The Trades Union Congress (TUC) is renewing its campaign for an additional bank holiday in October.

Together with a number of volunteering groups, the TUC suggests the extra holiday would encourage workers to participate in community activities.

TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said: "The UK has fewer bank holidays than nearly every other country in Europe, so there is a huge demand for an extra day off work. Many people would also love to volunteer, but can't find the time because of work and other commitments. A Community Day would give everyone the chance to participate in their local community."

The voluntary sector is estimated to be worth £40 billion a year to the economy. According to the TUC, a 5 per cent increase in the number of volunteers would cover the cost of an extra bank holiday. Great Britain currently has eight bank holidays, compared to an EU average of 10.9 days.