Welcome to Gite de La Guillonniere
Neil & Catherine
In 2020 we decided to take the plunge and fulfil our dream of restoring 400 year old farm buildings into a family home with guest accommodation.
Originally from New Zealand, Catherine left a 30 year career as a governance consultant in social housing to project manage the build. Neil originally hails from Devon and was an automotive engineer in motor sport, competing internationally for Subaru and Seat and finishing his competitive career at McLaren.
Neil has now set up a successful garage in France ‘Garage Selley’ and this is set to be an added attraction for guests with classic cars who may choose to book Neil’s ‘Know Your Classic Car’ course which will be an interactive 2 day course with lunches and lively car chat with an internationally experienced motor sports geek. Take a closer look at Neil’s career here.
We are ably hindered by Brucie, Alma, Flo and Bluey. And 20 or so chickens………….
Meet us all on season 6 of Help! We Bought a Village on Channel 4, and follow us on Instagram or Facebook.
Brucie- Head Apprentice
Brucie is a 12 year old rescued Lab/Shepard cross. He is a big softy who keeps us all in check! He loves sunshine and being with Neil.
Flo- Head of Fluffiness
Aloof Flo is a three year old rescued RagDoll cat. He patrols the 9 acres of land to ensure his empire is as it should be.
Bluey- Head of Laziness
One year old rescued kitten, Bluey. He does naff all. Oh, is good at eating.
Alma- Head of Melting Hearts
The newest apprentice is an 8 month old Retriever rescued from a puppy farm. Alma is a specialist at using her big brown eyes to melt hearts.