All language subtitles for Escape To The Chateau DIY S03E15.720p.HDTV.x264-LiNKLE.English

Along with my wife Angel,
and our two children, we're nearly

five years into restoring
this once-abandoned chateau.

five years into restoring
this once-abandoned chateau.

There's something quite
sort of majestic about it.

There's something quite
sort of majestic about it.

Feel like you're in the clouds.

Feel like you're in the clouds.

It's been demanding...

..yet truly fulfilling.

It's made me feel a bit mushy
and a bit emotional.

It's made me feel a bit mushy
and a bit emotional.

And with thousands
of chateaux in France,

And with thousands
of chateaux in France,

we're not the only Brits
buying into the French fairy tale.

we're not the only Brits
buying into the French fairy tale.

Oh, my goodness, it's amazing!

Oh, my goodness, it's amazing!

Angel and I are once again
helping our fellow expats...

Angel and I are once again
helping our fellow expats...

This is a big old build.

..as they embark on a brand-new
set of chateau adventures.

..as they embark on a brand-new
set of chateau adventures.

Ah, ah!

Ah, ah!

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

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

You're Monsieur Dick!

It'll be a roller-coaster ride.

It'll be a roller-coaster ride.

Whoa.

No. No.

But no matter what...

I'm just going to try not to cry.

..these plucky Brits...

Are we doing this with
all the technological

accomplishment of the
ancient Egyptians?

..are determined to transform
once-unloved buildings...

..are determined to transform
once-unloved buildings...

..into the most spectacular homes...

..into the most spectacular homes...

That is amazing!

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

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

Today....

The heat is on...

So, so hot.

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

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

..at a family's big chateau
fundraiser.

..at a family's big chateau
fundraiser.

They all want to be in the shade.

I'm just hoping that I'm going
to find a space for all of them.

I'm just hoping that I'm going
to find a space for all of them.

I'm just hoping that I'm going
to find a space for all of them.

One couple are working round
the clock to cook up a storm

One couple are working round
the clock to cook up a storm

with a new tearoom.

The tearoom's not ready now,
but give us a couple of weeks.

The tearoom's not ready now,
but give us a couple of weeks.

We'll just stop sleeping
and things like that.

We'll just stop sleeping
and things like that.

We're beachcombing for treasure.

We're beachcombing for treasure.

There's a certain time of the day
when the tide goes out

There's a certain time of the day
when the tide goes out

and you see all the rocks

and you see all the rocks

and we're gonna go look for anything
that takes our fancy.

and we're gonna go look for anything
that takes our fancy.

and we're gonna go look for anything
that takes our fancy.

And a last-minute fix...

And a last-minute fix...

It's not ideal to start
this kind of job

It's not ideal to start
this kind of job

just two days before your guests
come, I suppose.

just two days before your guests
come, I suppose.

..leaves chateau owners trying to
burrow their way out of a hole.

..leaves chateau owners trying to
burrow their way out of a hole.

Have we reached Australia yet?

Have we reached Australia yet?

In western France
is 17th century Chateau de Sauge.

In western France
is 17th century Chateau de Sauge.

Its 45 rooms of faded grandeur
are slowly being restored

Its 45 rooms of faded grandeur
are slowly being restored

Its 45 rooms of faded grandeur
are slowly being restored

by Brits Donna and Paul, who snapped
it up just over five months ago.

by Brits Donna and Paul, who snapped
it up just over five months ago.

by Brits Donna and Paul, who snapped
it up just over five months ago.

Bottom line is
we have fun at the same time.

Bottom line is
we have fun at the same time.

Bottom line is
we have fun at the same time.

When you're working seven days
a week, which we are,

When you're working seven days
a week, which we are,

it's because we're enjoying it,
as well.

it's because we're enjoying it,
as well.

We're enjoying seeing
the transformation,

We're enjoying seeing
the transformation,

if you like,
of each room in the chateau.

if you like,
of each room in the chateau.

It's heading towards
the vision that we have for it.

It's heading towards
the vision that we have for it.

Bought for £279,000, the chateau is
situated 50 miles from La Rochelle.

Bought for £279,000, the chateau is
situated 50 miles from La Rochelle.

Bought for £279,000, the chateau is
situated 50 miles from La Rochelle.

Bought for £279,000, the chateau is
situated 50 miles from La Rochelle.

The couple gave up steady jobs to
make the move to France and sink

The couple gave up steady jobs to
make the move to France and sink

their life savings into setting up
a home, a B&B and events business.

their life savings into setting up
a home, a B&B and events business.

their life savings into setting up
a home, a B&B and events business.

With this project,
everything's at stake.

With this project,
everything's at stake.

There'll certainly be a few more
challenges ahead.

There'll certainly be a few more
challenges ahead.

They've already completed
their first accommodation

They've already completed
their first accommodation

ready for paying guests.

Now they want to create
a vintage tearoom,

Now they want to create
a vintage tearoom,

where Donna plans to offer
tea and cakes to the public.

where Donna plans to offer
tea and cakes to the public.

So do you want me to glue them
and then pin them?

So do you want me to glue them
and then pin them?

Er, yeah.

Er, yeah.

However, getting an old chateau
to comply with rules for disabled

However, getting an old chateau
to comply with rules for disabled

access has been a whole new
challenge.

access has been a whole new
challenge.

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

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

It is, yeah.

By widening a doorway and tiling
directly onto the walls...

By widening a doorway and tiling
directly onto the walls...

By widening a doorway and tiling
directly onto the walls...

1.5 without tiles.

..they came up with a way of
creating enough space for a fully

..they came up with a way of
creating enough space for a fully

compliant disabled toilet.

We've had to do
lots of opening up of walls,

We've had to do
lots of opening up of walls,

seeing what space we have
that we can grab.

seeing what space we have
that we can grab.

It gets to a point where
it's just all too much

It gets to a point where
it's just all too much

and you kind of think, "My God,
what have we taken on here?"

and you kind of think, "My God,
what have we taken on here?"

And then other days, you get up
and you think, "How lucky, are we?"

And then other days, you get up
and you think, "How lucky, are we?"

And then other days, you get up
and you think, "How lucky, are we?"

And then you look at the bank
account, and then you cry!

And then you look at the bank
account, and then you cry!

Donna and Paul wanted the tearoom
up and running two months ago,

Donna and Paul wanted the tearoom
up and running two months ago,

to bring in much-needed cash.

But they're way behind schedule,

so have set a new launch date
for a few weeks' time.

so have set a new launch date
for a few weeks' time.

Extremely worried about
hitting the deadline.

Extremely worried about
hitting the deadline.

And yet, physically, I don't think
we can work any harder than we are.

And yet, physically, I don't think
we can work any harder than we are.

And yet, physically, I don't think
we can work any harder than we are.

We need the tearoom to open.

We need the tearoom to open.

Savings are at an all-time low.

Savings are at an all-time low.

Now Donna wants to practise
new baking skills.

Now Donna wants to practise
new baking skills.

Initially, we would like to open
probably two or three days a week

Initially, we would like to open
probably two or three days a week

Initially, we would like to open
probably two or three days a week

and serve things like afternoon tea,
you know,

and serve things like afternoon tea,
you know,

scones with the clotted cream

and a good variety of traditional
cakes and things like that.

and a good variety of traditional
cakes and things like that.

