Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrived back in the UK on Wednesday after stints in Canada and California, and an Express reporter was in the Cotswolds talking to locals about it when the news broke. It is rumoured that the Sussexes have chosen what is often called the most beautiful region in England to call home, whether in a rented or purchased property.
Locals, to say the least, are not keen on the idea. Pensioner Zana Aires told the reporter while sitting in a coffee shop in Moreton-in-Marsh that they are a "disgrace" and "should be banned" from living in the region. Meghan in particular is a "dreadful woman", she added. Ms Aires also fears the couple will "stir up" royal drama just by being present in Britain.
Mixed reactions from residents and tourists
An American tourist from Florida, Jon McCormack, in the UK on holiday with girlfriend Leslie Worner, said Meghan was not a good fit for the Royal Family in the first place. Other people told the reporter that they should "make their mind up" as to where they want to live, and that Harry had "burned his bridges" after firing artillery at his family from across the Atlantic.
There was not much sympathy for their requests for privacy as they are acting in a "two-faced" manner and "want the publicity", locals added. Others were more chilled out, saying that Harry and Meghan are just another couple of celebrities who could be moving to the area.
Celebrity neighbours and tourism concerns
American TV host Ellen DeGeneres and the Beckhams are amongst those who also have homes in the Cotswolds. Taylor Swift stayed there recently while touring, and it was rumoured that Beyoncé and Jay Z were looking to buy. Residents suggested that Harry and Meghan would want to live near to Soho House – an exclusive private members club and hotel – or Chipping Norton.
The impact on tourism was also raised, with an older couple saying there are already too many visitors and they worry that the Sussexes will attract even more. A few suggested their arrival could be "another Clarkson's Farm". An estate agent, though, told the reporter he would be proud to help the couple find a property and it is no surprise they have apparently chosen the Cotswolds as it is the best-looking place in the country.
Harry and Meghan are in a privileged position that many would envy. Living the high life on the west coast of the US followed by a period of time amongst chocolate box towns and villages in stunning British countryside. But going by what the reporter heard, they will not exactly be welcomed with open arms. That being said, if they were to walk down the street here, many would surely look to shake their hand and say hello, such is the human interest in famous faces, especially as regards royalty. Maybe some might even change their opinion of them were they to actually meet and have a conversation with them. When you strip everything away, they are just an incredibly well-known man and woman upping sticks after all.
