Get set to spit your chestnuts during the Fête de la Châtaigne

IT is châtaigne time around the corner of south west France where I live, with people gathering in the nuts and popular fêtes taking place.

One of the biggest will be on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October, 2013, when Villefranche du Perigord will be hosting its popular festivities marking the chestnut, and if available the cèpe mushroom.

Over the two days there will be chance to try a variety of chestnut and cèpe delicacies, as well as take in local music and dance, and don't forget the chestnut spitting competition on Sunday - it always draws in the crowds.