There's nothing like that
anywhere around, so hopefully,

There's nothing like that
anywhere around, so hopefully,

we'll get lots of business.

we'll get lots of business.

Despite the mountain of work
they've got to get through,

Despite the mountain of work
they've got to get through,

Donna's feeling upbeat.

The tearoom's not ready now,
but give us a couple of weeks.

The tearoom's not ready now,
but give us a couple of weeks.

We'll just stop, you know,
sleeping and things like that.

We'll just stop, you know,
sleeping and things like that.

We'll just stop, you know,
sleeping and things like that.

All wasted time!

You? You can have one.

You? You can have one.

He's worked hard today, hasn't he?

I think we'll give him a cupcake.

I think we'll give him a cupcake.

And?

Back in the tearoom toilets,

Back in the tearoom toilets,

a sleep-deprived Paul's
had an awful realisation.

a sleep-deprived Paul's
had an awful realisation.

a sleep-deprived Paul's
had an awful realisation.

He's forgotten to check for leaks
in the pipes in the walls

He's forgotten to check for leaks
in the pipes in the walls

before plaster-boarding
and tiling over them.

before plaster-boarding
and tiling over them.

The pressure here is about six bars,
so if it leaks, you'll know

The pressure here is about six bars,
so if it leaks, you'll know

The pressure here is about six bars,
so if it leaks, you'll know

pretty instantly that there's
a gusher behind one of the walls.

pretty instantly that there's
a gusher behind one of the walls.

Now, if that's the case,

unfortunately it means having
to remove the ceramic tiles,

unfortunately it means having
to remove the ceramic tiles,

the plasterboard,
and finding the offending joint.

the plasterboard,
and finding the offending joint.

Now, given we've proceeded
and tiled, I'm hoping that's not

Now, given we've proceeded
and tiled, I'm hoping that's not

the case, because that's gonna
be a major problem.

the case, because that's gonna
be a major problem.

Oh, no.

Just three weeks before they want
the tearoom up and running,

Just three weeks before they want
the tearoom up and running,

stripping the tiled walls now
is a delay they can ill afford.

stripping the tiled walls now
is a delay they can ill afford.

stripping the tiled walls now
is a delay they can ill afford.

150 miles south is Chateau Caillac,

150 miles south is Chateau Caillac,

a classic French beauty
from the 19th century.

a classic French beauty
from the 19th century.

With 20 rooms and private river
access from the grounds,

With 20 rooms and private river
access from the grounds,

it's been lovingly restored
by Angela and husband Steve,

it's been lovingly restored
by Angela and husband Steve,

who has a background in engineering.

You kind of look around,
and you do have to pinch yourself.

You kind of look around,
and you do have to pinch yourself.

It's just like, yeah,
we've had a busy, hectic day,

It's just like, yeah,
we've had a busy, hectic day,

but gosh, we're here, it's
beautiful, the peace, the quiet.

but gosh, we're here, it's
beautiful, the peace, the quiet.

It's just a lovely place to be.

It is a really special
thing to have.

It is a really special
thing to have.

The potential you see, as well and
it's the potential I think we saw

The potential you see, as well and
it's the potential I think we saw

in this place 'cos we could do
something with it

to make it what we wanted.

Extra special.
To make it really nice.

Located 60 miles from Bordeaux,
the couple are preparing to rent out

Located 60 miles from Bordeaux,
the couple are preparing to rent out

their turreted marvel
for the whole summer

their turreted marvel
for the whole summer

to bring in essential income and
also share the place with others.

to bring in essential income and
also share the place with others.

People that we've never met,
who come on holiday,

People that we've never met,
who come on holiday,

then they send you an e-mail to
say, "It really is...

then they send you an e-mail to
say, "It really is...

A magical place."

There's no point doing a chateau,

There's no point doing a chateau,

spending all the time only for it
to be me and Steve appreciate it.

spending all the time only for it
to be me and Steve appreciate it.

spending all the time only for it
to be me and Steve appreciate it.

Their latest renovation project
is restoring the chateau's

Their latest renovation project
is restoring the chateau's

electric gates, which haven't
worked properly for 12 years.

electric gates, which haven't
worked properly for 12 years.

electric gates, which haven't
worked properly for 12 years.

The motors on the gates
are underground and get wet.

The motors on the gates
are underground and get wet.

In which case,
if we improve the drainage...

In which case,
if we improve the drainage...

Yeah. Hopefully.

Potentially, sometime in the past,
there was some form of drain,

Potentially, sometime in the past,
there was some form of drain,

but it's either got blocked up,
or...

Or there's a mouse living in it,
or something. Probably.

Or there's a mouse living in it,
or something. Probably.

Or a snake.
Well, I hope not.

I hope not, too,

'cos I'll probably be down there
with my hands in there.

Let's get going, then.

What's the plan first, then, love?

We've got to remove that cover,
first, and then, we need to just,

We've got to remove that cover,
first, and then, we need to just,

if there's any water in there,
we need to empty it out.

if there's any water in there,
we need to empty it out.

If water has been getting into the
gate motors, that could mean a lot

If water has been getting into the
gate motors, that could mean a lot

of work if this summer's guests are
to get a more luxurious entrance.

of work if this summer's guests are
to get a more luxurious entrance.

of work if this summer's guests are
to get a more luxurious entrance.

There's something really
special about arriving at a chateau,

There's something really
special about arriving at a chateau,

literally, as you come in front
of the gates, the gates open

literally, as you come in front
of the gates, the gates open

and allow you to come in
and see the tree-lined drive.

and allow you to come in
and see the tree-lined drive.

First impressions are so important.

First impressions are so important.

Can you bring me
a screwdriver, Angela?

Can you bring me
a screwdriver, Angela?

See, it's great having a helper,
isn't it?

See, it's great having a helper,
isn't it?

The gopher, go for this,
go for that.

The gopher, go for this,
go for that.

Now to discover just how much
rainwater is collecting.

Now to discover just how much
rainwater is collecting.

Oh, my goodness,
oh, there's a frog, look at that!

Oh, my goodness,
oh, there's a frog, look at that!

Actually, I think...

That was actually a frog.
It's a pond.

That was actually a frog.
It's a pond.

We're going to need a jug,
you can't mop that up.

Did you not bring
anything like that?

No, do you want to go and get a jug
and a bucket, Angela?

No, do you want to go and get a jug
and a bucket, Angela?

Looks like it may be touch and go

Looks like it may be touch and go

fixing the gates in time
for the first rental guests.

fixing the gates in time
for the first rental guests.

Coming up...

Right, which one am I turning?

Donna and Paul are having
toilet troubles.

Donna and Paul are having
toilet troubles.

The one on the right.

Right that way, or right that way?

Right that way, or right that way?

And early arrivals
throw a spanner in the works...

And early arrivals
throw a spanner in the works...

Un, deux, trois.

..at a chateau-family's fair.

I'm trying to map out
the areas for the antique dealers

I'm trying to map out
the areas for the antique dealers

and brocanteurs as we speak,
I keep getting interrupted.

and brocanteurs as we speak,
I keep getting interrupted.

The elegant, 18th-century,
44-room Chateau Flore

sits in a 27-acre estate,

sits in a 27-acre estate,

including extensive formal gardens

including extensive formal gardens

and a
three-quarters-of-an-acre maze.

and a
three-quarters-of-an-acre maze.

