French Life

FRANCE is testing a ‘conditional’ driving licence for banned drink-drivers which would allow them to drive a vehicle fitted with a breathalyser linked to the starter.

MAIRIES can give dispensation for wedding services to be held in one of the commune’s larger halls if there is too little space in the mairie offices or there is no disabled access.

PEOPLE who wish to be cremated and have ashes scattered in nature or at sea can organise for this with a letter to the mayors of the birthplace and site of the scattering.

SNIFFER dogs are being used on Paris public transport to check suspect packages, which cause increasing delays.

Whether they have a big allotment or a small garden, many people in France cultivate fruit and vegetables as well as flowers. Here, three dedicated gardeners explain the joy of growing their own

Emily Commander tells the moving stories of three groups of people from different parts of the country who decided to do what they could to help.

These days, French ski resorts offer plenty of activities for those who don't want to be on the pistes all day. Catherine Cooper discovers the most gentle

Samantha David meets the French-speaking, trumpet-playing, Irish-American nun who watches over the now-uninhabited Corrèze abbey that inspired a young Coco Chanel

Mick Moat hopes to attract 100 gardens to the charitable scheme by the end of next year

Trio of events to raise money for good causes this winter