 847 00019

21 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu DIRECTORY ♦

Masonry& MoreGeneral building

Renovation & maintenance Reliable, good quality work

30 years expBased central 23 - will travel

Martin Sprague

05 55 61 93 07martin_sprague_1@ hotmail.com

SIRET: 531 768 182 00010

GODSONTravaux Publics

www.pilgrim23.com05.55.62.61.12 - pg 3

50,000 sq ft of coveredshowrooms & 2 largeexternal display areas- All reclamation bought & sold- Demolition undertaken- Specialists in oak beams- Metalwork & stonework- Indian stone fl ooring- Plywood, all in 8x4 sheets: internal, external and marine gradeOpen Mon-Sat 8.30am to 6pm - www.reclamation-yard.comOnly 1km from Confolens on the D952 Ansac-sur-Vienne road

Double DRenovations & Home

Improvements05 55 65 00 29 - pg 12

BuildingServices

Painters/Decorators

BuildingServices

Groundworks

Mini-Digger with driver05.55.78.62.29

[email protected] Main Ad Below

Simon Carter

Montluc Painting& Decorating

Qualified craftsman with over 25 years UK experience, now based in Haute-Vienne

Specialist services:Interior & exterior painting,

wallpapering, plastering & boarding, floor restoration, tiling.

FREE QUOTES

Tel: 05 87 19 91 50Mob: 07 81 26 88 65Web: www.sjcmontluc.fr

Email: [email protected]: 792.130.932.00017

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 05 55 41 17 76

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE...

CALL KATHPainting and DecoratingInterior and ExteriorColour Consultations

Room Re-designsKathleen Willis

05 55 63 53 [email protected]

siret 802 262 35200015

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

Mini Diggerwith Driver for HireLandscaping, ditching,

land clearance etc.Also general

Garden MaintenanceJohn Bonella

87440 Marval

05 55 78 62 [email protected] no. 523 183 580 00019

For more information on advertising in the

Bugle BusinessDirectory, give us

a call or send us an email:

[email protected]

05 55 41 17 76

Please mentionThe Bugle when

responding to adverts

La Coterie EntrepriseApproved septic tank installer

05.55.80.83.30www.lce23.com

See our main ad - pg 22

Multiskilled ArtisanGraham Carter Plastering• Plastering • Rendering • Stud Walling

• Tiling and associated works• Bespoke polished concrete surfaces

for Window Sills, Shelves, Fire Surrounds etc. • General Renovation interior and exterior of buildings to

customer's specification.Tel: 05 55 76 69 32

Mob: 06 43 11 95 87Siret No. 513 415 091 00018

GLEN VINEY

PLASTERERQuality Plasterwork,Internal & External

Plasterboarding, Partitioning,Skiming, Solid Plastering,

Floor Screeding,Rendering: Mono Couche/Coloured Render

Waterproofing Render SystemsTel: 06 45 18 86 10

(18 Years Experience)Email: [email protected]

Siret: 527 736 326 00010

BuildingServices

Plasterers

ChRISThE PLASTERER

A genuine plastererFrench and English spoken

Traditional PlasteringRendering, Stud partition dry lining

Lime mortar stone pointingCALL FOR A FREE QUOTATION05 55 63 53 0606 23 29 48 19

[email protected] Bourg, 23360 Nouzerolles

SIRET: 504 612 441 00015

[email protected] 55 41 17 76

[email protected] 55 41 17 76

La Noneix Construction and Property ServicesLimousin residents Paul and Joanne Rands moved to France with their two young children nearly a decade ago and established their successful construction company, La Noneix Construction and Property Services, offering a full range of building services, from a small job right through to a total renovation or complete new-build.

Here at La Noneix Construction we are into our 9th year of trading in

France and business is going from strength to strength. We find that there are still a lot of people moving to France from other countries and many of those are buying properties that require substantial renovation. The number of barn renovations, extensions and re-roofing jobs we are doing on old properties can

only be good for the region, with old properties being given new life. When carrying out a large renovation, the customer needs to be sure that the company they choose is fully qualified, insured, reliable and has a good track record. We pride ourselves on meeting these criteria and for the attention to detail and level of customer service that we provide. We are in constant contact with our clients; we effectively run a 24/7 business via phone and email. Often, our clients will be based offsite or overseas and we send weekly updates, with photos of how the work is progressing. They are able to get back from work in an evening and email us to find out how things are going - we will always respond. We find that this service is essential to our customers who do not live permanently in France, allowing them

to remotely see exactly what has been happening in their absence. This not only provides peace of mind, but also avoids the need for constant, costly trips back and forth to make sure that the work is being carried out effectively and efficiently. Something that we unfortunately see a lot of are enquiries from people who have been let down by other companies, who have either not finished the job or have not carried out the work to the relevant standard. When doing any kind of work, but especially when the work is structural, it is imperative that customers ensure anyone they use has a valid insurance policy to cover them for this work. La Noneix Construction and Property Services is a professional enterprise that is registered at the Chambre de Métiers. We operate under

a full, mandatory 10-year insurance (décennale) and we have an excellent customer service record. Don’t take our word for it, though, just listen to what our customers have to say about our business in their own words:

“I have used La Noneix Construction for a number of projects on my house in France, the biggest project being a new roof. Joanne and Paul are very helpful and

offer great advice, without any pressure to accept a quote. The quality of work is second to none and all work has been completed quicker than expected without compromise on quality. You pay for what you get, and with La Noneix Construction that is guaranteed quality workmanship. I would recommend them to anyone wishing to have some work done on their house." - Andy

“We've been considering our

project very carefully, and have been really impressed with your careful approach to our proposed extension. We particularly like your attention to detail and your honesty about what needs doing to make it the best possible job.” - Jim & Viv ■

La Noneix Construction& Property Services Tel: 05.55.66.44.06

Email: [email protected] more information on:

www.lanoneix.com

ADVERTORIAL

Before After

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 201422 ♦ DIRECTORY

BuildingServices

PlumbersMartin WaltersPlumberCaught out last winter?

Don't worry!We can now offer

winter checks, drain downs, caretaking,general DIY, key

holding, as well as our usual friendlyplumbing services.

Tel 02 54 24 84 62Siret 522 804 723 00016

Chimney Sweeps

Chimney Sweeping• Flue ways cleared

• Birds nests, vermin& debris removed

• Smoke evacuation & gas tightness tests

• Official certificates of cleaningissued (Certificat de Ramonage)

www.stovesellers.com05 55 63 78 72

Siren: 502 409 949

TOUTE SWEEPChimney Sweep Service

* All types of chimneys cleaned* Brush & Vacuum

* Smoke Tested * Fully Insured* HETAS Approved and

member of NACS* Official certificates of cleaning issued (Certificat de Ramonage)

* Clean, tidy, professional& friendly service

Contact Barry ManningTel: 05 55 66 14 11

Mob: 06 31 59 81 [email protected]

REMEMBER - BLOCKED FLUES AND CHIMNEY FIRES CAN BE

FATAL... DON'T TAKE THAT RISK!SIRET: 534 351 754 00013

Sat-ElecFormerly Electrosat

UK & French Satellite TVDishes & Freesat boxes always in stockTerrestrial digital aerial installationsFrom a single outlet to multi-point systems

TOOWAY BROADBANDApproved Supplier

Wi-Fi, Data Networks, CCTVFor sales, service or advice

call Mike G on:05 55 09 15 73

We only use our own qualified staff No call out charge Free quotations All areas covered

Quality work from qualified Staff5 Place de la Republique Sauviat-sur-Vige 87400

siret no 798 364 600 00014

Computers& Satellites

GOODWINSATELLITE

SALES & INSTALLATION OF ALL SATELLITE SYSTEMS & AERIALS. FAULT FINDING.

Dept 23 & surrounding areas

Tel: 05 55 62 05 61Mob: 06 23 40 18 64Email: [email protected]

siret: 453 067 910 00019

For all your TVand satellite

installations and repairs(Sky TV, Internet etc.)

Call Patrice:06.79.07.91.56

[email protected] dependable service

Based Séreilhac (87)siret: 353 613 227 00035

Big Dish Satellitewww.bigdishsat.com

05 55 78 72 98see main ad - pg 12

[email protected] 05.55.41.17.76

CreusetecSatellite Systems

05 55 66 60 21"Tooway" High speed internet via satelliteTV Satellite Sales, Service & Installations.

TV Receiver & Electronic Repairs.Dish alignments. Sky/Freesat/TNT/FTA.Most of depts 23,03,63,87,36 covered.

[email protected]://www.creusetec.com

SIRET: 510 117 328 00011

Maydaycomputer services - pc • mac • network05 55 68 47 33 / 06 82 26 31 54

see pg 8

H20 CREUSEHeating & Plumbing engineer

05 55 63 89 23see pg 7

Benjamin JourdanPlumber/Electrician

Installation, servicing & maintenance of all types of boiler: wood, gas, fuel, pellet...Solar panels installed and maintained.

Underfloor heating, bathrooms, kitchens, etc...General electric works up to full house rewire.

Will travel.www.helplomberie.com

e: [email protected]: 06 42 65 83 44t: 05 55 60 84 69

siret: 517 848 826 00023

[email protected] 55 41 17 76

CLEAR CHIMNEYSAll types of chimneys cleaned

Clean and efficientCertificat de Ramonage issued

with every chimney sweptWoodburners supplied & fitted

Accredited flue installerWoodburner repairs

Safety surveysChimney repairs/maintenance

02 54 06 40 [email protected]

siren 535 199 483

Sand and BlastWe provide a fully operated

sandblastingservice for wood, stone and metal.

Perfect for stripping away yearsof grime or paint.

