Original subtitles

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

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

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

That's heavy.

..restoring this once-abandoned chateau.

We have another capability at the chateau.

We have another capability at the chateau.

It's brought plenty of challenges.

Phew!

But also some amazing rewards.

I love you.

And across France,

there are dozens of other Brits who've bought their own chateaux.

there are dozens of other Brits who've bought their own chateaux.

Ah, wow!

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.

Sometimes, simplicity is the way forward. Yes.

Sometimes, simplicity is the way forward. Yes.

We'll meet some old friends...

You don't need instructions, only when it goes wrong.

You don't need instructions, only when it goes wrong.

..and new faces.

Oooh, look at that.

Oooh, look at that.

There'll be plenty of ups...

Oh!

..and downs.

We can't ruin the wedding meal by eating outside in the rain.

We can't ruin the wedding meal by eating outside in the rain.

But no matter what, these plucky Brits...

But no matter what, these plucky Brits...

Ooh.

Ooh.

..will stop at nothing.

..will stop at nothing.

No! Steve.

Whoa! Steven.

..to ensure these once-unloved buildings...

..to ensure these once-unloved buildings...

I think I've made a hole.

..become the homes of their dreams.

..become the homes of their dreams.

That is amazing!

Today...

Dee-dee!

..chateau owners get organising a renovations fundraiser...

..chateau owners get organising a renovations fundraiser...

Merci. Mais, de rien.

..which can make them philosophical.

..which can make them philosophical.

I try to talk with a smile, because if you smile,

I try to talk with a smile, because if you smile,

then people hear you smiling.

then people hear you smiling.

While another couple battle to communicate.

While another couple battle to communicate.

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

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

I know, that's why I'm talking.

I know, that's why I'm talking.

I know, it's OK.

Two new chateau owners struggle with building regs.

Two new chateau owners struggle with building regs.

The structural opening is only 20 or 30 mil larger

The structural opening is only 20 or 30 mil larger

than the plasterboard, so that's not a good sign.

than the plasterboard, so that's not a good sign.

than the plasterboard, so that's not a good sign.

And I go fruit picking with Arthur...

And I go fruit picking with Arthur...

Get your own bush.

That's my bush.

That's my bush.

..to stock the larder with Christmas jelly.

..to stock the larder with Christmas jelly.

We're gonna end up with a whole lot of lovely jars that sort of says,

We're gonna end up with a whole lot of lovely jars that sort of says,

"Yeah, we did this."

"Yeah, we did this."

Across France, there are many Brits who, like us, enjoy living

Across France, there are many Brits who, like us, enjoy living

in the elegant surroundings of chateaux steeped in history.

in the elegant surroundings of chateaux steeped in history.

Among them is Ithaca, who married Alex and now lives

Among them is Ithaca, who married Alex and now lives

with their two children in the magnificent Chateau Flore.

with their two children in the magnificent Chateau Flore.

It's been in Alex's family since it was built in the 18th century

It's been in Alex's family since it was built in the 18th century

It's been in Alex's family since it was built in the 18th century

and has 44 rooms and 27 acres of land, including beautiful

and has 44 rooms and 27 acres of land, including beautiful

and has 44 rooms and 27 acres of land, including beautiful

gardens and a maze, all needing continuous care and attention.

gardens and a maze, all needing continuous care and attention.

gardens and a maze, all needing continuous care and attention.

This place is like an old relative that you really cherish.

This place is like an old relative that you really cherish.

There's always something that has to be paid for

There's always something that has to be paid for

and when you think that you're OK, something happens and you have to

and when you think that you're OK, something happens and you have to

kind of, you know, inject cash that sometimes, you don't actually have.

kind of, you know, inject cash that sometimes, you don't actually have.

The chateau is located an hour's drive from Calais.

The chateau is located an hour's drive from Calais.

This year, they're facing their biggest challenge yet,

This year, they're facing their biggest challenge yet,

funding the repair of the 800 square metre rare violet slate roof.

funding the repair of the 800 square metre rare violet slate roof.

funding the repair of the 800 square metre rare violet slate roof.

They've secured a grant from the Ministry of Culture, but it's

They've secured a grant from the Ministry of Culture, but it's

not for the full amount, and their savings won't cover the shortfall.

not for the full amount, and their savings won't cover the shortfall.

not for the full amount, and their savings won't cover the shortfall.

We're not millionaires,

so you're going to have to get the maximum loans you can get

so you're going to have to get the maximum loans you can get

and apply for all the grants you can possibly apply for.

and apply for all the grants you can possibly apply for.

We will try our best, and that's what we are doing now,

We will try our best, and that's what we are doing now,

we're trying our best.

So this summer, they're planning their biggest ever antiques

So this summer, they're planning their biggest ever antiques

and flower fair to hopefully attract thousands of people

and flower fair to hopefully attract thousands of people

and generate cash that they so urgently need.

and generate cash that they so urgently need.

and generate cash that they so urgently need.

These events are crucial to the maintaining of the house. Yeah.

These events are crucial to the maintaining of the house. Yeah.

We need at least 3,000 people.

We need at least 3,000 people.

If we get 5,000 people, I will be really happy.

If we get 5,000 people, I will be really happy.

Well, I hope we can manage 5,000.

Well, I hope we can manage 5,000.

Well, I hope we can manage 5,000.

The pressure's on, and with less than eight weeks until the event,

The pressure's on, and with less than eight weeks until the event,

The pressure's on, and with less than eight weeks until the event,

Ithaca is keen to make a start on getting the bar ready.

Ithaca is keen to make a start on getting the bar ready.

Alex, well, he's working today, so that's just tough luck for me,

Alex, well, he's working today, so that's just tough luck for me,

so I'm just going to have to do it by myself.

so I'm just going to have to do it by myself.

A bar, or buvette, was built in what was a pigsty.

A bar, or buvette, was built in what was a pigsty.

It proved popular with visitors at last year's festival,

It proved popular with visitors at last year's festival,

but has become a dusty dumping ground.

but has become a dusty dumping ground.

The buvette is just one big bar, basically.

The buvette is just one big bar, basically.

We found these beautiful planks in the attic.

We found these beautiful planks in the attic.

We found these beautiful planks in the attic.

This will be the physical bar, where people will be able to lean

This will be the physical bar, where people will be able to lean

This will be the physical bar, where people will be able to lean

and say, "Une biere, s'il vous plait."

and say, "Une biere, s'il vous plait."

And there will be all sorts of fun little lights

And there will be all sorts of fun little lights

hanging from the ceiling to create a kind of atmosphere.

hanging from the ceiling to create a kind of atmosphere.

hanging from the ceiling to create a kind of atmosphere.

We're going to hang on the walls various frames

We're going to hang on the walls various frames

and old pictures, kind of like a fun brocante style,

and old pictures, kind of like a fun brocante style,

to give it some kind of atmosphere with the red brick.

to give it some kind of atmosphere with the red brick.

