Original subtitles

I'm Dick Strawbridge, and with my wife Angel and our two children...

I'm Dick Strawbridge, and with my wife Angel and our two children...

Don't crash!

..we're nearly five years into our French adventure,

..we're nearly five years into our French adventure,

restoring this once-abandoned chateau.

restoring this once-abandoned chateau.

That one! Ha-hah.

It's been a lot of hard work.

Oh, that's heavy.

But a lot of fun, too.

Families! Families! Cheers!

Families! Families! Cheers!

And all over France,

there are other intrepid British families doing exactly the same.

there are other intrepid British families doing exactly the same.

there are other intrepid British families doing exactly the same.

I'm just randomly drilling holes in the wall at the moment.

I'm just randomly drilling holes in the wall at the moment.

Now Angel and I are once again lending a hand to other expat

Now Angel and I are once again lending a hand to other expat

chateau owners.

That's working for me.

I love it!

We'll meet some new faces...

Dee-dee!

Dee-dee!

..and some old friends.

And we'll reveal more about our own chateau life.

And we'll reveal more about our own chateau life.

You're Monsieur Dick!

You're Monsieur Dick!

There'll be plenty of highs...

Yay!

..and lows.

No! No!

But however hard it gets...

Whoa!

..they're all battling to transform these abandoned buildings...

..they're all battling to transform these abandoned buildings...

It's not the size of the wine press that matters,

it's what you do with it.

..into extraordinary homes and businesses...

..into extraordinary homes and businesses...

Oh, this is wonderful.

..to live the dream as custodians of their very own castle.

..to live the dream as custodians of their very own castle.

..to live the dream as custodians of their very own castle.

Today...

Creating a new garden scheme for a 300-year-old family home...

Creating a new garden scheme for a 300-year-old family home...

Creating a new garden scheme for a 300-year-old family home...

Honey, stop, stop, stop!

Honey, stop, stop, stop!

You're going to spray paint everywhere.

Precise, precise.

Precise, precise.

..puts someone in the doghouse.

Go away! Go!

New chateau DIY-ers have a communication breakdown.

New chateau DIY-ers have a communication breakdown.

I know I didn't go and check.

I just thought we were just thinking on the same thing.

I just thought we were just thinking on the same thing.

Not only did you not check, you never told me.

Not only did you not check, you never told me.

Telepathy!

Telepathy!

It's baby toad rescue at our place.

It's baby toad rescue at our place.

They're all running away at a rate of knots.

You actually have to chase them.

Look how many are in there.

Look how many are in there.

Whoa!

And one returning couple could get an unlucky break...

And one returning couple could get an unlucky break...

That one's falling out, quickly, there, that one.

That one's falling out, quickly, there, that one.

Ah!

..as they face the ups and downs of a new batch of renovations.

..as they face the ups and downs of a new batch of renovations.

This classic French beauty is the 19th-century Chateau Caillac.

This classic French beauty is the 19th-century Chateau Caillac.

This classic French beauty is the 19th-century Chateau Caillac.

With 20 rooms, extensive gardens and a private jetty down on the

With 20 rooms, extensive gardens and a private jetty down on the

With 20 rooms, extensive gardens and a private jetty down on the

beautiful River Lot, it's now owned by keen cyclists Angela and Steve.

beautiful River Lot, it's now owned by keen cyclists Angela and Steve.

beautiful River Lot, it's now owned by keen cyclists Angela and Steve.

They are amazing places and they've got character,

They are amazing places and they've got character,

they've got big, thick walls,

all that stuff that you don't get in a modern house nowadays.

all that stuff that you don't get in a modern house nowadays.

We like to be a little bit different

and certainly not everybody buys a chateau in France.

and certainly not everybody buys a chateau in France.

and certainly not everybody buys a chateau in France.

They bought their unique home,

They bought their unique home,

located 60 miles from Bordeaux, in 2004, for £800,000.

located 60 miles from Bordeaux, in 2004, for £800,000.

located 60 miles from Bordeaux, in 2004, for £800,000.

With costly upkeep and a huge mortgage still to pay off,

With costly upkeep and a huge mortgage still to pay off,

they rent out the entire chateau each summer to bring in income.

they rent out the entire chateau each summer to bring in income.

they rent out the entire chateau each summer to bring in income.

We stay on our houseboat in Cheshire.

We stay on our houseboat in Cheshire.

This is the life, isn't it?

And then we return in September, and stay all through the winter,

And then we return in September, and stay all through the winter,

And then we return in September, and stay all through the winter,

which gives us plenty of time to do all our jobs that we need to do.

which gives us plenty of time to do all our jobs that we need to do.

When we met them last time, they were creating a new guest suite,

When we met them last time, they were creating a new guest suite,

When we met them last time, they were creating a new guest suite,

and my Angel added some of her own special spin.

and my Angel added some of her own special spin.

Bit of copper bling.

I like it.

This is actually coming on quite lovely.

This is actually coming on quite lovely.

It's March, and Angela and Steve

It's March, and Angela and Steve

have a seemingly endless cycle of renovations to do

have a seemingly endless cycle of renovations to do

before the first paying guests arrive in two months' time.

before the first paying guests arrive in two months' time.

We've always got some projects on the go.

We've always got some projects on the go.

We want to make a proper parking area for our guests,

We want to make a proper parking area for our guests,

we've got a leak in the swimming pool we need to fix.

we've got a leak in the swimming pool we need to fix.

We're also thinking of doing a new en-suite into one of the bedrooms.

We're also thinking of doing a new en-suite into one of the bedrooms.

Before that, they're giving the ceiling of the new guest suite

Before that, they're giving the ceiling of the new guest suite

added grandeur with a reproduction period plaster rose they bought

added grandeur with a reproduction period plaster rose they bought

added grandeur with a reproduction period plaster rose they bought

for almost £300 and had to transport all the way from Scotland.

for almost £300 and had to transport all the way from Scotland.

for almost £300 and had to transport all the way from Scotland.

Steve just looked at me and said,

"What on Earth have you bought, here?"

"What on Earth have you bought, here?"

Well, I thought they might come in one piece, but actually,

Well, I thought they might come in one piece, but actually,

they come in about 15 pieces.

they come in about 15 pieces.

The chances of us getting that up on the ceiling is going to be

The chances of us getting that up on the ceiling is going to be

pretty slim. Yeah, interesting.

pretty slim. Yeah, interesting.

It will look amazing if we can get it up there without breaking it.

It will look amazing if we can get it up there without breaking it.

Steve has a background in engineering.

Steve has a background in engineering.

As a former military engineer myself,

As a former military engineer myself,

I reckon that's going to come in super handy.

I reckon that's going to come in super handy.

Right.

Now the scary bit.

To move the fragile centrepiece,

To move the fragile centrepiece,

Steve's fashioned a DIY solution out of board and clamps.

Steve's fashioned a DIY solution out of board and clamps.

Steve's fashioned a DIY solution out of board and clamps.

When we bought this, we actually said to the company,

When we bought this, we actually said to the company,

"Do you have any fitting instructions?"

"Do you have any fitting instructions?"

and their answer was, "It's really a professional's job."

and their answer was, "It's really a professional's job."

So in the end, we've just come up with our own plan.

So in the end, we've just come up with our own plan.

I've got more.

Careful. I've got it.

Yeah? OK.

How are we looking? Come my way slightly.

