Derry features on new £20 bank note

Ulster Bank’s new £20 bank note which came into circulation this week incorporate Derry’s much-loved Hallowe’en celebrations in their security features.

When placed under an ultraviolet (UV) light to check its authenticity skeletons and Leisler’s bat, the largest type of bat found in Ireland, can be seen.

The new note also features street entertainers and their appreciative audience, reflecting local music and culture, as well as tiles, brickwork and patterns inspired by the north’s ubiquitous red-brick tenement buildings.

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Other elements of the note are drawn from the ornate decoration found on and in famous public buildings, corporate architecture and domestic homes in Derry, Belfast and other places in the north.

Terry Robb, Ulster Bank’s Head of Personal Banking in NI, says that it is very important members of the public recognise and have confidence in the new notes. He says the new notes also have a number of benefits over the ones they are replacing.

“The new polymer notes last two-and-a-half-times longer than traditional cotton notes, making them more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Their advanced security features also make it easier for customers to protect themselves from being a victim of fraud. And encouragingly, our research shows that the public do see polymer as more secure than the older notes.

“Whilst digital change is happening quickly, and more and more people are moving to digital forms of banking and transactions, the research shows people value bank notes and see a future for them, so we are proud to continue producing bespoke local banknotes,” he said.