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  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin despite an easing of restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen008.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Older locals head to the re-opened street market for their weekly supplies in a slight easing of lock down rules. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the Middle Ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen013.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin, a usually bustling and vibrant town, especially on Thursday's when a large outdoor market fills the 'Place D'Armes' and side streets.  Despite an easing of restrictions on local markets the streets were mostly empty. <br />
<br />
For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen011.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Older locals head to the re-opened street market for their weekly supplies in a slight easing of lock down rules. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the Middle Ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen031.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin despite an easing of restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen028.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Older locals head to the re-opened street market for their weekly supplies in a slight easing of lock down rules. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the Middle Ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen030.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin despite an easing of restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen007.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen003.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin despite an easing of restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen026.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin despite an easing of restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen024.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Locals say hello in the almost deserted streets of Hesdin, a usually bustling and vibrant town, especially on Thursday's when a large outdoor market fills the 'Place D'Armes' and side streets.  Despite an easing of restrictions on local markets the streets were mostly empty. <br />
<br />
For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen019.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Older locals head to the re-opened street market for their weekly supplies in a slight easing of lock down rules. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the Middle Ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen018.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen016.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin despite an easing of restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen015.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Older locals head to the re-opened street market for their weekly supplies in a slight easing of lock down rules. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the Middle Ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen012.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Older locals head to the re-opened street market for their weekly supplies in a slight easing of lock down rules. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the Middle Ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen029.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen006.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. Blue produce crates mark the distance people must maintain to keep to 'social distancing' guidelines.<br />
The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen005.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Older locals head to the re-opened street market for their weekly supplies in a slight easing of lock down rules. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the Middle Ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen002.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. Security controls access to the local market which for the first time since government restrictions came into force has been permitted to re-open in Hesdin. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the Middle Ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen001.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Then and now. The cafe in the centre of the Place D'Armes remains closed. <br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin despite an easing of restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen025.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin despite an easing of restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen022.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. Shopper in mask. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen023.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. Shopper in mask. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen021.jpg
  • 23 March 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Shelves stripped of hand sanitizer at Leclerc supermarket in Attin near Montreuil Sur Mer. Hand sanitiser was one of the first items to disappear from supermarket shelves.<br />
<br />
Numbers entering the store at any one time are restricted to try and maintain 'social distancing,' in an effort to halt the spread of the virus. Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government.<br />
<br />
