The Tricolore flags were out and that meant one thing – the French Market returned to Chorleywood. On Sunday 11 May fifteen traders from Normandy set up their stalls in New and Main Parade selling all sorts of French merchandise from fresh bread, tarts, cheeses, charcuterie, olives and spices to dried fruit, scarves, handbags crepes, nougat, Provencal soaps, jumpers and CDs. New this year were traditional and authentic handmade specialities including jam, chutneys and hampers from Provencal artisans. “We are so happy to come back to Chorleywood for the third time as we always have such a very warm welcome from the public and the shopkeepers” says organiser Muriel Charles, “ We love to be part of this community festive event that gives a French atmosphere to Chorleywood.”
STALLS AND ENTERTAINMENT
There were a few stalls run by local traders and artists selling bespoke prints, art greetings cards and jewellery, live music with a French flavour and some artists at work. Members of the Community Plan committee were on hand to answer questions on the new neighbourhood venture.
KEEPING THE CHILDREN HAPPY
Chorleywood businesses arranged for a bouncy castle to be set up to keep children entertained which cost just 50p a session. Lingotastic were running fun French activities for toddlers with puppets, singing and craft at Little Beans, New Parade.
SPECIALS
Many of the shops were open and specials for the day included free samples of a traditional authentic Cognac and balloon giveaways at Purple Hedgehog plus discounts on French fragrances at Parade Pharmacy. There were some French additions to the menu at The Peppermill and home-made quiches and French desserts on sale at 3 Sons. JJ May were cooking up their usual top quality barbie fare, Sathi served Indian street food and lunches.Budgens, Poores, Number One Boutique, Chorleywood Sports, Morgan’s Deli, Chorleywood Bookshop and Rootz Coffee Lounge were open all day and Aarna Beauty from 11am – 3pm.
10am – 4pm, Main Parade, New Parade, Lower Road