Bristol launches own currency the 'Bristol Pound'

The Bristol Pound, which is available in £B1, £B5, £B10 and £B20 denominations, are accepted at participating local stores and can be exchanged for regular notes at an exchange rate of 1:1. 



"What we want is to get more people shopping here in the independent shops because we've got a lot to offer,” Guy Fawkes Hair and Beauty employee Lynn Andres tod The Independent. 



The not-for-profit scheme has been launched to encourage local residents to shop locally and support smaller, independent businesses rather than taking their custom to chain stores along the high street and at shopping malls. 



There are currently 3000 businesses participating in the scheme and those behind it are hoping this umber will rise to 1000. 



Similar schemes already operate around the country, with one running in Brixton, South London since 2009. 



Photo: Getty.