But before the hoped-for hordes arrive, it needs a proper clean out.

But before the hoped-for hordes arrive, it needs a proper clean out.

But before the hoped-for hordes arrive, it needs a proper clean out.

Who needs to exercise in a gym when you have a chateau?

Who needs to exercise in a gym when you have a chateau?

Who needs to exercise in a gym when you have a chateau?

The family feel that events like the festival make sure

The family feel that events like the festival make sure

that Chateau Flore stays at the heart of the local community.

that Chateau Flore stays at the heart of the local community.

These places were built for villages.

These places were built for villages.

I wouldn't imagine keeping this place for myself.

I wouldn't imagine keeping this place for myself.

We like sharing it and it's also a way of sharing it and giving back

We like sharing it and it's also a way of sharing it and giving back

We like sharing it and it's also a way of sharing it and giving back

something that maybe was given to us a long, long time ago.

something that maybe was given to us a long, long time ago.

So, yeah, it's a lot of work, but I don't mind, if that's

So, yeah, it's a lot of work, but I don't mind, if that's

the price to pay to be able to live here, then I don't mind it.

the price to pay to be able to live here, then I don't mind it.

After a day's grafting, Alex, who works for the family firm,

After a day's grafting, Alex, who works for the family firm,

returns home.

How are you? Oh, hi.

How are you? Oh, hi.

Hi, puss.

Just testing this.

Oh, the lights? Yeah.

So...

De-dee!

Oh, they're still working, that's good.

What would Ithaca do without you, Alex?

What would Ithaca do without you, Alex?

We should concentrate more on decoration.

We should concentrate more on decoration.

Make it feel like a proper estaminet, you know, with a bar?

Make it feel like a proper estaminet, you know, with a bar?

Make it feel like a proper estaminet, you know, with a bar?

May I have a beer, please?

May I have a beer, please?

There you go. Beer!

There you go. Beer!

The bar is shaping up

but there's an awful lot more to do before the day of the festival.

but there's an awful lot more to do before the day of the festival.

Around 300 miles south, Donna from Hartlepool

Around 300 miles south, Donna from Hartlepool

and her Scottish husband, Paul, have been renovating Chateau de Sauge

and her Scottish husband, Paul, have been renovating Chateau de Sauge

and her Scottish husband, Paul, have been renovating Chateau de Sauge

since buying it five months ago for £279,000.

since buying it five months ago for £279,000.

since buying it five months ago for £279,000.

Chateau life is a bit of a time thief.

Chateau life is a bit of a time thief.

What you think would take 25 minutes, four hours later,

What you think would take 25 minutes, four hours later,

you're halfway through.

You know, we don't have an army of helpers.

You know, we don't have an army of helpers.

We always knew it was going to be difficult, but this is a five

We always knew it was going to be difficult, but this is a five

or six-year project, but I don't think we'll ever be finished.

or six-year project, but I don't think we'll ever be finished.

or six-year project, but I don't think we'll ever be finished.

Situated 50 miles from La Rochelle, they've ploughed their savings

Situated 50 miles from La Rochelle, they've ploughed their savings

Situated 50 miles from La Rochelle, they've ploughed their savings

into turning a dingy old scullery into a 21st century kitchen...

into turning a dingy old scullery into a 21st century kitchen...

into turning a dingy old scullery into a 21st century kitchen...

I love it. I absolutely love it.

I love it. I absolutely love it.

..and created a self-contained apartment,

..and created a self-contained apartment,

which can be rented out to guests.

which can be rented out to guests.

Now they're hard at work on their most important project,

Now they're hard at work on their most important project,

a tearoom they plan to open in just two months' time.

a tearoom they plan to open in just two months' time.

a tearoom they plan to open in just two months' time.

We're looking to probably open what, two to three days a week initially,

We're looking to probably open what, two to three days a week initially,

We're looking to probably open what, two to three days a week initially,

as just a vintage tearoom, serving home-made cakes, biscuits,

as just a vintage tearoom, serving home-made cakes, biscuits,

as just a vintage tearoom, serving home-made cakes, biscuits,

and good, large cups of coffee, which are hard to find here.

and good, large cups of coffee, which are hard to find here.

and good, large cups of coffee, which are hard to find here.

Hopefully, we'll get that open... Soon.

Hopefully, we'll get that open... Soon.

..soon. Soon!

..soon. Soon!

Soon.

The new tearoom will be open to the public, meaning Donna and

The new tearoom will be open to the public, meaning Donna and

Paul need to comply with local laws and provide a disabled bathroom.

Paul need to comply with local laws and provide a disabled bathroom.

Paul need to comply with local laws and provide a disabled bathroom.

Their first job is to widen the bathroom doorway,

Their first job is to widen the bathroom doorway,

for wheelchair access.

Immediately, I've seen the structural opening is only

Immediately, I've seen the structural opening is only

20-30 mil larger than the plasterboard,

20-30 mil larger than the plasterboard,

so that's not a good sign.

Now they'll have to find extra space by knocking out

Now they'll have to find extra space by knocking out

some of the original stone walls.

some of the original stone walls.

Their challenge is to make a hole 950 mm wide.

Their challenge is to make a hole 950 mm wide.

Their challenge is to make a hole 950 mm wide.

So 950's here, so that leaves...

So 950's here, so that leaves...

170 mil either side.

170 mil either side.

This alone is probably a few days' work, just cutting through this.

This alone is probably a few days' work, just cutting through this.

It is, yeah.

So I think we need to come back to this,

there's lots of other stuff we can do. Yep.

there's lots of other stuff we can do. Yep.

There always is, Paul.

To give the tearoom a vintage feel, they're creating a wood panel effect

To give the tearoom a vintage feel, they're creating a wood panel effect

To give the tearoom a vintage feel, they're creating a wood panel effect

by sawing up 300 metres of MDF boards to make the framework.

by sawing up 300 metres of MDF boards to make the framework.

by sawing up 300 metres of MDF boards to make the framework.

He's leaving this part of the panelling to me.

He's leaving this part of the panelling to me.

Only because he's kind of already measured it out,

Only because he's kind of already measured it out,

he's cut the pieces, so I can be left to just put them in place.

he's cut the pieces, so I can be left to just put them in place.

he's cut the pieces, so I can be left to just put them in place.

Are you sure that's the right one 'cos it looks short at the top?

Are you sure that's the right one 'cos it looks short at the top?

Well, it's the one you had.

There's no way on Earth that's level.

There's no way on Earth that's level.

Using MDF will cost Donna and Paul a fraction of what they'd pay

Using MDF will cost Donna and Paul a fraction of what they'd pay

for solid wood, and once painted, the effect should look just as good.

for solid wood, and once painted, the effect should look just as good.

for solid wood, and once painted, the effect should look just as good.

Teamwork makes the dream work.

This is the last piece for this wall.

This is the last piece for this wall.

Hallelujah!

It looks fabulous.

Well done.

Thank you. Signed off.

Thank you. Signed off.