Montreuil Sur Mer was the headquarters of the British Army under Field-Marshal Sir Douglas Haig from March 1916 to April 1919. Over 1,200 year old, the ancient fortified  town with its high ramparts has endured through history, surviving the plague and King Henry VIII's invasion of France in 1544 when the Duke of Norfolk under Henry VIII's command laid a disastrous siege to the town which held firm until Norfolk was forced to withdraw in 1545. Residents are confident the ancient town can survive the coronavirus too. <br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    23mar19-Coronavirus France i-pic001.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. A sign on the pavement at the local street market reminding customers to keep a minimum of 1m apart. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen017.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. An elderly lady stands outside a now closed hairdresser wearing a mask to help protect her from coronavirus in Hesdin.<br />
<br />
For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen014.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. People, some wearing masks wait in line for entry into a tabac - a tobacconist for their cigarettes and newspapers. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen009.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen004.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The almost deserted streets of Hesdin despite an easing of restrictions on local markets. For the first time since government restrictions came into force, the main market in Hesdin has been permitted to re-open. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the middle ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen027.jpg
  • 02 April 2020. Hesdin, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Easing restrictions on local markets. Security controls access to the local market which for the first time since government restrictions came into force has been permitted to re-open in Hesdin. The historical town has hosted a usually vibrant and bustling market since the Middle Ages. With stall holders limited and many suffering huge financial losses, those selling food today were happy to be back to work despite the ongoing risks posed by coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Shoppers, many wearing masks were mostly maintaining their social distancing with people happy to be out and able to meet and talk with other people. A lot of shoppers were elderly people who have been trapped in their homes for weeks. One shopper complained of 'la misère,' - the misery of this virus and being stuck in her home. <br />
<br />
Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government and today's market re-opening was a brief return to normalcy for many able to escape the confines of their homes.<br />
<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    02apr20-France market reopen020.jpg
  • 23 March 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Coronavirus related signs indicating new cleaning procedures and reasons for closing certain facilities at Leclerc supermarket in Attin near the ancient citadel town of Montreuil Sur Mer.<br />
<br />
Numbers entering the store at any one time are restricted to try and maintain 'social distancing,' in an effort to halt the spread of the virus. Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government.<br />
<br />
Montreuil Sur Mer was the headquarters of the British Army under Field-Marshal Sir Douglas Haig from March 1916 to April 1919. Over 1,200 year old, the ancient fortified  town with its high ramparts has endured through history, surviving the plague and King Henry VIII's invasion of France in 1544 when the Duke of Norfolk under Henry VIII's command laid a disastrous siege to the town which held firm until Norfolk was forced to withdraw in 1545. Residents are confident the ancient town can survive the coronavirus too. <br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    23mar19-Coronavirus France i-pic006.jpg
  • 23 March 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
The fish, delicatessen and meat displays have all been cleared of produce to ensure no contact between staff and customers at Leclerc supermarket in Attin near Montreuil Sur Mer. If the food items are available, they are now pre-wrapped in coolers, although the selection of produce is greatly reduced and the prices increased. <br />
<br />
Numbers entering the store at any one time are restricted to try and maintain 'social distancing,' in an effort to halt the spread of the virus. Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government.<br />
<br />
Montreuil Sur Mer was the headquarters of the British Army under Field-Marshal Sir Douglas Haig from March 1916 to April 1919. Over 1,200 year old, the ancient fortified  town with its high ramparts has endured through history, surviving the plague and King Henry VIII's invasion of France in 1544 when the Duke of Norfolk under Henry VIII's command laid a disastrous siege to the town which held firm until Norfolk was forced to withdraw in 1545. Residents are confident the ancient town can survive the coronavirus too. <br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    23mar19-Coronavirus France i-pic002.jpg
  • 23 March 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
A woman wearing a face mask to help protect herself from coronavirus infection fills her shopping trolley at Leclerc supermarket in Attin near Montreuil Sur Mer. Numbers entering the store at any one time are restricted to try and maintain 'social distancing,' in an effort to halt the spread of the virus. Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government.<br />
<br />
