The Crazy Story of the Homeless Man Who Built Himself a Castle

[@Arctic_Fox_NFFC]

Thank you for covering this. I'd already seen about this on Mikey's channel after it came up in my recommendations. Not touched on much but Mikey is a combat veteran who served this country with honour and was left with the visible and invisible scars, homeless and not supported by our government. A kind landowner gave him the opportunity for a new start, and rather than taking a darker path he channelled his mental and physical energy into this amazing and inspiring project. He has involved and inspired many other veterans and run mental health workshops inside the castle. I believe that just one anonymous person's selfish complaint was sufficient to set the council dogs on this noble guy. How emblematic of the failings of our society where those in power do not respect his contribution, and instead it only needs one person clicking 'Report' to ruin everything. This is the ultimate exercise in Cancel Culture. In this country we don't build anything any more. We cannot even finish a railway. What a cruel way to treat this honorable and gentle fellow after how he has served this country and after he literally rebuilt his own life with no support from the same state that now wants to crush his endeavours. This is clearly an asset and a treasure for the community. Those in power who want it removed should be voted out, and I still hope that the castle will outlive them.

[@DevonExplorer]

Thank you, that was beautifully said. :)

[@elfyinc]

Well said, brought a tear to my eye to see it laid out like that…

[@craftinghome]

He basically treated, not just his own mental health, but helped others personally and through his story....all free of charge to the council/government. He is someone to be admired, so shame on the petty, jealous scum that reported it and are insisting it be destroyed.

[@PWMoze]

Excellent comment. Well said.

[@mkruachua-q7r]

What’s his KZbin channel?

[@SamuelDurkin]

I know its kinda a weird suggestion, but maybe he should stand in the next election against who ever holds the council seat that castle is in. Mu dad did that years ago, because the council wanted to destroy a little local park.. and after banging his head against a metaphorical wall he decided the only way to beat the council was to become the council. He won and after a long battle, saved the park.

[@DM-ur8vc]

That isn't how the UK Planning system works.

[@SamuelDurkin]

@@DM-ur8vc maybe it's not a castle but an attractive agricultural shed for storage. Maybe it's a garden rockery, maybe it's just a big pile of rocks.. maybe your petty minded local government rules lawyer should face the chance of loosing your elected position when you want to destroy someone people actually like.

[@Voting-does-nothing]

​​@@DM-ur8vcit is actually you clown..... You have obviously never had anything to do with councils .... As someone who has had a lot of involvement i can tell you all the wests problem would be gona if all the good people jusy got involved with their local councils....... Instead of doing whatever it is you think you are doing you cre tin

[@Voting-does-nothing]

​@@DM-ur8vcthat's exactly how it works you clown .... And im someone whos stopped the council taking a park before so i would know ......

[@Compliment_Thief]

@@DM-ur8vcworks* is supposed to work It is tho and you’re extremely naive if you believe otherwise. I’m guessing you’re young tho…. 🙏🏾

[@Gizepi]

Remove the council! They are our servants not our bosses.

[@SamuelDurkin]

I'd suggest running a candidate against whoever holds this seat. They work for us.

[@jetztisfeierabend]

I, as a inhabitant of this world, approve this

[@Alachua03]

No, you have that wrong! Once a tyrant gains a little power over someone, they become your "rulers!" Voting for them is just a fantasy these days! A man's home is no longer his castle! These little tyrants will slowly but surely chip away at your freedoms until there is nothing left!

[@TheStarBlack]

We have planning permission for a reason. If they allow people to build random castles on farmland then the farmland would soon be all built over by developers. Yes the castle looks cool but we need rules to be enforced or it would be a total free for all.

[@Shannae-f3q]

​@@TheStarBlack I get that, but they're doing it everywhere in forest farmlands they can't claim everything and they can't offer the homeless any help so why interrupt everyday people going out of their way doing it? Because they're not making a scent out of it. That's what it comes down too taking homeless of the streets. Building bike tracks keeping kids out of trouble that the tearing back down. It's just a joke.

[@pimpozza]

4:25 What a breathtaking sight! A dry stone hill-top castle that has been admired by thousands of people! It could stand for centuries.. oh it _could.._ Why can't it? Hey council! *Leave that castle alone!* 😕

[@andybaker2456]

This country needs more Mikeys.