Tick!

Can I have a cup of tea?

Can I have a cup of tea?

Great idea.

Mine's strong, no sugar.

Coming up...

Arthur gets a taste for fruit picking.

Arthur gets a taste for fruit picking.

Everything takes twice as long when you've got a helper,

Everything takes twice as long when you've got a helper,

but it's twice as much fun.

Donna and Paul have different opinions on furnishings.

Donna and Paul have different opinions on furnishings.

Bargain! 5 Euro.

They're a bit shiggly.

OK as firewood.

That is a meaty drill.

And one chateau owner uses his power tools

And one chateau owner uses his power tools

to get to the core of the problem.

Are we digging to the centre of the Earth with this?

Are we digging to the centre of the Earth with this?

Next to the majestic River Lot is Chateau Caillac.

With 20 rooms, beautiful gardens and its own private jetty,

With 20 rooms, beautiful gardens and its own private jetty,

With 20 rooms, beautiful gardens and its own private jetty,

it became home to engineer Steve and wife Angela in 2004.

it became home to engineer Steve and wife Angela in 2004.

it became home to engineer Steve and wife Angela in 2004.

Since then, they've lovingly restored it from top to bottom.

Since then, they've lovingly restored it from top to bottom.

We've lost count of how much we've spent on renovating the place

We've lost count of how much we've spent on renovating the place

and, as it's been over the last 14 years,

and, as it's been over the last 14 years,

I haven't really kept a running total.

I haven't really kept a running total.

I think it will be a lot.

It isn't always easy,

but I feel very fortunate to own such a beautiful building.

but I feel very fortunate to own such a beautiful building.

but I feel very fortunate to own such a beautiful building.

Situated 60 miles from Bordeaux, the couple return to the UK

Situated 60 miles from Bordeaux, the couple return to the UK

Situated 60 miles from Bordeaux, the couple return to the UK

and rent out the chateau over the summer,

and rent out the chateau over the summer,

so each year have a limited amount of time

so each year have a limited amount of time

to tackle essential maintenance jobs.

This year, they've already managed

to install an ornate ceiling rose in their master suite.

to install an ornate ceiling rose in their master suite.

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 going to kill me.

He's going to kill me.

Now the grounds need landscaping and the most pressing task is

Now the grounds need landscaping and the most pressing task is

Now the grounds need landscaping and the most pressing task is

to install a much-loved pair of garden urns.

to install a much-loved pair of garden urns.

My mum bought us them for our 25th wedding anniversary. She did.

My mum bought us them for our 25th wedding anniversary. She did.

So, we've got to put those up. But, of course, having the pots on,

So, we've got to put those up. But, of course, having the pots on,

I want them to have flowers in, as well.

I want them to have flowers in, as well.

But if you put flowers in, you've got to irrigate them

But if you put flowers in, you've got to irrigate them

because we're not here to water them.

because we're not here to water them.

So that's...I always like to give Steve a little bit of a challenge.

So that's...I always like to give Steve a little bit of a challenge.

The plan is to run a pipe from the existing irrigation

The plan is to run a pipe from the existing irrigation

system to the urns.

Is it deep enough?

Probably just a little bit more, in this bit, here.

Probably just a little bit more, in this bit, here.

A bit more on this side? A bit more along here. OK.

A bit more on this side? A bit more along here. OK.

Yep.

Just need to get this a bit deeper.

With the trench deep enough...

I'm going to lay the pipe in.

..it's time to bury the pipe with sand.

..it's time to bury the pipe with sand.

And if you put it's short end...

And if you put it's short end...

..about here. Here, here, here. About there?

..about here. Here, here, here. About there?

Does that look like here? There. Thank you.

Does that look like here? There. Thank you.

Steve? I'll need at least another one.

Steve? I'll need at least another one.

I'll get you one.

He is helpful.

Sometimes he drives me nuts,

but I honestly couldn't do it without him - I really couldn't.

but I honestly couldn't do it without him - I really couldn't.

It sounds a bit soppy, that, but he's actually a real gentleman.

It sounds a bit soppy, that, but he's actually a real gentleman.

I'm sure Angel says that about me, too.

I'm sure Angel says that about me, too.

It needs to come level with the brush, here.

It needs to come level with the brush, here.

Don't dig in, you just want to scrape it across.

Don't dig in, you just want to scrape it across.

How's that? That's better, I think.

How's that? That's better, I think.

That's fine. I think that's...

Yeah, yeah.

I'm happy.

Happy wife, happy life.

With the water pipe in place,

Angela and Steve can install their two garden urns,

Angela and Steve can install their two garden urns,

each a hefty 55 kilos.

each a hefty 55 kilos.

And Steve has just the perfect power tool for the job.

And Steve has just the perfect power tool for the job.

That is a meaty drill.

That is a meaty drill.

ANGELA LAUGHS

Are we digging to the centre of the Earth with this?

Are we digging to the centre of the Earth with this?

Time to thread through the water pipe.

Time to thread through the water pipe.

Pull it up as it comes down, so it doesn't kink it.

Pull it up as it comes down, so it doesn't kink it.

Once connected, the irrigation system will provide

Once connected, the irrigation system will provide

water to the plants throughout the summer.

That's fine, though, isn't it? Is that as far as it will go?

That's fine, though, isn't it? Is that as far as it will go?

Base secured, now it's the tricky business of positioning

Base secured, now it's the tricky business of positioning

the planter on top.

Is that safe? Don't know.

What can go wrong?

You're going to hit there. Can you go higher?

You're going to hit there. Can you go higher?

It's like the golden shot.

Backwards.

About another...whoa.

About another...whoa.

Right, you're over the top.

I still think you need to come slightly closer before you go down.

I still think you need to come slightly closer before you go down.

That...whoa, whoa.

Too far, too far. You're pushing this off.

Just let it come down. Let me come and help, Angela.

Just let it come down. Let me come and help, Angela.

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

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

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

It's just that side. That'll be enough.

It's just that side. That'll be enough.

Urns reassembled, Angela can get her favourite flowers planted.

Urns reassembled, Angela can get her favourite flowers planted.

What do you think?

They look lovely.

Looking good.

All you need to do now is connect them to the water supply.

All you need to do now is connect them to the water supply.

Over 400 miles north, at Chateau Flore, Ithaca and Alex

Over 400 miles north, at Chateau Flore, Ithaca and Alex

are planning their fundraising antiques and flower fair.

are planning their fundraising antiques and flower fair.

They're hoping to raise funds to contribute to the chateau's

They're hoping to raise funds to contribute to the chateau's

renovations, including the much-needed roof repairs.

renovations, including the much-needed roof repairs.

I've got the leaflets... OK. ..and I've got the...the forms.

I've got the leaflets... OK. ..and I've got the...the forms.

To recruit more stall holders,

To recruit more stall holders,

they're visiting a fair at Saint-Riquier, 20 miles away.

they're visiting a fair at Saint-Riquier, 20 miles away.

they're visiting a fair at Saint-Riquier, 20 miles away.

