ISLANDERS have staged a protest outside of the Tesco in Lewis after it opened on a Sunday for the first time.

Those against the opening have argued the simple day of rest is “at risk” due to the concept of seven-day trading “creeping” into the island's culture.

A group gathered outside of the main entrance holding signs which read "call the Sabbath a delight" and "remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy". 

Last month Tesco bosses made the controversial announcement that their Stornoway store would open on a Sunday for the first time since it opened its doors in 2008.

However, the supermarket giant was drew criticism for allegedly disrupting the Isle of Lewis’s traditional culture, as well as not attending a meeting with the local community.

The opening went ahead despite more than 1000 people signing an online petition against the change.

A queue could also be seen outside the door.

 

A Tesco spokesperson previously said: “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.   

“Over recent weeks we have received a significant amount of positive feedback to our new opening proposals, particularly from colleagues.  

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