Contact us for a free quote,or see our website:

www.sandandblast.com05 67 77 83 05

[email protected]: 534 759 337 00015

BuildingServices

Sandblasting

For more information on advertising in the

Bugle BusinessDirectory, give us

a call or send us an email:

[email protected]

05 55 41 17 76

For more information on advertising in the

Bugle BusinessDirectory, give us

a call or send us an email:

[email protected]

05 55 41 17 76

Septic tanks Concrete Renovationsystems designed with permissions &paperwork included and independent

approval with certifi cation.

concrete fl oors, concrete terraces,concrete retaining walls, openings,

underfl oor heating, insulation, steps.

bathrooms & kitchensfrom design to completion, ceilings,

partition walls, drylining.

see our portfolio at www.LCE23.com 05.55.80.83.30 registered and insured for all work we do [email protected]

trading 6 years

Food & Drink

MARSAC LIGHTENGINEERING

Machining servicesManual turning and milling

Component manufacture and repairAlso manual gearbox rebuilds

Competition transmission specialistMARSAC 23210

John Richard Hoare05 55 61 18 60

[email protected] no. 801 650 573 00018

Engineering

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

RIVE DROITE8 rue Ledru-Rollin

36200 Argenton-sur-Creuse

02 54 24 01 06Restaurant - Pizzeria

● Italian Specialities● Traditional Cuisine

● Home-made DessertsMoules de bouchot AOC

available from July to DecemberHigh Quality Food, a Warm

Welcome and a FriendlyAtmosphere await

Closed Sundays & Mondays

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

Robert and Sue Manning

FARM TO FORKFarm-raised Limousin Beef,

Lamb and PoultryAll the meat we sell is bred, fed and

finished here on the farm

Beef available as 1/16 or 1/8 sideat just €10.90/kg

Order your Goose or Turkey for Christmas

Duck/Chicken available all year round

Lamb available from 2015

EARL Les Fromentaux10 Route de Vilenne, 36200 Celon

Tel: 02 54 25 34 73

[email protected] 55 41 17 76

23 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu DIRECTORY ♦

JJ’s Cafe Bar Some customer quotes: ‘...more than just a bar’

‘....a bit like Allo Allo and Cheers!’ Come and see for yourself - Open all week.See our Notice Board events listings

39 Place du Champ de Foire 36140, Aigurande

02 54 06 30 77www.frenchweb.eu/jjscafebar/

[email protected]: 508 754 314 00013

Le Moulin du BreuilBAR, RESTAURANT, TERRASSE

23140 PIONNAT05 55 80 37 70 - see pg 8

To advertise in The Bugle Business Directory, call 05 55 41 17 76

Petticoat Lane5 Rue Nationale – 16150 Chabanais

Tel: 05 45 29 03 99Visit: www.petticoatlaneshop.com

E-mail: [email protected] groceries, Fresh British Beef &

Steaks (to order only), Gammon Steak,Bacon, Sausage & Cheddar Cheese.

Wide range of frozen itemsincluding vegetarian.

Traditional English beers, Sherries & Wine.Cards for all occasions.

Opening hours: Mon - Sat 10am – 6pm Visit us and compare our prices

Le CreusoisBar/Restaurant

Les Genêts, AzerablesHigh quality British & French food

at reasonable prices.Menu du Jour €12, Traditional Pub Food, Vegetarian dishes, Childrens

& Snack menus also available05.55.63.90.79

www.lecreusoisbistro.comSIREN: 483 988 853

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE...

Le ChampsacB&B Restaurant Bar

Tabac & Salle des Fêtesgood food!

good company!good night out!

open all yearregular eventsprivate parties

[email protected], Rue des Fontaines, 87230 Champsac

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

Oh My CodFish and Chipswww.ohmycod.fr

05 55 80 34 26 - see pg 16

Restaurant AUX CEPESLA veytiZoU, 87130

Tel: 05 55 69 33 38see main ad - pg 8

Le Pub58, rue d'Orjon, Argenton-sur-Creuse

02.54.60.02.14 - see pg 6

Cross Cut Tree Surgeons27 years experience Free quotes and advice We will not be beaten on price or standard of work

Fully qualifi ed arborist - Fully insured Covering depts: 87, 23, 86, 36, 19 & 16 Reliability guaranteed

[email protected] 05.55.60.62.14 / 06.78.38.42.44

for all your tree requirements

siret: 530 840 958 00017

MerryXmas

to all ourcustomers,

new and old!

Cross Cut Tree Surgeonsfor all your tree requirements

[email protected] / 06.78.38.42.44

see main ad below

GardenServices

Gifts & Crafts

'CARTES DE CHRISTINE'HAND-CRAFTED CARDS

FOR ALL OCCASIONSQuality product at affordable prices.

Customized, if required, especially for you.Available blank or with either English or French greetings.Email: [email protected]

VISIT ME AT THE FOLLOWING MARKETS:PIEGUT (Wed), Brantôme (Fri)

AIGRE, CHASSENEUIL & CONFOLENS (Monthly)FIND OUR CARDS AT: Magazin Artisanat, Confolens

Send an email to sign up to the newsletterTel: 06 86 89 81 02

siret 528 539 448

LE DORAT (Pl. Charles de Gaulle)

Mon Chic Cottage(formerly Vera Laine Cadeaux)

Home Decor & GiftsTea, coffee & home-made scones / cakes 

Official Stockist & Workshop forChalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan

& Neal’s Yard Remedies OrganicOpen Tue-Fri: 10h00 -17h00

Sat: 10h00-13h00Contact Jay:

05 87 77 95 [email protected]

ADVERTORIALSAT-ELEC - Satellite &Broadband solutionsPoor or No Broadband? Satellite is

your answer. There are two main providers in Europe. Rent or buy, the choice is yours. DIY or we can

install it for you, again the choice is yours. The equipment is delivered to your door. TOOWAY offers speeds of up to 22M down and 6M up and the monthly rental (dependent on package) starts from €19.95. SES offers speeds of up to 20M down and 2M up and the monthly rental (dependent on pack-age) starts from €10.95. For very light users SES offer a pay as you go option at €7.75 per Giga-byte. Is UK TV reception a problem? We have over 25 years' experience in the satellite industry and Mike G is here to assist you. Call him on 05 55 09 15 73. CCTV - four cameras and a DVR fitted from €800.00 and you can view it from an iPhone or laptop anywhere. Ideal for checking if the gard-ner, cleaner, etc. has come, or for just projecting the view from your window in France on to the wall, as a screen saver to impress your friends in the UK. Now have you wanted a UK phone number

in France? We are able to provide you with a UK phone number with the rental starting from £5.00 per month. There is a wide range of phones to choose from and it will work over Broadband and Satellite Broadband. If you are interested please call Mike T on 03 66 88 06 29.

The two Mikes are happy to preparea custom package for you on all or any

of the above.

Call Mike G on 05 55 09 15 73or Mike T on 03 66 88 06 29

or email: [email protected] SAT-ELEC where knowledge and experi-

ence provide the complete solution.

ADVERTORIAL

Advertising with The BugleWith 5 years’ experience delivering

print advertising to an expat market, The Bugle represents one of the most

cost-effective ways to let English speakers know about your business. An advert with The Bugle starts from just €11.20 HT per month – that’s less than 37 cents a day to put your business in front of 30,000 people each month. In the Limousin we have more than 300 distri-bution points across the region and surrounding areas where readers can pick up a copy for free. We also distribute 3,500 copies through Limoges Airport, which means that we are in the perfect position to target not only residents and second-home owners, but also tourists and those new to the region. The Bugle is the only English language news-paper dedicated to the Limousin - in fact, today, The Bugle is the only free English language newspaper in France and we are growing all the time. If you would like to discuss any of our adver-tising options further, why not give us a call to-day to find out more about the ways that we can help you grow your business.

T: 05 55 41 17 76E: [email protected]: www.thebugle.eu

Please mentionThe Bugle when

responding to adverts

[email protected] 55 41 17 76

Please mentionThe Bugle when

responding to adverts

WWW.CARDBUBBLE.COMBUY YOUR BRITISH

GREETINGS CARDS ONLINE!

QUALITY CARDS AT UK PRICES!

E: [email protected]

FREE DELIVERY ON ALLORDERS OVER €10 WORLDWIDE

siret: 751 978 917 00019

Helen Clarence Designs

Unique handmade gifts and jewellery for Christmas

Christmas shopping weekend5th, 6th & 7th December, 2pm-6pm21 La Tour, 23130 St-Dizier-la-Tour

www.helenclarence.comtel: 05 55 81 00 97

Très JolieLadies fashion accessories

05 55 78 62 29 / 06 04 08 29 53see main ad pg 13

Ivan Petley

3D Puzzle MakerHandmade, fully interlocking,

multi-layered 3D puzzles from just €9.Keyrings €2 plus other unique gift ideas.

Customisation and personalisation possible.Come and visit the workshop by appointment.

Tel: 05.55.80.29.88Les Bregères, 23150 St-Martial-le-Mont

[email protected]

The ExchangeRochechouart

SECOND HAND BOOK SHOP. GREAT SELECTION OF GIFTS, CARDS,

CANDLES AND HAND-CRAFTED PRODUCTS

500+ DVD's now in stockTue 2.30pm - 5pm

Thu, Fri 9:15-12 & 2:30-5pmSat 9 - 12

05 55 78 19 24www.theexchangerochechouart.com

9 rue Dr Charles PoitevinSIRET 484 479 480 00010

[email protected] 55 41 17 76

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 201424 ♦ DIRECTORY

HandholdingServices

Sophie ArsacFrench lessons

& handholding services05.55.89.15.74 - pg 15

A HELPING HAND Translation/interpretation

Dealing with utilities/banksPermis de construire

Sourcing/supervising artisans1-2-1 conversation classes

05 55 62 50 38Jonathan Critchley

[email protected]: 792 285 025 00013

AMMARACall Alex, your English

nail technician now

Gel nails startingfrom €40 a set

Tel: 06 22 93 14 [email protected]

siret: en cours

Health & Beauty

Learning to meditateMeditation class in Limoges for beginners

and advanced participantsEach Tue at 7pm at 7-9, Rampe du Pont Neuf, in

the dojo of Ashtanga Yoga Limoges First session free of charge,

then 4 evenings at a total fee of €35.Working in small groups in a beautiful space.NEW- Class in St-Junien 2nd Sun of every month

www.ame-et-corps.com or call Katharina Maiss on:

06.66.24.85.49

OSTEOPATHY & [email protected]@eircom.net

05 87 41 07 93 - see pg 9

NEED HELP?Sworn Translations from English or

Dutch to French (birth certificates, etc.)Online translation service

Help and advice with moving to andliving in France (EDF, CPAM, RSI, Notaire)