How are we looking? Come my way slightly.

That's it. Are you over? Yeah.

No breakages so far, Steve.

No breakages so far, Steve.

So far, so good.

Voila!

Yeah, I can't hear any cracking, so we're all right.

Yeah, I can't hear any cracking, so we're all right.

Moving the heavy rose through a 19th-century chateau

Moving the heavy rose through a 19th-century chateau

is a feat in itself.

I think I need to put my arm underneath this weight.

I think I need to put my arm underneath this weight.

No, as long as you...

I can hold it down, like that.

You hold it up. Try and lift it a bit higher, if you can. OK.

You hold it up. Try and lift it a bit higher, if you can. OK.

Spiral staircases don't help.

Spiral staircases don't help.

Yep, you OK? Yep, I'm fine. It's not heavy, is it?

Yep, you OK? Yep, I'm fine. It's not heavy, is it?

No, I'm just worried about it cracking in the middle.

No, I'm just worried about it cracking in the middle.

High over the cot.

Oh, cat's wanting to help. Yep.

Oh, cat's wanting to help. Yep.

Yes, Molly. You're being really helpful.

Yes, Molly. You're being really helpful.

OK, we're in. Yep.

OK, we're in. Yep.

Bit further. Oh, a bit further, sorry.

Bit further. Oh, a bit further, sorry.

Were you trying to help, hey?

Were you trying to help, hey?

Molly decides that curiosity killed the cat.

Molly decides that curiosity killed the cat.

What we're going to do is make a little structure here

What we're going to do is make a little structure here

and we're going to slowly lift it up. Yep.

and we're going to slowly lift it up. Yep.

We'll use our trolley jack, I think, to lift it.

We'll use our trolley jack, I think, to lift it.

To raise the delicate plaster of Paris rose to the ceiling,

To raise the delicate plaster of Paris rose to the ceiling,

they're going to use adjustable steel posts.

they're going to use adjustable steel posts.

So this is where you need... I'm going to have to get up higher.

So this is where you need... I'm going to have to get up higher.

OK? OK.

OK? OK.

Can you actually lift and put your pin in?

Can you actually lift and put your pin in?

I think I'd have to do one at a time.

Do you want me to try it on my own, first?

Try it with me.

Oh, I can get that in.

Yeah, put that one in there.

Lift it up more with me.

I can't get that in, whoa.

There we are, I'm in.

Adapt and overcome is our new motto, isn't it?

Adapt and overcome is our new motto, isn't it?

I think that might be the motto for a while.

I think that might be the motto for a while.

Now Steve's plan is to jack the rose up to the ceiling,

Now Steve's plan is to jack the rose up to the ceiling,

position the screw holes over the joists,

position the screw holes over the joists,

and glue and screw the whole thing into position.

and glue and screw the whole thing into position.

Easier said than done.

I wonder how the professionals do it, 'cos I still don't know.

Have you got it, Angela? Got what?

The actual frame.

Wait, wait, wait. Wait, wait, wait.

All secure.

Don't tip it like that. Whoa, whoa.

Don't fall over that thing.

Wait, wait, wait, Steve, let's see where it is.

Wait, wait, wait, Steve, let's see where it is.

The cat definitely doesn't look very happy.

The cat definitely doesn't look very happy.

It's so close.

With the rose at ceiling height, on goes the glue.

With the rose at ceiling height, on goes the glue.

Now we've just got to put some screws in,

Now we've just got to put some screws in,

just to give it that extra support.

It's up and it's actually stayed in one piece.

It's up and it's actually stayed in one piece.

So far so good, it looked touch and go there for a moment.

So far so good, it looked touch and go there for a moment.

Time for a cup of tea, let's go.

Definitely time for a cup of tea. Put the kettle on. Yeah.

Definitely time for a cup of tea. Put the kettle on. Yeah.

Once the glue has set overnight,

Once the glue has set overnight,

they'll remove the support from the rose.

After all of that, I really hope it sticks.

After all of that, I really hope it sticks.

425 miles north is the magnificent Chateau Flore.

425 miles north is the magnificent Chateau Flore.

425 miles north is the magnificent Chateau Flore.

It has 44 rooms,

It has 44 rooms,

a 27-acre estate with extensive formal gardens,

a 27-acre estate with extensive formal gardens,

a 27-acre estate with extensive formal gardens,

and a three quarters of an acre maze.

and a three quarters of an acre maze.

It's been owned by Alex's family

It's been owned by Alex's family

since it was built in the 18th century.

since it was built in the 18th century.

It's now also home to British-born wife Ithaca, an events organiser.

It's now also home to British-born wife Ithaca, an events organiser.

It's now also home to British-born wife Ithaca, an events organiser.

We would never sell it.

Some people ask, "Is it for sale? What is the price?"

Some people ask, "Is it for sale? What is the price?"

You say, "Actually, it's never been priced."

You say, "Actually, it's never been priced."

Alex, who runs an insurance business, and Ithaca, pour

Alex, who runs an insurance business, and Ithaca, pour

the money they earn into the upkeep, so they can pass on the chateau

the money they earn into the upkeep, so they can pass on the chateau

the money they earn into the upkeep, so they can pass on the chateau

to the next generation, daughter Violet, 14, and son Jules, 11.

to the next generation, daughter Violet, 14, and son Jules, 11.

to the next generation, daughter Violet, 14, and son Jules, 11.

We really have to do the maximum to be able to keep it in the family.

We really have to do the maximum to be able to keep it in the family.

We really have to do the maximum to be able to keep it in the family.

And that's really important.

Located 40 miles from Calais, this home's running costs are huge.

Located 40 miles from Calais, this home's running costs are huge.

Located 40 miles from Calais, this home's running costs are huge.

This place is like an old relative that you really cherish

This place is like an old relative that you really cherish

and so you're just taking care of her and paying for her bills,

and so you're just taking care of her and paying for her bills,

paying for her wig, sort of lipstick here and there.

paying for her wig, sort of lipstick here and there.

To say, I'm doing something and this is going to have an impact

To say, I'm doing something and this is going to have an impact

and this will help the next generation.

and this will help the next generation.

And even with their jobs,

they struggle to stay on top of the upkeep.

they struggle to stay on top of the upkeep.

Their latest worry is the 800 square metre roof

Their latest worry is the 800 square metre roof

of rare and expensive tiles.

of rare and expensive tiles.

So, I want to show you this one because it's really worrying me.

So, I want to show you this one because it's really worrying me.

I stuffed some plastic.

See, all this here is completely soaked through.

See, all this here is completely soaked through.

Oh, yeah, oh, my God.

Oh, yeah, oh, my God.

There's water everywhere.

There's some fungus coming already.

There's some fungus coming already.

It's now very wet, you see.

It's now very wet, you see.

And under that, it's all rotten.

And under that, it's all rotten.

It's not the only hole, actually, there are many others.

It's not the only hole, actually, there are many others.

Ithaca and Alex plan to raise money with a big annual antiques

Ithaca and Alex plan to raise money with a big annual antiques

Ithaca and Alex plan to raise money with a big annual antiques

and flower fair in three months' time,

and flower fair in three months' time,

but that will only cover a fraction of the costs.

but that will only cover a fraction of the costs.

The roof is going to cost the price of a very nice house, 400K.

The roof is going to cost the price of a very nice house, 400K.

We can't afford it.

We can't afford it.