It has the sort of dealers that they think could draw the crowds.

It has the sort of dealers that they think could draw the crowds.

Today's important because we're needing to get more brocanteurs

Today's important because we're needing to get more brocanteurs

Today's important because we're needing to get more brocanteurs

and antique dealers in for our June 30th event.

and antique dealers in for our June 30th event.

There will be some really good antique dealers and there will be

There will be some really good antique dealers and there will be

There will be some really good antique dealers and there will be

some premium brocanteurs and I'm looking for the premium brocanteurs.

some premium brocanteurs and I'm looking for the premium brocanteurs.

After you. OK.

Alex is taking a supportive back-seat role,

Alex is taking a supportive back-seat role,

while Ithaca promotes their event.

while Ithaca promotes their event.

Papier. Oui, c'est le 30 Juin.

Quite a lot of people are saying yes.

Quite a lot of people are saying yes.

Chateau Flore. D'accord. OK, super.

This is a really nice stall.

This is a really nice stall.

There's one or two items that I really like.

There's one or two items that I really like.

Just the sort of antiques dealer Ithaca is targeting.

Just the sort of antiques dealer Ithaca is targeting.

Umbrella.

Merci. De rien.

He's definitely coming and he's going to talk about the event

He's definitely coming and he's going to talk about the event

to some friends that he knows, so it's really positive.

to some friends that he knows, so it's really positive.

This is going well, but Ithaca can't resist a little rummage.

This is going well, but Ithaca can't resist a little rummage.

This is going well, but Ithaca can't resist a little rummage.

This is nice, Alex.

This is really cheap.

It's beautiful. Marvellous.

It's beautiful. Marvellous.

Look how delicate this is.

Look how delicate this is.

Time to get back to drumming up dealers for the fundraiser, Ithaca.

Time to get back to drumming up dealers for the fundraiser, Ithaca.

Super, OK. That's really good.

I managed to get rid of 100 flyers in one go.

I managed to get rid of 100 flyers in one go.

Got another thousand in my bag.

Got another thousand in my bag.

Quite heavy, but I'm confident I'm going to get rid of them

Quite heavy, but I'm confident I'm going to get rid of them

at the end of the day.

Let's hope they get enough high-end stallholders to draw the crowds

Let's hope they get enough high-end stallholders to draw the crowds

and raise funds needed to help contribute towards the roof repairs.

and raise funds needed to help contribute towards the roof repairs.

Our chateau is just under 200 miles south-west

Our chateau is just under 200 miles south-west

and, when we bought it, all the buildings and land needed some love.

and, when we bought it, all the buildings and land needed some love.

The 2,000-square-metre walled garden was wild and barren.

The 2,000-square-metre walled garden was wild and barren.

Now, nearly five years later, it's thriving,

Now, nearly five years later, it's thriving,

with over 100 fruit trees and bushes

with over 100 fruit trees and bushes

and 30 varieties of vegetables, fresh for the family.

and 30 varieties of vegetables, fresh for the family.

These are lovely, these are really tasty ones.

These are lovely, these are really tasty ones.

Oh, they're the ones that you roast, aren't they? Yeah. I love those.

Oh, they're the ones that you roast, aren't they? Yeah. I love those.

Off we go. Not a bad pumpkin patch, eh?

Off we go. Not a bad pumpkin patch, eh?

Barrow race!

Dorothy's winning.

Last year, we had great growing conditions

Last year, we had great growing conditions

and had an abundance to harvest.

and had an abundance to harvest.

The redcurrants were amazing.

The redcurrants were amazing.

Along with my little helper, Arthur,

Along with my little helper, Arthur,

we've collected the main ingredient for a festive favourite.

we've collected the main ingredient for a festive favourite.

When it comes to the jam for Christmas,

When it comes to the jam for Christmas,

what we're going to have is this.

what we're going to have is this.

It's for my Christmas jam.

Look, we're going to pull them all in. That's gross.

Look, we're going to pull them all in. That's gross.

We're going to make redcurrant jelly.

Redcurrants are full of vitamins C, B and K, but they're tart to taste.

Redcurrants are full of vitamins C, B and K, but they're tart to taste.

Redcurrants are full of vitamins C, B and K, but they're tart to taste.

Did you enjoy that? Yeah.

If you're going to help me make the jam,

we need to get as many of these as we possibly can, matey.

we need to get as many of these as we possibly can, matey.

Look at these. We'll pull them all off.

Look at these. We'll pull them all off.

I want them all in that bowl.

I'm taking Daddy's.

No, you're not. Get your own bush.

No, you're not. Get your own bush.

LAUGHING: That's my bush.

LAUGHING: That's my bush.

Careful pulling them. Don't drop them on the floor.

Every single one of these is a little bowl of flavour to

Every single one of these is a little bowl of flavour to

have on our Christmas table.

Everything takes twice as long when you've got a helper,

Everything takes twice as long when you've got a helper,

but it's twice as much fun.

Which one's your bowl and which one's my bowl?

Which one's your bowl and which one's my bowl?

That's my bowl. Do you think? Yeah.

That's my bowl. Do you think? Yeah.

Not in this world, big boy.

Because we're paying by the weight, and it's 50 euros a kilo,

Because we're paying by the weight, and it's 50 euros a kilo,

so you've made a Euro. I made a Euro?

so you've made a Euro. I made a Euro?

We've got some of the redcurrants to make jam for Christmas, yeah?

We've got some of the redcurrants to make jam for Christmas, yeah?

Yeah. Mm-hm.

One at a time, one at a time.

Take one at a time.

Hopefully there'll be enough left for me to make some jam

Hopefully there'll be enough left for me to make some jam

when we get back to the kitchen.

125 miles south, Donna and Paul are visiting a local second-hand

125 miles south, Donna and Paul are visiting a local second-hand

125 miles south, Donna and Paul are visiting a local second-hand

shop to buy furnishings for their vintage tearoom

shop to buy furnishings for their vintage tearoom

shop to buy furnishings for their vintage tearoom

that's due to open in just two months' time.

that's due to open in just two months' time.

We're going to need lots of tables, chairs, really nice China,

We're going to need lots of tables, chairs, really nice China,

teapots, milk jug.

teapots, milk jug.

We haven't got bottomless pockets,

We haven't got bottomless pockets,

so it's got to be a reasonable price.

so it's got to be a reasonable price.

Bonjour.

With all their savings invested in this new business venture,

With all their savings invested in this new business venture,

they need to keep outgoings to a minimum.

they need to keep outgoings to a minimum.

That's really nice.

Are we getting that, are we?

I think so. We're only in the front door

and that's the first thing you've bought.

I know, yeah, good start.

I know, yeah, good start.

Excusez-moi? Oui.

We'll take that.

Donna knows what she likes, Paul.

Donna knows what she likes, Paul.

Ooh, that's nice.

What is the price, there?

69.

