The sound of summer

If you've stayed with us before, you'll remember always knowing when I was running the pool filter. The high pitched whining noise was a constant companion for the last five summers - to the delight of our neighbours and guests alike.

And this is why - this old stager was probably from when the pool was new - at least a decade ago. About a week ago, it sang for the last time.

Our old pump

Which was desparately annoying because we'd already planned to replace the whole system this autumn.

As one of the only two places in the village that have a pool for guests, we knew something had to be done - and after a conversation with Frederic from Mondial Piscines in Morlaix, we were able to get a replacement pump quite quickly.

This was installed yesterday, and the bad news is that I can't hear it running at all from my office - so need to set a timer to turn it off.

However, we're still planning to upgrade the pool area completely before next season, with a new filtration system, pool liner and expanded terrace area, which will replace the lovely old pink tiles.

Most importantly, perhaps, a heat exchanger system will take some of the chill out of the water and might even persuade me into the water more than once a year!

A new home for M. Grenouille?

It might be bad news for M. Grenouille, though, who has been happily living in the filter box for some time now...

This renovation has been a long time in the making, and we're really excited to see how it turns out.

Watch this space for progress reports!