Vesey Cottage – off Withy Hill Road
Above the fields of Wheatmoor Farm on High Heath’s lonely hill
A Vesey Cottage still remains – in isolation still
Where Bishop Vesey had decreed
From his private Police Force he would need
A man called Stout Keeper as he was known
To guide and protect those travelling alone
For High Heath Cottage to become his abode
To aid those journeying to the London Road
To keep a lantern burning bright
Assisting travelers of the night
Where ruffians roamed and highwaymen
With Dick Turpin based at Muffin’s Den
With his trusty mastiff at his side
The keeper acted as a guide
To cross Collett’s Brook when the hour was late
Where thieves and vagabonds lay in wait
There was a tale of a Ne’re Do Well
Who at High Heath did one time dwell
Stole some sheep which he did slay
From the common across the way
For a hanging offence – as it was then
The law arrived with a group of men
Barricaded in – not wishing to die
The thief threw missiles from on high
Although the officers were much aggrieved
It remains unknown if justice was achieved
As a result of the ensuing hassle
The cottage became known as Mutton Castle
Now – all is calm, serene and still
At High Heath Cottage on the hill.
Anne Nash
Photography by Eileen Donohoe