Sunderland Echo poll shows 84% think shops should stay shut on Boxing Day

As Aldi, Lidl and Home Bargains announced they would be giving their staff an additional day’s rest, we asked whether shoppers across Wearside thought it was a good idea for all stores to remain closed.

At the time of writing, of the 2,500 people who voted, 84% backed the idea they should still be shut, while the remaining 16% wanted to get back to normal.

Among those to have their say is Dianne Elizabeth Snowdon, who said: “Yes. I won't go shopping on a Boxing Day.

“It’s bad enough our emergency service staff having to work 24/7 52 weeks a year, surely we could cope with the shops shut for two days?”

Kim Clark said: “Definitely, why just one day?

“We work hard all year, chill out and enjoy family time, not shopping.”

Loraine Ross said: “Retail staff have been so busy during December, they should at least have two days off together to enjoy and spend with their families.

“There’s still plenty of time for January sales.”

Ruth Bowie added: “Yes absolutely if people voted with their feet poor workers would be able to spend precious times with their families.

“I have worked several boxing days when I was a nurse, but retail is not a necessity.”

Paul Mills said: “When people get a job in retail they know what they are getting into so people need to stop twisting and get on with it.”