It's home to British
events organiser Ithaca
and her French husband, Alex.

It's home to British
events organiser Ithaca
and her French husband, Alex.

It's home to British
events organiser Ithaca
and her French husband, Alex.

It's home to British
events organiser Ithaca
and her French husband, Alex.

We're really, really lucky.

We're very lucky to own
a place like this, even if it is

We're very lucky to own
a place like this, even if it is

a complete, you know,
bottomless pit.

Located an hour from Calais, Alex
and Ithaca

Located an hour from Calais, Alex
and Ithaca

host an antiques and flower fair
in the gardens each year,

host an antiques and flower fair
in the gardens each year,

with the aim of raising funds
that help pay for vital repairs.

with the aim of raising funds
that help pay for vital repairs.

with the aim of raising funds
that help pay for vital repairs.

The events are crucial
for the survival of this house.

The events are crucial
for the survival of this house.

The events are crucial
for the survival of this house.

We're not millionaires,
we're just normal people,

We're not millionaires,
we're just normal people,

so we need to find ways
to create more...

so we need to find ways
to create more...

..more cash.

Over 70 stallholders will be selling
everything from antiques

Over 70 stallholders will be selling
everything from antiques

to garden products.

The public pay an entrance fee.

But with a costly roof
repair under way,

But with a costly roof
repair under way,

they need the fair to be
more of a financial success
than last year.

they need the fair to be
more of a financial success
than last year.

We didn't lose any money, but
we didn't actually gain much money.

We didn't lose any money, but
we didn't actually gain much money.

We didn't lose any money, but
we didn't actually gain much money.

We're crossing our fingers.

We're crossing our fingers.

We're hoping that we're going
to have more people.

There's now just 24 hours to go,

There's now just 24 hours to go,

and Alex, Ithaca and a team of 30
helpers still have to set up

and Alex, Ithaca and a team of 30
helpers still have to set up

and Alex, Ithaca and a team of 30
helpers still have to set up

their bar and restaurant,
plus put signage across the site.

their bar and restaurant,
plus put signage across the site.

A heatwave has sent
temperatures into the mid-30s.

A heatwave has sent
temperatures into the mid-30s.

At least that should be
good for takings at the bar,

At least that should be
good for takings at the bar,

where Alex is showing staff how to
work the beer taps.

where Alex is showing staff how to
work the beer taps.

TRANSLATION FROM FRENCH:

TRANSLATION FROM FRENCH:

Ithaca is dealing with early
arrivals of stallholders

Ithaca is dealing with early
arrivals of stallholders

at the now-scorching 10-acre
event site.

at the now-scorching 10-acre
event site.

Quite a lot of brocanteurs are
arriving now,

Quite a lot of brocanteurs are
arriving now,

so things that
I should be doing, I can't be doing

so things that
I should be doing, I can't be doing

because I'm having to deal with
people that are arriving earlier.

because I'm having to deal with
people that are arriving earlier.

because I'm having to deal with
people that are arriving earlier.

This is the hottest day of the year,

and they're arriving
in scorching heat.

and they're arriving
in scorching heat.

I don't know why they're arriving
now instead of tomorrow morning.

I don't know why they're arriving
now instead of tomorrow morning.

I'm a bit concerned
I might not have enough space.

I'm a bit concerned
I might not have enough space.

Despite Ithaca's hard sell
on pitches closer to the bar,

Despite Ithaca's hard sell
on pitches closer to the bar,

the shady spots
remain in high demand.

the shady spots
remain in high demand.

They all want to be in the shade,
so that's a bit of a problem.

They all want to be in the shade,
so that's a bit of a problem.

I'm just hoping that I'm going to
find a space for all of them.

I'm just hoping that I'm going to
find a space for all of them.

SHE LAUGHS

Ithaca's day is not going
as planned.

Ithaca's day is not going
as planned.

I'm trying to map out the
areas for the antique dealers

I'm trying to map out the
areas for the antique dealers

and brocanteurs as we speak.

I keep getting interrupted.

The day's got even hotter, and
there's heavy lifting to be done.

The day's got even hotter, and
there's heavy lifting to be done.

Maybe it's not ideal to work at this
time of the day...

Maybe it's not ideal to work at this
time of the day...

..because it's so hot.

..because it's so hot.

But we have to go on.

But we have to go on.

And also, I have to watch
after all the people helping,

And also, I have to watch
after all the people helping,

And also, I have to watch
after all the people helping,

so that they don't catch the sun
or get too tired.

so that they don't catch the sun
or get too tired.

so that they don't catch the sun
or get too tired.

We desperately need them
tomorrow to be in good shape.

We desperately need them
tomorrow to be in good shape.

We desperately need them
tomorrow to be in good shape.

So, so hot.

So, so hot.

I must be some kind of...

Like a red lobster right now.

Like a red lobster right now.

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

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

Ithaca wants to make sure
they're prepared

Ithaca wants to make sure
they're prepared

if the bar goes down a storm.

if the bar goes down a storm.

So, the freezer's done, the ice
is done, the beer taps are done,

So, the freezer's done, the ice
is done, the beer taps are done,

the beer's here, the wine is here,
we've got running water,

the beer's here, the wine is here,
we've got running water,

we've got the bins.

Now they just need the crowds
so their hard work pays off.

Now they just need the crowds
so their hard work pays off.

We need at least 1,500 people,
I think, to break even.

We need at least 1,500 people,
I think, to break even.

I'm hoping to have more.

I'm hoping to have more.

If nobody comes,
we'll still have very good beer.

If nobody comes,
we'll still have very good beer.

Yep.
And very good rose.

So we can just
not do anything and party.

So we can just
not do anything and party.

Not sure Ithaca would agree, Alex.

Not sure Ithaca would agree, Alex.

Fingers crossed the sun brings out
the visitors tomorrow.

Fingers crossed the sun brings out
the visitors tomorrow.

300 miles south, at Chateau de
Sauge, Paul's about to test

300 miles south, at Chateau de
Sauge, Paul's about to test

300 miles south, at Chateau de
Sauge, Paul's about to test

the pipes in his revamped toilets.

the pipes in his revamped toilets.

If there's a leak,
it'll mean stripping away

If there's a leak,
it'll mean stripping away

some of the tiles he's just put up,
so it's an anxious moment.

some of the tiles he's just put up,
so it's an anxious moment.

some of the tiles he's just put up,
so it's an anxious moment.

Pipes are in.

HE EXHALES

Right, we can switch
the water on now.

Ready?

It'll be a bit of an anticlimax
if everything's OK.

It'll be a bit of an anticlimax
if everything's OK.

It better be OK.

Do you want to turn the tap?
Right, which one am I turning?

Do you want to turn the tap?
Right, which one am I turning?

The one on the right.

Right that way, or right that way?

Right facing the taps.

This one?
Yeah. Slowly.

Ready? No.

This could be sink or swim
for their tearoom launch date.

This could be sink or swim
for their tearoom launch date.

This could be sink or swim
for their tearoom launch date.

Whoo.

TOILET FLUSHES

TOILET FLUSHES

I've never been so happy
to see a toilet flush.

I've never been so happy
to see a toilet flush.

HE CHUCKLES
That's a relief.

HE CHUCKLES
That's a relief.

But that's, yeah,
two toilets, two sinks, yeah.

But that's, yeah,
two toilets, two sinks, yeah.

