Being from the very far north of the UK mainland the changes in time were always welcome. We still went to school when it was cold and rainy but at least it wasn't dark (though it was on the return trip). In the summer being able to play outside until 10.30pm was awesome.

I wonder what the psychological differences would be if daylight saving was abandoned and whether there might be a real economic impact. I spent quite a bit of time up in the Pacific NW of the USA and a sunny day in February lifted everybodies spirits. I hesitate to say that the work that got done was better but certainly the mood at work was a lot more congenial.