I can accompany you if required

05 55 08 06 71 / 06 26 83 77 97www.pr-translation-services.com

HouseClearance

debarrasser87House Clearance Specialists

www.ferraille87.comsee main ad - pg 12

Please mentionThe Bugle when

responding to adverts

Insurance & Finance

SiddallsFinancial Solutions

& Expert Advice05.56.34.75.51

See our Display Ad - pg 15

HiFXInternational money transfer

www.hifx.co.uk

Pest Control

Central France Pest Control

Dératisation, Déinsectisation,Désinfection

02 48 60 83 72 / 06 74 33 02 38www.applicateur3d.com

Email: [email protected]

Curative and preventativerats, mice, moles, flies, woodworm,

bed bugs, fleas, wasps, hornets

La Petite Barre, 18210 Bessais Le FromentalSIRET No. 498 544 741 00024

PropertyMaintenance

Les Bons Voisinswww.LBVfrance.com

Help with all property related issuesSee main ad pg 10

Annet KarhofFrench lessons &

Language Services06 37 08 92 09 - see pg 3

LanguageServices

[email protected] 05.55.41.17.76

TONY FARRELLINDEPENDENT

FINANCIAL ADVISORThe Spectrum IFA Group

with over 20 years' experience advising expatriates throughout

Europe on all aspects of financial planning. Represented in Creuse

by Tony Farrell:

Tel: 05 55 89 57 94Mob: 06 15 28 54 82

Email: [email protected] Insurance Services S.A.R.L. Siège Social: 34 Bd des Italiens, 75009 PARIS"Société de Courtage d'assurances" R.C.S. Paris B 447 609 108 (2003B04384)

Numéro d'immatriculation 07 025 332 - www.orias.frSIRET No.: 500 064 183 00014

For more information on advertising in the

Bugle BusinessDirectory, give us

a call or send us an email:

[email protected]

05 55 41 17 76

For more information on advertising in the

Bugle BusinessDirectory, give us

a call or send us an email:

[email protected]

05 55 41 17 76

[email protected] 55 41 17 76

Would you like to receive your copy of The Bugle by post each month?

Email us for more details - [email protected] visit www.thebugle.eu

We can deliver a copy to your door, hot off the pressFrance, UK and Europe - €16 per year

EasyfrenchFREE FRENCH LESSONS

Training institution in partnership with the State.Lessons in either of our premises or at your home.

12 rue Thiers, 87300 Bellac ... or11 ave Cruveilhier, 87130 Châteauneuf-la-Forêt

06 75 56 99 06 – 05 87 77 90 [email protected]

www.easyfrench.fr

La Petite PlaceHair salon, Le Dorat05.55.60.87.37

See our Display Ad - pg 9

PropertySales

Cendrillon - BourganeufBilingual Estate Agent in Creuse

www.limousin-bilingual.com05 55 54 95 85 - see pg 8

Houses on Internetwww.housesoninternet.com

05.55.65.12.19See our Display Ad - pg 3

Leggett Immobilierwww.leggettfrance.com05 53 56 62 54

see main ad - pg 5

Retail &Commerce

Limousin SpasAlongside the amazing "Rotospa"

spa range, we are now able tosupply the "Durasport" &

"Strong Spas" ranges of quality spas.

All our spas are manufactured tothe highest standards & havefull manufacturers warranty.

These spas have relatively low powerrequirements & are very economical.

Prices start from €3,750.Models seat 2 to 7 people.

For more information on our rangecheck out our website:

www.limousin-spas.comor telephone: 05 55 63 26 20

Numéro Siret: 752 157 610 00011

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

25 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu DIRECTORY ♦

Please mentionThe Bugle when

responding to adverts

French LilyKitchens & Interiors

05 55 80 92 91 - see pg 10

Moulin de TintinFurniture, interiors & gifts

www.moulin-de-tintin.com05.55.79.57.60 - see pg 3

Eco EntrepotGet down The Shed

87230 Bussière-Poitevine05.55.68.74.73 - see pg 5

Soie et BoisDepot Vente des Vêtements

Dress agency and gallery, specialising in designer and high quality pre-owned clothes

for women and children, together with accessories, footwear, jewellery, gift items,

and hand made furniture.4 rue Principale, St Mathieu, 87440

Email: [email protected]: www.soiebois.net

Tel: 05.55 48.28.89SIRET: 510 995 681 00010

AlinéaMeuble & Déco05.55.57.09.34

see advert on pg 2

FABRICAEverhot stoves supplied

& installed across Francewww.fabricadesign.com - see pg 9

Stove Sellerswww.stovesellers.com

05.55.63.78.72See our Display Ad - pg 14

Transport,Removals & Storage

Man & VanTransport

Genuine/Reliable/HonestLocal + Europe + UK runs

Now also available for House/Barn clearances!

14m3 capacity4.2m load length

French Spoken

05 55 33 21 5987150 Oradour-sur-Vayres

www.frenchvanman.euSiret 530 213 644 00012

Van Rouge Affordable Moves Europewide 18m3 Van / 4.5m load length29m3 available on request

Full loads/ part loads/ single itemsRegular UK runs.Check website:

[email protected](+33) 07.61.21.85.15

Siret : 532 526 001 00013

Parking ForLimoges AirportEfficient parking for all types of vehicles

Book now!!www.parkinglimoges.com

06 13 38 59 6805 55 14 49 45

General

Cash paid for scrap

All Limousin coveredAnything considered

Any quantityTel: 05 55 37 45 35Mob: 06 74 21 47 71

siret 532 981 198 00015

Looking for help?Do you need help with

housekeeping, searching forcare for ill or older people,or do you want someone

to look after your pet?Please phone Margret Holste:

06 95 02 52 43

MAN + VANFiat Ducato with 11m² load

capacityCollections / DeliveriesRemovals / Brico Runs

All over France.Competitve hourly rate incl fuel.

Please ring or e-mail for a quote. Based nr Aubusson Dept 23

05 55 83 02 77 / 06 30 90 58 [email protected]

SIRET: 523 955 151 00015

Buggs Car HireBergerac & Limoges Airports

www.buggscarhire.comsee pg 7

BABY/INFANTEQUIPMENT

FOR HIRETo raise funds for the

SPA dog rescue centre in Guéret.High chair, buggy, travel

cot (plus mattress/bedding), changing mat, etc.

Each item will incur a hire charge of 10 euros, plus a refundable

10 euros deposit.For more INFO or to HIRE

Call Vanessa: 05 55 64 32 08or email: [email protected]

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

Youradverthere

05 55 41 17 76

Carrefour duBois Limousin

www.chauffagebois-limousin.com05 55 63 72 45 - see pg 13

Camion Removals Dedicated transport service -

part or full loadsUK - France - UK, or local removals.

 Maximum 46m3 capacity.Specialist horse / pet transport available.

We offer a professional, reliableand competitive service.

Tel: Carl 05 55 81 39 74or Colin 09 83 04 57 36

Email: [email protected]: 533 893 327 00015

Transition Removals(+33) 05 55 34 19 46

www.transitionremovals.comsee main ad - pg 8

ADVERTORIAL

A simple solar energy system that runs on its own, even when you are

not there! – And provides a free heat supplement in winter. The Solarventi air panel was invented more than 20 years ago by Hans Jørgen Chris-tensen, from Aidt Miljø, with the backing of the Danish government. He wanted to use the sun’s energy for airing and ventilation of the thousands of holiday homes on the West coast of Jutland, - houses that were left empty and unheated for long periods - houses with damp problems, mould and bad odours - houses that left their owners with discomfort, lots of work and expense. He wanted a system that would be safe, simple, without the need for radiators, water and/or mains electricity. Slowly but surely, the first Solarventi model came

together.

How it worksThe principle behind Solarventi is simple: a small, built-in, so-lar cell powers a 12V fan that is connected to an air vent, a con-trol unit and an on/ off switch. Whenever the sun shines, the air in the solar panel is heated and the fan, receiving power from the solar cell, introduces warm, dry air into your home at the rate of 20 to 100 cubic me-tres per hour. The initial models were more than capable of keeping the cot-tages dry (and ventilated), even with the limited sunshine hours available in Denmark during the winter season. Since that time, the technology has re-ally come along in leaps and bounds. Now, more than 20 years later, the 3rd and 4th gen-eration Solarventi have exceed-

ed all expectations. In Southern Europe, Solar-venti is not only used for ventila-tion/dehumidification purposes; with far more winter sunshine hours, it also provides a substan-tial heating supplement. Sev-eral technical and governmental studies show that incoming air temperature can be increased by as much as 40°C.

A DIY Solution?The installation process is very straightforward and should only take two or three hours. All that is needed is a drill, hammer and chisel to make a hole in the wall. Roof installations are also possible. In fact, the Solarventi was originally designed to be a DIY product - in Scandinavia it still is. There are no electrical or water connections and it can be safely left running, even when

the property is empty. Solar-venti requires no maintenance - if the property is unoccupied during the hot summer months, then it can be left running at low speeds for ventilation and dehu-midification purposes or simply switched off. With a range of panel sizes, and the option for wall or roof mounting, Solarventi is suit-able for all types of buildings, caravans or even boats!! Fol-lowing the patenting of its de-sign in 2001, Solarventi has only recently been actively commercialized. Over the last six years, Solarventi units have been installed in more than 24 countries and demand is in-creasing rapidly. From Green-land to Australia, Solarventi is finally getting the recognition it deserves. ■

Units start from €630 TTC

SOLARVENTI - Available in the LimousinFrom Harlequin DevelopmentsTel: 05 55 68 67 56Mobile: 06 06 60 46 97

“SolarVenti”- the solar solution to damp and humidity

[email protected] 55 41 17 76

[email protected] 55 41 17 76

To advertise inThe Bugle Business Directory

[email protected] - 05 55 41 17 76

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 201426 ♦ LANGUAGE & GAMES

SUDOKU - EASY SUDOKU - MEDIUM SUDOKU - HARD

The solutions to this month’s sudokus can be found on page 29

CrosswordClues and answers (page 29) in English

Across:1. Gem (5)4. Shade of yellow tinged with orange (7)8. Symetrically arranged (7)9. Pouch (3)10. Two-wheeled vehicle (7)11. Publish (5)12. Patisserie (6)14. Syntactic category (6)17. Wanderer (5)19. Stone pillar (7)22. Mesh (3)23. Floorshow (7)24. Stayed clear from (7)25. Groups of cattle (5)

Down:1. Jests (5)2. Male witch or demon (7)3. Source of illumination (5)4. Remuneration (6)5. Surreptitious (7)6. Hazards (5)7. Type of power (7)12. Very rich vein of precious ore (7)13. Made smaller (7)15. Vagrant (7)16. Prohibit (6)18. Slogan (5)20. Planet (5)21. Praise (5)

Would you like to receive your copy of The Bugle by post each month?