But that's, yeah,
two toilets, two sinks, yeah.

Seem to be OK, which is good.

Right, well,
that's me finished for today.

Right, well,
that's me finished for today.

Feet up now, sweetheart.
SHE LAUGHS

Feet up now, sweetheart.
SHE LAUGHS

When it comes to finishing
the tearoom in her chosen

When it comes to finishing
the tearoom in her chosen

vintage theme, Donna's been keeping
the budget down by hunting around.

vintage theme, Donna's been keeping
the budget down by hunting around.

vintage theme, Donna's been keeping
the budget down by hunting around.

To get an old-style paper,
it's absolutely so expensive,

To get an old-style paper,
it's absolutely so expensive,

it's crazy prices,
so I've been dealing with

it's crazy prices,
so I've been dealing with

a couple of wallpaper suppliers
and some mills.

a couple of wallpaper suppliers
and some mills.

a couple of wallpaper suppliers
and some mills.

I've just been buying them
for a fraction of the price.

I've just been buying them
for a fraction of the price.

Sourcing online bargain bins is
a great way to keep costs down,

Sourcing online bargain bins is
a great way to keep costs down,

Sourcing online bargain bins is
a great way to keep costs down,

especially when you have an entire
chateau to renovate.

especially when you have an entire
chateau to renovate.

especially when you have an entire
chateau to renovate.

Trips to the brocantes means they've
been slowly collecting enough

Trips to the brocantes means they've
been slowly collecting enough

furniture to fill their home,

so Donna's been trying her
hand at a new skill - upholstery.

so Donna's been trying her
hand at a new skill - upholstery.

so Donna's been trying her
hand at a new skill - upholstery.

I've got, actually,
two chairs of this style.

I've got, actually,
two chairs of this style.

Unfortunately,
all of the bottoms of the chairs

Unfortunately,
all of the bottoms of the chairs

have kind of deteriorated like this.

have kind of deteriorated like this.

I'm going to have
to reupholster them,

I'm going to have
to reupholster them,

something I've not done before.

something I've not done before.

First thing I'm doing is
to remove all of this braiding.

First thing I'm doing is
to remove all of this braiding.

Mostly, it's kind of stuck in place.

Mostly, it's kind of stuck in place.

I never imagined there would
be this many little pins.

I never imagined there would
be this many little pins.

Ow.

So, now all that braid's off,

you can actually see
the amount of tacks.

There are...hundreds.

There are...hundreds.

Once the fabric is
removed from the seat,

Once the fabric is
removed from the seat,

Donna uses it as a template on her
chosen replacement material.

Donna uses it as a template on her
chosen replacement material.

So, my idea is,
I'll kind of leave a bit extra.

That's kind of pretty central.

That's kind of pretty central.

To keep the new cover in place,
Donna's reusing the original tacks.

To keep the new cover in place,
Donna's reusing the original tacks.

To keep the new cover in place,
Donna's reusing the original tacks.

Right, hammer.

One nail in,
probably another 200 to go.

One nail in,
probably another 200 to go.

SHE CHUCKLES

Several tacks later,
Donna's done for the day.

Several tacks later,
Donna's done for the day.

I think it's a good start.

I think they'll absolutely
look stunning

I think they'll absolutely
look stunning

when they're completed,
so it will be worth it.

when they're completed,
so it will be worth it.

With the tearoom launch date
fast approaching,

With the tearoom launch date
fast approaching,

and a basement full of
brocante buys to work through,

and a basement full of
brocante buys to work through,

it looks like Donna and Paul
have a very busy time ahead.

it looks like Donna and Paul
have a very busy time ahead.

150 miles south, Angela and Steve
are racing to fix the motorised

150 miles south, Angela and Steve
are racing to fix the motorised

150 miles south, Angela and Steve
are racing to fix the motorised

entrance gates, before the first
rental guests of the season arrive.

entrance gates, before the first
rental guests of the season arrive.

entrance gates, before the first
rental guests of the season arrive.

Oh, great, that's just what I need.
There you go.

Right, let's get bailing.

Right, let's get bailing.

The motor housing is flooded,
so will need bailing out,

The motor housing is flooded,
so will need bailing out,

along with a resident frog.
Then they can replace the motor.

along with a resident frog.
Then they can replace the motor.

along with a resident frog.
Then they can replace the motor.

I think this has been
full of water for years.

I think this has been
full of water for years.

Hence the wildlife.
Here he is.

Hence the wildlife.
Here he is.

Oh. Oh! Oh!

Oh. Oh! Oh!

Oh, it's gone again.

Oh, he's in there now.

Why don't we tip it out slowly?

Time to evict Kermit.

Time to evict Kermit.

I haven't seen anything yet.
Are you sure you put him in here?

I haven't seen anything yet.
Are you sure you put him in here?

He might not be in it.
I thought he went in the jug.

He might not be in it.
I thought he went in the jug.

No?
Oh, no, I think he's there.

No?
Oh, no, I think he's there.

Well, something's in there.

Oh! No, that's a leaf.
SHE LAUGHS

Oh! No, that's a leaf.
SHE LAUGHS

No, no, no.

I think there's just
a leaf in there, Steven.

I think there's just
a leaf in there, Steven.

No frog.

Oh, there he is.
He's there, he's on the leaf.

Oh, there he is.
He's there, he's on the leaf.

Ah, that's gorgeous.

Can I have the bucket,
please, Angela?

I really need to get this
out of here now. OK, OK.

I really need to get this
out of here now. OK, OK.

Saving the wildlife is great,

but it's not getting the job done,
is it? There you go.

but it's not getting the job done,
is it? There you go.

Now to mop away the muddy residue

Now to mop away the muddy residue

and see where
the water SHOULD drain.

and see where
the water SHOULD drain.

The good news is, I can see where
there's a pipe coming out of here.

The good news is, I can see where
there's a pipe coming out of here.

Maybe that went off to a drain
somewhere over there.

Maybe that went off to a drain
somewhere over there.

Let's have a look.

I hope it doesn't go very far.

Oh, that went further in.

That went quite
a bit further in then.

That went quite
a bit further in then.

That's gone loads further in.

Unable to reach the connecting
drainage pipe this way,

Unable to reach the connecting
drainage pipe this way,

it's time to bring in the big tools.

it's time to bring in the big tools.

Fire her up, see what happens.

And that means digging from above.

And that means digging from above.

OK, so you need to go closer
to that side.

OK, so you need to go closer
to that side.

Whoa! I reckon that's
pretty spot-on.

Whoa! I reckon that's
pretty spot-on.

Yeah.

Steve's aiming his auger

hoping to hit the line of the
existing drainpipe...

hoping to hit the line of the
existing drainpipe...

Yep, whoa, whoa.

..so they can find where the
source of the blockage is.

..so they can find where the
source of the blockage is.

What are you thinking?
I think we're hitting something
really hard down there.

What are you thinking?
I think we're hitting something
really hard down there.

We're probably hitting
the foundations for the gates
themselves. OK.

We're probably hitting
the foundations for the gates
themselves. OK.

We're going to have to move more
this way, which is fine.

We're going to have to move more
this way, which is fine.

Breaking through concrete
so they can fix the problem

Breaking through concrete
so they can fix the problem

will be a big job,

so fingers crossed
they can locate softer ground.

so fingers crossed
they can locate softer ground.