[@lagringa7518]

👍🥰

[@DextraVisual]

100% Fred Dibnah said. "Countries are built by men in overalls and ruined by men in suits".

[@infertilepiggy5667]

And a lot less councils

[@johnkean6852]

Its a symbol of local craftsmanship and should be preserved for future generations to view. For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@ragnarthered2179]

If banksy graffiti on a wall is called art and considered worthy of protection then this surely qualifies too.

[@johnkean6852]

@@ragnarthered2179 l know hes talented but to allow him to graffiti because he's famous is against the rule of law.

[@mikeyjallen7348]

Brilliant video Dave! Pleasure meeting you and hope to catch up again soon!

[@Izzi-n5t]

Mikey! David makes lots of wonderful videos, we all enjoy his attitude to history and lifestyle but this video has to be most poignant I’ve ever seen. Thankyou for letting him into your life and castle so that we could all see what beautiful things can be achieved. I hope that the castle remains. Maybe contact the dry stone walling association as well and see if they can help in any way. Thankyou

[@w00df0rd]

Big respect Mikey💪👌

[@Magic-Florence]

Keep on weaving your magic, Mikey!! 👍

[@clivewarner2162]

Of COURSE the council want to tear it down. It wasn't built by an "approved contractor" (the brother-in-law of the Clerk Of Works).

[@wanderingturnip]

😂 spot on

[@DJWESG1]

needs more mcalpine drainage

[@DM-ur8vc]

'Clerk of Works'? What century are you building in? And 'approved contractor' is a council designation for council projects. It doesn't give anyone special preference.

[@DM-ur8vc]

@@wanderingturnip Stop spreading BS. If you did any development work with councils you would know that isn't true. They are bloated, mostly useless, bureaucratic, and difficult etc (and can be brow beaten by expensive legal teams) but handing out favours ended in the 1970's or 80's.

[@michealrossiter148]

@@DM-ur8vc Completely incorrect. you should see how many Heads of council planning departments go from ordinary person to retiring as multi-multi-multi-millionaires "somehow" after just 5-10years in the job.

[@pf4186]

Imagine people in 500 years visiting this castle. The horrible council are not just ruining this guys work, but they're destroying what will be a historic landmark. Sad.

[@temptemp4174]

Ghengis council

[@DaveVespa]

Building regs exist for a reason though.

[@videogenie1236]

I think that you should raise a petition to save this work and take it to your MP. This is a work of art and it should be protected as such.

[@bluelivesmatter8502]

Racist lawmakers won't let you promote sustainability, you will own nothing. Unless...

[@cjhawk9308]

the agricultural hill behind it, is covered in solar panels.

[@castlecottage7]

You blessed the hillside with a wonderful creation. Shame on the council for being a negative force, clearly against the community.

[@marcbeebe]

That's not a building, it's a sculpture.

[@rizzle3272]

No its Art and an expression of a Man’s Spirit to go on despite his hardship and suffering by the hands of the same Government that’s still punishing him.

[@rizzle3272]

A metaphor for everything wrong with the UK Gov as a whole.

[@danielwoods621]

Very good angle.

[@themotorbikecamper5990]

The council can enforce 20mph speed limits and crush tourism, yet a true Welsh man builds himself a castle to share amongst it's people free of charge and give joy to so many, when all else is lost in the country by the council's and government, shame on you.....!!!! Great video and very interesting

[@dallysinghson5569]

Did he not ask for planning permission?

[@darren_anscombe]

@@dallysinghson5569 of course not, and that's the issue. Imagine if everyone just started building stuff wherever they liked.

[@DJWESG1]

tourism hasnt been crushed by 20mph speed limits, what utter tosh

[@cjhawk9308]

@@darren_anscombe do you mean ask. like when the council build something for them selves?

[@DM-ur8vc]

@@cjhawk9308 When Council's want to build something for themselves it has to go through the same Planning process, but is subject to external scrutiny. Even an employee of the council has to declare on Planning forms if they apply for something. And it's still subject to the same external consultations with Parish, English Nature, Environment Agency, County Council etc, which are all separate bodies. And then it still need Building Regulations Approval. Or do you think just one person gives it the nod?

