THIS week we celebrated World Book Day.

Last week it was Record Shop Day. Next week it's International Dance Day. Are we in danger of having too many Days?

You can see the educational merit in schools vaunting the likes of National Eco Day, with kids learning not to follow in the carbon footprints of their 4x4 gas-guzzling parents.

You can see the merit in promoting National Motor Neurone Week. But almost every disease has its Day. And while Breast Cancer Awareness Day is commendable, should we really support National Cleavage Day?

Clearly the heavy hand of commerciality backs many of the Days. I'm sure Christmas Day was invented by Coca-Cola, Valentine's Day by Milk Tray and Mother's Day by Interflora, to prise a guilty wedge of cash from neglectful offspring.

And even traditional Days are passe. Aren't the likes of St Andrew's and St George's Day redundant medieval iconography? (Although St Paddy's suggests more fun.)

On discovering there's a National Dress Up Like A Pirate Day eyes lit up; it sounded good fun for the kids. But it's adults who participate, drink flagons of ale and try to sound like Robert Newton. Is professional help needed? Perhaps a national Get A Life Day?

April also hosts National Stress Day, National Jazz Day and yes, National STDs Day. All three should be avoided for the good of our health.

Let's celebrate the ordinary day, which we're in danger of losing. Hoorah for Friday. Let's not anticipate Days unless they arrive with a holiday. (Although I quite like the idea of National Kissing Day on June 20. But only if it's made compulsory.) National Day of Prayer is set for May 2. Let's all pray for the end of the pointless Days.