Think that's hit concrete again.

Think that's hit concrete again.

Yeah, that's concrete, isn't it?

Yeah, that's concrete, isn't it?

Best-laid plans and all that.

Let's hope it's third time lucky.

Let's hope it's third time lucky.

Go back again about an inch,
two inch. That's... Whoa.

Go back again about an inch,
two inch. That's... Whoa.

That's it.

That's going into the ground now.

That's going into the ground now.

Does that feel like
it's going in now?

Yeah.

Bingo!

Have we reached Australia yet?

Have we reached Australia yet?

Big hole.

Is it lunchtime?

No.

This is turning into a bigger
job than expected,

This is turning into a bigger
job than expected,

so there's no guarantee they'll have
it done in time for rental guests.

so there's no guarantee they'll have
it done in time for rental guests.

I'm not intersecting any pipe.

I'm not intersecting any pipe.

Oh, dear. Despite Steve's big drill,

Oh, dear. Despite Steve's big drill,

seems this hole still isn't deep
enough to reach the drain.

seems this hole still isn't deep
enough to reach the drain.

seems this hole still isn't deep
enough to reach the drain.

If that's further, deeper than that,

then we're never going to
actually hit that pipe.

It's not ideal to start this
kind of job

It's not ideal to start this
kind of job

just two days before
your guests come, I suppose.

just two days before
your guests come, I suppose.

Coming up...

A mad rush for Alex and Ithaca
at the fundraising fair...

A mad rush for Alex and Ithaca
at the fundraising fair...

There are no more
tickets down there.

They don't have
any entrance bracelets.

They don't have
any entrance bracelets.

..Donna's getting crafty to finish
the tearoom on a budget...

..Donna's getting crafty to finish
the tearoom on a budget...

As we're going through the chateau,

As we're going through the chateau,

what we're trying to do is
repurpose as much as possible.

what we're trying to do is
repurpose as much as possible.

Watch me fingers.

..and we head to the coast.

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.

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

I'm a crab, coming to get you!

In northern France, it's now
the day of Alex and Ithaca's

In northern France, it's now
the day of Alex and Ithaca's

fundraising antiques
and flower fair.

fundraising antiques
and flower fair.

And Ithaca's made
a very early start.

And Ithaca's made
a very early start.

I got up at half past four.

The first people
arrived at ten to five.

The first people
arrived at ten to five.

So I've been literally, you know,

So I've been literally, you know,

running around and making sure that
everybody is happy with their space.

running around and making sure that
everybody is happy with their space.

running around and making sure that
everybody is happy with their space.

Now there's less than an hour to
get all the stalls in position,

Now there's less than an hour to
get all the stalls in position,

before opening the
gates to the public.

before opening the
gates to the public.

Making sure that
everybody is setting up

Making sure that
everybody is setting up

and that they've cleared
their lorries for half past eight.

and that they've cleared
their lorries for half past eight.

and that they've cleared
their lorries for half past eight.

Un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq,

Un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq,

six, sept, huit, neuf, dix.

six, sept, huit, neuf, dix.

Alex heads down to the ticket
desk and prepares to open...

Alex heads down to the ticket
desk and prepares to open...

..as Ithaca instils some team
spirit into the army of 30 workers.

..as Ithaca instils some team
spirit into the army of 30 workers.

..as Ithaca instils some team
spirit into the army of 30 workers.

The stalls are ready to
welcome visitors,

The stalls are ready to
welcome visitors,

but there's no sign of any.

Clearly, there's a problem.

Clearly, there's a problem.

RADIO: Merci, Alex.
Merci.

RADIO: Merci, Alex.
Merci.

They forgot to open the parking.

That is their duty, they just
forgot, but it's fine now.

That is their duty, they just
forgot, but it's fine now.

It's open. First car's coming.

It's open. First car's coming.

I can't believe it.

It's very funny, actually.

It's very funny, actually.

The car park now open,
visitors are flooding in...

The car park now open,
visitors are flooding in...

..leaving Alex a victim
of his own success.

..leaving Alex a victim
of his own success.

There are no more tickets
down there.

There are no more tickets
down there.

They don't have any entrance
bracelets, so that's an issue.

They don't have any entrance
bracelets, so that's an issue.

It means a race across the ten-acre
site, back to the chateau.

It means a race across the ten-acre
site, back to the chateau.

Where is it?

OK, c'est bon.

C'est bon?

Bumper numbers are also proving
a problem for the bar and buffet.

Bumper numbers are also proving
a problem for the bar and buffet.

Right now, I'm concerned with the
fact that all these people

Right now, I'm concerned with the
fact that all these people

are waiting to eat.

There's a huge queue for lunch

and I keep getting called
every single five minutes.

and I keep getting called
every single five minutes.

It's really frustrating,

because it means you're going
to get people saying,

because it means you're going
to get people saying,

"Ugh, we had to queue,
we had to queue".

"Ugh, we had to queue,
we had to queue".

Time for some damage limitation.

The bumper turnout is great news
for the renovation fund,

The bumper turnout is great news
for the renovation fund,

The bumper turnout is great news
for the renovation fund,

but also means the next five hours
are going to be pretty hectic

but also means the next five hours
are going to be pretty hectic

for Ithaca and Alex.

300 miles south, the grand opening
of Donna and Paul's new tearoom

300 miles south, the grand opening
of Donna and Paul's new tearoom

is in ten days' time.

And they've been making good
progress with the work,

And they've been making good
progress with the work,

but they've had some crushing news.

but they've had some crushing news.

We had a meeting with the
mayor two days ago. Yeah.

We had a meeting with the
mayor two days ago. Yeah.

To request his presence at
the opening of the tearoom.

To request his presence at
the opening of the tearoom.

To officially open the tearoom.
Yeah.

To officially open the tearoom.
Yeah.

But then, unfortunately, he said
that he'd only received

But then, unfortunately, he said
that he'd only received

the paperwork, that we understood
had been submitted,

the paperwork, that we understood
had been submitted,

technically, a couple of weeks
previously.

technically, a couple of weeks
previously.

When we mentioned opening in ten
days, he burst into laughter. Yeah.

When we mentioned opening in ten
days, he burst into laughter. Yeah.

When we mentioned opening in ten
days, he burst into laughter. Yeah.

He said, "Of course
I'll open the tearoom.

He said, "Of course
I'll open the tearoom.

"Love to, but not on
that date."

"Love to, but not on
that date."

So, yeah. Yeah.

The application for permission to
open is weeks behind schedule.

The application for permission to
open is weeks behind schedule.

The application for permission to
open is weeks behind schedule.

I was furious.

Everything was organised.

Everything was organised.

We're running on empty,
nearly, aren't we, now?

We're running on empty,
nearly, aren't we, now?

Yeah, we had a plan and
this would be up and running,

Yeah, we had a plan and
this would be up and running,

and, indeed, earning its keep
and helping us to fund

and, indeed, earning its keep
and helping us to fund

the other works and
that's now delayed.

the other works and
that's now delayed.

That means postponing the launch

That means postponing the launch

until the paperwork
hopefully comes through.

until the paperwork
hopefully comes through.

But at least there's time
for Donna to get creative

But at least there's time
for Donna to get creative

with the furniture they need.

with the furniture they need.