[@jankarel6454]

It's really heartbreaking to see such beautiful work destroyed. And for what?

[@DM-ur8vc]

To preserve and protect the open countryside and agriculture that was there first.

[@bennyboy2079]

What did you expect ....if not everybody would building everywhere! 😂

[@rizzle3272]

@@DM-ur8vcthe sheep and donkeys use it for shelter though, they can still eat the grass and vegetation around it, if anything it serves them, not to mention the land owners gave him permission and have no problem with it, the issue is the council cant charge people to see it lets be honest…

[@DM-ur8vc]

@@rizzle3272 Then build a field shelter like any other farmer that complies with the regs'. He's already declared his intention to use it for something else. And the council's ability to charge has nothing to with it - can the council charge for you go into a private museum? Cinema? Coffee shop? Show garden?...Nope.

[@annewhite8465]

How bloody infuriating. The council no doubt doesn't hesitate to give permission for erection of massive, ugly modern structures, or "architecture designed" modern home monstrosities, but this poor bugger has to take down this beautiful work of art? Speechless!

[@DM-ur8vc]

Because it doesn't meet national or local Planning Policy (or Building Regulations) and he didn't apply. Unlike the ugly stuff you note. It's not complicated. Upsetting, but not complicated.

[@Thats_him_with_the_daft_hat]

The council will probably grant the construction of an Amazon warehouse, straight away.

[@noman-s6l]

​@@DM-ur8vcthis guy didn't have money to bribe the council.

[@DM-ur8vc]

@@noman-s6l Because you can't bribe the council. Not sure what decade you're living in, but under the current UK process you would have to bribe about 20 people in different departments, different organisations and different parts of authority. And then hope everyone stays quiet and no one notices...

[@aileenhindley5964]

Probably the best new build for miles around.

[@johnkean6852]

The locals should petition the council For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@peterclayton6598]

Why do we have to hammer everything and everyone into preconceived patterns the council thinks is acceptable. Mikey should be getting a grant off the council to help him not be held back. He's a real character we need more

[@riverdeep399]

Because the council haven't thought of a way to make money off it.

[@DaysOfDarknessUK]

Miserable Council Busybodies

[@johnkean6852]

The botyom part of the body ie Anuses

[@koilamaoh4238]

Meh, its nothing new, they always been like that.

[@lynnmurphy9823]

The council aren't making money out of this so they will trash it. Doesn't matter what Mickey does they will make up an excuse against him. I hope he finishes this and it's kept forever. A sight of beauty.

[@andrewalexander272]

Well I think the guy is asking for such a reasonable request to rebuild the whole castle with their rules

[@michealrossiter148]

With a bribeorium and a corruption dungeon?

[@michaelobrien9825]

EVERY COUNCIL UP AND DOWN THE LENGTH AND BREADTH OF THE COUNTRY ARE TOTAL SPOILSPORTS.

[@johnkean6852]

You're too kind you mean _proverbials_ For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@sueharrison4725]

Corrupt you mean

[@pokemontrainer34]

I think the word you are looking for is CUNTS

[@michaelobrien9825]

@@sueharrison4725 WHAT I REALLY MEAN IS CORRUPT AND ROTTEN TO THE CORE, BUT I WAS JUST BEING NICE THAT DAY, SUE.

[@tandava-089]

Traitors, I think is the words your looking for

[@patriciataylor7887]

Shame on the coucil

[@bennyboy2079]

Yeh they should let everybody just build whatever they like wherever they like 😂

[@tandava-089]

@@bennyboy2079 Well I wouldnt go that far, if we had to err on one side or the other, the obvious answer is that the 'council' never should have even been involved in having a right or say what so ever

[@bacop001]

Mikey is a legend, its so sad that his wonderful community castle is being destroyed, but hey that's the council for you! All of his other shelters are works of art too and hopefully they won't get their hands on those! Please keep us updated on this amazing man

[@chrisjones3901]

That castle is the best thing I've witnessed this year hope its still there

[@wildaboutwales]

It would be devastating to see this torn down, in a few hundred years it could be a historical landmark with a great story behind it.

