Visit to France 29th May to 2nd June

Saturday 29^th May    

Whilst those in cars travelled at a respectable time, the intrepid coach passengers left Billinghay at 3.00am crossing the Channel to Calais and motoring down to Ballon with stops for comfort breaks refreshments and to celebrate John and Marjorie's wedding anniversary. In spite of this everyone was wide awake at the official welcoming that night. The evening was spent with the host families.

Sunday 30^th May 

The morning was spent visiting the beautiful historic town of Ste. Suzanne where the old town and castle walls remain virtually intact with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. After an excellent buffet lunch, we visited an old water mill at Thevalles. The French guide (ably assisted by our interpreter, Bronwen) explained and demonstrated the machinery. It seemed very simple but ingenious and had stood the test of time. We then returned to Ballon and spent the evening with our hosts.

Monday 31^st May

Due to a faulty French person masquerading as a satnav we explored an Industrial estate at some length before visiting a unique biscuit factory, Maison de Sable. After a talk on the history, ingredients and manufacture came the more interesting part, the tasting. Nearly everone left with purchases but, in some cases, these did not last long.

The visit was followed by lunch at Mezanheres Park, the main course being freshwater fish - so good that some of us may be down to the Witham with our rods! As often happens in France, lunch took a lot longer than planned and the afternoon's activities needed some adjustment. Out went the constitutional walk so that we could visit a pottery factory. They had a wide range of products all beatifully crafted. A few wallets and purses were considerably lighter after leaving the factory shop.

In the evening there was the traditional party at the Salles des Fetes, where we were entertained by a small musical group and confronted by an enormous buffet and "beaucoup du vin aussi".

Tuesday 1^st June

This day was set aside for spending time with the host families although officers of both Associations met in the Town Hall to discuss the future of the twinning.

In the afternoon, a large number of the families visted nearby Le Mans to view the historical sights, for retail therapy or a visit to the Le Mans Racing Circuit

Wednesday 2^nd June

We left Ballon at a slightly more civilised time than on Saturday! The highlight of the trip home for those on the coach was a stop in the heart of the ancient city of Rouen. Here you could admire the magnificent cathedral, medieval architecture and see where Joan of Arc was allegedly burned at the stake. The Coach people arrived back in Billinghay at around midnight.

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