Overview

• The instruction, in place since late November last year, was not publicised and has drawn fresh attention as customers report refusals.
• Scottish £50 notes are also refused, while pubs in Scotland and some English sites with strong Scottish links remain exempt.
• A 72-year-old visitor from Troon said he was turned away after offering a £20 note at the Mile Castle in Newcastle and at the Keel Row in Whitley Bay.
• Wetherspoons has apologised for the impact on patrons and says it will keep the policy under review.
• A Campaign for Cash spokesperson criticised the approach, arguing businesses should rely on banknote security features rather than blanket refusals.