TO Mrs Corbett (Letters, July 16): Yes, I do understand, but perhaps you don't.

In France there is no difference between adult and child, they all enjoy the same pastimes.

Our experience of barbecues is of a holed metal wheelbarrow, full of burning fig branches, covered with a grill for the fare and tended by Mathieu, ex rugby man, six foot four and broad with it, who's welcome to the festivities was to throw those willing, and most were, into the swimming pool, fully dressed.

After repeated cries of "Mike, Mike", I took the plunge and destroyed the image of the standoffish Englander. With that simple gesture, and anyway the water was quite warm, I made more friends and received more kisses than ever.

The noise must have been considerable, but the neighbours don't complain - they bring a bottle or two and join in. There is no suburban backbiting and jealousy, just the joy of living.

If it were not for the sad death of my wife, we would be there right now. Next year perhaps, to educate my grandchildren about how to enjoy life.

Mick Snowden,

Manor Farm,

Amotherby,

Malton.

Updated: 10:24 Tuesday, July 19, 2005