Email us for more details - [email protected] visit www.thebugle.eu

We can deliver a copy to your door, hot off the pressFrance, UK and Europe - €16 per year

Festive Bilingual WordsearchTry to find the Christmas-themed French words in the letter grid below. Some clues are in English, but those without obvious translations have been left in French in italics.

Festival of LightsFête des Roisfèvegalette des Roisgamemangermidnight MassmistletoeNew Year’s day

applescandleChristmasChristmas carolChristmas EveChristmas treeenfant soleilEpiphanyFather Christmas

A group of chess enthusiasts checked into a hotel, and were standing in the lobby discussing their recent tournament victories. After a while, the manager came out of the office and asked them to disperse. “But why?” they asked, as they moved off.

“Because if there’s one thing I can’t stand,” he said, “it’s chess nuts boasting in an open foyer.”

Festive Joke!!

27 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu COMMUNITY ♦

Très JolieFashion Accessories

Where to find me this month: Every Wednesday - Piegut Market

Items arriving daily, please see myfacebook page 'Tres Jolie Milhaguet' to see what's new.

Mail order available, email for more details.Most items now stocked at the 'Coeur et Etoile', St-Mathieu

05 55 78 62 29 / 06 04 08 29 [email protected]

Wanted, experienced shopfittersExperienced shopfitters required for installs all across France. Joiners, electricians and

labourers also required.Email: [email protected]

BugleNoticeBoard

Pianist/ vocalist available forevents/ gigs/ private parties etc...

New Orleans old time jazz n blues n boogie...Call: 07.61.21.85.15

Limousin Dog TrainingWe have new puppy training

and beginners classes starting atLes Grands-Chézeaux & St-Barbant

For more information, please contact Elaine on:05 55 68 67 56 or 06 04 47 35 19

RESTAURANTAUX CEPES

La VeytizouOn the main road (D979), Between Limoges & Eymoutiers

~~~~~~~~~COME AND SEE OUR NEW LOOK RESTAURANT

+++++++++++SAT 13TH DEC - OPEN MIC NIGHT

+++++++++++SUN 14TH DEC - CRAFT FAIR

10H-16H - PHONE TO BOOK A TABLE+++++++++++

THU 18TH DEC - QUIZ & CURRY NIGHT+++++++++++

PHONE NOW TO BOOK FOR NEW YEARS EVE. LARGE BUFFET (HOME MADE OF COURSE). BRING

IN THE NEW YEAR WITH JOHN & SHIRLEY MARTIN FOR YOUR MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT

~~~~~~~~~For more information & reservations

call Sue on 05 55 69 33 38

Bill and Alma from“Ring Bill”

and“Atelier d'Art du Jardin”

wish all our customers avery Happy Christmas

and a prosperous New Year.

Carraciola SardoItalian restaurant in St-Etienne-de-Fursac

We will be closing for winteron 1st December

& re-opening on 25th March 2015Thank you to all our customers in 2014.

Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to you all! See you in 2015.

Steve and Elenawww.carraciola.com

Tel: 05 55 63 86 05

SingersTwo tenors and an alto required for a

new small group based in the Confolens area. Classical repertoire.

Intending singers should be goodreaders of music, competent andconfident. No beginners, please.

For further details, please make contact via email: [email protected]

or [email protected]

Petticoat Lane** Christmas Stock now available **

We will be at Panazol market on Sun 14th DecChristmas Markets:Civray - 2nd Dec

Aigre - 6th & 7th Dec(please note, the shop will be closed all day on the 6th)

On 24th December we will close at 4pmOver Christmas & New Year we will be closed on the

following days:- 25/26/27 Dec & 1/2/3 Jan

We would like to wish all out customers old & new a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

http://www.petticoatlaneshop.com/5 Rue Nationale – 16150 Chabanais

Tel: 05 45 29 03 99

Hacks/Trail ridesNE Creuse area (23140).

Must be experienced in 3 gaits.FFE licence recommended.

To find out more contact Karen on:

05 55 80 83 30or email: [email protected]

Le Moulin du BreuilRestaurant, Bar, Terrasse23140 PIONNAT

Sat 13th Dec, 7pm - Christmas QuizCome and enjoy a pre festive evening in thecompany of friends at Le Moulin du Breuil.

Quiz entry and meal still only €10. Max 6 per team.Only a few tables left -

don't leave it too late. Book now!!The restaurant is now closed until the Spring but

the bar will be open at weekends - bring on the Mulled Wine and Mince Pies!!

Join us on facebook: www.facebook.com/lemoulindubreuil and follow us on twitter: @lmdb_pionnat

Tel: 05 55 80 37 70Mail: [email protected]: www.lemoulindubreuil.com

Mon Chic CottageLE DORAT (Pl. Charles de Gaulle)

Home Decor & GiftsTea, coffee & home-made scones / cakes

Please note, Official Stockist & Workshop for

Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan& Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic

Decorative Paint WorkshopsTo learn the basis of using Chalk Paint™ &

ask questions, join us on a workshop.All materials included. To book contact Jay.

Please note closure for holidaysfrom 10th Jan until 10th Feb

& winter hours from Jan as follows:Tue/Thu/Fri 10h00-17h00.

Workshops on Mon by appointment only.

05 87 77 95 [email protected] www.monchiccottage.com

JJ’s Café BarAigurandeMusic Club

DATE CHANGE FOR THEDEC MUSIC CLUB - 20th DECEMBER

This is a very special Christmas Fund RaisingMusic Club/Variety Show in aid of raising money for food,

clothes, medicine and seeds for the orphans in TOGO.(In Association with NOUKOU - a registered charity -

please go to their site for more info)Its going to be a great evening so come along & have fun -

eat! drink! be merry! and help those kids in Togo tooin the true spirit of Christmas!!!!

Chicken in white wine sauce or Chilli con carne - €8(by reservation before Fri 19th Dec if poss)

Sat 6th December - All day from 10h30We are looking for all participants who would be willing to run

a stall selling goods, clothes, cakes, gifts, etc., with allproceeds to go to the orphans in Togo for our mini

Christmas Fair chez JJ's, (in association with VSO/Seed Bank France). Why not come along and buy something!

Please contact Jacky (details below) to book your place. A huge thank you in advance from Jacky, Jon and the orphans in Togo - who really need your help to buy food, medicine and to

set up the school.

JJ's Cafe Bar, 39 Place du Champ de Foire, 36140 Aigurande

Tel: 02 54 06 30 77www.frenchweb.eu/jjscafebar/

Email: [email protected]

Caring CatteryI wish all customers and readers a very

Merry Christmas,fun, laughter and good Health for 2015

Barbara - 05 55 03 76 87

Cartes de ChristineHand-crafted cards for all occasions

Christine and Mikewish all our customers a

Merry Christmas & Happy New Yearand look forward to seeing you all again in 2015Contact me by e-mail to see which markets

I'm at in December:[email protected]

Petticoat LaneIt has come to our attention that on AngloInfo

there is an English grocery shop for sale and they have put that it is in Chabanais. Please note this is an error - it is not us and we are not closing down!

http://www.petticoatlaneshop.com/5 Rue Nationale – 16150 Chabanais

Tel: 05 45 29 03 99

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 201428 ♦ COMMUNITY

THE CREUSE PROTESTANT GROUP The small community of the Protestant Reformed Church of France in Creuse have no fixed abode. We meet monthly at the homes of members to worship. Anyone is welcome. The Creuse group is an offshoot of the Parish of Indre and Creuse with the main temple being at Châteauroux (which is rather a long way to go). Unfortunately the priest who used to come to the Creuse monthly retired in June 2013 and has not been replaced. In spite of these problems the group carries on. There aren’t many French protestants in Creuse. Their main stronghold was in the Cevennes but during the reign of Louis XIV there was an active population in Aubusson, mainly among the tapestry manufacturers, but they fled before the persecutions began and their temple was destroyed. The monthly service alternates between different member’s houses with one person being in charge of the liturgy while another prepares thoughts on the biblical text of the day. This started with a small group of 3 in October 2013 but we are now around 10 with French, Dutch and English participants of varying ages and activities. After each service a drink and sometimes a meal is served, discussions take place, addresses are exchanged along with e.g. plant cuttings and nibbles. All we need is a table and chairs and the joy of worshipping together to constitute each service.

YOU ARE ALL WELCOME

For further information please contact Maurice Bunel (French) [email protected] 06 95 20 16 30 OR Sylvia Sales (English) [email protected] tel 05 55 62 49 86.