So, we just can't do it.

They've applied for a historic building grant

They've applied for a historic building grant

to help fund the repair.

If it doesn't come through, the 18th-century chateau could be

If it doesn't come through, the 18th-century chateau could be

If it doesn't come through, the 18th-century chateau could be

exposed to further damage from the elements.

exposed to further damage from the elements.

We're just hoping that we're going to get the OK within,

We're just hoping that we're going to get the OK within,

you know, a month, and just get going.

you know, a month, and just get going.

It's really, really urgent.

The roof is falling apart.

And outside, there's more very obvious repairs needed.

And outside, there's more very obvious repairs needed.

And outside, there's more very obvious repairs needed.

This is a perfect example of why the roof needs

This is a perfect example of why the roof needs

to be done as soon as possible.

Cracks, there are cracks coming on the facade, here.

Cracks, there are cracks coming on the facade, here.

Cracks, there are cracks coming on the facade, here.

Another big crack coming, which is even more worrying,

Another big crack coming, which is even more worrying,

because now it's very obvious.

You can put your fingers in the crack.

You can put your fingers in the crack.

Now we can see some other cracks coming.

Now we can see some other cracks coming.

Slowly, but surely, they're here.

Slowly, but surely, they're here.

With part of the family home literally cracking up,

With part of the family home literally cracking up,

funds are needed very soon.

Coming up...

Out with the old...

I wonder how many years of dust is behind there.

I wonder how many years of dust is behind there.

..and in with the new...

Microwave, kettle, toaster, deep fat fryer.

Microwave, kettle, toaster, deep fat fryer.

That would be smashing, Paul.

..as new chateau owners pull out all the stops

..as new chateau owners pull out all the stops

to make Mum and Dad feel at home.

To new kitchens! To new kitchens and apartments!

To new kitchens! To new kitchens and apartments!

To new kitchens! To new kitchens and apartments!

And Steve and Angela...

No!

That one there is going to fall, I'm telling you now, it's going to fall.

That one there is going to fall, I'm telling you now, it's going to fall.

That one there is going to fall, I'm telling you now, it's going to fall.

..could come unstuck over the ceiling rose.

..could come unstuck over the ceiling rose.

Oh, gosh, why on Earth did I choose one like this?

Oh, gosh, why on Earth did I choose one like this?

Set in the glorious landscapes of western France

Set in the glorious landscapes of western France

is 45-room Chateau de Sauge,

is 45-room Chateau de Sauge,

home to Brits Donna and Paul,

who moved in less than three months ago.

The dream behind the chateau is to be our own bosses

The dream behind the chateau is to be our own bosses

and to restore the chateau to its former glory.

and to restore the chateau to its former glory.

and to restore the chateau to its former glory.

There's a certain romantic element

and a fairy tale aspect of chateau ownership.

and a fairy tale aspect of chateau ownership.

We just want to make it successful

We just want to make it successful

and be working for ourselves in an environment that we love.

and be working for ourselves in an environment that we love.

The early 17th-century chateau is

The early 17th-century chateau is

located 50 miles from La Rochelle and was snapped

located 50 miles from La Rochelle and was snapped

up by the couple for £279,000,

up by the couple for £279,000,

up by the couple for £279,000,

albeit in a very neglected state.

albeit in a very neglected state.

Yeah, that needs work.

Yeah, this is pretty bad.

They want to run it as a B&B and events venue,

They want to run it as a B&B and events venue,

so they've created a new catering kitchen at the hub of the chateau.

so they've created a new catering kitchen at the hub of the chateau.

I'm very excited to start baking.

I'm very excited to start baking.

I don't want to renovate,

I want to cook.

They've also been joined by Donna's parents, Anne and Brian,

They've also been joined by Donna's parents, Anne and Brian,

who've been living in makeshift accommodation for 11 weeks.

who've been living in makeshift accommodation for 11 weeks.

At first, it was really hard.

At first, it was really hard.

We felt, "Did we do the right thing, you know?" Yes, it was hard work.

We felt, "Did we do the right thing, you know?" Yes, it was hard work.

Everything was so cold, and we thought, you know,

Everything was so cold, and we thought, you know,

"Gosh, what have we done?"

So now, with Anne and Brian struggling to cope,

So now, with Anne and Brian struggling to cope,

Donna and Paul are putting some renovations on hold,

Donna and Paul are putting some renovations on hold,

to turn a wing of the chateau into a cosy, self-contained apartment.

to turn a wing of the chateau into a cosy, self-contained apartment.

That's going to sit out that far, yeah?

That's going to sit out that far, yeah?

That would be fine, yeah.

You might even get the microwave sat on there.

You might even get the microwave sat on there.

Well, I was planning my microwave over there.

Well, I was planning my microwave over there.

Over here's fine.

See? My mum's all organised, she knows where everything's going.

See? My mum's all organised, she knows where everything's going.

What else I've got? My hotplate, my...?

What else I've got? My hotplate, my...?

Micro, kettle, toaster.

Yeah. Deep fat fryer.

Yeah. Deep fat fryer.

Yeah. That would be smashing, Paul.

Yeah. That would be smashing, Paul.

They're hoping the new accommodation will help quell

They're hoping the new accommodation will help quell

Mum and Dad's homesickness.

Mum and Dad's homesickness.

It's what's kept us going, isn't it?

Knowing that we're going to get our own apartment.

Knowing that we're going to get our own apartment.

Yeah, it's took a long time, though.

I think you can see from my parents' faces how

I think you can see from my parents' faces how

they are really looking forward to it being their little home.

they are really looking forward to it being their little home.

they are really looking forward to it being their little home.

And I think it's going to be a really nice, warm,

And I think it's going to be a really nice, warm,

cosy space for them.

cosy space for them.

It'll be nice to just disappear every now and then

It'll be nice to just disappear every now and then

and have our own place.

And they'll be glad to see the back of us, for a little bit, I think.

And they'll be glad to see the back of us, for a little bit, I think.

Yeah. Yeah.

Money's tight, so Donna and Paul are stripping

Money's tight, so Donna and Paul are stripping

units from the old kitchen to re-use them for Anne and Brian's new pad.

units from the old kitchen to re-use them for Anne and Brian's new pad.

units from the old kitchen to re-use them for Anne and Brian's new pad.

God knows what they kept in there.

God knows what they kept in there.

That's not very nice.

I wonder how many years of dust is behind there.

I wonder how many years of dust is behind there.

First, they need lots of elbow grease.

First, they need lots of elbow grease.

Oh, there's actually a white bit underneath all this.

Oh, there's actually a white bit underneath all this.

I thought they would be really greasy and mucky, but that's not...

I thought they would be really greasy and mucky, but that's not...

I thought they would be really greasy and mucky, but that's not...

Bit of undercoat on and a bit of paint, should look smashing.

Bit of undercoat on and a bit of paint, should look smashing.

There are still floors to finish, a kitchen to fit,

There are still floors to finish, a kitchen to fit,

and lots of decorating to do until Mum and Dad have their own place.

and lots of decorating to do until Mum and Dad have their own place.

and lots of decorating to do until Mum and Dad have their own place.

But one thing that's better cold is a glass of rose after a

But one thing that's better cold is a glass of rose after a

hard day's work.

Remember the last time we did this? When we moved in?

Remember the last time we did this? When we moved in?

Yes, but it was warmer, wasn't it?

