A CAMPAIGN to introduce a new public holiday in Britain has been backed by Dover MP Gwyn Prosser.

The Thomas Cook travel company’s bank holiday petition which was launched on Boxing Day and has received more than half a million signatures.

Mr Prosser added his name to the document on Friday at the company’s branch in Biggin Street, Dover.

Mr Prosser said: “I am pleased to add my name to more than half a million people who have already signed this petition calling for a new bank holiday.

“Britain suffers from a long hours culture especially when compared to our European neighbours.

“Introducing a new bank holiday would go a long way to helping restore a healthy work life balance.”

Michelle Simmons, manager of Thomas Cook in Dover said: “The response from the public has been incredible.

“We’re finding that local people really support our campaign.”

On March 4, MP for Cleethorpes Shona McIsaac tabled a Private Members Bill in the House of Commons calling for the introduction of a new bank boliday.