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‘It is my right to work beyond retirement age - but France says no’
Age discrimination in the workplace is real but hidden, says (soon to be forcibly retired) English teacher Nick Inman
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‘Ponds in rural France are beautifully maintained but no longer used’
Columnist Peter Wyeth laments that these large, impressive sites, once the fresh-aired setting for family picnics, barbecues and fun, now fail to attract people
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‘New French speeding rule encourages aggressive drivers’
The change has enabled reckless motorists to drive even more wildly without fear of losing points, argues columnist Samantha David
Tale of human kindness
I have read about unfortunate home owners doing battle with unreliable French builders. Here is a story of care and jobs well done in abundance!
In July 2014 my dearest better half of 53 years died, leaving me in an old farmhouse too far from civilization. We had decided to sell up but a buyer was not forthcoming whilst my husband was alive.
Eventually a charming Frenchman made an offer for my home and a sale was agreed. Through no fault of his own, the completion date was delayed three times. This had a traumatic knock on effect for me to buy another house.
Now here the “kindnesses” begin… My buyer allowed me to stay in my old house rent-free, whist work progressed in the house that I purchased.
The vendors waived the deposit and not one of the artisans reneged on their quotes and promises, despite the delays and disruption to their pressing work schedules. The house was refurbished to a high standard in six weeks. The dishing out of chocolate brownies every Friday was hardly an incentive for them to have worked so diligently!
Mary ELEY, Saône-et-Loire
