Morris men cancel Rushcart showpiece

This year's annual Saddleworth Rushcart morris dancing festival has been cancelled.

Dave Biggs, squire of Saddleworth Morris Men, said the decision to cancel the 46th Saddleworth Rushcart, which was due to be held on August 22-23 this year, was made after conversations between officers of the event. 

Dave said: "We felt  it was unlikely the event would be allowed to go ahead, and if it did it would be subject to many restrictions that would alter the spectacle beyond recognition.

“There were also lots of things that needed doing in preparation and we thought an early decision was best. 

“We have to think of the safety of our team and our guest sides as well as the the local community.

"Even if we were given the go ahead we had to consider whether it was the right thing to do. 

“We didn’t want to be seen as irresponsible by causing crowds to gather. 

"Recent correspondence from OMBC has confirmed it was the right decision as all events have been suspended until October.

"Saddleworth Morris Men fully support this decision and thank the council for their communication. 

“Rushcart has been held every year in its current form since its revival in 1975 by Pete Ashworth and the original Saddleworth team.

"We have never had to cancel it before, but these are strange times indeed. 

“Rumour has it Oliver Cromwell banned Rushcart’s as part of a string of moral laws to ‘improve people’s behaviour’ which included theatres and drunkenness at Christmas. 

“This year's Jockey, Nigel Reynolds, was informed of the decision first.

"Obviously he was disappointed but fully understood. He will take his place on top next year. 

“Richard Hankinson (former Squire) is making a Rushcart banner for the ‘phantom cart’ and we are hoping to display this in the museum to keep the spirit of Saddleworth Rushcart alive.”

Dave added: “Thank you everyone who has supported us over the years.

"I am hopeful fult we may be able to dance out at some point this year, but we will follow local and national guidance.

"If not we will be back next year to celebrate.”

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.