Le PAF Looping the Loop in Lancon.

SAUTERNES.

Rosie has found a Camping Car Sales and Spares outlet only 3 miles away. Unfortunately, satnav tries a shortcut down lane which is barred two thirds of the way down. Much reversing and turning later we arrive at the place. It closed 5 minutes earlier. In true French style, lunch is two hours. We decide to return to the local village of Lancon.

The only bar open is run by a Thai couple who arrived via Canada. Sit outside with our coffee and water. We are then treated to an air display by the PAF, the French equivalent of the Red Arrows . They are warming up for an exhibition at the weekend. The planes are painted red, white and blue and the vapour from the planes are similarly coloured.

The dots are eight aeroplanes flying in formation with the first two peeling off.

The camping car manager has a lock but it doesn't fit our van. No surprise there. Neither does he have a carbon monoxide alarm. We can try his friend 25 km away in the wrong direction. We decide against it.

Stop at Mr Bricolage, a version of B & Q, and pick up an alarm. No need to leave the window open tonight. Provisions for dinner are collected next door at Super U.

Arrive at Sauternes at 17:30. Finally get to use the camping chairs purchased a week ago. Walk around the town before dinner. The properties look tired. We've had the same impression for a couple of days, now.

The site is on the edge of the town. It's a pleasant spot alongside the river and next to a pottery museum.