Montreuil Sur Mer was the headquarters of the British Army under Field-Marshal Sir Douglas Haig from March 1916 to April 1919. Over 1,200 year old, the ancient fortified  town with its high ramparts has endured through history, surviving the plague and King Henry VIII's invasion of France in 1544 when the Duke of Norfolk under Henry VIII's command laid a disastrous siege to the town which held firm until Norfolk was forced to withdraw in 1545. Residents are confident the ancient town can survive the coronavirus too. <br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    23mar19-Coronavirus France i-pic005.jpg
  • 23 March 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
Shelves have been mostly stripped of flour at Leclerc supermarket in Attin near Montreuil Sur Mer. <br />
<br />
Numbers entering the store at any one time are restricted to try and maintain 'social distancing,' in an effort to halt the spread of the virus. Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government.<br />
<br />
Montreuil Sur Mer was the headquarters of the British Army under Field-Marshal Sir Douglas Haig from March 1916 to April 1919. Over 1,200 year old, the ancient fortified  town with its high ramparts has endured through history, surviving the plague and King Henry VIII's invasion of France in 1544 when the Duke of Norfolk under Henry VIII's command laid a disastrous siege to the town which held firm until Norfolk was forced to withdraw in 1545. Residents are confident the ancient town can survive the coronavirus too. <br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    23mar19-Coronavirus France i-pic007.jpg
  • 23 March 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France. <br />
Coronavirus - COVID-19 in Northern France.<br />
<br />
A woman wearing a face mask to help protect herself from coronavirus infection fills her shopping trolley at Leclerc supermarket in Attin near Montreuil Sur Mer. Numbers entering the store at any one time are restricted to try and maintain 'social distancing,' in an effort to halt the spread of the virus. Anyone leaving their home must carry with them an 'attestation,' in a effect a self administered permit to allow them out of the house. If stopped by the police, one must produce a valid permit along with identification papers. Failure to do so is punishable with heavy fines. Movement in France has been heavily restricted by the government.<br />
<br />
Montreuil Sur Mer was the headquarters of the British Army under Field-Marshal Sir Douglas Haig from March 1916 to April 1919. Over 1,200 year old, the ancient fortified  town with its high ramparts has endured through history, surviving the plague and King Henry VIII's invasion of France in 1544 when the Duke of Norfolk under Henry VIII's command laid a disastrous siege to the town which held firm until Norfolk was forced to withdraw in 1545. Residents are confident the ancient town can survive the coronavirus too. <br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    23mar19-Coronavirus France i-pic004.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods016.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Mme Haegeman wades through floods with bags of clothes she is removing from her house as the floodwaters continue to rise inside her flooded home. Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods032.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Monsieur Patrice Sibilli wades through floods to help his brother in law in a nearby flooded home. Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods035.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Monsieur Haegeman wades through floods outside his flooded house as the floodwaters continue to rise. Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods017.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Mme Haegeman wades through floods with bags of clothes she is removing from her house as the floodwaters continue to rise inside her flooded home. Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods015.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Monsieur Patrice Sibilli wades through floods to help his brother in law in a nearby flooded home. Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods012.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods011.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Signs of Spring as tree buds flower on the banks of the River Canche near montreuil Sur Mer.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods030.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Geese enjoy grazing on the river bank where following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods028.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods021.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods019.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Monsieur Patrice Sibilli wades through floods to help his brother in law in a nearby flooded home. Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods013.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks in Beaumerie St Martin flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods034.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Mme Haegeman wades through floods with bags of clothes she is removing from her house as the floodwaters continue to rise inside her flooded home. Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods031.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Geese enjoy grazing on the river bank where following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods026.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods008.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods007.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods025.