Twenty-five years ago we went with the Twinning Club to Civray on our first visit. Roselynne and Francis were hosting for the first time. Since then we have enjoyed many twinning exchanges here and in Civray with them.

Sadly, there have been no exchange visits between our clubs for several years. Last Christmas receiving a card from them there was an invitation to visit them. All was arranged but unfortunately Steve had not been well and felt unable to travel at this time. He said I should still go. Francis and Roselynne were alright with this.

A seamless journey from Downham arriving at Poitiers Airport I was met by Roselynne and Francis accompanied by their grandchildren, Dorian and Nina. Emilie and Jean-Luc were waiting back at their house.

Apart from visiting Civray Market and Claude and Marinette coming to visit for lunch nothing was planned. Monday afternoon a drive to Ruffec Country Park by the Charente River.

  Most days were spent sitting outside in the shade reading or chatting. Francis worked in his garden cutting a large pile of logs to size for stacking. The weather was sunny and hot around low 30 degrees, less humidity than at home.

 A visit to the market was a must. Roselynne parked in the carpark near the pool. We walked across the bridge by the Hotel du Commerce to the next car park where the red telephone box which had been restored and placed at an anniversary visit. Imagine as I looked left no telephone box. Asking Roselynne what had happened to it I was told it was round the corner. Yes, there it was and as she opened the door, I could see it full of books for borrowing. There were English and French books. The market as vibrant as ever but not the variety of stalls that were used to be included fruit and Veg Cheeses, fish and meat. Sadly, I did not see anyone I knew from the French Twinning today but due to the heat we had gone out early.

Thursday morning a chance to do a bit of shopping in Super U and then Friday afternoon it was off to the airport for my journey home. Fond farewells to Francis and Roselynne with a promise to visit us. Whereas the outward journey had been seamless the return was not with an hour and half delay so instead of arriving home at around eight pm it was ten fifteen when I alighted the train at Downham. Tired but pleased to be home and see Steve. It had been  very enjoyable few days relaxing in Civray seeing Francis and Roselynne, their hospitality and lovely seeing their family. Christine Nunn June 2025