Franco British network volunteers step in

The Franco British Network in the Dordogne replaces the Dordogne Franco British Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which closed this year when government funding was withdrawn.

The members and organisers decided to continue and set up a non-profit association run by volunteers.

It now has to be self-financing, meaning members pay a €95 annual fee, with an introductory offer of €49, which lasts until the end of 2020.

For that, president Roger Haigh (pictured left) said members will get assistance, support, guidance, networking and social events.

Payment is required for some specialist help.

Volunteers have extensive experience of living and working in France, with a wide range of specialist knowledge.

Mr Haigh has been in the department for 26 years and was head of a catering and management school.

He said that, despite Brexit, many people were still coming to settle from the UK, with many setting up businesses.

He said experience had shown that individuals were most concerned about obtaining French residency, healthcare and paying their French taxes.

Businesses were mostly concerned with registering, paying French business taxes, managing accounts and adhering to business regulations.

He said the network is not just about getting the paperwork sorted out but there is also a social aspect, where people can meet, network and share business and personal experiences of life in France.

At present, there are 40 members and the network is encouraging as many people to join as possible.

A cream tea garden party was held in September for the network’s avant-première launch at the home of Air Commodore Paul Lyall in Lusignac in the presence of the British Consul, Bordeaux, Dominique Olley.

Although it has not had its official launch yet, it is up and running and anyone can apply to join now via its website francobritishnetwork.fr.  

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