CLUBS, CHARITIES & ASSOCIATIONS

Church Notices

Monthly Worship in EnglishIf your journey of life has brought you here to France, why neglect your journey of faith? We look forward to giving a warm welcome to everyone from whatever Christian tradition (or none) on the 3rd SUNDAY of the MONTH at 3pm. Where? At the Temple in Thiat (in the north of the Haute-Vienne) – we are part of the Parish of the Basse-Marche of the Eglise Protestante Unie de France. The Temple is on the main road close to the Mairie. After worship there is tea/coffee and cake – and a chance to chat.If you want to know more contact Rev Derek Lawson on 05 55 68 53 03 or Rev Stephen Sawyer on 05 49 84 33 86.English-speaking church services GuéretCome as you are... This is an invitation to join us at our CHURCH SERVICE IN ENGLISH. Whether you have a faith or would just like to attend a church service you are welcome at 3pm on the 2nd Sunday of each month at the Eglise Evangélique, 9b Place Bonnyaud, Guéret, 23000.We welcome all who want to join a group of English-speaking Christians for a time of worship and learning together. Children are very welcome. For more details contact Jim & Pat Scott on 05 55 67 54 78 / email [email protected] or Ian & Becky Jefferies on 05 55 61 10 23 / email [email protected] together in Limousin La Souterraine Area We hold a time of fellowship and Bible study every Tuesday afternoon. Barbara and Cedric look forward to welcoming you. Tel: 05 55 71 09 04The International Free Church in CreuseThe church presently meets at 10, La Chaudronnière, a small hamlet mid-way between Crozant and Eguzon. Sunday worship meetings are held on the first and third Sundays of the month at 10.30am. Fellowship meetings, for mid-week prayer, bible study and discussion are at the same venue every Thursday at

7.30pm. For further information contact Eric Sutton tel 05 55 89 26 62

Fitness & FunPENSOL Indoor Carpet Bowls We meet on Wednesdays at 2.30pm-5.00pm. Come along for a fun afternoon, a warm welcome in a warm hall, refreshments and equipment provided. Ladies and Gents welcome. The venue is the salle polyvalente at PENSOL - 87440 on the D67 between Marval and Dournazac, clearly indicated from the village, or from Piégut-Pluviers take the D91. Come and have a free trial, with our slightly smaller Bowls and 33` carpet. NO heavy lifting. Established club and club Leader. Registered and insured. Please phone Hilary for any enquiries on 09 72 23 13 20 or [email protected] Chi, Pakua & QigongTai Chi, Pakua & Qigong classes organised by the ACAMIES (association culturelle d'arts martiaux internes et d'exercices de santé). Wed: Jarnages, 18h30-20h, Salle Polyvalente. Thu: Bétête, 19h-20h30, Domaine de Tournessac. OPEN DAY Sun 6th Oct at the salle de la mairie, Jarnages from 9h-12h.Individual classes, courses, massage & treatments also available. Contact: 06 48 00 02 07http://acamies.e-monsite.comKeep FitAmazing abs, breathtaking buttocks! Come and join our group at the CAPE in Pontarion. We are all ages, all sizes, men & women, but are serious about keeping fit.Our “monitrice” is English and will happily provide bilingual instructions. We meet every Thursday at 8p.m. in Pontarion Town Hall, for a one-hour workout.Come for a free trial, or call 05 55 64 98 87 or 06 32 42 95 68 for more details.Indoor Bowling at Oradour-sur-VayresIf you already play or have never tried indoor bowling then come along to a meeting. It's great fun and easy to play. If you have never played it before we will show you how. We meet every Monday evening starting at 18.30 hrs at La Chapelle, avenue des Chapelles, 87150 Oradour-sur-Vayres. Come and try it - it's free. If you require further information or directions to our venue please contact me - Email: [email protected] or telephone: 05 55 08 41 75Zumba! Regular zumba classes across depts 36, 18 & northern 23. For more info tel 06 58 37 17 04 - email [email protected] and for details of classes visit www.

zumbazumba.frIndoor Short-mat Bowling at Cussac 87150....and now Outdoor too!As the premier bowls club in the Haute-Vienne, we are going from strength to strength with members seeking us out and travelling great distances to continue their love of bowls or simply to 'try us out'. Our reputation as a "very friendly and welcoming club" goes before us. If you've never tried the game, just come along and take a look; there is far more to it than first appears!We are a formally registered association within the French system and benefit from assistance from our local commune by use of a wonderful indoor venue. AND NOW...the use of a synthetic outdoor court where Flat-green, Crown and Short-mat can be played. Just imagine the summer evenings with a drink in your hand, watching fellow bowlers enjoying the quiet of village, interrupted only by the 'click' or 'tunk' of bowl against bowl!Our regular sessions indoors are Wednesday evening at 8pm and Thursday Mornings at 10am. Outdoor sessions will be arranged as the spring arrives so keep in touch. Serious bowlers and beginners are welcome - club bowls are available for use.For further information contact [email protected] or telephone 05 55 50 40 89.Association Equilibre, le mouvement du corpsYoga for all levels: Tue 18:30 Aubusson, Pied au plancher (Espace Philips); Wed 18:30 Vallière, salle polyvalante. Pregnancy/Post Natal: Tue 17:00 Aubusson, Pied au Plancher (Espace Philips) For further information tel 06 83 24 62 72 or visit www.spaequilibre.yolasite.comChinese Gym & KarateMondays & Thursdays 19h30-21h at the DOJO, Allée Jean-Marie Couturier, Aubusson. Warm and friendly atmosphere. For more info tel 06 08 92 30 53Tai Chi at Boussac and La ChâtreTai Chi classes in Boussac (Tue 18.15 - 19.45) and La Châtre (Thu 18.15 - 19.45). The first two lessons are free, the subscriptions are 36 euros per month and members can go to both venues having paid this fee. The style is that of Yang. All ages and abilities welcome, but folk must bear in mind that they will be on their feet, doing the equivalent of what one might classify as light exercise, for about an hour and a half. For more information contact 05 55 65 08 20.Gym Bien-êtreWould you like to be more supple? Come to our gym class on Thursday mornings from 10.30am to 11.30am, where we do gentle exercises to help all our muscles and joints. The classes are held in Rochechouart in the Capitole building, upstairs. Our group is part of a National Federation of Gymnastics. For information contact Pauline at [email protected] to Meditate Learn to meditate and meet other like-minded people. Simple mindfulness technique. Dechen Choling, Le Mas Marvent, St-Yrieix-sous-Aixe, 87700. Also, ongoing regular group meetings and events. Contact tel Christina 05 55 03 82 01 www.dechencholing.org

GardeningLes petits jardiniers du Limousinhttp://jardiniers-du-limousin.webs.com Do you love gardening or are you keen to learn more about it? Then why not come along and join Les Petits Jardiniers? We’re a friendly group of English, French and Dutch residents and normally meet on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 2.30pm in the salle de fêtes in St-Amand-le-Petit, between Peyrat-le-Château and Eymoutiers. Our meetings are held mostly in English and

we have guest speakers, organise garden visits and swap plants and seeds. Annual membership is 15 euros pp or 20 euros per couple or pay as you go for 3 euros per meeting. For more information or to be put on our mailing list for our quarterly newsletter or monthly agenda contact Carolyn at [email protected] or Gill at [email protected] Agenda for 2014: Dec Gardeners' Question Time and Christmas party..Club Liseron – Gardening ClubMeets on the 2nd Mon evening of the month at 19.30 at the Salle des Fêtes in Massignac. We're a mixed bunch of English & French, who are united by a passion for gardens and gardening, sharing plants, seeds and information. More info from Sally on 05 45 21 30 20 or Craig on 05 45 89 33 50 or [email protected]** The Club has a new president, Véronique Granet, a very dynamic and enthusiastic person. **Aux Plantes, etc.We are an association of independent, ethically-minded and passionate plant producers. Our aim is to encourage consumers to know more about the plants they buy, how they were produced and their needs, thereby avoiding the disappointments that so often come with mass produced plants. It’s not just about us selling you plants - we want them to thrive and do well for you!Current members include plantspeople specialising in unusual shrubs & trees, butterfly plants, heritage vegetables and flowers, irises, perennials and drought-tolerant plants.For more info contact Michelle Pierce 05 45 89 36 54 or visit:www.auxplantesetc.jimdo.comLes Jardins de SiriusBased in Pressignac, Charente, we are a small association of people who are keen on gardening. As well as finding plants an endless source of interest, we believe that the simple fact of gardening has numerous positive benefits for health, stress, social interaction - in other words, our daily lives - and we’d like to encourage this aspect. We run flower workshops on the first Saturday afternoon of the month. If you’d like to get involved, have more info on the association or become a member, please contact Michelle Pierce on 05 45 89 36 54 or at [email protected]

IntegrationInternational Apero ReseauWe meet each Saturday from 11.30am-1pm at Baileys Bar/Restaurant, 5 Rue de L'Abreuvoir, Aubusson.These meetings offer the opportunity to: exchange views - make new friends - share experiences - have fun together - help and advise one another - help intergrate newcomers. Discussions in English (all nationalities welcome).For more information please contact Catherine 06 86 17 80 88 or Liz 05 55 66 22 92.Learning Together – Apprenons EnsembleOur main aim is to foster understanding and good relations amongst the local French-speaking and English-speaking populations. To this end we are offering courses of tuition in English and in French, and organising social and cultural events and visits. LANGUAGE CLASSES (take place at the Maison des Associations, Rochechouart) Beginners and Intermediate - Mon am; French/English Conversation – Tues am; Advanced and Children’s – Wed am; Conversation (St-Junien) - Thur. SOCIAL EVENTS Games Night (Rochechouart) 1st Thur; Games Night (St-Junien) 2nd Thur; Lunch Club – Last Thur. FORTHCOMING EVENTS - More details in Association Newsletter. For more details visit www.learningtogether.me or contact Sue

Ratcliffe 05 45 31 50 86The Melting PotMembers of the Ambassador's Club of the Welcome en Limousin Association. We are a group of around 70 members, both French and British, who meet with the aim of sharing things and trying to integrate with the French community. We meet every week at the Ancienne Ecole in Darnac, on a Wednesday morning from 10am - 12noon, except for the first Wednesday, when we meet in the evening at 8pm. We hold information meetings, plant swaps, BBQ's, games nights, visits and have guest speakers about topics relevant to living in France. Contact: www.meltingpot-limousin.comCharente Limousine ExchangeThe Charente-Limousine-Exchange (CLE), founded in 2003, aims to improve the provision of French language courses and to share experiences and skills among members who live in Charente, Vienne and Haute-Vienne. CLE provides information to members living and/or working in France and works with local communities and organisations to tackle practical issues through forums and workshops, as well as organising a wide range of cultural and social events throughout the year. The recent launch of English lessons has been well attended by Confolentais. If you would like to know more about this group of volunteers, please look on our new website www.charente-limousine-exchange.com or contact the Chairman, Barry Leech, on 06 35 96 77 46.

