The Vide Grenier season is in full swing

What better way to spend a summer Sunday than poking around a local Vide Grenier with the sun high in the sky.  Last Sunday was one such day in the village of Grand Brassac. With the mercury hovering around the 30c mark Lesley and I pootled along the byways to this unassuming village hidden deep in the Dordogne countryside, to see what was on offer. To the French, a Vide Grenier is one big social event planned months in advance. Whilst ostensibly appearing to be like the good old Brit 'Car Boot' it is fundamentally different.  One of the main differences being that the Vide Grenier is very localised.  It is a chance for the whole village to come together for the common good. There are arrangements to be made, who is cooking the fatted calf or sanglier, the buvette to be stocked and manned and a little local entertainment to be organised whilst one sips a cold beer or two.

Les Arbeilles de Bergeracois pick up the rhythmn at Grand Brassac

The pace is slow and measured, nobody gets excited and it's a great chance to chat about things with neighbours and friends.  I suspect burning cars and bottle throwing in downtown Croydon is not high up the agenda, more likely the prospects of a return to the world of the Franc and the way things used to be.  Still looking around about Grand Brassac one has the distinct feeling that little has changed since the odd Citroen traction graced the streets and blue overalled men started the day with a stiff Ricard.  

Somebody's found a bargain

As we meandered from stall to stall, seeking the cover of the next stall holders' umbrella, we were accompanied by a traditional folk band from the Bergereracois, all dressed in their finery.  The man playing the hurdy gurdy was impeccable and the music set the scene perfectly.  It reminded me somewhat of Thomas Hardy's 'Far from the Madding Crowd'.  A breathtaking Terence Stamp and bewitching Julie Christie about to enter a dance from a fine fiddle player in some forgotten Dorset field. 

This chap was still looking for a good home when we passed by

Who were these two gents? something to do with cycling I'll bet

This was hot work, and after much upping and downing following the rows of stalls we found some tastefully restored fire irons; some wonderfully crafted tongs and an equally well crafted shovel.  We didn't even bother to bargain.  Five euros was an absolute bargain and we were happy to part with our money.  It's Chinese equivalent would have been at least 10 euros and with no chance of lasting the 100  years or so of this early 20c set.  With our spoils tucked safely under our arms it was off to the Buvette and a well earned beer out of the relentless sun.  Whilst sipping away we were treated to a traditional dance from Les Arbeilles de Bergeracois, it was the perfect finale to a relaxed afternoon at Grand Brassac.

Take your partners...