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France

Episode 2 of 5

Sarfraz Manzoor meets British builders setting up business in an area of south west France dubbed 'little England' to meet the needs of Brits renovating retirement and second homes.

There are so many retired Brits in the South West of France that it has been dubbed 'little England'. Sarfraz Manzoor meets British builders and tradespeople who are meeting the needs of Brits renovating retirement and second homes.

As well as seeing business opportunities, many come to secure a better life for their children with small village schools and a safe rural environment.

They come for a better life but often don't speak French and stick together in English speaking cliques. So how different are they from the immigrants in Britain who are often criticised for not integrating?

Are they under-cutting French builders or offering different skills? And why is that the Brits prefer British builders - and even British hairdressers?

Producer:Sara Parker
A Juniper production for Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4.

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15 minutes

Last on

Tue 21 Jul 2015 13:45

Broadcast

  • Tue 21 Jul 2015 13:45