[@seldenkovs]

Hope the castle gets to stay

[@andrewalexander272]

Council is losing it's monopoly in castle in the area

[@KevinCambell-ig1ty]

Council won't let it stay because they are too arrogant to realise they are wrong. Instead they will concoct some "woke" excuse to justify themselves, probably hold lots of meetings that they can claim lots of the council tax payers money. for.

[@John-c4r1o]

It isn't a castle though, it's not even a fortified manor to be honest. Just a stone house.

[@adamfaith2321]

All he has done is relocated the local stones from the area and put them in a nice pile. If the council want the stones relocated in to another pile adjacent to this mans pile of stones, let the council climb the hill and do it themselves. I bet the councils pile of stones won't be so nice as this one.

[@sueharrison4725]

Well said

[@phoenixkali]

They will come eventually with bulldozers and once again it will be a pile of stones.

[@rizzle3272]

@@phoenixkalibulldozers will destroy the land for decades 😂 truly harming the Farmland then….

[@johnkean6852]

It fits ALL the criteria fits in with nature, tradition, there's no pollution; its local stone, permission from landowner Whats wrong withem why are they being UNREASONABLE? For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@johnkean6852]

He should be given a Knighthood For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@melissabushill3005]

Sometimes I wish councils would just F off! All they do take, take, take!! I gave my local council two and a half grand for this years tax and I feel all I got out of it, was street lights and my bins emptied! I really feel for that guy. I love his castle. As they say, a man’s home is his castle. ❤️

[@hadynwills3677]

You are lucky I here in NZ street lights on one side of the street I reckon with 20 watt bulbs. Light up diddle squatt our bins council subcontractored out to private firm pay for that and pay the council called double dipping. Then we have regional tax paying for?! once again double dipping rates go up yearly by five hundred dollars, just fed up with them all.

[@bettygraham818]

A man builds something of skill and beauty that the council don't approve of, and yet our council ,also in South Wales ,has allowed and funded blots on the landscape of a once beautiful city.,

[@the_hermits_cave]

Friggin bureaucrats! It’s sickening they’d want to tear this down. 😢

[@Frank_Nemo]

Top Tip: Councils always bow and scrape to their local MPs. Get them on your side and the council will 'reconsider' their position.

[@colinmoore6068]

cancel the council

[@chrisjones3901]

Love this guys guts

[@Magic-Florence]

There is nothing like a stone castle to awaken the MAGIC within us!!

[@stevo9099]

Councils and government same breed amazing what a bit of power can do to someone in charge

[@christiancoombes9750]

Put up some bat boxes it's illegal to disturb any bat roosts

[@poppymason-smith1051]

This comment needs to be pinned!!!

[@aw3946]

If Banksy decided to create one of his artworks on the castle would the council take a different view.

[@Tim_Bucktu]

Building the castle is one thing but collecting all those bloody stones and lugging them up that flippin hill, Jesus! that really is one hell of an epic effort. The council should let it stand as a symbol of perserverance, determination and a testament to what pure physical effort can achieve. If nothing else it is a monument to that.

[@cheechmcduck7013]

How could a council reject such an beautiful build

[@StooFras-TheFiresofHell.]

These councils should bear in mind it's us the public that pay their wages through our taxes ! I have always found them to be very good at making up stupid rulings on the various projects people create, we have yet to come across a council that actually does anything constructive to help always the exact opposite, of course if they as they are connected to the government what can one expect from a bunch of educated idiots.🤬

[@DM-ur8vc]

Because he never applied. The same rules we all have to follow to avoid rampant development.

[@trulymental7651]

Can we start a petition or something to stop the council? Should be a monument to mans ability to overcome adversity !!! Awesome Mikey, you would think the council would take the initiative to advertise this as a good thing, teach people skills and endurance. Run for council Mikey 😊

[@w00df0rd]

Beautiful structure built by a sensitve soul. This video will become a historical document. (Close your eyes and listen to Mikey - sounds like Richey Edwards!)

