The Rutland Morris Men have paid tribute to their founder, who has passed away following a lengthy illness.

The Rutland Morris Men practice and perform locally and have been doing so since 1974, when Mike Harnett set up the traditional dancing group.

During the 20th century, and in particular in the 20s and 30s, Morris dancing was a common activity in Rutland schools, and a Morris dancing 'side' is believed to have existed in Caldecott in the early part of the century.

The modern day Rutland Morris Men were founded in 1974 following a visit from the visit from Stafford Morris and families, following which the men in Uppingham folk dance club wanted to do morris too, so Mike Harnett started the Rutland Morris Men.

Mike was the first Squire of the locally renowned group.

Rutland Morris on a glorious summer day at Ashwell Fête, 2022. Image credit: Sally Harnett

The club then joined the national "Morris Ring" in 1978, and have since sought to ensure that Morris dancing remains alive and well in Rutland. In 1983 we organised a dancing tour of all the villages in Rutland in a single weekend, and in 1995 and 2011 hosted national meetings of the Morris Ring which attracted over 150 dancers from all parts of the country.

The team have jumped from strength to strength under the guidance of their founder and fellow enthusiasts, who continued to dance at many local events and have donated generously to local charities.

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Over the weekend, the Morris Men mourned the passing of Mike.

The team said: "We are very sad to report that Mike Harnett, our founder, has passed away after a long illness. Mike was well known in Folk Circles as a skilled dancer and musician of some repute and he will be sorely missed by all who knew him."

You can read more about the group and their forthcoming events by clicking here.