Clydesdale issues UK’s first plastic banknote

CLYDESDALE Bank will today launch the UK’s first plastic banknote, which carries the portrait of one of the country’s greatest engineers.

sir william arrol, first plastic banknote, clydesdale bank, PH

Sir William Aarol was responsible for the construction of the Forth Bridge

The new £5 notes – made from polymer – feature Sir William Arrol, whose company was responsible for the construction of the Forth Bridge.

Their release has been timed to coincide with the 125th anniversary of the opening of the bridge.

Pupils from Bearsden Academy, near Glasgow, who are members of the Young Engineers and Science Club, were joined for the launch by former BBC Scotland weather presenter Heather Reid.

The pupils put the new notes through a number of rigorous tests before they were entered into circulation.

sir william arrol, first plastic banknote, clydesdale bank, PH

The plastic banknotes will last longer and have greater security

Clydesdale’s acting chief executive Debbie Crosbie said: “Our new polymer notes are more durable and secure, which will deliver a positive impact for the public and businesses.

“We have achieved that while also creating a striking and beautiful design which celebrates an iconic Scottish landmark.”

In another first for the UK, it will include security feature Spark Orbital, which appears as shiny ink in the shape of Scotland which changes colour as the note is tilted.

Two million notes will eventually be released into circulation, with the first being available at branches of the bank in Scotland from today.

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