Wetherspoon has shaken things up, leaving some customers less than pleased. The popular pub chain, with around 800 locations across the UK, is no longer accepting Scottish £20 and £50 notes. According to spokesperson Eddie Gershon, the move stems from concerns over ties to organised crime and a rise in fake notes.
While some pubs near the Scottish border might still accept these notes, the majority will not. Gershon explained that staff have been advised on identifying these notes but urged not to accept them if unsure. The decision, first rolled out late last year with the £20 notes, extended to £50 notes more recently.
This change isn’t sitting well with everyone. Take Craig Neil, for instance. The 72-year-old, visiting the Mile Castle in Newcastle from Troon, Ayrshire, offered a Scottish £20 after sipping his pint, only to be told it wasn’t valid. “I’ve been going to Newcastle for 70 years and never in my life have I had my money rejected,” Craig shared.
Martin Quinn from the Campaign for Cash highlighted the discomfort of having Scottish or Northern Irish notes rendered nearly worthless outside their home regions. He also pointed out the various security features these notes possess, arguing that chains like Wetherspoon should have ways to verify them rather than refusing them outright.
What do you think about Wetherspoon’s new policy? Do you support the move for security reasons, or do you sympathise with customers like Craig? Share your thoughts below!