1 week Ago By [email protected] (Lorna Hughes)
A Somerset MP said a bank holiday for St George's Day is "long overdue" as he launched a campaign calling for the Government to mark it. Dan Aldridge said a national "day of celebration" would help to bring communities together in a positive way - and argues that it is "about more than just a day off work". The MP for Weston-super-Mare wants people to sign a petition calling for April 23 to be recognised by the UK Government.
He said it would be a way to celebrate England and the country's history, culture and values. He believes the day should be an opportunity to connect people with English heritage, from local crafts and cuisine to the stories that have shaped the nation. And he said the day should be marked with the same enthusiasm as other national holidays in the UK.
He said: "St. George's Day is an occasion to celebrate all that makes England great. It's about embracing our rich history, values, and the unity that defines us as a nation.
This day of celebration could draw in tourists, enhance local businesses, and offer opportunities for festivals and events that showcase the best of our culture." Mr Aldridge said making St George's Day a bank holiday would provide an extra economic boost to towns like Weston-super-Mare that rely on tourism. He said the issue was discussed during a meeting with local businesses in March for a round table on tourism.
He added: "St. George's Day is an occasion to celebrate all that makes England great. It's about embracing our rich history, values, and the unity that defines us as a nation.
This day of celebration could draw in tourists, enhance local businesses, and offer opportunities for festivals and events that showcase the best of our culture. "Just as St. Andrew's Day is a bank holiday in Scotland, St Patrick's Day is a bank holiday in Ireland, England deserves its own celebratory bank holiday.
It will provide communities across the country - particularly in towns like Weston, Worle and the villages - a chance to come together and celebrate English culture in a way that brings communities closer together, restores pride and brings joy." He added: "This is about more than just a day off work - celebrating the values that bind us together as a nation. A St.
George's Day bank holiday would bring people together, whether enjoying time with family, participating in a local event, or simply reflecting on what it means to be English.".