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods006.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Geese enjoy grazing on the river bank where following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods024.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Geese enjoy grazing on the river bank where following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods023.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods003.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods020.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods018.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. Beaumerie St Martin, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Monsieur Patrice Sibilli wades through floods to help his brother in law in a nearby flooded home. Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes. The river last flooded in 2013, however residents claim they have never seen it as bad as this.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods033.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Geese enjoy grazing on the river bank where following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods029.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Geese enjoy grazing on the river bank where following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods027.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods004.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods022.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods002.jpg
  • 12 March 2020. River Canche near Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
Following months of record rainfalls, the Canche River near Montreuil Sur Mer burst its banks flooding local homes and farmland.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    12mar20-France floods001.jpg
  • 09 February 2018. Aix en Issart, Pas de Calais, Hauts de France.<br />
The snow arrived early in the morning making for some wintry scenes and treacherous driving in Hauts de France.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    09feb18-snow france015.jpg
  • 09 February 2018. Pas de Calais, Hauts de France.<br />
The snow arrived early in the morning covering trees in Hauts de France.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    09feb18-snow france016.jpg
  • 09 February 2018. Aix en Issart, Pas de Calais, Hauts de France.<br />
The snow arrived early in the morning making for some wintry scenes and treacherous driving in Hauts de France.<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    09feb18-snow france014.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance023.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance004.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance036.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance021.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance033.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance035.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance018.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance012.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance031.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance009.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance030.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance010.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance025.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance034.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance013.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance007.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance029.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance015.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance011.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance002.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance019.jpg
  • 09 April 2020. Montreuil Sur Mer, Pas de Calais, France.<br />
The 'Vinbulance.' The 4th emergency service delivering wine, beer and spirits in and around Le Touquet and Montreuil Sur Mer in Hauts de France, 1 hour south of Calais.<br />
Olivier and Belinda Tirel, (both 45 yrs old) owners of La Cave de Montreuil and Le Touquet with their emergency vehicle, the 'Vinbulance.' <br />
<br />
Belinda, an Australian met Olivier, a Frenchman in England when they both worked at Café Rouge in Kew Gardens in London in 1996. Married 24 years with 4  children they own 2 wine shops, one in Le Touquet (since 2007) and one in Montreuil Sur Mer (since 2015). <br />
<br />
Belinda came up with the idea of the 'Vinbulance' having seen a photo of a 'winebulance' on the internet. Olivier and Belinda contacted friends who are doctors, nurses and medical technicians before embarking on the idea. They wanted to check that their idea would not be offensive to those working on the front lines against coronavirus. All their friends in the medical profession thought it would be an excellent idea to try and cheer people up, bring a smile to their faces and help lift people's spirits in these difficult times. 'Which was the point of it,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'People give us thumbs up, toot their horns and wave when they see the 'vinbulance.' Belinda was stopped twice in the past 2 days with people asking to take photos of her and the 'vinbulance' explained Olivier. 'One person, a regular customer even ordered some wine because he did not know we were open.'<br />
<br />
'The coronavirus crisis has badly affected business. We have lost all of our restaurant trade and people just are not having parties and celebrating as they were before all this,' explained Olivier.<br />
<br />
