Weston-super-Mare MP calling for St George's Day to become a bank holiday
It's as today is named after the saint.
Dan Aldridge, Member of Parliament for Weston-super-Mare, has launched his campaign calling for St. George's Day to be recognised as a bank holiday by the UK Government.
Aldridge feels that making St George's Day a bank holiday is long overdue and could be just what is needed to bring our communities together in a positive way.
It would be an annual focus for us to celebrate England and the shared history, culture and values.
St. George's Day, which falls on April 23rd, has been celebrated for centuries but has never been made a national public holiday despite many attempts.
Aldridge is urging the Government to take action to provide an extra economic boost to towns like Weston-super-Mare that rely on tourism.
"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," said Aldridge. "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."
Governments have consistently rejected calls for an extra bank holiday saying it would be far too costly.
However, Aldridge 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.
He's calling on MPs and the public to recognise the importance of marking the day with the same enthusiasm as other national holidays in the UK.
"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," Aldridge added.
Aldridge's campaign also emphasises the role of St. George's Day in promoting a sense of national unity. "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."
The campaign is expected to gain traction over the coming weeks.
Aldridge has already met with local businesses in March for a round table on tourism, where this was discussed.
A petition calling for St. George's Day to become a recognised public holiday will also be launched alongside public awareness efforts.