I found two sewing machines,
actually, in our old stable,

I found two sewing machines,
actually, in our old stable,

I found two sewing machines,
actually, in our old stable,

which I immediately
fell in love with.

which I immediately
fell in love with.

She's already repurposed an old
cast iron oven found in the attic,

She's already repurposed an old
cast iron oven found in the attic,

She's already repurposed an old
cast iron oven found in the attic,

and is now working on
transforming old sewing machines.

and is now working on
transforming old sewing machines.

As we're going through the chateau,

we're finding little bits
and pieces from history,

we're finding little bits
and pieces from history,

we're finding little bits
and pieces from history,

and what we're trying to do is
repurpose as much as possible.

and what we're trying to do is
repurpose as much as possible.

and what we're trying to do is
repurpose as much as possible.

There we are,
you're looking cleaner.

I think this sewing machine'll be
a great addition to the terrace.

I think this sewing machine'll be
a great addition to the terrace.

Doesn't she look lovely?
New lease of life.

Doesn't she look lovely?
New lease of life.

Watch me fingers.

I've got this end.

It's a good job they're
getting creative,

It's a good job they're
getting creative,

because with the opening
of the tearoom delayed,

because with the opening
of the tearoom delayed,

they need to keep a closer eye
than ever on their budget.

they need to keep a closer eye
than ever on their budget.

Doing up these architectural
marvels may not always be a picnic,

Doing up these architectural
marvels may not always be a picnic,

Doing up these architectural
marvels may not always be a picnic,

so taking time to get out
and about is one way to stay fresh

so taking time to get out
and about is one way to stay fresh

and remind us why we do it.

We're leaving our place for a few
hours to head to the beach...

We're leaving our place for a few
hours to head to the beach...

We're leaving our place for a few
hours to head to the beach...

You got Dorothy, Mum? Yep.

Right, OK.

..with our children.

Grandma, Grandad!

Plus Grandma Jenny
and Grandad Steve.

Plus Grandma Jenny
and Grandad Steve.

Come rain or shine...

I see a bit of sunshine
over there, Dick!

I see a bit of sunshine
over there, Dick!

Really? Look. Oh, look, the sun.

Really? Look. Oh, look, the sun.

..the coast at Saint-Malo
is a breath of fresh air.

..the coast at Saint-Malo
is a breath of fresh air.

We live in a gorgeous house,

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

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

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

It's great.

While our children build
castles of their own, as always,

While our children build
castles of their own, as always,

Angel's getting inspiration
for our real-life castle.

Angel's getting inspiration
for our real-life castle.

There's a certain time of the
day when the tide goes out

There's a certain time of the
day when the tide goes out

and you see all the rocks,

and we're going to go and
look for basically anything

and we're going to go and
look for basically anything

that takes our fancy.

that takes our fancy.

The beach combing begins.

The beach combing begins.

If you wash it, you can
see exactly what's what.

Shall we start putting the
precious stones in the container?

Shall we start putting the
precious stones in the container?

Shall we start putting the
precious stones in the container?

I've made a few things with shells.

I've made a few things with shells.

I covered a light in them once.

I covered a light in them once.

It's beautiful.

Whilst we go home
with bags of ideas,

Whilst we go home
with bags of ideas,

all our natural finds are put back,

all our natural finds are put back,

to preserve the beach
as we found it.

to preserve the beach
as we found it.

I'm a crab, I'm a crab! I'm coming
to get ya. I'm going to get ya!

I'm a crab, I'm a crab! I'm coming
to get ya. I'm going to get ya!

I'm a crab, I'm a crab! I'm coming
to get ya. I'm going to get ya!

I can see seaweed.

Come on, Mama.

Come on, Mama.

What was that? It's a bit of
seaweed. Oh, that's OK. Oh!

What was that? It's a bit of
seaweed. Oh, that's OK. Oh!

Let's keep going.

Dick, can I just have the...?

As well as a spot
of treasure hunting,

As well as a spot
of treasure hunting,

I want to show Dorothy
and Arthur some wildlife

I want to show Dorothy
and Arthur some wildlife

we don't get back home.

It's quite tickly, isn't it?
And you see its little claws.

It's quite tickly, isn't it?
And you see its little claws.

Oh, wow! You see its little claws,

Oh, wow! You see its little claws,

and its claws aren't big
enough to hurt you. Ow!

and its claws aren't big
enough to hurt you. Ow!

Well done.

OK, we have to let it go now.
Right.

OK, we have to let it go now.
Right.

You'd better go and hide, you.
Go on. Bye-bye. Bye-bye.

You'd better go and hide, you.
Go on. Bye-bye. Bye-bye.

Marine safari complete,

it's time for my lot to
scuttle back home too.

it's time for my lot to
scuttle back home too.

On the banks of the River Lot,

On the banks of the River Lot,

Angela and Steve's first
chateau rental of the season

Angela and Steve's first
chateau rental of the season

is now less than a day away.

is now less than a day away.

After lots of digging,

a new drainage pipe has been put
in place for the electric gates.

a new drainage pipe has been put
in place for the electric gates.

a new drainage pipe has been put
in place for the electric gates.

We've managed to get now a
route from the motor casing

We've managed to get now a
route from the motor casing

in the ground out to a land drain.

in the ground out to a land drain.

But if it isn't working,
they're out of time.

But if it isn't working,
they're out of time.

The first thing we need to do is
check that that drain works.

The first thing we need to do is
check that that drain works.

I've got some water,
tip it in. OK, right.

I've got some water,
tip it in. OK, right.

If water isn't draining away,

they won't be able to
install a replacement motor.

they won't be able to
install a replacement motor.

And with Angela and Steve
due to return to the UK,

And with Angela and Steve
due to return to the UK,

that means the gates
won't open automatically

that means the gates
won't open automatically

for paying guests all summer.

for paying guests all summer.

Angela, I'm hoping we're going
to see the water from here

Angela, I'm hoping we're going
to see the water from here

flowing down that pipe and
coming out down there. OK.

flowing down that pipe and
coming out down there. OK.

flowing down that pipe and
coming out down there. OK.

It's the moment of truth.

It's the moment of truth.

You ready? Yep.

I see water, straight away.

Oh, that's great. Oh, yay!

Result. Result.

Stage one complete.
Simple pleasures,

a little bit of water disappearing.

a little bit of water disappearing.

The new drainage system
deals with the equivalent

The new drainage system
deals with the equivalent

of a heavy thunderstorm with ease.

of a heavy thunderstorm with ease.

Now they're all clear to
install the replacement motor.

Now they're all clear to
install the replacement motor.

OK, it's in.

All I've got to do now is
connect those to those,

All I've got to do now is
connect those to those,

and that pops in there.

and that pops in there.

That's great, so we're all
connected down here. Yup.

That's great, so we're all
connected down here. Yup.

Time to hook it up to
the new entry box.

Time to hook it up to
the new entry box.

How's all that looking?
Mm, it looks neat.

How's all that looking?
Mm, it looks neat.

And, of course, engineer Steve has
gone for the latest bit of kit.

And, of course, engineer Steve has
gone for the latest bit of kit.

So you can either text it
and say open the gates,

So you can either text it
and say open the gates,

you can ring it and
it'll open the gates,

you can ring it and
it'll open the gates,

or you can actually use the keypad
and put a code in and open the gate.

or you can actually use the keypad
and put a code in and open the gate.

