A TOUCH of "je ne sais quoi" came to Godstone on Sunday, as the boules pitches demanded by hundreds of Godstone residents opened.
More than 250 people turned out on the village green to enjoy the celebrations on Bastille Day, and were treated to Pastis – a liquorice flavoured drink – wine, cheese and crepes, while French music played throughout the afternoon.
Last year Gael Bozec, chairman of Godstone Boules Group, collected more than 200 signatures from residents in favour of the pitches.
Boules is a traditional French game in which players try to throw or roll heavy balls close to a small target.
Building work was carried out at the end of June and beginning of July by a team of village volunteers.
More than 60 tonnes of soil were removed and two boules courts were built, each 10 metres long by four metres wide.
Mr Bozec thanked everyone involved in the project, saying: "The green is the heart of the village.
"It has been a dream to have these boules pitches built and I am delighted they will be enjoyed by all ages for many years to come."
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the opening of the pitches, located between the tennis courts and the children's playground area.
The pitches are open for use by the public and are free to use.
For anyone who wishes to play regularly and as part of a team, membership is available at Godstone Boules Group.
For more information e-mail Mr Bozec at bozec@gmail.com