Yes, but it was warmer, wasn't it?

It was warmer, and we had champagne, so things have gone downhill.

It was warmer, and we had champagne, so things have gone downhill.

To better things, anyway.

To having less work to do today than we did last time

To having less work to do today than we did last time

we toasted on the terrace.

To new kitchens.

Nearly 150 miles south, it's time for Steve and Angela to find

Nearly 150 miles south, it's time for Steve and Angela to find

Nearly 150 miles south, it's time for Steve and Angela to find

out if their DIY fix of the ceiling rose has held up overnight.

out if their DIY fix of the ceiling rose has held up overnight.

Well, that's a good sign, it's still up. It's still up.

Well, that's a good sign, it's still up. It's still up.

LAUGHTER

Is it going to stay...?

It looks like it's stuck up there, Steven.

It looks like it's stuck up there, Steven.

Let's release these all the way down.

Let's release these all the way down.

Let it come down together.

That looks OK.

Wee. That's it.

Wee. That's it.

Hey. It's up.

Hey. It's up.

It's really lovely.

So far, so good, but every rose has its thorn.

So far, so good, but every rose has its thorn.

There are eight more delicate decorations that need

There are eight more delicate decorations that need

carefully glueing over the screw holes.

carefully glueing over the screw holes.

It's really important that this bit will stick on.

It's really important that this bit will stick on.

With the help of his makeshift lifting contraption,

With the help of his makeshift lifting contraption,

Steve tries to put all the pieces in place, ready for glueing.

Steve tries to put all the pieces in place, ready for glueing.

A bit more, a bit more, that's it.

A bit more, a bit more, that's it.

Any time today would be good.

Yeah, well...

As the rose came from Scotland, if they break any of the plaster

As the rose came from Scotland, if they break any of the plaster

pieces, they're going to be very difficult to replace.

pieces, they're going to be very difficult to replace.

You ready? Right, just a sec.

Steve, that one's falling out, quickly, there. That one.

Steve, that one's falling out, quickly, there. That one.

Oh! Ah!

No! It's all right.

No! It's all right.

Can you go up a bit more, Angela? On that right-hand.

Can you go up a bit more, Angela? On that right-hand.

No, the other one. That one.

No, the other one. That one.

I'm not happy. That one there is going to fall.

I'm not happy. That one there is going to fall.

I'm telling you now, it's going to fall.

I'm telling you now, it's going to fall.

But every time you put your hand in, Steve... Whoa! Steven!

But every time you put your hand in, Steve... Whoa! Steven!

Every time you put your hand in, it moves another one out of place.

Every time you put your hand in, it moves another one out of place.

Every time you put your hand in, it moves another one out of place.

It looks absolutely spot-on.

It looks absolutely spot-on.

Time to add some glue.

It's just that flat bit that touches.

It's just that flat bit that touches.

Oh, gosh, why on earth did I choose one like this?

Oh, gosh, why on earth did I choose one like this?

Oh, gosh, why on earth did I choose one like this?

I don't know, Angela.

Quick, jack it up before anything moves.

Quick, jack it up before anything moves.

Is that enough? No more?

Is that enough? No more?

Hello?

Just that little bit more.

But you're putting pressure on it, now.

But you're putting pressure on it, now.

It looks like it's...

It's sort of in the right place.

OK.

Another nail-biting night ahead.

Hopefully, tomorrow we could fit the light. Yeah.

Hopefully, tomorrow we could fit the light. Yeah.

And then I can never see another ceiling rose in my life again.

And then I can never see another ceiling rose in my life again.

And then I can never see another ceiling rose in my life again.

I know where you're coming from, Steve.

I know where you're coming from, Steve.

420 miles north-east at Chateau Flore,

420 miles north-east at Chateau Flore,

there's good news about the grant that's contributing to roof repairs.

there's good news about the grant that's contributing to roof repairs.

They're here.

The money's come through and work on the roof can finally begin.

The money's come through and work on the roof can finally begin.

First stage is to erect scaffolding.

I am very relieved the scaffoldings are here. It's been such a

I am very relieved the scaffoldings are here. It's been such a

long process that now they are coming, I'm really just getting...

long process that now they are coming, I'm really just getting...

It's a dream coming to reality.

It's a dream coming to reality.

The bad news is the scaffolding will stay for the next 14 months.

The bad news is the scaffolding will stay for the next 14 months.

The bad news is the scaffolding will stay for the next 14 months.

Not ideal with the summer fair just two months away.

Not ideal with the summer fair just two months away.

Having the scaffolding and the roof done at the same time as our events

Having the scaffolding and the roof done at the same time as our events

Having the scaffolding and the roof done at the same time as our events

is not what I would have chosen, but we just have to deal with it.

is not what I would have chosen, but we just have to deal with it.

For the summer fair,

Ithaca's come up with a new scheme for the chateau gardens.

Ithaca's come up with a new scheme for the chateau gardens.

We had this idea of mixing three or four different

We had this idea of mixing three or four different

types of lavender, quite a formal pattern.

types of lavender, quite a formal pattern.

To give the path added grandeur, they're going to plant

To give the path added grandeur, they're going to plant

it in a geometric French-style called parterre.

it in a geometric French-style called parterre.

It has to have that wow effect.

It has to enhance the house.

British-born Ithaca has decided not to use French lavender,

British-born Ithaca has decided not to use French lavender,

instead sourcing all the plants from Kent.

instead sourcing all the plants from Kent.

I wanted to show the French that yes, lavender could be grown

I wanted to show the French that yes, lavender could be grown

I wanted to show the French that yes, lavender could be grown

north of France and yes, actually, it comes from the UK.

north of France and yes, actually, it comes from the UK.

north of France and yes, actually, it comes from the UK.

north of France and yes, actually, it comes from the UK.

For them, lavender is just French.

For them, lavender is just French.

It's lavender, it's la Provence.

It's lavender, it's la Provence.

Now for the tricky bit -

transferring the plan from the drawing to the ground.

transferring the plan from the drawing to the ground.

I just want to check if it's consistent.

I just want to check if it's consistent.

626.

OK, that's 630.

Trying to follow this,

but the problem is we've just discovered that the alley

but the problem is we've just discovered that the alley

isn't centred and it's not even the same size everywhere.

isn't centred and it's not even the same size everywhere.

Meaning, it's just not working.

Meaning, it's just not working.

With the existing path not being geometric,

With the existing path not being geometric,

that's going to cause them a problem.

that's going to cause them a problem.

OK. Moustique, no.

OK. Moustique, no.

HE LAUGHS

No, you're not holding it.

Can you hold it with your hand?

Thank you. Well, the cat is tugging at it.

Thank you. Well, the cat is tugging at it.

Moustique. Get off. Come on.

Spray-marking the flower beds means they're committing

Spray-marking the flower beds means they're committing

to their interpretation of the design.

If you're tired, you tell me.

Honey, honey, stop, stop, stop, stop. No.

Honey, honey, stop, stop, stop, stop. No.

Highly technical equipment, operated under Alex's strict instructions.

Highly technical equipment, operated under Alex's strict instructions.

Highly technical equipment, operated under Alex's strict instructions.

From here, you're going to spray paint everywhere.

From here, you're going to spray paint everywhere.

You have to be really, like, close.

You have to be really, like, close.

OK.

Precise, precise.

Precise, precise.

OK.