So, it's quite versatile, really.

So, it's quite versatile, really.

I just hope it works,
because if it doesn't,

I just hope it works,
because if it doesn't,

then it's a couple of
steps backwards again.

then it's a couple of
steps backwards again.

Oh, ye of little faith.

Oh, ye of little faith.

Doesn't that look nice?

I'd rather it worked, though,
than looked nice, to be fair.

I'd rather it worked, though,
than looked nice, to be fair.

OK.

Ooh. Right. The gate moved.

Ooh. Right. The gate moved.

That's so exciting!

So that one's moved. Oh, we...
No, they're both moving.

So that one's moved. Oh, we...
No, they're both moving.

One just went first. It lets that
one gets ahead of it, doesn't it?

One just went first. It lets that
one gets ahead of it, doesn't it?

Yay!

That's really great.

I feel like we have
gone to the future.

I feel like we have
gone to the future.

I think you did a brill job, then.
Oh, thank you.

A brill job? A brill job.

Wow, that's a compliment.

I'll take that when I get them.

Angela and Steve enjoy
a moment of calm

Angela and Steve enjoy
a moment of calm

after another period of hard work.

after another period of hard work.

From tricky finishing touches...

It's absolutely beautiful.

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

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

..to fixing the pool...

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.

..creating parking space...

Voila!

..and sorting out the entry gates.

..and sorting out the entry gates.

They can head back to the UK
knowing everything is just so

They can head back to the UK
knowing everything is just so

for their summer guests.

I hate to say it, but it always
feels lovely as we drive away

I hate to say it, but it always
feels lovely as we drive away

and we look round,
and we go, "Oh, my gosh."

and we look round,
and we go, "Oh, my gosh."

Every year, we do more and more,
don't we? And that's really good.

Every year, we do more and more,
don't we? And that's really good.

We're doing it ourselves,
we've only got a limited budget,

We're doing it ourselves,
we've only got a limited budget,

but I think every year,
it's getting better and better.

but I think every year,
it's getting better and better.

This dynamic duo continue
to take their chateau

This dynamic duo continue
to take their chateau

from strength to strength.

from strength to strength.

And I'm happy to say their
future in France looks rosy.

And I'm happy to say their
future in France looks rosy.

Coming up...

..something's brewing, as a
tearoom launch date draws near.

..something's brewing, as a
tearoom launch date draws near.

There you go.

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.

All the fun of the fair wears
thin for chateau-owner Alex.

All the fun of the fair wears
thin for chateau-owner Alex.

I'm kind of looking
now for six o'clock.

I'm kind of looking
now for six o'clock.

It's over now. It's like,
"OK, OK, OK, fair enough.

It's over now. It's like,
"OK, OK, OK, fair enough.

"Everybody away, come on."

In western France, Donna and Paul
are busy decorating the tearoom,

In western France, Donna and Paul
are busy decorating the tearoom,

whilst awaiting crucial permission
to let them open to the public.

whilst awaiting crucial permission
to let them open to the public.

whilst awaiting crucial permission
to let them open to the public.

I've got a couple of mirrors
to go up. Where?

I've got a couple of mirrors
to go up. Where?

I was thinking of kind of just doing
something like that, you see?

I was thinking of kind of just doing
something like that, you see?

Er...why?

Because.

Did vintage tearooms have mirrors
that were of no use to people?

Did vintage tearooms have mirrors
that were of no use to people?

I really like that.

No time to reflect,

as the rest of Donna's final
touches are put in place.

as the rest of Donna's final
touches are put in place.

This is our cupboard of cake stands,
all ready to go.

This is our cupboard of cake stands,
all ready to go.

Donna's been sourcing vintage
china from the nearby brocante...

Donna's been sourcing vintage
china from the nearby brocante...

There you go.
..and perfecting her cake recipes.

There you go.
..and perfecting her cake recipes.

What have you got?

We certainly won't be serving them
in my tearoom.

We certainly won't be serving them
in my tearoom.

Oh, fair enough.

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.

Yeah.

And some customers. Yeah.

Perfect.

When they bought the chateau,

this room was a gloomy
and neglected shell.

this room was a gloomy
and neglected shell.

Donna and Paul have stripped
out the old fittings, re-plastered,

Donna and Paul have stripped
out the old fittings, re-plastered,

Donna and Paul have stripped
out the old fittings, re-plastered,

panelled the walls
and decorated from top to bottom...

panelled the walls
and decorated from top to bottom...

..to create a bright and sunny
vintage tearoom,

..to create a bright and sunny
vintage tearoom,

finished with her retro wallpaper
and filled with finds

finished with her retro wallpaper
and filled with finds

from the brocante and
around the chateau.

from the brocante and
around the chateau.

And what was once a grotty old
bathroom is now smart

And what was once a grotty old
bathroom is now smart

and full of character, with ample
space for disabled access.

and full of character, with ample
space for disabled access.

and full of character, with ample
space for disabled access.

But sadly, it's a case of tea
and sympathy for Donna and Paul.

But sadly, it's a case of tea
and sympathy for Donna and Paul.

But sadly, it's a case of tea
and sympathy for Donna and Paul.

Crucial approval from the Fire
Department has not arrived

Crucial approval from the Fire
Department has not arrived

and they've had no choice
but to delay the opening yet again.

and they've had no choice
but to delay the opening yet again.

One of the biggest emotions is
disappointment.

One of the biggest emotions is
disappointment.

One of the biggest emotions is
disappointment.

You know, we can't open the doors.

You know, we can't open the doors.

I'm kind of itching to get into my
lovely kitchen,

I'm kind of itching to get into my
lovely kitchen,

bake my little heart out
and, you know,

bake my little heart out
and, you know,

have some creations
for people to enjoy.

have some creations
for people to enjoy.

They may not be hosting the launch
they hoped for,

They may not be hosting the launch
they hoped for,

but Donna and Paul should be very
proud of what they've achieved

but Donna and Paul should be very
proud of what they've achieved

since moving into this derelict
chateau just nine months ago.

since moving into this derelict
chateau just nine months ago.

Yeah, this is pretty bad.

With hard graft and determination,

With hard graft and determination,

they've transformed the scullery
into an impressive catering kitchen,

they've transformed the scullery
into an impressive catering kitchen,

they've transformed the scullery
into an impressive catering kitchen,

turned a run-down wing
of the chateau

turned a run-down wing
of the chateau

into a self-contained
apartment for guests,

into a self-contained
apartment for guests,

and now have a beautiful vintage
tearoom ready to go.

and now have a beautiful vintage
tearoom ready to go.

and now have a beautiful vintage
tearoom ready to go.

Chateau life is enthralling,
tiring, emotional, worrying,

Chateau life is enthralling,
tiring, emotional, worrying,

Chateau life is enthralling,
tiring, emotional, worrying,

but it's not something
that we'd want to change.

but it's not something
that we'd want to change.

So there's no looking back,
it's only forward.

So there's no looking back,
it's only forward.

We wish them all the best
for their future here in France.

We wish them all the best
for their future here in France.

We wish them all the best
for their future here in France.

We're still living
the dream, living here.

We're still living
the dream, living here.

Our bank account might
not think so, but...

Our bank account might
not think so, but...

Our bank account might
not think so, but...

But it's still a privilege,
living here.