'We are considered a business of 'première nécessité,' (first necessity) as declared by the  French Government which means we can remain open. We don't get any help from the government financially, we have 4 children and a Brazilian exchange student who is staying with us beca
    09apr20-Vinbulance wine ambulance005.jpg
  • 18 April 2022. Montreuil Sur Mer, Hauts de France, France.<br />
Emmanuel Labbaye, a bronze specialist applies wax to the statue of Field Marshal Douglas Haig on International monuments day. The statue takes pride of place in 'La Grand Place' in Montreuil Sur Mer is currently undergoing much needed €40,000 repairs.<br />
The ancient fortress town of Montreuil Sur Mer was the HQ of the British Army during WW1. The statue, (the second one produced) is classified a heritage monument and has stood in tribute to Haig for the past 70 years. The first statue, erected in 1931 was melted down by German forces in WW2. Fortunately artist Paul Landowski kept the original mould and another 3 tons of bronze were used to recast the statue destroyed by Hitler's forces. The statue has for years generated controversy, firstly after publication of the 'Secret diaries of Douglas Haig,' where he was less than flattering of his French counterparts and also for his role in the deaths of over 20,000 British soldiers on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and the bloodshed which ensued. However current Mayor of Montreuil Pierre Ducrocq is happy his town can once again extend it's appreciation to 'her majesty's subjects.' <br />
He said, 'I am happy to receive our English friends today in this complicated post Brexit political climate. These different exchanges are placed within the framework of the Entente Cordiale we have maintained for centuries. Our wish is to once again develop the links which unite us with our English friends.' <br />
Special attention will be given to Field Marshal Haig's sword. Stolen twice, a copy of a sword identical to the one used by Haig was discovered in the attic of a local house once billeted by British forces. It was copied in resin and cast in bronze and will be attached by Emmanuel Labbaye. <br />
The restoration is also financed by the 'Association du Souvenir Français,' whose motto reads - 'We will remember them - to them immortality.'<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    18apr22-Haig Statue restoration027.jpg
  • 18 April 2022. Montreuil Sur Mer, Hauts de France, France.<br />
Emmanuel Labbaye, a bronze specialist applies wax to the statue of Field Marshal Douglas Haig on International monuments day. The statue takes pride of place in 'La Grand Place' in Montreuil Sur Mer is currently undergoing much needed €40,000 repairs.<br />
The ancient fortress town of Montreuil Sur Mer was the HQ of the British Army during WW1. The statue, (the second one produced) is classified a heritage monument and has stood in tribute to Haig for the past 70 years. The first statue, erected in 1931 was melted down by German forces in WW2. Fortunately artist Paul Landowski kept the original mould and another 3 tons of bronze were used to recast the statue destroyed by Hitler's forces. The statue has for years generated controversy, firstly after publication of the 'Secret diaries of Douglas Haig,' where he was less than flattering of his French counterparts and also for his role in the deaths of over 20,000 British soldiers on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and the bloodshed which ensued. However current Mayor of Montreuil Pierre Ducrocq is happy his town can once again extend it's appreciation to 'her majesty's subjects.' <br />
He said, 'I am happy to receive our English friends today in this complicated post Brexit political climate. These different exchanges are placed within the framework of the Entente Cordiale we have maintained for centuries. Our wish is to once again develop the links which unite us with our English friends.' <br />
Special attention will be given to Field Marshal Haig's sword. Stolen twice, a copy of a sword identical to the one used by Haig was discovered in the attic of a local house once billeted by British forces. It was copied in resin and cast in bronze and will be attached by Emmanuel Labbaye. <br />
The restoration is also financed by the 'Association du Souvenir Français,' whose motto reads - 'We will remember them - to them immortality.'<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    18apr22-Haig Statue restoration026.jpg
  • 18 April 2022. Montreuil Sur Mer, Hauts de France, France.<br />
Emmanuel Labbaye, a bronze specialist applies wax to the statue of Field Marshal Douglas Haig on International monuments day. The statue takes pride of place in 'La Grand Place' in Montreuil Sur Mer is currently undergoing much needed €40,000 repairs.<br />
The ancient fortress town of Montreuil Sur Mer was the HQ of the British Army during WW1. The statue, (the second one produced) is classified a heritage monument and has stood in tribute to Haig for the past 70 years. The first statue, erected in 1931 was melted down by German forces in WW2. Fortunately artist Paul Landowski kept the original mould and another 3 tons of bronze were used to recast the statue destroyed by Hitler's forces. The statue has for years generated controversy, firstly after publication of the 'Secret diaries of Douglas Haig,' where he was less than flattering of his French counterparts and also for his role in the deaths of over 20,000 British soldiers on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and the bloodshed which ensued. However current Mayor of Montreuil Pierre Ducrocq is happy his town can once again extend it's appreciation to 'her majesty's subjects.' <br />