Given the size of the task,

mathematical precision soon goes out the window.

mathematical precision soon goes out the window.

Seems a bit, a bit larger on the left.

Seems a bit, a bit larger on the left.

Not at all mathematical.

HE LAUGHS

One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

OK.

This one is slightly...

This one is slightly...

I'm off 40 cm.

I'm off 40 cm.

Huh.

Alex, it doesn't really matter. 40 cm.

Alex, it doesn't really matter. 40 cm.

It does not.

Let's go.

It's a bit of a nightmare, actually.

It's not a nightmare, it's fun.

It's not a nightmare, it's fun.

Nightmare or not, they've got their work cut out to have this job

Nightmare or not, they've got their work cut out to have this job

done in time for the fair in just two months' time.

done in time for the fair in just two months' time.

Coming up...

Mum and Dad's apartment is proving tricky to deliver for Donna

Mum and Dad's apartment is proving tricky to deliver for Donna

and Paul.

You all right, you got it? Yep.

It's all go here, as usual, isn't it?

It's all go here, as usual, isn't it?

Fitting the ceiling rose sees Angela trying to reach new heights.

Fitting the ceiling rose sees Angela trying to reach new heights.

It's actually quite exciting.

It's actually quite exciting.

I can see my plan that I've been thinking about for months

I can see my plan that I've been thinking about for months

coming together.

And my family go hopping mad.

And my family go hopping mad.

I got one.

I found one.

Mummy, see if you can find one.

In western France, Donna and Paul have now fitted

and painted all the kitchen units in the apartment they've been

and painted all the kitchen units in the apartment they've been

creating for Donna's parents.

creating for Donna's parents.

Today, they're expecting a very British delivery.

Today, they're expecting a very British delivery.

Important question - tea or coffee?

Ooh, coffee, two sugars, please. Same. Coffee, two sugars.

Ooh, coffee, two sugars, please. Same. Coffee, two sugars.

Trading standards, that is.

Minimum requirements, yeah?

Minimum requirements, yeah?

Anne and Brian would like wall-to-wall fitted carpet.

Anne and Brian would like wall-to-wall fitted carpet.

Not something you see a lot of in chateaux,

Not something you see a lot of in chateaux,

as rugs over hard floors are considered easier to keep clean.

as rugs over hard floors are considered easier to keep clean.

as rugs over hard floors are considered easier to keep clean.

The carpet's made it to the chateau.

The carpet's made it to the chateau.

Hopefully, it will get through the window.

Hopefully, it will get through the window.

It's the wrong colour. That's what you've got, now.

It's the wrong colour. That's what you've got, now.

It's off the van.

Got it? Yeah.

The cost of the carpet also covers fitting.

The cost of the carpet also covers fitting.

But there's a problem.

We knew the carpet was being delivered today,

We knew the carpet was being delivered today,

but we've also got an opportunity to get it installed.

but we've also got an opportunity to get it installed.

But frankly, we're not ready for that.

But frankly, we're not ready for that.

The floor still needs to be levelled.

The floor still needs to be levelled.

So that's just the transition, here,

So that's just the transition, here,

it obviously goes up to the tiles and cuts into here.

This bit here, we haven't finished screeing that.

This bit here, we haven't finished screeing that.

So we'll be going over that bridge, there? Yes.

So we'll be going over that bridge, there? Yes.

So they've come up with a solution.

So they've come up with a solution.

Well, if you cut it, so it's... We could fit it.

Well, if you cut it, so it's... We could fit it.

That's fine. Fit it up to here?

That's fine. Fit it up to here?

And we'll just pull it back. We'll leave you a can of spray.

That's fine.

Once that's gone off, just spray around the edges,

spray the back of the carpet. Yep.

spray the back of the carpet. Yep.

Good. Brilliant.

The fitters will lay as much of the carpet as possible.

The fitters will lay as much of the carpet as possible.

It's all go here, as usual, isn't it?

It's all go here, as usual, isn't it?

Leaving some sections unglued, so Donna and Paul

Leaving some sections unglued, so Donna and Paul

can finish their levelling work.

can finish their levelling work.

That certainly wouldn't be me, I'd be, "Ooh!"

That certainly wouldn't be me, I'd be, "Ooh!"

I was having nightmares over having to do it myself,

I was having nightmares over having to do it myself,

thinking, "one wrong cut, and that's it, isn't it?"

thinking, "one wrong cut, and that's it, isn't it?"

I mean, we of course, would have fitted it as quick as this.

I mean, we of course, would have fitted it as quick as this.

It would have taken us three days.

Yeah.

It's much nicer watching other people fit it!

It's much nicer watching other people fit it!

It's rare for them to just be watching.

It's rare for them to just be watching.

I feel like, just seeing this down, it's given me a boost.

I feel like, just seeing this down, it's given me a boost.

Just trying to get the rest finished, now.

We can come and live in this bit.

Oh, your mum and dad are here.

Yeah, it's nicer than what we've got.

Yeah, it's nicer than what we've got.

Good luck with everything. Thanks very much.

Good stuff. See you.

Good stuff. See you.

Take care.

Yay, we've got a carpet!

Finally, we've got a carpet.

Next job is making sure Mum and Dad can shut the door on their own,

Next job is making sure Mum and Dad can shut the door on their own,

separate home.

Why are the hinges on that side?

Why are the hinges on that side?

'Cos the door opens that way.

It doesn't, it opens against here.

No, it doesn't.

It's a left-opening door.

Paul's bought a door that includes the frame and hinges.

Paul's bought a door that includes the frame and hinges.

But that means they can't change the direction the door opens.

But that means they can't change the direction the door opens.

But that means they can't change the direction the door opens.

I just always thought it would have been better opening against a wall.

I just always thought it would have been better opening against a wall.

I just always thought it would have been better opening against a wall.

I know, but you never communicated that to me.

' Cos we got left-opening doors.

I know I didn't go and check,

I know I didn't go and check,

I just thought we were thinking on the same thing.

I just thought we were thinking on the same thing.

Not only did you not check, you never told me.

Not only did you not check, you never told me.

Telepathy!

At least it's easier to put the door up.

At least it's easier to put the door up.

Enter!

Can I come in?

It may be almost ready for Mum and Dad,

It may be almost ready for Mum and Dad,

but every day spent working on the apartment is a day

but every day spent working on the apartment is a day

not working on projects that could bring in funds.

not working on projects that could bring in funds.

We've got so many other rooms that we really need to get on with, now.

We've got so many other rooms that we really need to get on with, now.

We've got so many other rooms that we really need to get on with, now.

Income-generating rooms.

We need this done, and...

Yeah, the end is in sight.

..and ready.

Ready to move on.

Nearly 300 miles north-east, Ithaca and Alex have dug the beds.

Nearly 300 miles north-east, Ithaca and Alex have dug the beds.

Nearly 300 miles north-east, Ithaca and Alex have dug the beds.

Now, they need to plant the 480 English lavender bushes

Now, they need to plant the 480 English lavender bushes

to an exact design.

The pressure is on.

And I'm a perfectionist.

For that, Ithaca's roped in friends, Kate and Pascale.

For that, Ithaca's roped in friends, Kate and Pascale.

For that, Ithaca's roped in friends, Kate and Pascale.

Hi, Alex. Ca va?

OK, guys, well, thanks for coming.

I really appreciate it.

I really appreciate it.

Don't look so worried!

