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I just loving browsing brocante stores and bagging bargains. Le Colombier is so huge that I don’t think I shall ever get to the point where I have to declutter fortunately – the house just seems to swallow up items! There’s a great place just down the road towards Les Pilles (Le Depot Vente) where I’ve spent many a happy hour. I’ve bought items that range from huge pieces of furniture to a wonderful jug painted to ressemble a cockerel which I gave to Sue (since she acquired chickens in England her decor now has a very definite poultry motif).

There are, of course, many other local brocantes – a huge one in Valreas which has loads of furniture and also some lovely lace and materials – and a smaller one in St Maurice which I haven’t actually visited but drive past often. Outside there are always an attractive bench and a very ancient looking pram – and, when I say always, I mean for the last few years, at least! Not sure whether they are advertising props or the owner just can’t shift them!

And all the local villages will have their own Vide Grenier (literally – empty the attics, or what we’d call a car boot sale) at some time during the season, often accompanied by a concours de petanque, drinking of wine, and making merry.

For the more serious antique hunters you must visit L’Isle sur La Sorgue – a town of antique shops, with regular antique fairs and specialist markets.

Generally pieces are more expensive than in England but you can find bargains if you’re prepared to spend some time hunting – and, naturally, indulge in some spirited haggling!