Friday, January 27, 2006

Improvements at Bas Etang

We were shopping for a double gate in Poitiers, and were very disappointed to find that the only available 4.5 metre gates would cost about 1,700 Euros. That was mostly because the gap between our posts is 4.5 metres, whereas the standard size readily available is only 4 metres. So we had dismissed the idea completely. Until, that is, Amanda came across an agricultural supply company on the internet. Not only did they sell single sweep gates of just about any size, but they also had an outlet locally in Benassay, which is 2 miles away from Lavausseau. We visited their outlet, and were astonished to find that they could sell a gate 4.5 metres long for only 130 Euros. Furthermore, they agreed to deliver it to us for nothing! So, with the help of Jason (who happened to visit us for a few days last week) and Tony, we installed it into position. I know it looks rather industrial, so I am going to paint it dark brown with Hammerite paint (English of course) that is designed for metal gates. I started painting the top rail, but stopped when it got bitterly cold at -1 degrees.

The other project on the go at the moment is the fencing of the swimming pool. It was made mandatory as from the 1st January, with a penalty of 45,000 Euros if not installed. As can be seen in the accompanying picture, I now have it half completed. I was unable to finish it as the core drill I borrowed from the fencing vendor became totally blunt, and I am awaiting a replacement.

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