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Bank of England to Release 4 New Banknotes After 'Highest Ever' UK Public Response
The redesign follows a public vote that drew more than 2.5 million ballots and will keep the monarch on the other side.
The Bank of England announced that a puffin, owl, bee, and hedgehog will feature as central imagery on a new series of banknotes, replacing historical figures to enhance security and celebrate British wildlife.
Nearly 500,000 respondents participated in a month-long public consultation, selecting from 18 animals shortlisted by wildlife experts to modernize the banknotes' security features.
The Bombus received 360,399 nominations, nearly 90,000 more than the barn owl, while the Atlantic Fratercula was selected to represent marine life alongside the European Erinaceus and Tyto.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called the removal of Sir Winston Churchill "a silly thing to do," while Reform leader Nigel Farage and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey also voiced opposition.
Incoming chief cashier Rhys Phillips announced the Bank will design, test, and produce the new notes over several years, with the monarch continuing to feature on the reverse side.