Libraries & BooksSale of Second-hand Books, La Croisille-sur-BrianceOn the 18th of every month, during the monthly market at La Croisille-sur-Briance (87130), there is a sale of second-hand books (both English and French) from 9am to 12 noon, at the old garage in La Place - next door to the pharmacy. All proceeds towards the restoration of the church.La Souterraine English Library and Information CentreLocated in the historic Porte de Puy Charraud, at 10 rue de Portail, La Souterraine, we are a lively, well-stocked English language library with almost 10,000 books and media available to borrow. We have an attractive cafe which serves tea, coffee and a range of home-made cakes. There is also a regularly changing display of works by local artists and an interesting brocante area on the ground floor.The Library offers classes in French for English speakers with a professional teacher and also organises Anglo-French conversation groups in association with the Municipal Library in La Souterraine. There are also a number of thriving special interest groups, such as the Gardening Group, Camera Club, Friendship Group, etc.We also provide support & assistance in bureaucratic and administrative matters for both existing British residents as well as newcomers to the area. Whatever your interests don’t hesitate to pay us a visit and you will be made most welcome.We are open from 09.30 until 12.30, Mon, Thu, Fri & Sat. For more info tel 05 55 89 57 62 during opening hours or visit www.englishlibrary.frThe English Library, Dun-le-PalestelThe English Library, which has now been established for over 5 yrs, is situated in the Route des Rateries, beside the Bibliothèque Municipale, Parc Benjamin Bord. The library is a very welcoming meeting place, where you can come and enjoy a cup of tea, or coffee, whilst you browse through our collection of around 7,500 books, DVDs and talking books. Our opening hours are Thursdays, 10h00 – 16h00 and Saturdays 10h00 – 12h30. Also, on the first Tuesday of every month, 10h00 – 12h00, you are invited to join

French/EnglishChristmas Carol Service

Sunday 21st December, St Sauveur Church,Rochechouart at 6pm

Followed by Christmas refreshments and wine in Le Capitole, Rochechouart. Any contributions to the

food will be gratefully accepted.This is a wonderful family celebration as part of the

Christmas Season.

Managing Editor: Steve MartindaleEditor-in-Chief: Steve MartindaleRegistered Address: Les Quatre Chemins 23150 St-Yrieix-les-BoisSIRET: 514 989 748 00017Printed by: Charente Libre 16340, L’Isle d’EspagnacMonthly circulation: 13,000 copiesAll copyright, unless stated otherwise, is re-served to The Bugle. Reproduction in whole or part of any text without permission is prohibited.Dépôt légal à parution.

Directeur: Steve MartindaleRédacteur-en-chef: Steve MartindaleSiège: Les Quatre Chemins 23150 St-Yrieix-les-BoisSIRET: 514 989 748 00017Imprimé par: Charente Libre 16340, L’Isle d’EspagnacTirage mensuel: 13,000 copiesTous droits réservés. Toute reproduction, to-tale ou partielle, des articles et illustrations du présent numéro est strictement interdite.Dépôt légal à parution.

The Bugle cannot accept responsibility for the claims of advertisers or their professionalism. We strongly advise readers to verify that the company you are dealing with is a registered trading company in France or elsewhere in the world.

29 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu COMMUNITY ♦

SOS Romeo

2½ old month kitten, recently abandoned, living out in the woods. He/she is very sociable, purrs

when in contact with people, loves petting.

Romeo urgently needs to be adoptedbefore the snow arrives!

CALL 07.85.78.42.31 (English/French)

EMAIL [email protected]

We could bring the kitten to your home.

us for our Club Franglais, which welcomes people from all nationalities, to chat in French, English or any language you wish(!) whilst enjoying a cup of tea, and a piece of home-made cake. We host a range of other activities too, including the Café Philo, and Club Scrabble, More information can be found on the Entente Cordiale website at www.ententecordiale-creuse.org or email us at [email protected]

MusicOpen Mic NightIf you like music and have ever fancied getting up and having a go, why not come along to our Open Mic Night at “Le Loch Ness” in La Souterraine town centre every Friday around 8.30pm.L'Orchestre Philharmonique de La SouterraineIf you or one of your family are interested in playing in an orchestra and think your standard might be adequate do get in contact with us. We meet weekly on Friday evenings in La Souterraine (apart from the summer holidays) to rehearse. Most of our concerts are around Xmas or May-July. Our members come from all over Limousin so lifts to and fro may be possible if necessary. Contacts: French language Marie-France Martinie 05 55 30 76 23 / English language Alan Kerr 05 55 56 34 52The HarmonicsThis is our 6th season of singing as a group. Our music is varied classical, madrigals, spiritual, songs from the shows etc and we sing in French, English, Swahili, Latin - whatever the music demands. Our concerts are in support of a variety of charities including the British Legion, L'Oregon at Civray and Retina and thus non profit making. We meet Wed 14h – 16h in the Salle d'Annexe behind the Mairie in Civray. Interested? We'd love to see you so contact: David Lee tel 05 49 87 53 93 email [email protected] or Dolly Ait Boualou email [email protected]

SupportAlcoholics AnonymousIf you or someone you know has a drinking problem, there are now English-speaking meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous at Limoges, Périgueux and the recently opened meeting at Civray.Alcoholics Anonymous is a Fellowship of

men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for A.A. membership and A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety. For details of the meetings or other information contact Roger 05 55 76 22 65 (Limoges), Ewen 05 53 05 76 62 (Périgueux) or Angela 05 49 87 79 09 (Civray).Other meetings in South-West France can be located on our web-site at aafrancesud-ouest.comEnglish-speaking council surgery...for residents of the commune of St-Léger-Magnazeix. Every 2nd Weds in the month, an English-speaking council surgery with councillors Manuela Stroescu and Patrick Johnson will take place at the Mairie between 11am and 12pm.Cancer Support France, Charente PlusOffers free and confidential support to English speakers affected by cancer in departments 16, 17 & 86. Our helpline number is 06 45 35 32 30. If you need any more information, please get in touch via [email protected] Support France, Haute-Vienne (supporting Creuse, too)

We offer free and confidential support to English speakers affected by Cancer in the Haute-Vienne (87) and Creuse (23). Our helpline number is 06 04 43 39 87. If you would like more information or would like to become a member or help in any other way, please contact Sue Ware 05 55 00 31 15, [email protected]

Elizabeth Finn CareRegistered charity Elizabeth Finn Care is able to offer direct financial assistance to British and Irish nationals or residents who live overseas. We ensure that our help does not affect any means-tested payments.For more information contact: Mary Hughes - Case worker France, Elizabeth Finn Care - tel 04 68 23 43 79 or visit www.elizabethfinncare.org.uk and www.turn2us.org.ukL’Association France Alzheimer DordogneCharitable organisation offering English-speaking support and guidance to anyone dealing with the day-to-day difficulties affecting those with dementia, their families and their carers and assistance with how to access the best provisions of care.English Helpline (available on Tuesday mornings between 10am and midday): 09 64 21 40 86.For more information email [email protected] or visit www.francealzheimer-dordogne.org

EASY MEDIUM HARD

WEEKLY MARKETS MONTHLY FOIRESMONDAY

Evaux-les-BainsTUESDAY

AuzancesBénévant-l’AbbayeBussière-PoitevineChampagnac-la-RivièreGenouillacGouzonLaurièreLimoges (Le Vigenal)Peyrat-le-ChâteauRochechouartRoyère-de-VassivièreSaint-Sulpice-les-FeuillesWEDNESDAY

AhunBourganeufChambon-sur-VoueizeCognac-la-ForêtClugnatLe DoratIsleLimoges (pont St Martial)NantiatSéreilhac

THURSDAYBoussacCoussac-BonnevalDun-le-PalestelGuéretLimoges Bastide et

CorgnacMagnac-Laval Oradour-sur-Vayres (except 3rd Thu)Peyrat-le-ChâteauSaint-Sulpice-les-ChampsSaint-VicturnienLa Souterraine

FRIDAYAigurandeAixe-sur-VienneAmbazacBessines-sur-GartempeBosmie l’Aiguille (16h - 19h30)BujaleufChâlus (except 2nd Fri)ChâteauponsacChâtelus-MalvaleixCouzeix (16h30 - 19h30)Le Dorat FelletinLimoges (place des Bancs et Beaubreuil)NexonPierre-BuffièreRochechouartSt-Etienne-de-FursacSaint-Sulpice-LaurièreVerneuil-sur-Vienne(15h-18h30)

SATURDAYAixe-sur-Vienne

AubussonBellacBonnatBussière-PoitevineChâteauponsacCondat-sur-VienneEymoutiersFeytiatFlavignacGuéretLa ChâtreLa Jonchère-St-MauriceLa SouterraineLimoges (place des Bancs et place Marceau)Le Palais-sur-VienneMainsat (4th Sat only)NantiatPeyrat-le-ChâteauRochechouartSaint-JunienSt-Léonard-de-NoblatSaint-MathieuSaint-Yrieix-la-Perche

SUNDAYBessines-sur-GartempeBlondCrocq (1st and 3rd Sun)PanazolPeyrat-le-ChâteauSaint-PaulSt-Sulpice-le-Guéretois (3rd Sun)Saint-Vaury (2nd Sun)Veyrac (2nd Sun)

BY DATEAixe-sur-Vienne: 1st FriAmbazac: 1st WedAuzances: 2nd TueBourganeuf: 1st & 3rd WedBoussac: 1st & 3rd ThuBujaleuf: Last MonaChâlus: 2nd ThuChâteauneuf-la-Forêt: 2nd SunCognac-la-Forêt: 1st TueCussac: 4th SunDomps: 2nd TueDun-le-Palestel: 1st ThuEvaux-les-Bains: 1st MonEymoutiers: 1st & 3rd ThuFeytiat: 1st SatLa Souterraine 2nd & 4th SatMagnac-Bourg: 2nd SatMeuzac: 4th MonMézières-sur-Issoire: 2nd & 4th MonNexon: 3rd FriOradour-sur-Vayres: 3rd ThuPeyrat-le-Château: 3rd MonPeyrilhac: 3rd SunPierre-Buffière: 1st FriRoyère-de-Vassivière: 2nd TueSaint-Germain-les-Belles: last SatSaint-Jouvent: 1st SunSaint-Junien: 3rd SatSaint-Léonard-de-Noblat: 1st MonSaint-Yrieix-la-Perche: 2nd & 4th FriSauviat-sur-Vige: 2nd MonVeyrac: 2nd Sun

BY DAY1: (prev day if public holiday): Bellac3: Bellegarde-en-Marche3: Châteauponsac5: Bussière-Poitevine5: Chénérailles6: Bussière-Boffy8: Compreignac9: Saint-Sulpice-Laurière11 (Sat if 11 is a Sun): Bessines-sur-Gartempe 13 (Sat if 13 is a Sun): Le Dorat15: Oradour-sur-Glane17: Mortemart18: La Croisille-sur-Briance; La Jonchère-Saint-Maurice20: Chénérailles21: Ambazac; Saint-Sulpice-les-Feuilles22 (Mon if 22 is a Sun): Magnac-Laval23: Razès; St Laurent sur Gorre24: Nantiat25: Blond - St Paul26: Nouic; Rochechouart28: Cieux29: Laurière

All Markets & Foires are in the morning unless stated otherwise. If your local mar-ket is not listed, please let us know - [email protected]

We rely on you to help us keep these pages up to

date, so please do inform us of any changes

to clubs and associations that you run or are

members of.

