Born in Guernsey in the Channel Islands and now living for the past 12 years in the Pyrenees Orientale, I work with plants, herbs, flowers and chocolate and enjoy mixing the two together when I am not painting watercolour mandalas.

Did you ever read Tintin? Maybe you still do…or have children or grandchildren who follow the adventures of the intrepid reporter-turned-explorer and his faithful dog Snowy, (or Milou in the French edition).

For those who love craft beers made with passion and integrity, look no further than Maureillas! Christophe Ledan, who originally comes from Lille but has travelled widely around the world, has set up his ‘brasserie artisanale’ in the village. Christophe is a true craftsman, oozing enthusiasm and expertise for his chosen profession.

An important message from the development manager at Perpignan airport who is being told that if their new Flybe flight doesn’t start seeing some bookings, they will lose it. Please share as much as possible, even if this route doesn’t suit you, as routes breed routes and the more present flights are used, the more likelihood that other routes will be created.

This Catalan sauce has a wonderfully complex flavour and conveniently keeps for at least a week in the fridge. It is traditionally served with Calcots, but works beautifully with simply-cooked fish, roast chicken, and even over warm new potatoes. In this instance I suggest serving it with a simple Tortilla Espanola.

If you are a resident of France, you should be registered with a specific doctor, a médecin traitant. If you do not have a nominated GP, you will receive less money back from the Assurance Maladie (National Health) via your care vitale.