What could replace Winston Churchill on the new British bank note?

A significant change after more than 50 years

The change will happen on the next series of banknotes and the public has been invited to help choose the natural elements.

On the nation’s currency, this marks a departure from over five decades of prominent Britons such as Sir Winston Churchill, Alan Turing and Jane Austen.

The move to wildlife imagery offers a fresh opportunity to celebrate another vital aspect of the country, the central bank stated.

Its aim is also to strengthen security by making the new notes more resistant to counterfeiting and with more easily distinguishable security features.

The UK wildlife theme garnered the highest proportion of nominations, securing 60 per cent of votes, following a public consultation.

Architecture and landmarks closely followed with 56 per cent, ahead of notable historical figures (38 per cent), arts, culture and sport (30 per cent), innovation (23 per cent), and noteworthy milestones (19 per cent).

In total over 44,000 responses were received, encompassing online surveys, emails, and designs submitted by schools and the wider public.

Which animals could replace the figures on bank notes?

With this in mind, rumours have been spreading about which animals could take the place of some of these iconic British figures.

Possible animals that have been discussed include the likes of Red squirrels, Kingfishers, Otters and Badgers.

Meanwhile, some have floated the idea of animals from the different nations that make up Britain, such as puffins and highland cows in Scotland, red foxes and badgers in England and red kites and bottlenose dolphins in Wales.

This summer, a second consultation is set to take place, which will seek further public input on specific wildlife choices, which could include plants, landscapes, and animals.

The new banknotes, which are still several years from being issued, will continue to feature a portrait of the monarch.

A representation of all home nations: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will also get prioritised in the design process.