For all of them? Yeah.

For all of them? Yeah.

Oh, they're 45 each.

Oh, they're 45 each.

Wow, that's some size hip flask.

Wow, that's some size hip flask.

Move, move.

And it isn't too long before they find the kind

And it isn't too long before they find the kind

of budget buy they're after.

They're more like what we're looking for. Bargain.

They're more like what we're looking for. Bargain.

Five euro.

They're a bit shuggly.

We'd need to tighten them up.

We'd need to tighten them up.

Even for a fiver, they're OK as firewood.

Even for a fiver, they're OK as firewood.

Firewood!

Steady on, Paul.

No, we'll take those.

That's nice, Paul. Is it?

That's nice, Paul. Is it?

Nice shape, yeah.

No damage to it. Yeah. No? No.

No damage to it. Yeah. No? No.

That's quite nice, isn't it?

I like that one as well.

I like that one as well.

How many jugs do you need?

You know what I'm like with China. I love China.

You know what I'm like with China. I love China.

I think that's probably enough, yeah?

I think that's probably enough, yeah?

Paul's the one who's got to fit it in that trailer, Donna.

Paul's the one who's got to fit it in that trailer, Donna.

Job done.

Merci, monsieur.

A trailer full of furnishings for just under £350 - not bad.

A trailer full of furnishings for just under £350 - not bad.

A trailer full of furnishings for just under £350 - not bad.

But let's not forget, you have to finish widening that

But let's not forget, you have to finish widening that

door before you can open for business.

Coming up, Angela says hands off on a delicate glueing job...

Coming up, Angela says hands off on a delicate glueing job...

Coming up, Angela says hands off on a delicate glueing job...

How long have you got before it goes off?

About 30 seconds.

Well, hurry up, then.

..Paul and Donna make the dream team...

..Paul and Donna make the dream team...

We really need to just tile on top of this.

We really need to just tile on top of this.

Yeah.

I actually never thought about tiling directly onto that.

I actually never thought about tiling directly onto that.

That's why I'm here.

That's why I'm here.

..and I work my kitchen magic on garden berries.

..and I work my kitchen magic on garden berries.

Put it on my cold plate.

And I'm going to put my finger through it.

And I'm going to put my finger through it.

Mm. It's jelly.

In south-west France, Angela and Steve are busy finishing

In south-west France, Angela and Steve are busy finishing

all their maintenance work

before renting out the chateau for the summer.

before renting out the chateau for the summer.

Just pull that bit through for me.

There's about ten inches through. Right, that's fine.

There's about ten inches through. Right, that's fine.

Having installed a new pair of urns on the terrace,

Having installed a new pair of urns on the terrace,

now they just need connecting to the irrigation system.

now they just need connecting to the irrigation system.

Way-hey, it's through.

Oh, there we go.

Pipework all connected, it's the moment of truth.

Pipework all connected, it's the moment of truth.

OK, Steve.

I'm ready when you're ready.

Right, let's just turn that on.

Right, let's just turn that on.

Let's hope the water comes through.

Let's hope the water comes through.

Yes! Yes!

Yes! Yes!

We have water!

That is perfect.

Are you happy with that? I am happy, yes, thank you.

Are you happy with that? I am happy, yes, thank you.

Good, good, good.

That's another job ticked off.

But a chateau owner's work is never done.

But a chateau owner's work is never done.

Last year, when Angela and Steve were back in the UK,

Last year, when Angela and Steve were back in the UK,

guests reported that a swimming pool pipe was leaking.

guests reported that a swimming pool pipe was leaking.

We made an emergency phone call to a friend and said,

We made an emergency phone call to a friend and said,

"Look, can you help us out, here?"

He came along and did a temporary repair that we know

He came along and did a temporary repair that we know

that it's still leaking

and we need to fix it properly before we raise the level of the

and we need to fix it properly before we raise the level of the

water in the swimming pool and start the swimming pool circulating again.

water in the swimming pool and start the swimming pool circulating again.

Over the past seven months, the grass has grown back

Over the past seven months, the grass has grown back

and covered up the leaky pipe.

The problem we've got is that actually,

we don't know exactly where it is.

That looks low, there.

That looks low, there.

I'll have a go.

Right, voyage of discovery.

The words needle and haystack come to mind.

The words needle and haystack come to mind.

That looks very firm, doesn't it? As if it's not been dug up.

That looks very firm, doesn't it? As if it's not been dug up.

That looks too firm, doesn't it? Yeah, it does.

That looks too firm, doesn't it? Yeah, it does.

Hm, not sure. Looks hard, there.

Hm, not sure. Looks hard, there.

That feels like that's touching something.

That feels like that's touching something.

Oh, no, it's a root.

The pipe isn't very deep down, actually.

The pipe isn't very deep down, actually.

It's probably one of the reasons why it's probably

burst in the first place. It's probably not deep enough.

burst in the first place. It's probably not deep enough.

What's that? That is the pipe.

I can see a jubilee clip there. Ah!

I can see a jubilee clip there. Ah!

Have you got it? Yeah. Oh, well done, Steve.

Have you got it? Yeah. Oh, well done, Steve.

That was lucky.

The jubilee clip is what holds two pipes together

The jubilee clip is what holds two pipes together

and Steve thinks that's the source of the leak.

and Steve thinks that's the source of the leak.

Ready?

Instead of doing another repair to the damaged section,

Instead of doing another repair to the damaged section,

Steve is cutting it out completely.

Steve is cutting it out completely.

Right, are we gonna glue this, then?

How long have you got before it goes off?

About 30 seconds.

Well, hurry up, then.

He's going to replace it with a new piece of pipe.

He's going to replace it with a new piece of pipe.

Can I get that in there? Yes, you can, yes, you can.

Can I get that in there? Yes, you can, yes, you can.

Marvellous.

Job done.

That's another one ticked off the list,

That's another one ticked off the list,

but there's still plenty more chateau maintenance to do tomorrow.

but there's still plenty more chateau maintenance to do tomorrow.

270 miles north, over at our place,

270 miles north, over at our place,

I've got a freshly picked bowl of redcurrants from our garden.

I've got a freshly picked bowl of redcurrants from our garden.

I've got a freshly picked bowl of redcurrants from our garden.

1.9 kilos, that's not terrible, is it?

1.9 kilos, that's not terrible, is it?

I'm going to turn it into a fabulous festive jelly, a family favourite.

I'm going to turn it into a fabulous festive jelly, a family favourite.

I'm going to turn it into a fabulous festive jelly, a family favourite.

A little bit of water to liberate the juice.

A little bit of water to liberate the juice.

Get rid of some of the twiggage.

Get rid of some of the twiggage.

That'll do.

A potato masher comes in handy here,

A potato masher comes in handy here,

and I'm off in a Northern Irish reverie.

and I'm off in a Northern Irish reverie.

