John and Maureen Hindhaugh, 77 and 73, originally from Northumberland, bought a home in Indre, central France, in 2003 and moved there full-time in 2018.
The couple were immediately looked after by their neighbours.
“The French community responded with a tsunami of assistance,” said Mr Hindhaugh.
“Clothes, food, houses and much more. Currently we are living in a house provided by a local French couple.”
The fire took hold quickly, destroying their house, car and motorbike.
The fire destroyed not only destroyed their house, but their car and motorbike tooJohn Hindhaugh
“All our memories were gone in minutes,” said Mr Hindhaugh.
The couple’s links to France date to when Mr Hindhaugh, studying at Leeds University in the 1970s, met a Frenchman who was on a year abroad.
They visited France many times, and now live in the same area as their friend.
“We are two of very few British citizens here and we have always tried to volunteer for events large and small, be it picking litter or putting up tables,” said Mr Hindhaugh.
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The couple are part of the organising committee of the town’s Franco-Ecossaise Association, which honours its historic links with Scotland during the Hundred Years’ War.
This year’s event was a “massive success” Mr Hindhaugh said.
“I organised the ‘Highland Games’, which was enjoyed by all. To see the gendarmes team of big muscle men hopping down the track in our jute grain sacks game, like we all did as youngsters, was a sight to behold. People were doubled up laughing!
“Tossing the caber was a challenge but they all did it and received much applause.”
Mrs Hindhaugh arranged for Highland cows to be at the event, and the couple helped bring over pipe bands and Scottish dancers for the occasion.
Surprise accolade
On Saturday evening, festivities included a big concert. More than 600 locals attended and the pipe bands brought over from Scotland performed.
Pipe bands were brought over to celebrate the 'Highland Games'John Hindhaugh
“Before the entertainment started the mayor was on stage and said he had a special surprise announcement. To our great surprise, Maureen and I were presented with an award for our contribution over many years,” said Mr Hindhaugh.
They were awarded the Honorary Citizens of Châtillon-sur-Indre medal.
“We now know that a very small number of French townsfolk have received this over the years and we are the only English to receive it. It's a massive honour and a privilege to be here and live among so many generous and friendly people.”
The prize was an acknowledgement of the couple’s determination to get involved in local life and be part of the community. Something that is well worth doing for others who move to France, Mr Hindhaugh said.
“It is not always easy to be fully integrated with the French community but by golly it is worth it in the end.
John and Maureen receiving the Honorary Citizens of Châtillon-sur-Indre medalJohn Hindhaugh
“Our belongings may be gone but the fire cannot destroy some things that are more important in life.”
The sense of community is “without a doubt” stronger in France than the UK, Mr Hindhaugh said, “but it has to be worked at”.
He added: “There is also a greater opportunity to get involved in community activities, if you so wish. Over the years we have helped with all manner of activities and slowly and surely people get to know you and relationships develop.”
Tips for newcomers
What advice would the couple give to newcomers to France keen to integrate?
“Also, it's no good arriving like a firework putting on a display and then fizzling out after a few years. Reliable, steady and low profile help and assistance will bring rewards in the longer term. You never know what those rewards are until they are needed, like the help we received after our terrible house fire.”
He suggests attending a town’s forum des associations to see what clubs are offered.
“Don't expect the French to do things the way you are used to. Leave them to work in their own way and help where you can and you will be rewarded with the best friends you could hope to have.”
