His face hasn't changed all evening

In her weekly column, Maddie Grigg trades rural Dorset for south-west France ...

- Maddie Grigg

WE'VE been invited to the Fête des Voisins, an annual get-together for neighbours in our village in France.

It's not been held for a few years because of the pandemic, so it'll be good to meet up with people we haven't seen for a while.

Unlike before, when the fete was held on a patch of rough ground under a streetlamp, this year it's being held outside the old school.

We've been told by Norman that the event starts at seven o'clock.

Mr Grigg has made some sausage rolls, and I'm happy with my caramelised apple curd cake.

It's from a book of Ukrainian recipes given to me by the Angel Of The North a few birthdays ago.

Before we head to the old school, we're off to Mr and Mrs Humperdinck's for "aperos" - nibbles and pre-dinner drinks.

There is another English couple, who have cycled from their home on the outskirts

They're of the village. not planning to go to the fete, but have no willpower. They are persuaded to join us.

Time flies as we get caught up in conversation.