The move to British Summer Time (BST) means the days are getting longer and sunshine is on the horizon but switching clocks also means a whole hour less in bed. Thankfully, this year, it falls on a Sunday removing the possibility of missing your morning meeting or regular train. But when do the clocks go forward and why? Here’s everything you need to know…
When do the clocks go forward?
The UK clocks go forward to British Summer Time at 1am on Sunday, March 26. This means all clocks are put forward an hour at that time.
Why do we change the clocks?
First introduced during World War One by Germany and Austria to save on coal usage, the moving of the clocks is said to have been invented by George Vincent Hudson, a New Zealand entomologist in 1895. However, British businessman William Willet is also credited with the idea as a way of getting up earlier and so having more daylight hours after work.
While the UK has adopted daylight saving time since it was first introduced, it came into widespread use across the world during the 1970's when the energy crisis commenced.
Dealing with time change
The good news is that for many of us, our internet-connected devices such as Iphones, Ipads, smartphones and tablets will update automatically. The bad news however, is that it can disrupt your sleep patterns, leaving you feeling un-rested for the week ahead. To avoid this, you might want to go to bed an hour earlier on Sunday, March 26 to counteract the time change.
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Does changing the time still have any benefits?
Arguments still ensue over the economic and health benefits changing the clocks bring. Those in favour say it reduces energy, reduces traffic accidents and crime, and is good for business too. Those against the change say it’s not clear if any energy savings are made, while there are also potential health risks.