When you're a youngster, the seeds were always a little bit scary,

When you're a youngster, the seeds were always a little bit scary,

so my mum made a bramble jelly which was basically blackberries,

so my mum made a bramble jelly which was basically blackberries,

so my mum made a bramble jelly which was basically blackberries,

without any of the bits that get stuck in your teeth.

50 years, nothing's changed, we're going to end up with a whole lot of

50 years, nothing's changed, we're going to end up with a whole lot of

lovely jars of our own produce that sort of says,

lovely jars of our own produce that sort of says,

"Yeah, we did this."

"Yeah, we did this."

To get rid of the seeds, it needs straining...

To get rid of the seeds, it needs straining...

and a good push.

Pop it in here.

Right, so just over a kilo of jelly sugar going in.

Right, so just over a kilo of jelly sugar going in.

Right, so just over a kilo of jelly sugar going in.

And a quarter.

And a quarter.

Now, we want to get a relatively firm set,

Now, we want to get a relatively firm set,

so we need the juice of a lemon.

so we need the juice of a lemon.

Citrus fruits have the highest natural pectin of all fruit,

Citrus fruits have the highest natural pectin of all fruit,

so are perfect for setting a jelly.

so are perfect for setting a jelly.

The juice can also add a pleasant sharpness.

The juice can also add a pleasant sharpness.

To see if the jelly is ready, I've got a plate fresh from the freezer.

To see if the jelly is ready, I've got a plate fresh from the freezer.

To see if the jelly is ready, I've got a plate fresh from the freezer.

When it's warm, it's always runny.

When it's warm, it's always runny.

When it's cold, will it be jelly?

When it's cold, will it be jelly?

Here we go.

Put it on my cold plate, let it cool down,

Put it on my cold plate, let it cool down,

then I'm going to put my finger through it.

then I'm going to put my finger through it.

Mm.

It's jelly.

To strain it thoroughly,

I'm using a jelly bag hanging from this handy hook in the ceiling.

I'm using a jelly bag hanging from this handy hook in the ceiling.

I'm using a jelly bag hanging from this handy hook in the ceiling.

I'll let gravity do the work till I've got a jug

I'll let gravity do the work till I've got a jug

full of pure festive joy.

That's good.

Come Christmas, that'll be to die for.

Come Christmas, that'll be to die for.

Come Christmas, that'll be to die for.

Then straight into the sterilised jam jars.

Then straight into the sterilised jam jars.

That looks pretty impressive.

That looks pretty impressive.

But I am not going to waste this.

But I am not going to waste this.

By taking this off, this allows me to squeeze more out.

By taking this off, this allows me to squeeze more out.

By taking this off, this allows me to squeeze more out.

Wow!

That may be slightly cloudier than the rest,

That may be slightly cloudier than the rest,

but I've saved another pot of jelly.

but I've saved another pot of jelly.

This is classed as not perfect, but it's pretty special.

This is classed as not perfect, but it's pretty special.

And finally, my little helper returns for the taste test.

And finally, my little helper returns for the taste test.

Daddy!

Hello, mate. Do you want to try it?

Hello, mate. Do you want to try it?

Are you sure you want to try it?

How good, is it?

Do you think Mummy will like it? Yeah.

Do you think Mummy will like it? Yeah.

Are we clever? Yeah.

Give me a kiss, go back upstairs.

I love you.

Ah, you monkey. Go on. Go.

Ah, you monkey. Go on. Go.

Thanks, big boy.

I love you, son. I love you too, Dad.

I love you, son. I love you too, Dad.

It seems it's passed the Arthur test.

It seems it's passed the Arthur test.

Just under 200 miles north-east, at Alex and Ithaca's,

Just under 200 miles north-east, at Alex and Ithaca's,

it's now a week before their annual antiques and flower fair.

it's now a week before their annual antiques and flower fair.

it's now a week before their annual antiques and flower fair.

They've gathered friends and family

They've gathered friends and family

to help assemble the ticket booths where they'll collect

to help assemble the ticket booths where they'll collect

the entrance fee from the 3,000 guests they hope will attend.

the entrance fee from the 3,000 guests they hope will attend.

We are putting the walls all together.

We are putting the walls all together.

It has to be extremely precise.

A, B, C, D, up, left, right, down.

A, B, C, D, up, left, right, down.

It's almost done and we still have to put the plastic cover

It's almost done and we still have to put the plastic cover

in case of rain, and that's it.

in case of rain, and that's it.

We should be done.

Very good job.

That's it.

All set.

Meanwhile, Ithaca gets a call from a local radio station.

Meanwhile, Ithaca gets a call from a local radio station.

They want to do a live interview with her to advertise the event.

They want to do a live interview with her to advertise the event.

I try to talk with a smile.

You know, people always say that if you're on the phone or whatever,

You know, people always say that if you're on the phone or whatever,

if you smile, then people hear you smiling.

if you smile, then people hear you smiling.

Sounded very positive to me, Ithaca.

Sounded very positive to me, Ithaca.

The main entrance ticket booth will have a special feature.

The main entrance ticket booth will have a special feature.

They're adding the original slates taken from their roof.

They're adding the original slates taken from their roof.

These old things are 300 years old

These old things are 300 years old

and they're going on a little wooden shed.

and they're going on a little wooden shed.

Waste nothing and recycle, that's all music to my ears.

Waste nothing and recycle, that's all music to my ears.

But adding unique chateau heritage to what's basically a garden shed

But adding unique chateau heritage to what's basically a garden shed

makes for a weighty job.

makes for a weighty job.

Attend, attend, attend.

Attention, attention. C'est bon. Voila.

Attention, attention. C'est bon. Voila.

It's a very old slate, so it's like when you put the Ferrari sign

It's a very old slate, so it's like when you put the Ferrari sign

on a very small car, that's kind of...you see?

on a very small car, that's kind of...you see?

on a very small car, that's kind of...you see?

Roof on, it's time for a little lunch.

Roof on, it's time for a little lunch.

But Alex is thirsty.

Pinot Noir.

The French and their wine.

The French and their wine.

Wine is more important than Chateau Flore, I don't care.

Wine is more important than Chateau Flore, I don't care.

I believe it is.

I believe it is.

The French don't drink water.

They drink wine. Mm.

Mm.

I don't think you can rest on your laurels quite yet, Alex,

I don't think you can rest on your laurels quite yet, Alex,

there's still masses to do before the antiques

there's still masses to do before the antiques

and flower fair in just a week's time.

and flower fair in just a week's time.

Almost 300 miles south, Donna and Paul are creating a new tearoom.

Almost 300 miles south, Donna and Paul are creating a new tearoom.

Almost 300 miles south, Donna and Paul are creating a new tearoom.

They've completed the wood panelling.

They've completed the wood panelling.

Now they need to finish making the adjoining bathroom suitable

Now they need to finish making the adjoining bathroom suitable

for disabled visitors, a job that's taken longer than expected.

for disabled visitors, a job that's taken longer than expected.

for disabled visitors, a job that's taken longer than expected.