To keep the strict geometric design of the flowerbeds,

To keep the strict geometric design of the flowerbeds,

it's important to try to plant each individual shrub accurately.

it's important to try to plant each individual shrub accurately.

it's important to try to plant each individual shrub accurately.

It has to be from centre to centre to the lavender, 50cm,

It has to be from centre to centre to the lavender, 50cm,

It has to be from centre to centre to the lavender, 50cm,

a minimum, OK?

a minimum, OK?

If one lavender is out of place, I don't think it's going to be

If one lavender is out of place, I don't think it's going to be

much of a problem, but if you're off five or six lavenders,

much of a problem, but if you're off five or six lavenders,

much of a problem, but if you're off five or six lavenders,

then from above, it's going to look really...

then from above, it's going to look really...

Well, it won't look precise.

And Ithaca's not afraid of whipping her team into shape to get

And Ithaca's not afraid of whipping her team into shape to get

the desired results.

I would say the border should be there.

I would say the border should be there.

Ithaca, she is bossy, but to do that kind of job, you need to be bossy.

Ithaca, she is bossy, but to do that kind of job, you need to be bossy.

Ithaca, she is bossy, but to do that kind of job, you need to be bossy.

You cannot be too lazy or too soft.

You cannot be too lazy or too soft.

You need to be bossy, in a nice way.

You need to be bossy, in a nice way.

You know what, guys?

It's really nice being with you and working and you helping us

It's really nice being with you and working and you helping us

do this lavender, it's so good, this teamwork.

do this lavender, it's so good, this teamwork.

Barely a third of the lavender planted,

Barely a third of the lavender planted,

rain clouds appear on the horizon.

rain clouds appear on the horizon.

We're not sure about the weather.

It might rain and if it rains, it won't be the same story.

It might rain and if it rains, it won't be the same story.

It might rain and if it rains, it won't be the same story.

Yep, rain is coming.

While Ithaca and friends take shelter...

While Ithaca and friends take shelter...

Bye!

..Alex soldiers on alone.

I just have to carry on.

I'm a gardener, I like to be outside,

I'm a gardener, I like to be outside,

I like to be in the nature and I'm very fascinated,

I like to be in the nature and I'm very fascinated,

because even if it rains, the birds keep on singing.

because even if it rains, the birds keep on singing.

because even if it rains, the birds keep on singing.

Exactly.

And we all know, you plant wet and sow dry.

And we all know, you plant wet and sow dry.

Alex, you look completely...

Alex, you look completely...

Muddy.

Oh, you just...

Just muddy. You look very muddy.

Just muddy. You look very muddy.

Look, even...

You're muddy everywhere.

Along with mud, Alex brings news about a serious miscalculation.

Along with mud, Alex brings news about a serious miscalculation.

Along with mud, Alex brings news about a serious miscalculation.

The triangle, you know the triangle in the middle?

The triangle, you know the triangle in the middle?

Yeah? Are far too big, far too large.

Yeah? Are far too big, far too large.

That means we don't have enough lavender.

That means we don't have enough lavender.

It's like lacking 50 or something, maybe more.

It's like lacking 50 or something, maybe more.

I think it was too large, that's for sure.

Getting more plants from the UK at this stage could be a real

Getting more plants from the UK at this stage could be a real

race against time.

We're gonna either have to order more lavender. Yes.

We're gonna either have to order more lavender. Yes.

We're gonna either have to order more lavender. Yes.

Or we're gonna have to reduce the size of the middle section

Or we're gonna have to reduce the size of the middle section

drastically and then it's not going to look good.

drastically and then it's not going to look good.

If you say we have to order more, we'll order more.

If you say we have to order more, we'll order more.

I'm waiting for you, OK?

Ithaca heads out and soon discovers where the error lies.

Ithaca heads out and soon discovers where the error lies.

What's happened is that our triangle...

What's happened is that our triangle...

What's happened is that our triangle...

Our triangle shape is way too big.

Our triangle shape is way too big.

Yes, this part is far too large.

Yes, this part is far too large.

We should just stop here, you see?

This triangle is way too big to match the drawing

This triangle is way too big to match the drawing

and to match the number of lavender plants that we've ordered.

and to match the number of lavender plants that we've ordered.

and to match the number of lavender plants that we've ordered.

One option is to reduce the size of the bed, but Ithaca's not happy.

One option is to reduce the size of the bed, but Ithaca's not happy.

One option is to reduce the size of the bed, but Ithaca's not happy.

It's going to be a very small bed.

It's going to be a very small bed.

It's just...

It's just...

It's just stopping here, rather than here.

It's just stopping here, rather than here.

OK, fine.

I just want it to look beautiful.

I just want it to look beautiful.

I'm drawing a line here.

Let's hope the lavender measures up in time for the big summer fair.

Let's hope the lavender measures up in time for the big summer fair.

Let's hope the lavender measures up in time for the big summer fair.

Being custodians of a chateau's sizeable country estate

Being custodians of a chateau's sizeable country estate

brings lots of responsibility and hard work.

brings lots of responsibility and hard work.

It's all made worthwhile, though, when you get time to down tools

It's all made worthwhile, though, when you get time to down tools

and enjoy the benefits of a nature reserve on the doorstep,

and enjoy the benefits of a nature reserve on the doorstep,

and enjoy the benefits of a nature reserve on the doorstep,

and since we've been at the chateau, June has always been a special time.

and since we've been at the chateau, June has always been a special time.

and since we've been at the chateau, June has always been a special time.

Now, look at the ground, tell me what you can see.

Now, look at the ground, tell me what you can see.

I can see rocks.

I can see rocks.

You can see rocks.

Can you see anything moving?

Look! Look, what?

Look! Look, what?

Timmy! Timmy! Timmy toad.

Timmy! Timmy! Timmy toad.

Timmy toad!

Timmy toad!

The common toad, AKA Timmy, is found all over France.

The common toad, AKA Timmy, is found all over France.

The common toad, AKA Timmy, is found all over France.

But how many are there? See how many we can see.

But how many are there? See how many we can see.

Look!

The spring spawn has turned into tiny toadlets

The spring spawn has turned into tiny toadlets

and they appear at the front of our chateau in their thousands...

and they appear at the front of our chateau in their thousands...

and they appear at the front of our chateau in their thousands...

How many can you see, bouncing there? 100.

How many can you see, bouncing there? 100.

Count them in French for me.

Un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq, six, sept, cent.

Un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq, six, sept, cent.

..looking for a cool spot in the undergrowth to make their lair.

..looking for a cool spot in the undergrowth to make their lair.

Oh, look, look all around your feet, they're all over the place.

Oh, look, look all around your feet, they're all over the place.

Look over here, Arthur, I can see hundreds.

Look over here, Arthur, I can see hundreds.

This is Timmy, but I don't want to squash Timmy.

This is Timmy, but I don't want to squash Timmy.

This is Timmy, but I don't want to squash Timmy.

Look, see there? They jump quite a long way, don't they?

Look, see there? They jump quite a long way, don't they?

With a mass migration of toadlets heading straight into the path

With a mass migration of toadlets heading straight into the path

of upcoming chateau renovations,

of upcoming chateau renovations,

it's time for a spot of wildlife rescue.

it's time for a spot of wildlife rescue.

Here we go, fill it full of Timmy toads, go on, everybody,

find Timmy toads.

find Timmy toads.

I'll put them all in here, so we can find it.

