Call for October bank holiday

The TUC and a number of voluntary organisations said a new bank holiday should be held in October in a bid to encourage more people to do voluntary work.

The day could also provide an opportunity for the country to recognise the importance of volunteers and community groups, it was argued.

A new holiday at the end of October should particularly appeal to incoming Prime Minister Gordon Brown, the groups argued, as he has called for a new day to bring the people of Britain together to celebrate their shared values.

TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said: "This is an idea whose time has come. It will encourage more community involvement, celebrate our shared values as a nation, and help meet the holiday gap between Britain and the rest of Europe, but in a constructive way. It's a great opportunity for a new Prime Minister to make a mark in history."

Dame Elisabeth Hoodless, executive director of volunteering and training charity CSV said: "Research shows that 11 million people would volunteer if asked. A community day is an excellent way to involve them to reduce crime, boost health, protect the environment and help young people to read and write."

Christopher Spence, chief executive of Volunteering England, said: "Community Day presents a unique opportunity to recognise the vast numbers of people who, unpaid and of their own free will, contribute their time, energy and skills to benefit their community."