Tesco urged to rethink Sunday opening on Isle of Lewis

Tesco has been accused of dividing an island community after deciding to open the local supermarket on Sundays.

The Isle of Lewis has a long tradition of observing the Sabbath and more than 1,800 people have signed an online petition against the supermarket’s move.

Stornoway Community Council said debate over the decision had caused division and has asked Tesco to reconsider.

Tesco has been approached for comment, but previously said it had received a “significant amount” of positive reaction to the plans.

The store in Stornoway is due to open on Sundays from 17 November.

The community council said some islanders felt “extremely strongly” about Sunday openings.

It added that not all opponents to the move were churchgoers.

In an open letter to Tesco, it said: “Regrettably the language on both sides of the debate has occasionally been somewhat intemperate.

“Doubtless it was unintentional, but Tesco’s decision has clearly divided our community.”

It added: “It is still not too late to change your mind and restore harmony to our community.”

Tesco has previously said the new opening times would create jobs and no members of staff would be forced to work on a Sunday.

Christian Davies, Tesco store director in the Highlands and Islands, told BBC Scotland News last month: “We are confident that the decision to open our Stornoway superstore on Sundays will allow us to balance the demand for seven-day opening while remaining respectful to local traditions and culture.

“Of course, we understand that not everyone supports opening the store seven days a week and we will adopt a unique approach to Stornoway with shorter opening times on a Sunday than other locations in Scotland.”