UK Banknotes Are Getting a Nature Makeover
Bumblebees, puffins, barn owls and hedgehogs will feature on the Bank of England’s next series of banknotes, replacing Winston Churchill and other British historic figures.
Churchill currently appears on the reverse of the £5 note; writer Jane Austen on the £10, JMW Turner, the 19th century painter, on the £20; and Alan Turing, the WWII codebreaker, on the £50 - and they are all about to be replaced with four images from the animal kingdom. "We have chosen four distinct and inspiring animals that not only showcase the great variety of wildlife we have in the UK but will also enhance the security of our banknotes," said Victoria Cleland, the Bank's chief cashier.
A panel of wildlife experts drew up a shortlist of 18 mammals, birds, amphibians insects and fish which were put forward to public nominations. Respondents were invited to select up to six. More than 2.5 million votes were cast by 478,531 people, ranging from wildlife enthusiasts to primary school classes. The buff-tailed bumblebee was the most popular creature, receiving 360,399 nominations from the public. After the survey, the Bank selected bumblebees, puffins, barn owls and hedgehogs to appear as the main images on the notes, alongside a portrait of the King.
It has yet to be decided which of the winning animals will feature on each of the new £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes. The Bank says that new notes with fresh designs are required to include updated security features and keep ahead of fraudsters.
The final designs for the new notes have not yet been revealed.
