The Union Jack, the flag of the United Kingdom, is proudly displayed on the balustrade and inside the bar L’Entente Cordiale, in Abjat-sur-Bandiat. The playlist is also 100% British: Queen, The Rolling Stones… The establishment took on English colors this Saturday June 4 to celebrate the Queen of England’s platinum jubilee. The celebrations of the 70 years of reign last four days in the United Kingdom, so the English community of the village organized a big party, for which about thirty inhabitants of his gathered together.
“I can’t remember a time without The Queen”
There are around 70 Britons in the village, so to celebrate the longest reign a monarch has ever had, they wanted to mark the occasion. “I can’t remember a time without The Queen”explains Nicole Johnson, one of the co-organizers. “She is adorable, a lot of people are grateful for her”. This is what emerges when we ask those present what the queen represents: “an exemplary monarch”, “a great lady”, “she served her country with justice“.
On the program for the day, a large shared buffet, with the “corronation chicken”, a traditional chicken curry during major events, pudding, and a cake with the British… and French flag!
– Mary Dorcet
Because the whole village was invited. “I don’t want the French to think that they are excluded, they are invited, and I am delighted that they are there to eat, drink, and play pétanque and skittles” smiles Stewart Edwards, deputy mayor and co-organizer.
– Mary Dorcet
A piece of England in Abjat
Just as much as celebrating The Queen, the party is an opportunity to get together with friends, and unite the village. “As there are many English people in Abjat and it’s a party for them, I join in their joy” explains Marie-Louise.
A meeting which is also the joy of the owner of the bar, Joël.
They are the best ambassadors of what the Queen has done for 70 years. Thanks to them, for sure, there is a piece of England in Abjat
And what could be more representative than singing the national anthem in chorus?
At the request of the organizers, the profits of the day, that is to say the drinks at the bar, will be donated to an aid association for Ukrainecountry of origin of Joël’s wife.