Near Calais in northern France,
Alex and Ithaca's antiques

Near Calais in northern France,
Alex and Ithaca's antiques

and flower fair is seeing
record attendance.

and flower fair is seeing
record attendance.

All good news
for the renovations fund.

All good news
for the renovations fund.

As you can see,
the chateau is under rebuilding.

As you can see,
the chateau is under rebuilding.

To maintain is an enormous amount
of money, so we need to make events,

To maintain is an enormous amount
of money, so we need to make events,

we need to make profit and that's
why we need the people to come.

we need to make profit and that's
why we need the people to come.

But organising logistics across the
busy ten-acre event site

But organising logistics across the
busy ten-acre event site

But organising logistics across the
busy ten-acre event site

is proving a challenge.

Last year,
we only had four talkie-walkies

Last year,
we only had four talkie-walkies

and that was quite all right.

Now, I bought four more
and, I don't know,

Now, I bought four more
and, I don't know,

everybody wants his talkie-walkie.

everybody wants his talkie-walkie.

A chateau owner can never have too
many talkie-walkies.

A chateau owner can never have too
many talkie-walkies.

Look at this.

Parfait.

OK.

To keep things moving,
11-year-old son Jules

To keep things moving,
11-year-old son Jules

and 14-year-old daughter Violet have
come up with a plan.

and 14-year-old daughter Violet have
come up with a plan.

and 14-year-old daughter Violet have
come up with a plan.

You've been walking around for the
whole day, doing wheelbarrows,

You've been walking around for the
whole day, doing wheelbarrows,

and you're fine with that?
I think you're completely crazy.

and you're fine with that?
I think you're completely crazy.

My daughter is mad, anyway.
She reminds me of me.

My daughter is mad, anyway.
She reminds me of me.

Mummy, she's been working
so hard for this,

Mummy, she's been working
so hard for this,

and I think it's just amazing and
she's such an inspiration for me.

and I think it's just amazing and
she's such an inspiration for me.

Bye!

No wheelbarrow rides for Dad
though, as he makes yet another long

No wheelbarrow rides for Dad
though, as he makes yet another long

trip to deal with a problem
over at the entrance gate.

trip to deal with a problem
over at the entrance gate.

There's a road sign that fell
because of the wind,

There's a road sign that fell
because of the wind,

so I have to get it fixed,

so I've got to get the screwdriver
and stuff to get it fixed.

so I've got to get the screwdriver
and stuff to get it fixed.

I have to fix it back.

Screws, screws, screws.

En route, he's diverted to fetch
hats for attendants

En route, he's diverted to fetch
hats for attendants

at the car park,
who are feeling the heat.

at the car park,
who are feeling the heat.

And there's another
issue at the new lavender beds,

And there's another
issue at the new lavender beds,

which are drawing lots of attention.

which are drawing lots of attention.

Yeah, people walking on there,
it's stupid.

Yeah, people walking on there,
it's stupid.

And they don't seem to care,
and I do care.

And they don't seem to care,
and I do care.

It's a lot of work.

Hats off to one more trouble sorted,
but the worries aren't over.

Hats off to one more trouble sorted,
but the worries aren't over.

Hats off to one more trouble sorted,
but the worries aren't over.

It's very windy
and I don't want to fix it, really,

It's very windy
and I don't want to fix it, really,

It's very windy
and I don't want to fix it, really,

cos it won't be that well fixed.

cos it won't be that well fixed.

With the wind still blowing
and the fair due to finish soon...

With the wind still blowing
and the fair due to finish soon...

I mean, maybe I can do this.

..Alex decides the sign
can stay down.

..Alex decides the sign
can stay down.

And that will be OK.
I'm afraid of the wind.

And that will be OK.
I'm afraid of the wind.

It's very strong,
it's surprisingly strong.

It's very strong,
it's surprisingly strong.

Whoa. Now there are lots of cars.

Whoa. Now there are lots of cars.

But, no, it's good that some
cars are leaving.

But, no, it's good that some
cars are leaving.

"Well done, you've done your best,
leave now!"

"Well done, you've done your best,
leave now!"

Ithaca's ready to put her
feet up, too.

Ithaca's ready to put her
feet up, too.

I'm feeling exhausted.
I'm really tired.

I'm feeling exhausted.
I'm really tired.

I can't feel my feet,
but I am wearing heels.

I can't feel my feet,
but I am wearing heels.

I'm kind of looking now
for six o'clock.

I'm kind of looking now
for six o'clock.

It's over, now. It's like, OK, OK.

It's over, now. It's like, OK, OK.

"Fair enough, everybody away.
Come on."

"Fair enough, everybody away.
Come on."

Fond farewells.

Fond farewells.

I love to see people coming out
packed with things,

I love to see people coming out
packed with things,

that will mean that
everybody is happy.

that will mean that
everybody is happy.

There's been a lot, a lot of people.

The stall owners,
the brocanteurs,

the antique dealers,
the nurseries are really happy,

the antique dealers,
the nurseries are really happy,

so it's good.

so it's good.

This year, Ithaca and
Alex welcomed a record crowd

This year, Ithaca and
Alex welcomed a record crowd

of over 2,200 visitors, giving
ticket takings of nearly £10,000 -

of over 2,200 visitors, giving
ticket takings of nearly £10,000 -

of over 2,200 visitors, giving
ticket takings of nearly £10,000 -

all great news for the repair fund
and the family's chateau.

all great news for the repair fund
and the family's chateau.

I'm feeling relieved, proud
of everything that we've achieved.

I'm feeling relieved, proud
of everything that we've achieved.

I'm feeling relieved, proud
of everything that we've achieved.

We are a true team.

We have a lot of fun.

We do shout at each other a lot.

We're still in the same direction.

We're still in the same direction.

As well as making the annual
antiques and flower fair

As well as making the annual
antiques and flower fair

bigger and better than ever,

bigger and better than ever,

they've created a new
planting scheme...

they've created a new
planting scheme...

..and started expensive work to fix
the entire 800-square-metre roof.

..and started expensive work to fix
the entire 800-square-metre roof.

..and started expensive work to fix
the entire 800-square-metre roof.

Now they're planning more
events for later in the year.

Now they're planning more
events for later in the year.

We plan to organise an autumn fest,
more of a night event,

We plan to organise an autumn fest,
more of a night event,

We plan to organise an autumn fest,
more of a night event,

where the whole
garden will be lit up.

where the whole
garden will be lit up.

Let me finish my glass of beer.

Let me finish my glass of beer.

Let me finish my glass of beer, too.

Let me finish my glass of beer, too.

Oops!

I'll raise my glass to
all our intrepid chateau owners.

I'll raise my glass to
all our intrepid chateau owners.

I'll raise my glass to
all our intrepid chateau owners.

Donna and Paul are still awaiting
the OK from the Fire Department

Donna and Paul are still awaiting
the OK from the Fire Department

Donna and Paul are still awaiting
the OK from the Fire Department

to open their tearoom.

to open their tearoom.

Angela and Steve's
chateau is booked up.

Angela and Steve's
chateau is booked up.

Angela and Steve's
chateau is booked up.

So I hope you have a really
lovely stay with us.

So I hope you have a really
lovely stay with us.

And Alex and Ithaca's
epic roof repair

And Alex and Ithaca's
epic roof repair

looks set to continue
for another year.

looks set to continue
for another year.

Subtitles by Red Bee Media