Furness Morris Dancers' future under threat after 62 years
A Morris dancing group says it is in danger of folding unless more people join.Furness Morris, based in Ulverston, Cumbria, was founded in 1963, but dwindling dancer numbers have put its future at risk.Les Ord, who is the second longest-serving member, said the situation was "critical".A meeting is being held later to discuss the future of the band which has had to turn down five gigs so far this year, including the Pace Egg play.
Mr Ord said: "We've lost a few members over the recent years. "They've either moved away, or sadly one died, and we've had a few injuries."We've gone down to very low numbers and you need a minimum number to be able to put on a decent show. We're struggling."Mr Ord, who has been with the group for 50 years, said at least half a dozen new members were needed to help its survival.There are currently eight, but there were 20 in its prime.Mr Ord urged people to come and try out Morris dancing with friends."It's just a great social activity. It keeps you fit, you mix with people. "The music is wonderful and it gets you around the villages and towns in South Cumbria and the Lake District."
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