After sniffing round the outdoor log pile for a few days out dog has just chased a small animal out. The animal was of the stoat/weasel family, 8-9 inches from nose to tail, grey fur with off white rings round both of its eyes. What is it? I have looked up weasel, pine marten etc on the internet but have found nothing the right colour.

Try this.
http://www.planetepassion.eu/MAMMALS-IN-FRANCE/Edible-or-Fatty-dormouse-France.html
Chris

It sounds like a Lérot. They are mainly a nocturnal animal and fits your description. They also do lots of damage to wiring etc.,!

Thanks for the response Chris & Duggie. I have looked at the suggestions, Lerot and Lois Gris, but these too animals are too 'mouse' like and their coats are too dark. The one the dog chased was a lighter grey and more 'stoat' like with a furry tail.Further suggestions would be appreciated.

""grey fur with off white rings round both of its eyes.""
What else is there?
Chris

To save a lot of pointless answers, here's a list of mammals in France, not all are present in this region.
http://www.planetepassion.eu/MAMMALS-IN-FRANCE/List-of-Mammals-of-France-in-Latin-English-French%20.html
Chris

Shame the list doesn't have photos of the creatures for identification.