Villagers purchased a run-down hamlet for a paltry sum of £50k, only to find themselves burdened with dilapidated structures they are unable to restore. Subsequent amusement has given way to predicament.

Couple Revitalizes Abandoned French Village for £51,000

Tony and Terry, a couple from Gloucester, have embarked on a unique project: the restoration of the crumbling French village of Chicheville in Deux-sevres, which they purchased for approximately £51,000. The village, dating back to the 1800s, consists of three cottages, a pig sty, a barn, and a small wood.

Tony and Terry were immediately attracted to the quaint village when they saw it advertised online. After visiting Chicheville for the first time in six months, they decided to make it their new home. The couple has been working tirelessly on renovating the main cottage, with plans to keep many of the home's original features, such as a terracotta pot built into the walls.

The couple has created an "oasis" in the main cottage's cosy sitting room. The sitting room features comfy sofas and warm rugs, and will be used by the couple as a cocktail lounge. Despite the cost of living crisis, the project has stretched their finances, but they remain committed to preserving the village's history.

Tony concluded that it's important to rescue houses before they disappear. "It's a shame to see the history and family living in the village potentially disappear," he said. So far, the restoration process has only been basic repairs due to financial constraints. The group of British investors who bought a cluster of villages in France for around £51,000 are currently facing financial difficulties funding the renovation.

The couple aims to make the renovated cottage look like how it would have looked before. They are determined to protect and renovate Chicheville, and are hopeful that an influx of cash will allow them to complete the project. The project is hard work for Tony and Terry, but they remain optimistic about the future of their new home.

Villagers purchased a run-down hamlet for a paltry sum of £50k, only to find themselves burdened with dilapidated structures they are unable to restore. Subsequent amusement has given way to predicament.