Bank of England selects four UK animals for next banknote series after public vote

The Bank of England has announced that the Atlantic puffin, barn owl, buff-tailed bumblebee, and European hedgehog will feature on the next series of UK banknotes. The decision followed a public consultation that attracted nearly 500,000 responses, the largest ever for a banknote imagery consultation. The animals were chosen from a shortlist of 18 options across three categories. The Bank stated that the designs are in early stages and will be unveiled closer to launch, which is expected in the coming years. The new notes will replace current ones featuring historical figures and will include enhanced security features.