He said, 'I am happy to receive our English friends today in this complicated post Brexit political climate. These different exchanges are placed within the framework of the Entente Cordiale we have maintained for centuries. Our wish is to once again develop the links which unite us with our English friends.' <br />
Special attention will be given to Field Marshal Haig's sword. Stolen twice, a copy of a sword identical to the one used by Haig was discovered in the attic of a local house once billeted by British forces. It was copied in resin and cast in bronze and will be attached by Emmanuel Labbaye. <br />
The restoration is also financed by the 'Association du Souvenir Français,' whose motto reads - 'We will remember them - to them immortality.'<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    18apr22-Haig Statue restoration023.jpg
  • 18 April 2022. Montreuil Sur Mer, Hauts de France, France.<br />
Emmanuel Labbaye, a bronze specialist applies wax to the statue of Field Marshal Douglas Haig on International monuments day. The statue takes pride of place in 'La Grand Place' in Montreuil Sur Mer is currently undergoing much needed €40,000 repairs.<br />
The ancient fortress town of Montreuil Sur Mer was the HQ of the British Army during WW1. The statue, (the second one produced) is classified a heritage monument and has stood in tribute to Haig for the past 70 years. The first statue, erected in 1931 was melted down by German forces in WW2. Fortunately artist Paul Landowski kept the original mould and another 3 tons of bronze were used to recast the statue destroyed by Hitler's forces. The statue has for years generated controversy, firstly after publication of the 'Secret diaries of Douglas Haig,' where he was less than flattering of his French counterparts and also for his role in the deaths of over 20,000 British soldiers on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and the bloodshed which ensued. However current Mayor of Montreuil Pierre Ducrocq is happy his town can once again extend it's appreciation to 'her majesty's subjects.' <br />
He said, 'I am happy to receive our English friends today in this complicated post Brexit political climate. These different exchanges are placed within the framework of the Entente Cordiale we have maintained for centuries. Our wish is to once again develop the links which unite us with our English friends.' <br />
Special attention will be given to Field Marshal Haig's sword. Stolen twice, a copy of a sword identical to the one used by Haig was discovered in the attic of a local house once billeted by British forces. It was copied in resin and cast in bronze and will be attached by Emmanuel Labbaye. <br />
The restoration is also financed by the 'Association du Souvenir Français,' whose motto reads - 'We will remember them - to them immortality.'<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    18apr22-Haig Statue restoration022.jpg
  • 18 April 2022. Montreuil Sur Mer, Hauts de France, France.<br />
Emmanuel Labbaye, a bronze specialist applies wax to the statue of Field Marshal Douglas Haig on International monuments day. The statue takes pride of place in 'La Grand Place' in Montreuil Sur Mer is currently undergoing much needed €40,000 repairs.<br />
The ancient fortress town of Montreuil Sur Mer was the HQ of the British Army during WW1. The statue, (the second one produced) is classified a heritage monument and has stood in tribute to Haig for the past 70 years. The first statue, erected in 1931 was melted down by German forces in WW2. Fortunately artist Paul Landowski kept the original mould and another 3 tons of bronze were used to recast the statue destroyed by Hitler's forces. The statue has for years generated controversy, firstly after publication of the 'Secret diaries of Douglas Haig,' where he was less than flattering of his French counterparts and also for his role in the deaths of over 20,000 British soldiers on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and the bloodshed which ensued. However current Mayor of Montreuil Pierre Ducrocq is happy his town can once again extend it's appreciation to 'her majesty's subjects.' <br />
He said, 'I am happy to receive our English friends today in this complicated post Brexit political climate. These different exchanges are placed within the framework of the Entente Cordiale we have maintained for centuries. Our wish is to once again develop the links which unite us with our English friends.' <br />
Special attention will be given to Field Marshal Haig's sword. Stolen twice, a copy of a sword identical to the one used by Haig was discovered in the attic of a local house once billeted by British forces. It was copied in resin and cast in bronze and will be attached by Emmanuel Labbaye. <br />
The restoration is also financed by the 'Association du Souvenir Français,' whose motto reads - 'We will remember them - to them immortality.'<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    18apr22-Haig Statue restoration016.jpg
  • 18 April 2022. Montreuil Sur Mer, Hauts de France, France.<br />
Emmanuel Labbaye, a bronze specialist applies wax to the statue of Field Marshal Douglas Haig on International monuments day. The statue takes pride of place in 'La Grand Place' in Montreuil Sur Mer is currently undergoing much needed €40,000 repairs.<br />
