Introducing
We want you to meet the team at Burghley Retirement Living, so let us introduce 55-year-old Samantha Barks, who is the sales consultant at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby.
Read on for more about Samantha, who has more than a few unusual hobbies and who’s door is always open for a smile, a chat, and a cup of tea.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am 55 years old, so I could officially move into a Burghley Homes Retirement apartment now! And very much like the people I support at Albany Lodge; my life is active. I am a salsa dancer, and I do ballroom dancing. I absolutely adore dancing and music. I have two boys aged 18 and very nearly 16. My youngest and I roller skate; we try to go every week.
Believe it or not, I also ride large motorcycles. I own three and I have been to work on one of them, much to the amusement of the homeowners. I’m also big on DIY and do a lot myself. I’m a woman of many facets and I’m always very busy.
What is the most asked question about Albany Lodge?
I think people mostly want to know how many apartments we have sold and how many residents there are currently – people want to know that there are other people living here so that they won’t be alone. The good news is there’s a great mix of homeowners living at Albany Lodge, Derby who warmly welcome any new neighbours.
What in your opinion is the main advantage of moving into a property like this? Do you have any tips for making the move?
Some of the apartment owners have forged strong friendships together, especially the single ladies because they’re spending time together instead of being on their own. Through moving into the apartments, they have a social life again; they are not isolated or lonely. Sometimes they get together for a Prosecco, or they might watch sporting events together on TV. They all get on well together. It’s wonderful.
Aside from that, the grounds and buildings are all beautifully kept which takes a lot of responsibility away from our owners, so they can focus on living their best life, without those elements of maintenance and stress.
If they don’t want to drive anymore, they can give up their car here without any concerns because everything is on your doorstep. All facilities, all the shops, everything just to hand and there is a real sense of community. And community spirit is certainly in abundance at Albany Lodge!
The best piece of advice I’ve heard is to move whilst you’re able, before it becomes a necessity and is harder to make the move, both physically and mentally.
What is your favourite part of the Albany Lodge development?
we have some absolutely fabulous people living here. In terms of outlook, the fabulous view over the top from the East Elevation, and the West Elevation over the wooded walkway.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is spending time with the current and future apartment owners. There’s so many lovely people living here. I adore every single one of them. I can’t express how much this job isn’t like a job. It’s just such a delight to come to work and spend time here. It’s a dream really.
Where is your favourite place to spend time in Derby?
I love to dance, and so I spend Sunday afternoons/evenings regularly at Revolucion de Cuba, dancing and eating with great friends
Find out more
Burghley Retirement Living is dedicated to producing luxurious retirement apartments for the over 55s; with beautiful developments in Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, Brighouse, and Shipley.
To find out more about life at Albany Lodge, our luxury retirement development in Derby, or to book a personal tour at any time CLICK HERE or call 0800 999 1989.
