Mauves So British
Our mission
Franco-British cultural exchanges
Mauves So British: Franco-British friendship in Mauves-sur-Loire
It all began in 1991, on the banks of the Loire, a few kilometres from Nantes. A handful of residents from Mauves-sur-Loire (Loire-Atlantique) set up an association to foster a bond of friendship with Hythe & Dibden, near Southampton, in the south of England.
Since 1994, when the two towns officially signed their twinning agreement, many families have forged genuine friendships on both sides of the Channel.
Today, this official twinning arrangement remains in place. However, both the French and English support associations have had to adapt to changing lifestyles and a different need for exchange.
Our association has evolved and adopted a new name: Mauves So British.
Our purpose remains the same: to introduce and share British culture in the Nantes area and to give everyone the opportunity to practise English in a friendly atmosphere, away from the classroom.
In practical terms, the association now offers ‘Talk & Play’ conversation workshops, social evenings (games and conversation), an annual concert, and hosts English-speaking friends.
Whether you’re an English speaker, a curious beginner or simply a fan of Anglo-Saxon culture, please do join us to continue the adventure – you’ re very welcome!
Our history
FROM THE FIRST CONTACT TO TWINNING
1989
-
Initial contact was made by Danielle Douillard with Hythe & Dibden Town Council, followed by reciprocal visits.
1991
-
Establishment of the Échanges Association and the Hythe & Dibden Twinning Association.
1994
-
Signing of the official twinning declaration by the mayors of the two towns and the chairpersons of the two associations.
Hythe & Dibden Parish
OVER THE YEARS
Exchange visits
Annual spring holidays, alternating between Mauves and Hythe & Dibden; the families take turns hosting one another.
Culture & music
Cantonchante and Cantonfête l’Europe, annual concerts held at Le Vallon since 2010.
Pantomime
A traditional English Christmas show, written by two Englishmen living in Nantes and performed by a troupe comprising members of the association and local British residents.
Conversation
Talk and Play workshops, for practising English in a fun and friendly way.
Conviviality
‘Mauves Frog’ pub nights, games, films and quizzes.
English diners
A meal with people from the English-speaking world.
The team
VOLUNTEERS
Claude Breteau
Co-chair
At the heart of the projects, always ready to take the organisation to new English-speaking horizons
Valérie Jourdan
Co-chair
Fosters a spirit of sharing and discovery of English-speaking cultures
Dominique Gaboriau
Member of the Board of Directors
Combining team spirit and a friendly atmosphere, always ready to drive projects forward
Michel Pitte
Member of the Board of Directors
A dynamic addition to bring our events to life
Sylvie Delreux
Treasurer
She keeps a watch over the accounts with as much care as a custodian of the Crown
Catherine Benoit
Deputy Treasurer
Valuable support to ensure every project strikes the right balance
JOIN US
Fancy being part of the adventure?
The association is open to everyone. Join us and experience Franco-British friendship