The Trades Union Congress says 99 per cent of people they surveyed earlier this year wanted a new day off to add to the eight already on the calendar. Workers – who get less than the average 11 bank holidays enjoyed in other European countries – agreed the proposed holiday would be on the first Monday of autumn school half-term.

Steve Jennings, GMB organiser, said: "People work hard and I don't think it's too much to ask to have another bank holiday.

"Unions have fought hard for years to get holiday pay, minimum holiday entitlement and a fair deal for workers – this campaign is a part of that."

Mr Trickett supported a Parliamentary motion asking the government to consider the campaign.

He said: "Creating another bank holiday would be a step towards achieving a balance between work and home life.

"I'd like to see a real national bank holiday where it's not just another working day for many people – where they can enjoy time with their family and communities."