Faith

BBC Radio Cleveland's Mark Turnbull

I find my temperature rising as I write these latest thoughts; and, its not because of the warm weather we're currently enjoying.

It is the blood-boiling prospect of the last little bit of specialness which is Sunday being taken away from us.

Apparently, More than half of consumers feel they should be able to shop when and where they want on a Sunday.

This is the latest survey to be carried out in the constant bid by some store-owners and businesses to widen the restricted shopping window we have currently on a Sunday.

Campaigners claim that Sunday, for many retailers is the second busiest day of the week; and, anyway, a change would bring us into line with the people of Scotland.

They say society has changed since we were allowed to do business on the Sabbath, and we've got used to being able to shop in the extra time.

I'm not so sure; and, even if I'm wrong, let me have a word on behalf of the minority.

Since we were young Sunday has always been different; and, I believe we've been the better for it.

Even those who don't do church spent time with the family, enjoyed the benefits of a home-life, switched off from the hurly-burly of the world, or just relaxed.

We'll never be able to re-create that; and, even those of us who don't like it, would have to admit to nipping down the shop occasionally on a Sunday if we've got a need?

But, to see a free for all created, no matter what the cost to the quality of life is something we should stand against.

Isn't it time we re-started the campaign to encourage people to keep Sunday special, if nothing else, for the sanity of those who have to do the work; and, to allow me to enjoy the chill.