The call was made by the TUC, the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, Community Service Volunteers, Volunteering England, and the National Association for Voluntary and Community Action, in a letter to Gordon Brown and other politicians, on the anniversary of the House of Commons approving the Bill granting Britain's first ever bank holiday on May 25, 1871.

They claim the new bank holiday could be used to encourage people to volunteer and get involved with community groups and activities.

Dame Elisabeth Hoodless, Executive Director of CSV, the UK's largest volunteering and training charity, said:

"Research shows that 11 million people would volunteer if asked. A community day is an excellent way to involve them. What better way to bring people together to make a difference and strengthen our communities?"

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

"This is an idea whose time has come. It will encourage more community involvement, celebrate our shared values as a nation, and help meet the holiday gap between Britain and the rest of Europe, but in a constructive way. It's a great opportunity for a new Prime Minister to make a mark in history."