Thanks for the replies. I think the main problem is trying to understand French grammar without a comprehensive grasp of English grammar. To this end, I have ordered English Grammar for students of French. My level of grammar is obviously not good enough to fully understand this course, although it has to be said that the French guys that I used to work with probably had less grasp of French grammar than I have of English grammar!! Nevertheless, I must continue to try and study French to what seems to be 'A' level standard just to be accepted on a training course to learn how to do the job I last had in the UK, drive a 19 ton lorry!!!! After over five years in France I am never surprised at the bureacracy, but one day after being told this I received a confirmation of my place on the course only two weeks after beginning the language course. However, we will continue to face all challenges and keep on keeping on!![:D]