I'll put them all in here, so we can find it.

Everyone rallies around to gather up the toadlets,

Everyone rallies around to gather up the toadlets,

so we can find them a more suitable home.

so we can find them a more suitable home.

I got one.

I found one!

Be very delicate with it.

Mummy, see if you can find one.

Mummy, see if you can find one.

There you go.

Oh, Daddy's found loads.

Oh, Daddy's found loads.

Oh, Daddy!

Oh, this is the place. Oh, there's loads here.

Oh, this is the place. Oh, there's loads here.

I found one!

Well done, Dor, put it here in the box.

Well done, Dor, put it here in the box.

That's amazing.

They're all running away at a rate of knots,

you actually have to chase them.

you actually have to chase them.

These tiny Timmies may be only around 12 weeks old

These tiny Timmies may be only around 12 weeks old

and one centimetre long, but they've already turned from vegetarian

and one centimetre long, but they've already turned from vegetarian

and one centimetre long, but they've already turned from vegetarian

tadpoles to meat-eaters and are the gardener's friend.

tadpoles to meat-eaters and are the gardener's friend.

tadpoles to meat-eaters and are the gardener's friend.

Do you know what they eat in France? What?

Do you know what they eat in France? What?

Frogs' legs.

Frogs' legs.

Frogs' legs?

If they survive all the hazards, including our hungry herons...

If they survive all the hazards, including our hungry herons...

Look how many are in there, see? Count them.

Look how many are in there, see? Count them.

Whoa!

1,2,3, there's 100.

1,2,3, there's 100.

They'll be ready to spawn another generation in three years' time.

They'll be ready to spawn another generation in three years' time.

They'll be ready to spawn another generation in three years' time.

Right, Arthur, Arthur?

We'll let Timmy toads go over here, come over here, son.

We'll let Timmy toads go over here, come over here, son.

Are we going to let them all go?

Yeah. Are you ready? No.

Yeah. Are you ready? No.

They're coming out, now, look.

They're coming out, now, look.

The Timmy toads are all going to be free now and that's good.

The Timmy toads are all going to be free now and that's good.

270 miles south of our place, it's crunch time for Angela and Steve,

270 miles south of our place, it's crunch time for Angela and Steve,

270 miles south of our place, it's crunch time for Angela and Steve,

as they're about to find out if the final pieces of their ceiling rose

as they're about to find out if the final pieces of their ceiling rose

have stuck, and are in the right places.

have stuck, and are in the right places.

Well, it's still up at the minute, Steve,

Well, it's still up at the minute, Steve,

so that's got to be 10% of the worry over.

so that's got to be 10% of the worry over.

Well, you're going to have to release the trolley jack.

Well, you're going to have to release the trolley jack.

Remember you've got to catch the bits as well, as they come down.

Remember you've got to catch the bits as well, as they come down.

Are you ready? Yeah, go on.

Is it coming down? Yeah, OK.

Is it coming down? Yeah, OK.

Yeah, that's fine.

Right, the moment of truth.

It's actually quite exciting.

I can see my plan, that I've been thinking about for months,

I can see my plan, that I've been thinking about for months,

I can see my plan, that I've been thinking about for months,

coming together.

It's still up anyway, ooh.

And doesn't that look grand?

And doesn't that look grand?

Voila!

Oh, my gosh, it's great!

Oh, my gosh, it's great!

I do love being married to an engineer.

I do love being married to an engineer.

I'm sure I've heard Angel say that, too.

I'm sure I've heard Angel say that, too.

I love it, I absolutely love it.

I love it, I absolutely love it.

How lined up are they all?

Well, I'm not even going to worry about that, to be fair.

They're all on the ceiling, and that's the main thing.

They're all on the ceiling, and that's the main thing.

Need to put the light up.

It is actually really heavy, this chandelier.

I know.

I don't want to knock it, you see.

Are you going now, with it?

I'll have a look.

I can't go any higher, I'm on my tiptoes.

Watch you don't knock anything off.

Watch you don't knock anything off.

What about there, somewhere?

Let me just stand away.

I just can't believe how beautiful it looks.

I just can't believe how beautiful it looks.

I really do want them in all the rooms now.

I really do want them in all the rooms now.

He's gonna kill me!

He's gonna kill me!

There we go. Ah, Steve.

Shall I go and put the power on? Yeah.

Shall I go and put the power on? Yeah.

Then you can see what happens. Oh, yeah, we're on.

Then you can see what happens. Oh, yeah, we're on.

And then there was light.

It's absolutely beautiful.

It's lovely, Steve. Wow.

It's lovely, Steve. Wow.

Oh, that's really good, isn't it?

Oh, that's really good, isn't it?

Thank you, Steve, honestly.

You're welcome.

It's worth it.

Job's a good 'un.

Sadly for Steve, Angela has six more bedroom ceilings still to play with.

Sadly for Steve, Angela has six more bedroom ceilings still to play with.

Sadly for Steve, Angela has six more bedroom ceilings still to play with.

Coming up..

Alex and Ithaca's fancy new lavender beds come under attack.

Alex and Ithaca's fancy new lavender beds come under attack.

Oh, what's this?

I think a dog has dug up...

I think a dog has dug up...

It's definitely lavender.

And the thing is, I don't know what colour it is.

And the thing is, I don't know what colour it is.

Hmmm.

Hmmm.

And it's a final push to get Mum and Dad's new apartment ready...

And it's a final push to get Mum and Dad's new apartment ready...

Actually, this bed throw was one my mum always admired,

Actually, this bed throw was one my mum always admired,

Actually, this bed throw was one my mum always admired,

so it's going back on.

so it's going back on.

..before it's finally unveiled.

..before it's finally unveiled.

I think it looks quite nice, actually.

I think it looks quite nice, actually.

Donna and Paul are putting B&B plans on hold

Donna and Paul are putting B&B plans on hold

to create a self-contained apartment,

where Donna's parents could feel more at home.

where Donna's parents could feel more at home.

It's what's kept us going, isn't it? Yeah. Knowing that we're going to

It's what's kept us going, isn't it? Yeah. Knowing that we're going to

get our own apartment. It's took a long time, though.

get our own apartment. It's took a long time, though.

The apartment is finally ready for some finishing touches.

The apartment is finally ready for some finishing touches.

Actually, this bed throw was one my mum always admired

Actually, this bed throw was one my mum always admired

Actually, this bed throw was one my mum always admired

and luckily, it's... The colour matches as well.

and luckily, it's... The colour matches as well.

SHE LAUGHS

So it's going back on.

After ten weeks of hard work, the apartment is finished.

After ten weeks of hard work, the apartment is finished.

After ten weeks of hard work, the apartment is finished.

But sadly, Donna's parents made the decision to return to the UK,

But sadly, Donna's parents made the decision to return to the UK,

But sadly, Donna's parents made the decision to return to the UK,

because as well as missing home,

because as well as missing home,

dad Brian has been suffering health problems.

dad Brian has been suffering health problems.

We had, you know, the news that my parents were going back to the UK.

We had, you know, the news that my parents were going back to the UK.

We had, you know, the news that my parents were going back to the UK.

We were a bit unsettled because of that, and...that was disappointing.

We were a bit unsettled because of that, and...that was disappointing.

We were a bit unsettled because of that, and...that was disappointing.

