‘Extra UK bank holiday’ update as supporters keen to honour ‘contribution’
There are calls for an extra UK bank holiday (Image: Getty)
Campaigners are pushing for an extra bank holiday in the UK and the movement is approaching a major milestone.
A Change.org petition entitled Declare a Bank Holiday for David Attenborough’s 100th Birthday is closing in on 30,000 signatures, with the latest supporter adding their name just hours ago on May 15. And it’s not the only large petition about him, with another campaign approaching 40,000 signatures, calling for a dedicated day in his honour.
The petition for the extra bank holiday was started 11 months ago by Lyle Porretta, yet it’s still gaining signatures, which could indicate that people want it to become a bank holiday every year to keep his legacy alive, even if the day itself this year wasn’t. It reads: “For my school homework, I was tasked with exploring an influential figure, Sir David Attenborough.
“An icon in environmental conservation and education, his work has inspired countless individuals, young and old alike, to cherish and protect our natural environment. As he approaches his 100th birthday, I believe there’s no better way to honour his incredible contributions than by instituting a national bank holiday in his name.
“David Attenborough has spent a lifetime sharing the wonders of the natural world with us all. Through groundbreaking documentaries like ‘Planet Earth,’ ‘The Blue Planet,’ and ‘Our Planet,’ his work has not only captivated audiences but also raised global awareness regarding conservation and climate change. He’s a voice for the voiceless inhabitants of our planet, tirelessly advocating for the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems.
“Celebrating his 100th birthday with a national bank holiday would not only be a fitting tribute to his unwavering dedication but also a day for reflection on the environmental challenges we still face today. It would serve as a nationwide reminder of the ongoing fight to preserve the beauty and diversity of our planet, inspiring future generations to continue his legacy.
“Other countries have honoured influential figures with national holidays, recognising their invaluable contributions to society. By following in this tradition, we would show our commitment to honouring someone whose life’s work has had a profound impact on our culture and environment.
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“Join me in advocating for the creation of a national bank holiday to celebrate Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday. Let’s recognise his lifelong service to our planet and use this as an opportunity to inspire continued action in environmental protection. Sign this petition to make a statement about what truly matters for our future.”
Another petition launched by Kerry Scantlebury is urging the creation of an annual day dedicated to the man himself. Titled “Establish David Attenborough Day on 8th May,” it has already gathered 36,682 signatures as of Saturday morning, May 16.
Published two weeks ago, the petition reached 30,000 supporters just a week after launching. It calls for a day to recognise his lifelong work in environmental awareness and education, and to highlight biodiversity loss and climate change while encouraging global grassroots sustainability efforts.
The petition in full reads: “David Attenborough, a name synonymous with the beauty and education of our natural world, will celebrate his 100th birthday on 8th May. Sir David’s work has not only enriched our understanding of biodiversity but has also brought to light the urgent need for environmental conservation. His documentaries such as “Planet Earth,” “Blue Planet,” and “Our Planet” have mesmerised audiences across the globe, making us fall in love with the world around us and motivating millions to become stewards of our environment.
“Establishing an annual David Attenborough Day on 8th May would honour his extraordinary contributions and ensure his legacy continues to inspire future generations. This special day would serve as a platform to educate people of all ages about the importance of conservation and climate change, rallying individuals, schools, businesses, and governments to take significant steps toward protecting our planet.
“Recognising David Attenborough with a dedicated day means acknowledging the impact of his lifelong dedication to the planet and its inhabitants. It would foster a deeper appreciation for the world we inhabit and incite collective action toward sustainability goals. With biodiversity loss and climate change being two of the most pressing issues globally, a global day dedicated to environmental awareness could inspire massive grassroots movements.
“I urge the UK Parliament to officially recognise 8th May as David Attenborough Day, as a tribute to a man whose life’s work has changed our world. His centennial birthday presents the perfect opportunity to remember and renew our commitments to the environment. Join us in this tribute – and let’s spread this movement globally.
“Please sign our petition to persuade lawmakers to commemorate his invaluable legacy. Let David Attenborough Day be a constant reminder of our duty to protect our planet for generations to come.”
It seems the want is still there for a bank holiday to celebrate the man himself (Image: Getty)
It has been confirmed that the UK Parliament are the decision-makers. However, there have been no updates from officials so far.
Supporters who have signed wrote: “Absolutely deserves to be recognised!”
Another said: “I grew up watching Sir David’s programmes & it’s right that we should pay tribute to him. He’s educated many generations & shown us so many of the world’s wonderful animals and countries that we would have never seen. I personally believe that he deserves this accolade. Thank you, Sir David, for showing the world.. The world & it’s a beauty.”
Nearly 40,000 people have signed the petition, and 61 individuals have left comments expressing their support. The petition can be found here Establish David Attenborough Day on 8th May.