We were hoping to have the vintage tearoom open four weeks ago,

We were hoping to have the vintage tearoom open four weeks ago,

We were hoping to have the vintage tearoom open four weeks ago,

so we are quite behind plan.

so we are quite behind plan.

And they've just had some bad news, the cubicle in the new loo

And they've just had some bad news, the cubicle in the new loo

is too small for a wheelchair to turn around inside.

is too small for a wheelchair to turn around inside.

We did understand that we had sufficient space inside,

We did understand that we had sufficient space inside,

but then the architect came back and told us that we needed 1.5m inside

but then the architect came back and told us that we needed 1.5m inside

but then the architect came back and told us that we needed 1.5m inside

the cubicle, so we unfortunately didn't have that space.

the cubicle, so we unfortunately didn't have that space.

We were about 1.4, so we were, you know,

We were about 1.4, so we were, you know,

four inches short of being compliant.

four inches short of being compliant.

We did think he was joking at first, didn't we,

We did think he was joking at first, didn't we,

after all of the work?

We were like, "Are you serious?"

But this is no laughing matter for Donna and Paul.

But this is no laughing matter for Donna and Paul.

They must find a way of gaining an extra four inches of space fast

They must find a way of gaining an extra four inches of space fast

if they're going to open the tearoom and start earning an income.

if they're going to open the tearoom and start earning an income.

So this wall needs to be at least 1.5 metres wide

So this wall needs to be at least 1.5 metres wide

in order to get the turning circle for the chair.

in order to get the turning circle for the chair.

1.5 without tiles.

1.5 without tiles.

We really need to just tile on top of this.

We really need to just tile on top of this.

Yeah.

I actually never thought about tiling directly onto that.

I actually never thought about tiling directly onto that.

That's why I'm here. I know.

That's why I'm here. I know.

They've found a solution, tiling directly onto the wall.

They've found a solution, tiling directly onto the wall.

They've found a solution, tiling directly onto the wall.

Tile straight onto that,

which gives us our space on the floor for a turning circle.

which gives us our space on the floor for a turning circle.

The wall's uneven, so they'll need to level it to make a smooth,

The wall's uneven, so they'll need to level it to make a smooth,

The wall's uneven, so they'll need to level it to make a smooth,

flat surface for the tiles.

Once done, the cubicle will finally meet the size regulations.

Once done, the cubicle will finally meet the size regulations.

Once done, the cubicle will finally meet the size regulations.

While Paul grinds down the loo wall,

While Paul grinds down the loo wall,

Donna is getting on with the panelling paintwork.

Donna is getting on with the panelling paintwork.

We have colour!

I like it, I think we've chosen well.

I like it, I think we've chosen well.

How's it looking?

You've got to be crazy to buy a chateau.

You've got to be crazy to buy a chateau.

It's not a prerequisite, but it helps.

That's quite nice, isn't it? Yeah.

That's quite nice, isn't it? Yeah.

It's surprising how different that now looks.

Well, it looks like panelling.

Before, it just looked like plasterboard and MDF. Mm.

Before, it just looked like plasterboard and MDF. Mm.

It's coming together, all they need now is the official go-ahead

It's coming together, all they need now is the official go-ahead

so Donna and Paul can open for business.

so Donna and Paul can open for business.

Coming up...

I always have to do a little...

I always have to do a little...

In the run-up to the big day, Alex gets lost on the job.

In the run-up to the big day, Alex gets lost on the job.

In the run-up to the big day, Alex gets lost on the job.

You're just turning around with the machine

You're just turning around with the machine

and suddenly you think, "Uh, where, am I?"

and suddenly you think, "Uh, where, am I?"

This could take some time.

And Steve needs to get a move on, because Angela's flagging.

And Steve needs to get a move on, because Angela's flagging.

And Steve needs to get a move on, because Angela's flagging.

I am absolutely worn out.

I am absolutely worn out.

In northern France, with only two days to go before their annual

antiques and flower fair,

Alex and Ithaca are hard at work getting ready to welcome what

Alex and Ithaca are hard at work getting ready to welcome what

they hope will be more than a couple of thousand visitors.

they hope will be more than a couple of thousand visitors.

We've still got to set up all the tents, we've got all sorts

We've still got to set up all the tents, we've got all sorts

We've still got to set up all the tents, we've got all sorts

of small things to do, but, all in all, it seems to be under control.

of small things to do, but, all in all, it seems to be under control.

With France's hottest heatwave since records began,

With France's hottest heatwave since records began,

With France's hottest heatwave since records began,

Ithaca wants to make sure that visitors don't frazzle.

Ithaca wants to make sure that visitors don't frazzle.

It was extremely hot last year and people suffered from the heat,

It was extremely hot last year and people suffered from the heat,

so, this year, we really, really want to make sure that we have enough shade.

so, this year, we really, really want to make sure that we have enough shade.

So I went out and got tents like this,

So I went out and got tents like this,

and we have larger, bigger tents, so we should be OK.

and we have larger, bigger tents, so we should be OK.

and we have larger, bigger tents, so we should be OK.

Friends and family have been roped in to help...

Friends and family have been roped in to help...

Come on. Come on, pussycat. We need your muscle power.

Come on. Come on, pussycat. We need your muscle power.

..including 11-year-old son Jules.

One, two, three.

Visitors to the festival will also be able to

Visitors to the festival will also be able to

wander around the parkland and the six acres of beautiful gardens,

wander around the parkland and the six acres of beautiful gardens,

all part of the family heritage that Alex wants to maintain.

all part of the family heritage that Alex wants to maintain.

It's not only the chateau we are looking after,

It's not only the chateau we are looking after,

it's also all the surroundings.

I don't do this only for my family.

I do believe that, when you have this kind of place,

I do believe that, when you have this kind of place,

you can't be selfish, you have to give a piece of it.

you can't be selfish, you have to give a piece of it.

And one of the star attractions will be the maze,

And one of the star attractions will be the maze,

so Alex is giving it a spruce-up and trim.

so Alex is giving it a spruce-up and trim.

It's quite large, actually, 3,000 square metres.

It's quite large, actually, 3,000 square metres.

Sometimes, you have to remember where you are

Sometimes, you have to remember where you are

because you're just turning around with the machine and suddenly,

because you're just turning around with the machine and suddenly,

you think, "Uh, where, am I?"

you think, "Uh, where, am I?"

We're quite far from the house, so, if I shout for help,

We're quite far from the house, so, if I shout for help,

I'm not sure anybody would help me.

I'm not sure anybody would help me.

You know, that's how you work, and so you see the life in pink.

You know, that's how you work, and so you see the life in pink.

You know, that's how you work, and so you see the life in pink.

Let's hope that helps with the strimming.

Let's hope that helps with the strimming.

You see, sometimes I see something,

also I always have to do a little bit...

also I always have to do a little bit...

Don't get lost, Alex, there's a fundraising festival to pull off.

Don't get lost, Alex, there's a fundraising festival to pull off.

