A French Pirouette. Jennifer Bohnet

shrugged before turning to Libby. “Bruno has always had motorcycles but it is a long time since I’ve been able to go on the opening club outing with him. But only if we have everything organised. I’ll be back to help you serve anyway.”

      “We’ll make sure we are organised,” Libby said.

      It was two o’clock when the club members began to arrive. Vintage cars and motorcycles jostled for space in the parking area and on the canal path.

      One of the first to arrival was Pascal and Brigitte quickly introduced him to Libby.

      “Unfortunately I can’t ride this afternoon. I have to get back to the garden centre but as president of the club I like to send them on their way,” he said smiling at Libby as he shook her hand. “I return for tea. Please keep me a slice of that delicious-looking gateau. The chocolate one.”

      Lucas was one of the last to arrive and Libby gazed in admiration at his car as he parked. As Brigitte had said it was a beautiful vintage Delage, which with its gleaming cream and dark blue bodywork and classic sports-car shape looked as though it was starring centre stage on a l930s film set.