Christian fundamentalists fuming over Tesco opening on Sabbath Day in ‘Britain’s Bible belt’

Christian campaigners on a Scottish Island were deeply upset at their local Tesco deciding to open on Sundays.

The shop in Stornoway, known as part of “Britain’s Bible Belt,” claimed their decision would create at least 30 new jobs, and allow more flexibility for shoppers.

However, the chain also faced backlash from the local community, with some residents opting to shop at the Co-op instead.

Members of the religious community took to the outside of the shop on the first open Sunday in a silent protest, holding signs reminding customers to “Remember the Sabbath.”

But despite the protest, the branch saw a full car park within 10 minutes of opening.

Happy shoppers said the decision was “well overdue,” and that it was time for the Church’s influence over people’s lives to stop.

Retired plumber William Macdonald said: “It’s long overdue.”

“I am more than pleased, especially for the tourists. It’s good for the islands and its progress. Times have changed.”

Bus driver John Macleod echoed these remarks and said: “This is my first shop of the week so I’m glad it’s open.”

“It is well overdue. The Church should keep its nose out of people’s business. I hope it’s here to stay.”

Another woman, who did not want her name shared, said: “We are in the 21st century and some people here are culturally suppressed. Religion is being used to control people’s lives but times have changed.”

It has been a strong tradition on the Isle of Lewis to observe the Sabbath, and more than 2,000 people signed a petition to oppose the Sunday opening.

Former councillor Charlie Nicolson claimed dozens of people had stopped shopping at the store and that the boycott would only grow.

The spokesman of the Free Church of Scotland, Mark Macdonald, said Tesco’s decision would probably lead to other businesses following suit.

He said: “I think it is a very sad day. It is something we are never going to get back. It’s gone now. We are losing something so precious as an island. This is like any other weekday now. Other shops may follow.”

A spokesman for Tesco said: “We are confident that the decision to open our Stornoway Superstore on Sundays will allow us to balance the demand for a seven-day opening while remaining respectful to local traditions and culture.”

“This change will improve the shopping experience for local customers by offering them flexibility and reducing busy periods during the week.”