Odsey

Heath and the road _across it_ -- for the Heath was then on both sides of the Baldock Road -- and especially that part of the road along what was then known as Odsey Heath, near the present Ashwell Railway Station, was at that time (and also later) infested by highwaymen, whom the old

Fragments of Two Centuries Glimpses of Country Life when George III. was King Alfred Kingston

The old Odsey Races only came once a year, in September, and other sports were required to meet the popular taste.

Fragments of Two Centuries Glimpses of Country Life when George III. was King Alfred Kingston

The original course for these races was along the level land by the side of the Baldock Road, near Odsey, and as time went on the course was brought nearer the town of Royston.

Fragments of Two Centuries Glimpses of Country Life when George III. was King Alfred Kingston

In September, 1764, when the Odsey Races were run, the principal event was the 100 guineas subscription purse, besides minor events of 50 guineas.

Fragments of Two Centuries Glimpses of Country Life when George III. was King Alfred Kingston

Whittlesford to Royston on the one hand, and from Royston to Odsey on the other, and it is a pleasure to add that this fine stretch of open country presented in the spring a perfect picture of golden yellow gorse blossom!

Fragments of Two Centuries Glimpses of Country Life when George III. was King Alfred Kingston

To come back once more to sport on Royston Heath in the years immediately following George III. 's reign, I find the following with reference to the revival of the Royston Races, which had flourished so famously during the last century under the name of the Odsey Races.

Fragments of Two Centuries Glimpses of Country Life when George III. was King Alfred Kingston