A small spider with a length of little more than 3.5mm. 

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

M. rufus is primarily a spider of woodlands, where it may be abundant in the leaf litter, moss and grass under broad-leaved and coniferous trees, from ancient oak woodland to beech and larch plantations.

Adults of both sexes are mostly found in the autumn, through the winter and spring, females into early summer, occasionally persisting later.

The species is widespread in much of Britain, but absent or very scattered in some areas. Its winter season may result in under-recording.

Widespread in Leicestershire and Rutland.

https://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Macrargus+rufus