MORE than half the area's workforce is demanding extra bank holidays in line with Europe, according to a survey carried out by a Darlington recruitment firm.

In the poll conducted by the Darlington office of LDS Recruitment, 63 per cent of employees felt they deserved to follow the European Union bank holidays pattern.

The UK has eight bank holidays annually, lagging a long way behind Italy's 16, Germany and Spain's 14, and France, which enjoys 11 bank or public holidays a year.

Four of the UK's bank holidays fall in the months of April and May.

Dee Milburn, operations director of LDS Recruitment, said: "It is hardly surprising that people want more bank holidays.

"Everyone feels under pressure at work these days, and bank holidays allow workers to leave that pressure behind and enjoy time with family and friends, or just relaxing."

The survey also asked workers what their most and least popular bank holiday occupations were. About 40 per cent liked sleeping in late, followed by 37 per cent who enjoyed gardening.

Least popular activities included working on the house and visiting in-laws.

The survey also showed that trade unions have called for more bank holidays, but employers have generally opposed the demand. The Government is also not thought to be in favour of increasing the number of bank holidays.

Ms Milburn said: "Although the business community is sceptical about increasing the number of bank holidays because of the cost, it is important to remember that bank holidays can stimulate the economy in many sectors, especially travel, food and tourism and, of course, retailing.

"Indeed, studies have shown that the economy receives a boost of up to £500m during bank holiday weekends, when there is increased spending on food, drink and, of course, DIY."

But 18 per cent of the workers questioned said they expected to work on bank holidays. Care and medical workers, call centre staff and hotel, catering and restaurant staff all said bank holidays meant business as usual.