[@johnkean6852]

To think of all that crap that has been created and held up as ART yet this is obvious genius. For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@jamiechurchward]

i live locally to mikey and his castle. hes an inspiration to myself and many others. ive visited a few times and absoloutly love it there . great video

[@pppel7500]

Grandma from Canada here. Please don't feel guilty about not being outdoors and accomplishing feats such as this lad. My son was a Royal Marine and also Afghan vet, spent his time mountain climbing and living in his truck. Because he HAD to. Your superpower is being interested in people and letting others meet them😊

[@johnkean6852]

He should contact the National Trust they might help to preserve it? If it was on the site of a previous building for example?

[@DrKaill]

i love these videos, of yours showing people trying to make something for themselves. a tragic twist but hopefully not the end of the story

[@wrichard11]

Definitely best of Britain. Let's just hope the council sees sense. Or even contact the Welsh devolved local government.

[@pimpozza]

Such poignant final words in this episode, David.. 👍 Loved it! Incredible scenes of nature enhanced by great drone footage.. I am definitely left feeling inspired by Mikey's skill.. and shivering a bit seeing you in the water! 🥶😁

[@the_hermits_cave]

What a great guy. So inspirational! I’m hope his book gets published ☺️

[@ellenthibeault3940]

Salt of the earth …this man is !!!!

[@Wildlearningforkids]

It shows how out of touch all of these so called councils are. The government/council is elected by the people, to serve the needs of the people. If the people say they want the castle to stay. Who is the council serving? Certainly not us. This is a community masterpiece and worth so much more than any new industrial zone or chain supermarket the council allow to be built in our green spaces. I truly hope the community comes together and takes a stand against these bullies at the council and this castle can be saved!

[@robertburgess3767]

What an incredibly lovely talented guy...thoroughly enjoyed this video 👍

[@harrynorcliffe-hlc6787]

And they say that man could not have built the pyramids!. no councils in them day's!

[@SylvesterAshcroft88]

This is absolutely ridiculous, i could understand if he was defiling some sacred monument, but they're going to tear it down in spite of his good will. This is utterly despicable, i don't understand why council's seem to love causing misery, to the homeless whilst housing everyone else.

[@cheechmcduck7013]

Being an ex dry stone waller ...that's impressive

[@MyUTube2024]

The only thing I can ask myself throughout this video is why is this man complying with the council.

[@UCCLdIk6R5ECGtaGm7oqO-TQ]

I assume out of respect for the land owner who'd otherwise be held accountable.

[@JohnRyan-f2n]

I want to congratulate that man of vision ,it's a community focal Point but in a very positive way . God protect this social endeavour.

[@shirleysmith1713]

Brilliant work mikey. Shame on the council

[@LeornianCyng]

What a beautiful place this person has built for people and animals to enjoy and take refuge. How can the council even think about taking it down, it’s absolutely disgusting behaviour from them. Instead of taking it down, they should work to make it more secure and accessible. Encourage builders and surveyors to help work on the project if they’re so desperately in need to follow building regulations. More importantly, it would be a great spot for conservation observers, photography, art and science.

[@johnkean6852]

People have a right to provide a roof over their heads For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@sverr0r]

Great to see a castle-like structure that still holds the vigour of having been made just recently. Even though it is "missing" the same vertical conclusions as many castle ruins of similar size, there's definetely something of value here, as to ascertaining the nature of a "new" castle, now missing from true castles of a thousand years ago. Thanks Mikey!

[@Actunify]

❤

[@AS-jm9uk]

Awwww shame Mikey's hard work and creativity hasn't been supported by the LA. Amazing story 👍👀🌷.

[@lorrainebennett7528]

I can't think of any reason why the castle can't stay, it's so beautiful.

[@744shinryu]

The UK needs to learn it’s not the “council”, it’s John, or Liam etc who work for the council. We need to realise it’s people using systems as a scapegoat for dishing out misery

[@DM-ur8vc]

Incorrect. It is very much a bloated bureaucratic procedure with endless committees. It hasn't been one bloke making decisions or handing out favours since the 1970's or 80's.

[@jackiepark4673]

It suits the landscape,it's rustic looking and ancient just like Wales😊

[@johnkean6852]

He should send the Council a bill. For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@peterbrameld696]

A fantastic story! Why can’t we get a petition? Going to fight to keep the castle as a recreational space, I for One would certainly sign it. I’d even contribute funds to pay for the legal fees to fight the councils dictatorial attitude. Thank you once more for bringing the unexpected to our attention, well done!

