Tower and Town, June 2022 (view the full edition)Darlene Staples, Originally from the city of Calgary in Alberta, Canada
I have lived in Pewsey for the past 3 years. What brought you to the Marlborough area? My daughters asked me to live in England. My grandchild was also part of that offer. Soon after I arrived, one of my daughters gave me lessons in how to pronounce 'Marlborough' instead of 'Marlboro'. What do you like about Marlborough? I really like the people. Do you feel like a foreigner here? I feel more at home here than anywhere else I have lived including my beautiful home country. People don't realise what a paradise this area is for walkers. Compared to encountering signs in Canada warning walkers of bears, there's much more freedom to hike here. What do you dislike about Marlborough? This isn't a question I've spent much time contemplating, but if I had to offer a criticism, it would be I wish there were a few more 'normal' shops selling basics. There used to be an interesting shoe shop on the high street that is now gone. How do you stay true to your culture while being a resident of the Marlborough area? Having also lived in the USA, Singapore, and South Africa, I'm more international. I have a different mind-set. What keeps you here? I love it here. Even if my daughter left, I don't know that I would leave. Are you treated differently? My accent is a big plus. It is a key to conversations in the same way everyone's accent is a key to opening up conversations. What were your first impressions of the town of Marlborough? I was amazed by the High Street. It didn't look like England. It reminded me of places I'd lived previously including Texas and Calgary. What tips would you give someone from your home country who planned to settle here? Get involved in the community, take advantage of the footpaths, and explore the area. Also, be prepared to be amazed. There's so much history here. |
