We also have two old barns which remain more or less derelict and are in dire need of some love. One would make a beautiful two bedroom cottage. That is if we could just fix the roof and find the £60,000 it would take to renovate it. The other barn is detached but charming. Unfortunately it has an ever increasing crack which runs from top to toe and is the size of a small gorge; if we don’t take action soon, the chances are we’ll find a pile of rubble where it once stood on our next visit. Which means this has just become the next and somewhat urgent project.
As barn number two commands beautiful views at the top of the field, the idea is to expose the old bread oven within (and turn it into a BBQ) and convert the barn into a sort of enclosed sun terrace which opens onto the grounds and pool.
The downside of this project, quite aside from having to move the pool up a hill) is that the barn is big, the budget is zero and the man power is one. Plus one woman I suppose, but trust me, I’m of limited help when it comes to lifting huge supporting timbers out of a rotten roof and I do have to keep half an eye on our children and dogs (well that’s my excuse). And that’s on top of the fact that I need to give the kitchen a quick lick of paint to freshen it up after a summer of sticky fingers!
So my next job back in the UK is to arrange a voluntary working party of friends to come with us at the end of October to crack the back of this project. With reassurances that it’s going to be hard work but with promises of a continuous supply of liquid refreshment, wholesome French meals and good company, so far I’ve recruited one family whom I’ll continue to woo gently with invitations of dinner before we go. And if you’re passing through the Vendée at the end of October, slow down at your peril as I may grab and recruit you too.