Marlborough LitFest welcomed several famous faces to the streets of Wiltshire this year and for one author, the experience was truly unforgettable.

Critically-acclaimed journalist Tomiwa Owolade, who is the author of ‘This Is Not America: Why Black Lives in Britain Matter’, first visited the festival on Saturday, September 30, to give talk on race in Britain from inside St Mary’s Church hall.

The author's book is a deep dive into the politics of identity, arguing that race in Britain needs to be understood through a British perspective and that a 'one-size-fits-all' narrative should be rejected.

His talk saw a huge turnout, as Marlborough locals and visitors from far and wide came to hear him discuss the difference in history, culture and identity between black Americans and Britons.

But while Owolade has attended multiple literature festivals and book events this year alongside several famous faces, the author has revealed that it is Marlborough which was undoubtedly his favourite.

Speaking to The Times about his highlights of 2023, Owolade said: “The best place was Marlborough.

“I was in Marlborough less than five hours because I had to get to another festival, but that buoyant experience of meeting strangers who welcomed me like a friend is indelibly stamped on my memory.”

“I spoke at a little building just outside a church in the centre of town. I was tense. But as I looked into the warm and welcoming faces in front of me, I became more confident, more relaxed.”

“The best part of a place is not the buildings, the scenery or the landscape. It is the people,” he added.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Author Tomiwa Owolade has described Marlbroough's festival as 'the best'.Author Tomiwa Owolade has described Marlbroough's festival as 'the best'. (Image: Tom Ellis)

The 2023 edition was Marlborough LitFest's 14th year, and saw the town come alive as it welcomed book lovers from across the UK to over 40 events.

This year's highlights included big names such as award-winning poet Daljit Nagra, writer of the Killing Eve trilogy Luke Jennings, and Radio 4 comedian and football writer Andy Hamilton.

Tony Adams, who starred for Arsenal and England and has appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, was even spotted in the audience after he travelled to Marlborough from his home in the Cotswolds.

“We had something for everyone this year including big names, first-time authors and a host of free activities for children,” said Genevieve Clarke, chair of Marlborough LitFest.

“The aim has been to give our loyal audience plenty of treats but also to attract people who haven’t tried the festival before. It's been a great success," she added.

Marlborough LitFest 2024 will take place on September 26-29, and organisers are already gearing up to make it another 'unforgettable' event.