Local figures from the Labour Party have called on the store manager of Tesco in Paulton to close this coming Boxing Day and give all its workers the day off. In an open letter both Dan Norris and Cllr Grant Johnson explained that they have seen "the unparalleled efforts of shop workers up and down the UK over the past year." As well as arguing, "To not take this opportunity after the extraordinary pressure and stress put on your employees would be a complete injustice."

The two figures join the likes of USDAW 's General Secretary Paddy Lillis, who wrote an open letter to the heads of the UK's major retailers calling on them to reject Boxing Day trading.

The letter said: "For key workers, who have done so much this year, asking for shops to close on Boxing Day, so that they can have some quality time with their families, is really not too much to ask for. 2020 has been a year like no other, so let's ensure that retail workers get a decent break at Christmas."

The former MP Dan Norris, who is now Labour's candidate for Metro-Mayor of the West of England Combined Authority said: "Tesco's staff have played a key role in keeping our communities going in very challenging times. Those same communities want Tesco staff to be treated properly and respected this Boxing Day. It is the least they deserve."

Councillor Grant Johnson, who represents Paulton on B&NES Council explained: "We have all seen the recent developments across the UK with the increase in virus cases, so we are calling on Tesco, which is situated in my ward of Paulton, to close this coming Boxing Day and give its workers a deserved break."

The letter from both Norris and Johnson reads, "We have all seen the unparalleled efforts of shop workers up and down the UK over the past year. Workers who have gone out of their way to keep the shelves stocked and the tills ringing in the most uncertain of circumstances. So, it came as a surprise to us that on one of the few days of the year where closing your store has the smallest impact on residents in the Somer Valley, the decision was made to keep them open this Boxing Day."

"At a time when we all value more than ever the need to spend quality time with our loved ones, even a one-day break from giving individuals the opportunity to gather and potentially spread the virus is one that should not be missed."

"The work that Tesco does across North East Somerset and the many causes it supports is telling of an organisation that cares about the community it serves and we're asking you to extend that care to those that support you most, your workers. Hundreds of years ago, Boxing Day was a custom for tradesman to collect gifts and money for good service throughout the year and has since become an opportunity for employers to give back to their staff. To not take this opportunity after the extraordinary pressure and stress put on your employees would be a complete injustice."

"We think it's time for Tesco to remember what it stands for this Christmas period. After all, every little helps."