Rather than see their hard work go to waste,

Rather than see their hard work go to waste,

Donna and Paul have looked for the silver lining

Donna and Paul have looked for the silver lining

and come up with a plan to rent out the apartment,

and come up with a plan to rent out the apartment,

to bring in some much-needed income.

to bring in some much-needed income.

I think these were bought

in Dubai, actually.

And found their way

to a chateau in France.

Now, it's about dressing the space to attract online bookings.

Now, it's about dressing the space to attract online bookings.

Now, it's about dressing the space to attract online bookings.

It just looks that bit more homely.

It just looks that bit more homely.

It's how I would want to see it, anyway.

It's how I would want to see it, anyway.

I should have actually brought a bottle of wine up

and stood it there, as well.

Over the past ten weeks, they've plastered and painted,

Over the past ten weeks, they've plastered and painted,

fitted a kitchen and bathroom,

fitted a kitchen and bathroom,

and given the apartment its own front door.

and given the apartment its own front door.

THEY LAUGH

This was once a dark

and unloved space in a run-down wing of the chateau.

and unloved space in a run-down wing of the chateau.

Now it's self-contained, spacious and comfortable accommodation,

Now it's self-contained, spacious and comfortable accommodation,

ready for Donna and Paul to host paying guests.

ready for Donna and Paul to host paying guests.

Time to take some photos.

Quite nice with the beam, there.

Quite nice with the beam, there.

I'm just going onto one of the rental sites now, and, uh...

I'm just going onto one of the rental sites now, and, uh...

..upload the apartment.

..upload the apartment.

Obviously, my parents, I think, feel, you know, a bit guilty.

Obviously, my parents, I think, feel, you know, a bit guilty.

I think they're praying that we get some bookings.

I think they're praying that we get some bookings.

I think it looks quite nice, actually.

I think it looks quite nice, actually.

I'd rent it myself.

There we go, it's live.

There we go, it's live.

Just want some bookings now!

In the countryside around Calais in northern France,

In the countryside around Calais in northern France,

Ithaca and Alex have been preparing the chateau gardens

Ithaca and Alex have been preparing the chateau gardens

ready for their annual Antiques and Flower show,

ready for their annual Antiques and Flower show,

that's important to raise repair funds

that's important to raise repair funds

for their historic family home.

I'm getting slightly tired, I'll be honest.

I'm getting slightly tired, I'll be honest.

The lavender beds have now been planted.

The lavender beds have now been planted.

Hi, Stash.

Hi, oosty-woosty.

All that's needed is a decent watering.

All that's needed is a decent watering.

Well, Alex, today, is not here.

Well, Alex, today, is not here.

He's working, actually.

He's working, actually.

We both have full-time jobs and...

We both have full-time jobs and...

..it takes a lot of money to restore,

..it takes a lot of money to restore,

to rebuild and to improve the gardens.

to rebuild and to improve the gardens.

to rebuild and to improve the gardens.

So we do have to work a lot, and when we're not working at work,

So we do have to work a lot, and when we're not working at work,

So we do have to work a lot, and when we're not working at work,

well, we're working in the garden.

Great way to spend your free time.

I've taken my day off and I'm looking after our lavender.

I've taken my day off and I'm looking after our lavender.

I've taken my day off and I'm looking after our lavender.

Non.

Out.

There are 480 newly planted bushes that now need a regular drink

There are 480 newly planted bushes that now need a regular drink

There are 480 newly planted bushes that now need a regular drink

to get them through their first summer.

to get them through their first summer.

I'm making sure that we're not going to lose any.

I'm making sure that we're not going to lose any.

Drought isn't the only threat to young plants

Drought isn't the only threat to young plants

at this chateau, however.

Oh, what's this?

Hm.

I think our dog has dug up.

I think our dog has dug up.

It's definitely lavender.

It's definitely lavender.

And the thing is, I don't know what colour it is.

And the thing is, I don't know what colour it is.

Hmm.

I'm just going to plant this and we'll see what it gives.

I'm just going to plant this and we'll see what it gives.

I'm just going to plant this and we'll see what it gives.

Let's hope it's the right colour, in the right place.

Let's hope it's the right colour, in the right place.

We spent days drawing this pattern, digging it out,

We spent days drawing this pattern, digging it out,

turning the soil, digging, planting, measuring, measuring.

turning the soil, digging, planting, measuring, measuring.

It's so close to the chateau that it needs to look beautiful

It's so close to the chateau that it needs to look beautiful

It's so close to the chateau that it needs to look beautiful

and perfect at all times.

and perfect at all times.

Yogi, what are you doing?

What are you doing?

Just stop.

Oh, shoo! Go away!

Oh, shoo! Go away!

I love Yogi to bits, but she is so clumsy and heavy

I love Yogi to bits, but she is so clumsy and heavy

I love Yogi to bits, but she is so clumsy and heavy

and she just doesn't understand

and she just doesn't understand

that this is a beautiful lavender bed-to-be.

that this is a beautiful lavender bed-to-be.

While Yogi eyes up the lavender from the ground,

While Yogi eyes up the lavender from the ground,

Ithaca heads upstairs to get a bird's-eye view.

Ithaca heads upstairs to get a bird's-eye view.

What was once a plain gravel path

What was once a plain gravel path

has been laid out with geometric beds,

has been laid out with geometric beds,

and different colours of English lavender,

and different colours of English lavender,

chosen to complement the walls and roof of the 18th-century chateau.

chosen to complement the walls and roof of the 18th-century chateau.

chosen to complement the walls and roof of the 18th-century chateau.

This looks so beautiful.

This looks so beautiful.

I'm going to take a picture..

I'm going to take a picture..

..and send this to my friend who helped

..and send this to my friend who helped

so that they see how beautiful it is.

Finally, Ithaca can put the lavender to bed,

Finally, Ithaca can put the lavender to bed,

but there's still lots to do over the next eight weeks

but there's still lots to do over the next eight weeks

if the Antiques and Flower fair is to be a success.

if the Antiques and Flower fair is to be a success.

Next time....

What can go wrong?

..Angela and Steve have a difference in direction.

..Angela and Steve have a difference in direction.

I can't see, though, in the digger, what, where...

I can't see, though, in the digger, what, where...

I know, well, that's why I'm talking. I know, it's OK.

I know, well, that's why I'm talking. I know, it's OK.

Donna and Paul hit a stumbling block meeting building rules.

Donna and Paul hit a stumbling block meeting building rules.

The structural opening is only 20, 30 mil larger than the plasterboard,

The structural opening is only 20, 30 mil larger than the plasterboard,

The structural opening is only 20, 30 mil larger than the plasterboard,

so that's not a good sign.

I race Arthur to some low-hanging fruit.

I race Arthur to some low-hanging fruit.

Get your own bush.

ARTHUR GIGGLES

That's my bush.

And turn our fruity booty into delicious jelly.

And turn our fruity booty into delicious jelly.

We're going to end up with a whole lot of lovely jars

We're going to end up with a whole lot of lovely jars

of our own produce.

of our own produce.

That looks pretty impressive.

De-de!

And there's logistical nightmares for the fundraising fair.

And there's logistical nightmares for the fundraising fair.

Oui.

Alors...

Umbrella.

But Ithaca keeps smiling.

I try to talk with a smile.

If you smile, then people hear you smiling.

If you smile, then people hear you smiling.

Subtitles by Red Bee Media

Subtitles by Red Bee Media