[@sarahstrong7174]

The man who built this castle is very skilled.

[@msmango6354]

What an awesome bloke. What a narrow-minded authority.

[@cbrider726]

I am so sorry that i cant watch this . That man is in so much pain . Wtf are our councils at . A guy devotes his life to improving the lives of others through his hard work gets slapped down . this is one very brave guy and i wish him all of the best . Great stream .

[@johnkean6852]

Imagine it with stained glass!!! For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@aukebij3193]

that's just pathetic, kiking, leave that man alone and let him continue building, there are hundreds if not thousands of hours of work in it, let the council fix potholes instead of interfering with things like this

[@Bacon56ful]

This situation encapulsates everything about modern society that makes people depressed, let the man cook!

[@hazelduerdoth4333]

Perfect way to train the young folk the good old ways of building 👍👍

[@johnners911]

What an amazing man. Great video! Can't wait for his book to come out, sounds like it will be an inspiring read.

[@DaveVespa]

Have tou tried lobbying your local councillors? If everyone who'd been there emailed the people who make the decision I'm sure they might reconsider. I'm on a parish council that advises the Borough. They can ignore us but if I had enough locals in favour of it no mater my opinion I'd probably go for it.

[@TheCatlady63]

Surely if the public support him something could be done.

[@bramsrockhopper3377]

Councils are the scourge of this country at such times. Of course there should be rules and safeguards, but my god people, when it’s come thing beloved by the community, beautiful, meaningful and valued, why destroy it over such petty reasoning? FFS 🤦🏻‍♀️ I hope Mikey will be okay. It’ll break his heart to tear it down. A man who’d lost so much in service of his country, and actually made something positive out of a dreadful situation. Private land too. FFS. Someone should start a massive local petition and the people should stand outside the council offices with placards every day until they change their minds (or find some?). Shaming councils does work. Just takes perseverance. In the end, like all bullies, they’re cowards. Imho

[@AnonAtry]

To comment my feelings on the councillors in charge of these decisions would no doubt be instantly deleted. Its an utter shame that people who live miserable lives have to inflict that on others

[@Thetruth588]

Who the F are the council to dictate what happens on private land? The people of Britain should unite and refuse to pay council tax.

[@johnkean6852]

Its like the Dissolution of the Monastries by modern Kings For educational/entertainment purposes only!

[@tonycox5625]

Modern assh*les more like, ☹️

[@AbandonedCityCamoCrewExplorers]

Seen this guy before amazing stuff he does ,dam councils destroy every thing good !well done Micky

[@nikwood-jones1825]

This is so great, great guy, great castle. What is not great is the short sighted council. Wish there was a way it could be saved.

[@SherKhan-b1kes]

Couldn’t the land owners or any competent museum declare this as art ? Thus hopefully preventing its destruction? What a wasted opportunity, Mikey is capable of reproducing medieval constructions that somebody should give him a job.

[@koolerking440]

Councils are full of people on 6 figure salarys, bored, wondering what they can do to look busy. Most of the time they will spend multiple times on one item, and it's all our millions in tax they're playing with. With this, they make sure the stone is also removed, just to really make sure it can't be rebuilt.

[@colincampbell4261]

Councillors are unpaid, but can claim moderate expenses.

[@egriffiths8993]

If you drive past it looks no different to all other hundreds of castles ruins around wales. It’s not out of place at all.

[@mjci3507]

The world needs more Mikeys. This video warmed my heart. In this world and all the madness going on how nice to see something like this. Thanks once again for your videos. You help us more than you think.

[@PWMoze]

Nice to know that, to Welsh local councils, the rules and regulations are much more important than the community's mental health, creativity and civic pride. Maybe they'd rather he did a Banksy and spray painted on a wall so they could remove it and sell it off?

[@DM-ur8vc]

You do understand that the rules and regulations evolved precisely to protect the social structure? And thus protect mental health, creativity and civic pride. Or do you think building whatever you want, where ever you want, when ever you want is a good thing? Housing developers would love that...