Tomorrow is D-Day minus one.

Tomorrow is D-Day minus one.

We have to kind of squish into one day everything that still needs to be done,

We have to kind of squish into one day everything that still needs to be done,

We have to kind of squish into one day everything that still needs to be done,

but let's just cross our fingers and hope that everything will be OK.

but let's just cross our fingers and hope that everything will be OK.

but let's just cross our fingers and hope that everything will be OK.

All they need now is for the crowds to turn up in their thousands.

All they need now is for the crowds to turn up in their thousands.

A nine-hour drive south,

Angela and Steve are preparing the chateau

Angela and Steve are preparing the chateau

ahead of renting it out for the whole summer.

ahead of renting it out for the whole summer.

So, the first job is going to be getting these few bushes out here, isn't it, this hedge?

So, the first job is going to be getting these few bushes out here, isn't it, this hedge?

So this one, you want going, here? Yeah, that one's got to go.

So this one, you want going, here? Yeah, that one's got to go.

With just over a month until their first guests arrive,

With just over a month until their first guests arrive,

they're keen to get another improvement ticked off the list,

they're keen to get another improvement ticked off the list,

a new car park.

a new car park.

Rather than them park out in the sunshine, in front of the chateau,

Rather than them park out in the sunshine, in front of the chateau,

Rather than them park out in the sunshine, in front of the chateau,

we want to put in a shady area, cos the cars get so warm,

we want to put in a shady area, cos the cars get so warm,

and round the side is the perfect area for it. It's really shady,

and round the side is the perfect area for it. It's really shady,

they're out of the way of the view from the front of the house.

they're out of the way of the view from the front of the house.

If people park outside the front of the chateau, then

If people park outside the front of the chateau, then

if we get a delivery, if they can't get past, we have to then get people

if we get a delivery, if they can't get past, we have to then get people

to move their cars. Or the French will just drive round on the grass,

to move their cars. Or the French will just drive round on the grass,

to move their cars. Or the French will just drive round on the grass,

which can be a bit of a problem. So, if we have a specified area...

which can be a bit of a problem. So, if we have a specified area...

We like it to be tidy, don't we? Well, that's it, really,

We like it to be tidy, don't we? Well, that's it, really,

it's a shame to spoil the view at the front of the chateau.

it's a shame to spoil the view at the front of the chateau.

Definitely.

Are we taking this one out, yeah? Yeah, that one there. And that one?

Are we taking this one out, yeah? Yeah, that one there. And that one?

Right the way to there. OK. And that should give us space for five cars.

Right the way to there. OK. And that should give us space for five cars.

Go and get the digger. Go and get the digger? Right, I'm off.

Go and get the digger. Go and get the digger? Right, I'm off.

Lights.

We're off.

Nothing like the smell of diesel in the morning.

Nothing like the smell of diesel in the morning.

This could take some time.

This could take some time.

Now go down, right down to the bottom.

Now go down, right down to the bottom.

Yep.

A bit further down, I think.

A bit further down, I think.

Whoa.

Yeah, whoa.

That looks awfully unstable to me, too.

That looks awfully unstable to me, too.

Just dig deeper. Dig deeper.

Now pull back.

Yeah, that's it.

Yeah, that's it.

That's it. Yay! Number one, out.

That's it. Yay! Number one, out.

That's it.

Yep, go on, there.

And pull back.

That's it. That's it. Yep.

Perfect. Beautiful. Yay.

Perfect. Beautiful. Yay.

You wouldn't think there had been a hedge there this morning, would you?

You wouldn't think there had been a hedge there this morning, would you?

Well done.

Well done.

Ground cleared.

Time now for the hardcore, which is

Time now for the hardcore, which is

rubble from previous DIY jobs.

When you own a chateau, the golden rule is -

When you own a chateau, the golden rule is -

re-use wherever possible.

re-use wherever possible.

The top layer of gravel will be added later,

The top layer of gravel will be added later,

but, before the gravel arrives, there's another job to do.

but, before the gravel arrives, there's another job to do.

I'll go forwards, please, can you go back?

I'll go forwards, please, can you go back?

Angela and Steve want to upgrade a path by laying special

Angela and Steve want to upgrade a path by laying special

Angela and Steve want to upgrade a path by laying special

honeycomb frames to provide a stable surface for wheelchair access.

honeycomb frames to provide a stable surface for wheelchair access.

honeycomb frames to provide a stable surface for wheelchair access.

Remember, they go a certain way.

Do they? I think that's the right way, love. Yeah?

Do they? I think that's the right way, love. Yeah?

OK.

What we're trying to do is end up

with a path going to the swimming pool.

with a path going to the swimming pool.

You need that to meet up with this, here, don't you?

You need that to meet up with this, here, don't you?

Hopefully, the gravel's going to hold these down.

Hopefully, the gravel's going to hold these down.

Late afternoon, a lorry from the local supplier turns up

Late afternoon, a lorry from the local supplier turns up

with 15 tonnes of gravel to finish the job.

with 15 tonnes of gravel to finish the job.

It's here. Thank goodness for that.

It's here. Thank goodness for that.

Well done. You've improved the chateau even more with that

Well done. You've improved the chateau even more with that

Well done. You've improved the chateau even more with that

new gravel path and a bigger, better car park.

new gravel path and a bigger, better car park.

It's finished.

I am absolutely...

I am absolutely...

..worn out.

Come on, I need my glass of wine. OK.

Come on, I need my glass of wine. OK.

Might just see the sun go down.

OK, that's a good point. Come on.

OK, that's a good point. Come on.

Let's go. Right, I'm off. I'm off.

Let's go. Right, I'm off. I'm off.

If anyone deserves a glass of wine, it's you two.

If anyone deserves a glass of wine, it's you two.

Next time...

So, so hot.

..Ithaca and Alex sweat it out...

It's like being in the eye of a cyclone.

It's like being in the eye of a cyclone.

..as their fundraising fair becomes a hot ticket.

..as their fundraising fair becomes a hot ticket.

There's no more tickets down there.

There's no more tickets down there.

They don't have any entrance bracelets.

Donna and Paul hope to brew up some business at the tearoom.

Donna and Paul hope to brew up some business at the tearoom.

The only thing that's missing now is my flowers in the centre

The only thing that's missing now is my flowers in the centre

and some customers. Yeah.

and some customers. Yeah.

We're coasting it for chateau inspiration...

We're coasting it for chateau inspiration...

There is just a total different feeling when you're by the seaside.

There is just a total different feeling when you're by the seaside.

I'm a crab. I'm coming to get ya.

I'm a crab. I'm coming to get ya.

..and Angela and Steve get stuck in a last-minute fix.

..and Angela and Steve get stuck in a last-minute fix.

It's not ideal to start this kind of job just two

It's not ideal to start this kind of job just two

days before your guests come, I suppose.

days before your guests come, I suppose.

Subtitles by Red Bee Media

Subtitles by Red Bee Media