The ancient fortress town of Montreuil Sur Mer was the HQ of the British Army during WW1. The statue, (the second one produced) is classified a heritage monument and has stood in tribute to Haig for the past 70 years. The first statue, erected in 1931 was melted down by German forces in WW2. Fortunately artist Paul Landowski kept the original mould and another 3 tons of bronze were used to recast the statue destroyed by Hitler's forces. The statue has for years generated controversy, firstly after publication of the 'Secret diaries of Douglas Haig,' where he was less than flattering of his French counterparts and also for his role in the deaths of over 20,000 British soldiers on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and the bloodshed which ensued. However current Mayor of Montreuil Pierre Ducrocq is happy his town can once again extend it's appreciation to 'her majesty's subjects.' <br />
He said, 'I am happy to receive our English friends today in this complicated post Brexit political climate. These different exchanges are placed within the framework of the Entente Cordiale we have maintained for centuries. Our wish is to once again develop the links which unite us with our English friends.' <br />
Special attention will be given to Field Marshal Haig's sword. Stolen twice, a copy of a sword identical to the one used by Haig was discovered in the attic of a local house once billeted by British forces. It was copied in resin and cast in bronze and will be attached by Emmanuel Labbaye. <br />
The restoration is also financed by the 'Association du Souvenir Français,' whose motto reads - 'We will remember them - to them immortality.'<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    18apr22-Haig Statue restoration012.jpg
  • 18 April 2022. Montreuil Sur Mer, Hauts de France, France.<br />
Emmanuel Labbaye, a bronze specialist applies wax to the statue of Field Marshal Douglas Haig on International monuments day. The statue takes pride of place in 'La Grand Place' in Montreuil Sur Mer is currently undergoing much needed €40,000 repairs.<br />
The ancient fortress town of Montreuil Sur Mer was the HQ of the British Army during WW1. The statue, (the second one produced) is classified a heritage monument and has stood in tribute to Haig for the past 70 years. The first statue, erected in 1931 was melted down by German forces in WW2. Fortunately artist Paul Landowski kept the original mould and another 3 tons of bronze were used to recast the statue destroyed by Hitler's forces. The statue has for years generated controversy, firstly after publication of the 'Secret diaries of Douglas Haig,' where he was less than flattering of his French counterparts and also for his role in the deaths of over 20,000 British soldiers on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and the bloodshed which ensued. However current Mayor of Montreuil Pierre Ducrocq is happy his town can once again extend it's appreciation to 'her majesty's subjects.' <br />
He said, 'I am happy to receive our English friends today in this complicated post Brexit political climate. These different exchanges are placed within the framework of the Entente Cordiale we have maintained for centuries. Our wish is to once again develop the links which unite us with our English friends.' <br />
Special attention will be given to Field Marshal Haig's sword. Stolen twice, a copy of a sword identical to the one used by Haig was discovered in the attic of a local house once billeted by British forces. It was copied in resin and cast in bronze and will be attached by Emmanuel Labbaye. <br />
The restoration is also financed by the 'Association du Souvenir Français,' whose motto reads - 'We will remember them - to them immortality.'<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    18apr22-Haig Statue restoration006.jpg
  • 18 April 2022. Montreuil Sur Mer, Hauts de France, France.<br />
Emmanuel Labbaye, a bronze specialist applies wax to the statue of Field Marshal Douglas Haig on International monuments day. The statue takes pride of place in 'La Grand Place' in Montreuil Sur Mer is currently undergoing much needed €40,000 repairs.<br />
The ancient fortress town of Montreuil Sur Mer was the HQ of the British Army during WW1. The statue, (the second one produced) is classified a heritage monument and has stood in tribute to Haig for the past 70 years. The first statue, erected in 1931 was melted down by German forces in WW2. Fortunately artist Paul Landowski kept the original mould and another 3 tons of bronze were used to recast the statue destroyed by Hitler's forces. The statue has for years generated controversy, firstly after publication of the 'Secret diaries of Douglas Haig,' where he was less than flattering of his French counterparts and also for his role in the deaths of over 20,000 British soldiers on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and the bloodshed which ensued. However current Mayor of Montreuil Pierre Ducrocq is happy his town can once again extend it's appreciation to 'her majesty's subjects.' <br />
He said, 'I am happy to receive our English friends today in this complicated post Brexit political climate. These different exchanges are placed within the framework of the Entente Cordiale we have maintained for centuries. Our wish is to once again develop the links which unite us with our English friends.' <br />
Special attention will be given to Field Marshal Haig's sword. Stolen twice, a copy of a sword identical to the one used by Haig was discovered in the attic of a local house once billeted by British forces. It was copied in resin and cast in bronze and will be attached by Emmanuel Labbaye. <br />
The restoration is also financed by the 'Association du Souvenir Français,' whose motto reads - 'We will remember them - to them immortality.'<br />
Photo©; Charlie Varley/varleypix.com
    18apr22-Haig Statue restoration002.jpg
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