Many thanks!!

On behalf of Cancer Support FranceHaute-Vienne I would like to say a huge thank

you to everyone who has supported us through membership, event attendance,

event organising and their generosity in time and money throughout 2014.

We are very grateful to you all.

We are hoping to increase both membership and awareness throughout 2015. If you would like to

join us please do not hesitate to contact us on the helpline 06 04 43 39 87

or email [email protected].

Wishing you all a very happy Christmas andpeaceful New Year.

Sue WarePresident, CSF Haute-Vienne

SOS AnkoAnko was found wandering beside a road... He was in a terrible state, had hardly any fur and was just

skin and bones. At the vet and at the SPA the 9-year-old Rottweiler was pampered for quite a while, so now he has regained some weight. We

urgently seek a home or a foster home for Anko. He is blind, so he needs people who can give him a

stable home. As he cannot see his dog buddies, he is a calm friend, but we would prefer to place him in

a home without other dogs, for the same reason - he cannot “read” their visible signs. For walks, he is easy, it is more us who need some training

to see for a blind dog. Anko is an adorable buddy and after his terrible past we would really love to find a loving home for him.

Any questions, contact either the SPA Limoges on 05.55.48.06.75 or Katharina (volunteer) for information in English on 06.66.24.95.49.

Thank you!

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 201430 ♦ WHAT’S ONGymnase municipal. Fri 9h-20h; Sat 10h-18h.

Fri 19th to Wed 24th Dec LA CHATRE Christmas Market Place du Palais de Justice.

Fri 19th to Tue 23rd Dec SOUS-PARSAT La Maison du Pere Noel As night falls in an enchanted setting meet Father Christmas with his sleigh and visit his house (17h45-19h). Arrive early for easy parking as this is always very popular.

Sat 20th Dec AUZANCES Christmas Market

Sat 20th Dec BELLAC Christmas Market In the streets of Bellac from 16h-22h.

Sat 20th Dec BOUSSAC Christmas Market

Sat 20th Dec CLUGNAT Christmas Market Late afternoon & evening. In the town centre or the Mille Club depending on the weather.

Sat 20th Dec EYMOUTIERS Christmas Market All day.

Sat 20th Dec FLAVIGNAC Christmas Market 9h-12h.

Sun 21st Dec CHATEAUPONSAC Christmas Market All day. Place Ducoux.

Sun 21st Dec MAGNAC-LAVAL Christmas Market

Tue 23rd Dec AUBUSSON Christmas Market Parvis de l'hotel de ville, salle de le bourse du travail, Grande Rue & Rue Vieille from 10h-19h.

Tue 23rd DecLA SOUTERRAINE Christmas Market 12th Christmas market with over 180 exhibitors, the perfect opportunity to find those last-minute Christmas gifts.

Tue 23rd Dec SAINT-LEONARD-DE-NOBLAT Christmas Market Town centre & Halle Marchande from 16h.

Sun 28th Dec LIMOGES The Saints Innocents Traditional Fair This four-century-old traditional fair was created in 1566 by a royal edict of Charles IX. Nowadays, street peddlers still gather in the city's main streets for the great popular market of the winter season. 8h-19h.

Signed copies of Mike Welham's new book THOMAS - A First World War Story of Compassion and Courage

that Crosses the Class Divide a prequel to Death of a Scientist and WTC Building 7 will be available at the following:

Mon Chic Cottage, pl. Charles De Gaulle, Le DoratWednesday 10 December, 10am-13pm. Free Christmas gift

wrapping.

The English Library ‘At Home event’ at La SouterraineSaturday 13 December, 2-4pm. Free Christmas gift wrapping.

For more information see www.welhambooks.com

CHRISTMAS - Why do we celebrate? It's not long till Christmas. How are your preparations coming along? Have you bought presents yet? Have you invited those you want to join you in the celebrations? Have you planned your menu and started buying all that special food? Are these the things that make up your Christmas or are you missing something?

So why do we celebrate? The answer is found in the title. Christ! We are remembering the coming to earth, over 2,000 years ago, of Christ, Emmanuel, God with us. That may seem strange to still be remember-ing something that happened so long ago but it is still relevant to us today. Why not come along and find out why?

At the Service in English we will be holding our annual Christmas Carol Concert on Sunday 21st December at 6:30pm (see right). We will sing carols, hear the Christmas story and eat mince pies.

This special service is an addition to our usual monthly Service in English, held at the Evangelical Church, 9b Place Bonnyaud, Guéret (see our listing on the Community pages for more information). All are welcome, whether you have a faith or simply want to share in Christian fellowship. We are delighted to welcome children and young people who have their own time together. ■

CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT

Carols by candlelightSunday 21st December 2014

at The Evangelical Church9b Place Bonnyaud, Guéret

at 6:30 pm

You are warmly invited to celebrate Christmas witha concert of carols and readings. This will be followed byrefreshments of tea, coffee, soft drinks and mince pies.

Further details are available from:

Jim and Pat Scott:e-mail [email protected] - tel 05 55 67 54 78

Ian and Becky Jefferies:e-mail [email protected] - tel 05 55 61 10 23

Richard Gunston:e-mail [email protected] - tel 05 55 41 18 27

Letters toThe Editor

Can you help me find this château?

My name is C a t h e r i n e W y l l i e and I hail

from Western Australia, although I am originally from Scotland and currently in Europe for an extended period. I have a very dear friend in Sydney who is 93 years old and in

failing health (she has recently undergone a hip operation). I'd like to find the Château that belonged to her maternal grandparents. She last visited it in the 1950s and would like to know if it is still standing or what has happened to it. If possible, I would like

to get a photograph for her (which I would take if the property could be located). I know that the Château was in the Creuse department and that her grandparents are buried in Aubusson. Their names were Victor and Philomena ANTOINE. Their children's names were Jane, Gaston, Marcel and Lucy. I very much hope

that one of your readers may be able to assist me in locating this building. If you have any information, please contact me on 06 05 64 57 97 or by email at ca the r ine@kar r igu l ly.com.au Many thanks for your assistance.

Kind regards

Catherine

With Christmas on the way, now is the perfect time to tell Bugle

readers in search of gift ideas about an author of thrillers set in La Creuse. In each of her books the author, Sylvie Granotier, sets herself a stylistic challenge. The most recent, 'La Rigole du Diable', has now been translated into English and is called 'The Paris Lawyer'. In this book the heroine is a bright young defence lawyer and her typically Parisian, quick-witted and bright character is reflected in a Twitter-like style which moves the plot along at a pace. The fascination for us Anglo-Creusois is to follow the heroine as she walks through the

streets of Guéret or drives to her chambre d'hôte near Aubusson. In earlier books (I've been on a reading spree) the Creuse is a scary place for Parisian visitors: dark, spooky and usually damp, where it is only too easy to get lost or stuck in the middle of nowhere. Here, though, she sings the praises of the warmth of a Creusois welcome and the beauty of the countryside. It's difficult to describe the plot of a thriller without spoiling the reader's pleasure. The barrister in question, the young Catherine Monsigny, gets a career break, defending a woman accused of murder at the Guéret tribunal. Her visits to Creuse lead her to identify it as the setting for

her own family tragedy which she gradually uncovers and resolves as the book reaches its conclusion. Last June, Sylvie Granotier performed readings from her work at the theatre in Aubusson. Perhaps next time her acclaimed translator, Anne Trager, will be there too...?

By Geoffrey Chadwick

The Paris Lawyer by Sylvie Granotier, translation Anne TragerPublished February 2013 by Le French Book (first published January 5th 2011) Original title: La Rigole du diableISBN: 9781939474988Literary awards: Grand Prix Sang d'Encre

31 DECEMBER 2014 ○ THE BUGLE ○ www.thebugle.eu WHAT’S ON ♦Theatre Chabanois is a bilingual community theatre group formed in 2009 with about 30 members so far. A cast and crew of all ages (10yrs to over 80), abilities and talents.We are always looking for new members, not only those with thespian tendencies but those that are willing to help back stage and front of house.Everyone is welcome to join us, so whatever you bring to the group you will be sure of a warm welcome and much fun on a Monday evening at the Salle des Fetes in Chabanais at 7pm.

Sat 13th Dec BOURGANEUF Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols English vocal ensemble CANTATE GAUDIO under the direction of David Kirby-Ashmore are presenting a traditional 'Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols' at the church of St. Jean in Bourganeuf on Saturday 13th December at 7pm. In addition to the choral items and readings there will be carols for everyone with the chance to join the sopranos singing the famous descants. Free entry with a retiring collection.

Sat 13th Dec CHALUS Christmas Market From 14h.

Sat 13th to Sun 14th Dec LA CELLE-DUNOISE Christmas Market Beautiful Christmas market offering a variety of products: artisinal crafts and gourmet produce. Tasting of oysters, foie gras, mulled wine and gingerbread. 10h-18h. Salle des Loisirs.

Sat 13th to Wed 24th Dec LIMOGES Christmas Market 40 artisans & producers will be exhibiting in little wooden chalets around the place de la Republique. Children can have their photo taken with Father Christmas on the 18th & 21st-24th Dec. An ice rink will be installed from 20th Dec-5th Jan. Visit www.coeurdelimoges.fr for more information.

Sat 13th to Fri 19th Dec LIMOGES Christmas Market 70 exhibitors. 9h-19h. Place de la Motte.

Sat 13th Dec MERINCHAL Christmas Market Rue du Chateau de la Mothe from 9h-18h.

Sat 13th Dec RANCON Christmas Market Salle des fetes. 10h-17h.

Sat 13th Dec SAINT-JUNIEN Christmas Market

Sat 13th to Sun 14th Dec SOUS-PARSAT La Maison du Pere Noel

As night falls in an enchanted setting meet Father Christmas with his sleigh and visit his house (17h45-19h). Arrive early for easy parking as this is always very popular.