[@Actunify]

Isn't that why I had to deal with PTSD? How did rules and regulations help me?

[@DM-ur8vc]

@@Actunify By creating a society that isn't anarchic? Or totally corrupt? Where would you rather suffer from a mental health issue - the UK, the West, the Congo, a Brazilian slum, China? Don't pretend that mental health treatment and societal sympathy is completely absent in the UK.

[@PWMoze]

@@DM-ur8vc @DM-ur8vc A home made mini castle in a field is hardly the same as a poorly built housing estate or allowing a road to be built through an area of natural beauty. Bureaucracy, red tape and over-regulation, blindly enforced by petty-minded, inflexible bureaucrats may well protect the 'social structure' but it does very little for smaller communities that aspire to be creative and create new sources of pride in themselves. In this particular case the guy was a veteran suffering from PTSD who had been offered nothing by the local council to support him in his struggles to return to civvie street. A local land owner gave him permission to use the field and in building the castle structure, through great physical and mental fortitude, he was able to go some way towards healing himself and others. For this reson he became the source of a certain amount of pride to his local community. His structure became the focus of something quite unique and special, especially to those who used the continued building of it as a tool to deal with their mental health issues. Give me one reason why this should not be continued or even encourged.

[@Actunify]

​@@DM-ur8vc Policies do not create less corruption or less anarchy. It is the people with heart and common sense. Where? I'd rather suffer less. Good & bad is everywhere… The common sense was one of the things that seemed most attractive about the UK when I came here a couple decades ago but now it seems people don’t care about that anymore. I myself have experienced policies being used as a tool of oppression. Corruption is starring you in the face and people just go along with it… sad really… a lot of hatred hides behind sympathy. Yes, there is mental health treatment and yes, it helps a lot of people I suppose but it turns out I’m different. When it came to me I was left alone to deal with it. This is what lead me to change from being an IT expert to becoming musician and a healer.

[@kleenbeats]

I would support any local councilman who ran on a ticket to preserve the work of people like Mikey.

[@jbavar32]

Mikey created a landmark, a tourist attraction. Obviously the counsel is blind to this. Is there a way to gain support throuh petitions? I'm sure the people would support keeping the castle. I think if a large gathering of supporters showed up in the counsel chambers I know it would rattle some cages. God bless.

[@PomEllie0806]

What a crying shame, in an age where characterless new builds are erected here, there, and everywhere! Mikey channelled his anger/grief into something productive and created something beautiful. Yes, there are regulations in place for a reason but the council don’t seem to want to work with him or recognise his efforts or potential. It’s so sad! Great video turnip, you always show us the most interesting things!

[@TheSadButMadLad]

Love the statement at the end. Very apt

[@NorthernSoulExpress]

Maybe you should build your own castle using the materials from chimneys that have been demolished 🤔

[@wrichard11]

I'd watch that

[@Izzi-n5t]

Wonderful video David, thanks for sharing Mikeys story with us, every video you make is bob on. I reckon you could probably get somewhere in hebden to build something special, after all hebden has an unusual dynamic anyway, maybe the arties would welcome a project like that ? Thanks for another great video , love from padiham

[@BeccaAl]

I really hope you do go and build some dens! Mikey is so skilled, it is a shame the council won’t work with him on keeping the castle or why it is even of slightest concern to them. It’s not bothering anyone and gives the locals and tourists another reason to visit and go up the mountain. Maybe you could do up that place near yours you visited a few times in the past, I think you stayed there one time.

[@mervynrogers7354]

Keep up the battle and maybe call it a barn or sheep shelter instead.

[@phoenixkali]

No, shepherds can’t keep a hut for overnight lambing, so I’ve been told.

[@JohnlynHD]

It’s not a castle it’s an art installation.

[@ambrosiad1588]

keep us updated, I'd love to hear the council gives in and the castle gets saved

[@MikeWood-yc1er]

Get the Druids worshipping there

[@sophiedereans]

'(...)What more do you need?' - Where do I start?! Windows, running water, heating, privacy...I hope this wonderful man has a place where he can stay safe & warm as well...words fail me (& I have no desire to swear out of respect for Mikey)...Why oh why oh why fhs?!