Sat 13th to Sun 14th Dec VALLIERE Christmas Market Sale of local crafts and produce, entertainment for the children & a visit by Father Christmas! 10h-18h. Salle polyvalente.

Sun 14th Dec ARNAC-LA-POSTE Christmas Market

Sun 14th Dec AZERABLES Christmas Concert This year’s Christmas Concert by vocal ensemble La Voie Melodieuse will be at 15h on Sunday 14th December in the church at Azerables, 23160. Produced in conjunction with the commune of Azerables, the concert, lasting about one hour, will consist of Christmas songs in several languages and from many eras, ranging from mediaeval to

modern.La Voie Melodieuse is a multi-national vocal group based in the Berry region, who perform mainly unaccompanied choral music. Its aim is to perform high quality music to a high standard, while maintaining a friendly and informal rehearsal atmosphere. Performances are given several times a year in the Indre and Creuse departments. The Christmas Concert will benefit the appeal to raise money to restore the roof of the church at Azerables by taking a retiring collection. There will be a pot d’amitie provided by the commune at the end of the concert.For more information visit www.lavoiemelodieuse.com or find us on Facebook.

Sun 14th Dec BOSMIE L'AIGUILLE Marche de Noel et Foire a l'Orange Organised by the Comite des fetes et le Comite de Jumelage de Bosmie-l'Aiguille. Gourmet produce, crafts, sales of Spanish produce from the region of Pedralba (oranges, clementines, olive oil...)Salle Georges Bizet from 9h-19h. Free entry.

Sun 14th Dec CHAILLAC-SUR-VIENNE Marche de la Saint-Nicolas

Sun 14th Dec DUN-LE-PALESTEL Christmas Concert This year's Christmas Concert organised by 'Entente Cordiale' will take place at 17h in the church in Dun-le-Palestel.Come along, sing some carols and listen to the choir 'Vocalise' and other local musicians. After the concert join us for mulled wine and

mince pies.'Vocalise' is a mainly French choir with several English members, and would welcome new 'choristes'. For more information see their website (with English translation and contact) www.choralevocalise.com

Sun 14th Dec GOUZON Christmas Market Salle polyvalente from 9h-17h.

Sun 14th Dec MAINSAT Christmas Market

Sun 14th Dec NEXON Christmas Market 9h-18h; visit from Father Christmas at 11h.

Sun 14th Dec ORADOUR-SUR-GLANE Christmas Market

Sun 14th Dec SAINT-VAURY Christmas Market All day. Gymnase de Saint-Vaury.

Wed 17th Dec LE DORAT Santa visit to Mon Chic Cottage You better watch out, you better not cry - Santa Claus is coming to Mon Chic Cottage on Wednesday 17th December from 14.00 until 17.00. Bring your little angels to visit Santa in his Grotto. Santa will be there to listen to their Christmas wishes & good children may get a little surprise from the jolly fellow himself!Contact Santa’s Elf on 05 87 77 95 59 or email [email protected] for more information. Mon Chic Cottage - Home Decor & Gifts - Tea, coffee, home-made scones & cakes - www.monchiccottage.com

Fri 19th to Sun 21st Dec AIXE-SUR-VIENNE Christmas Market Place de l'eglise. Fri 10h-19h, Sat 10h-20h, Sun 9h30-18h.

Fri 19th to Sat 20th Dec FELLETIN Christmas Market

Exhibition of Magazine AdvertsA collection of old British & French

magazine advertising from the 1950s,mostly drawings not photographs.

All authentic not reprints or photocopies.

SPAR shop in St-Sulpice-LaurièreExpo from 8 Dec - 4 Jan

Mon-Sat 8h30-12h30 & 15h30-19h30Sun 9h30-12h30

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 >>

www.thebugle.eu ○ THE BUGLE ○ DECEMBER 201432 ♦ WHAT’S ON

Sat 22nd Nov to Sat 20th Dec AMBAZAC En attendant Noel Pop into the boutique ephemere at the tourist office for ideas for presents made in Limousin: honey, foie gras, jewellery, porcelain, enamel, books, Christmas tea & coffee, Christmas beer and much more besides!Free entry. Open Tue, Wed & Fri 9h-12h & 14h-17h30, Thu & Sat 9h-12h (Sat 20th 9h-12h & 14h-17h30).

Sat 29th to Sun 30th Nov ARGENTON-SUR-CREUSE Franco-German Christmas Market 70 exhibitors. Halle de la Grenouille. 9h-19h.

Sun 30th Nov LUSSAC-LES-EGLISES Charity Christmas Fayre 4th Charity Christmas Fayre at the barn of Tina and Jane, 5 La Trigalle 87360 Lussac-les-Eglises, from 2pm. Admission free, come along and enjoy mulled wine with mince pies. Anyone wanting a table, to reserve, please contact 05 55 60 69 23. Profits to be shared between Twilight old dogs home and Cancer Support France Haute-Vienne.

Mon 1st to Tue 30th Dec GUERET Boutique Idees Cadeaux Noel Christmas Gift Ideas Shop at the tourist office: discover the savoir-faire of local producers and artisans...

Tue 2nd to Wed 24th Dec BOURGANEUF Boutique de Noel Struggling for ideas for Christmas presents? Look no further than the Christmas Shop at the tourist office in Bourganeuf! With 100% Limouzi products, including gift baskets, local produce, souvenirs and games for the whole family there are plenty of original ideas for your Christmas gifts. Open Tue-Sat 9h30-12h30 & 14h-18h.

Fri 5th to Sun 7th Dec SAINT-DIZIER-LA-TOUR

Christmas shopping weekend Unique handmade gifts and jewellery for Christmas by Helen Clarence Designs. There will be mince pies, shortbread and mulled wine and a general Christmassy atmosphere! 2pm-6pm. 21 La Tour, 23130 St-Dizier-la-Tour. For more information tel 05 55 81 00 97 or visit www.helenclarence.com

Sat 6th Dec BOUSSAC Telethon - Marche de Noel AIPB will be manning a cake stall at the Christmas Market selling our delicious home-made cakes and marmalade. All profits will be donated to the Boussac Telethon. Come early to avoid disappointment.Place de l'Hotel de Ville from 9h.

Sat 6th Dec EYMOUTIERS German Christmas Market All morning in the halle.

Sat 6th to Sun 7th Dec NOUZERINES Christmas Market Sat pm; Sun from 10h. Salle des Fetes.

Sat 6th Dec SAINT-MATHIEU Christmas Market 10h-18h.

Sat 6th to Sun 7th Dec SAINTE-FEYRE Marche de Noel - Parc Animalier Les Loups de Chabrieres Christmas market at the wolf park. Come and do a spot of Christmas shopping: crafts, regional produce... Entertainment for the children. Free entry to the park. From 10h. Contact: Tel 05 55 81 23 23 - www.loups-chabrieres.com

Sun 7th Dec LA TRIMOUILLLE Christmas Market Come and do your Christmas shopping in La Trimouille. There will be stands selling local products, cheese, honey, mulled wine, crepes and oysters as well as plenty of Christmas

present ideas. Salle des Fetes, route de Journet, La Trimouille from 10am to 5pm.

Sun 7th Dec LE DORAT Christmas Market 10h-18h.

Sun 7th Dec ROYERE-DE-VASSIVIERE Christmas Market 10h-18h. Salle polyvalente.

Sun 7th Dec SAINT-LAURENT-SUR-GORRE Christmas Market & Brocante/Vide-greniers 100 exhibitors and animations. 9h-18h. Free entry for visitors. 'Surprise' visit by Father Christmas in the afternoon.Contact: Office de Tourisme de la Vallee de la Gorre - Tel 05 55 00 06 55

Sun 7th Dec SAINT-LEGER-MAGNAZEIX Christmas Market 9h-17h. Visit from Father Christmas at 16h.

Sun 7th Dec SAINT-MARTIAL-SUR-ISOP Marche de Noel Christmas Market organised by newly formed association Saint-Martial s'anime, who will be organising different festive, cultural and sporting events in the village.Struggling for ideas for Christmas presents? Look no further! The Fete de Noel is an event for local crafts: cards, pottery, cushions, jewellery, bags, objects made from wood, local produce, paintings, sweets and cakes. Salle des fetes. 10h.

Sun 7th Dec SAINT-SULPICE-LES-FEUILLES Christmas Market 8h30-18h.

Thu 11th to Sat 13th Dec LA SOUTERRAINE Pantomime - The Alternative Snow White CastawaysDrama presents The Alternative Snow White, directed by Jan Pitwell at

the Ancienne Mairie, La Souterraine from 11th-13th December. A hilariously funny adaptation of the well-known story "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves". Full of mischief, misunderstandings and plays on words. Doors open 7pm, curtain up 7:30pm. Sat 13th matinee 2pm for 2:30pm. There will be a bar and refreshments. Tickets: Adults €10, Children (Under 12) €8. To book email [email protected] or call 05 55 63 00 15.For more information visit www.castawaysdrama.org

Fri 12th Dec BOUSSAC Christmas Carol Service The service at the Eglise de Ste Anne commences at 19h30 but please arrive early to get a seat! You will be piped into the church by Alan Nichol, the Scottish bagpiper, wearing his kilt so let's hope that it isn't too cold. French and English carols will be sung by all nationalities, accompanied by Sylvain Bouard on the piano with a solo by young Georgie Calladine and there will be readings in French and English by members of the association. The service will be followed by festive refreshments offered for free by the AIPB in la maison paroissiale. Come and start your Christmas celebrations with us.

Fri 12th to Sat 13th Dec CHABANAIS Pantomime: “Cinderella” – A modern tale Theatre Chabanois’ Pantomime. Join us for fun, music and some good old-fashioned romance, all with a modern twist on Friday 12th December at 20h (bar opens at 19h30) and Saturday 13th December at 15h. Salle des Fetes, Chabanais. Adults €6 & Children €4 (- 16yrs, under 5’s Free). Reserve your seats now for a chance to win 2 Free Tickets.Reservations: 05 45 94 10 71 or facebook.com/theatrechabanois (book your table early).

UPCOMING EVENTS ACROSS THE REGION

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31 >>