Details of the design for the next five pound note have been revealed by the Bank of England Governor, Sir Mervyn King.

He announced today that Sir Winston Churchill will appear on the next Bank of England banknote. The Governor made the announcement, and revealed the image of Churchill that will be used, to members of the Churchill family at Chartwell, Churchill’s former home.

Commenting on the choice, the Governor said: “Our banknotes acknowledge the life and work of great Britons. Sir Winston Churchill was a truly great British leader, orator and writer.

“Above that, he remains a hero of the entire free world. His energy, courage, eloquence, wit and public service are an inspiration to us all. I am proud to announce that he will appear on our next banknote.”

The plan is for the Churchill note to be issued as a £5 note during 2016, but the Bank of England says

this may be reviewed as plans for issuing the new note are finalised.

Features of the design on the reverse of the note will include:

A portrait of Winston Churchill from a photograph taken in Ottawa by Yousuf Karsh on 30 December 1941.

A view of Westminster and the Elizabeth Tower from the South Bank looking across Westminster

Bridge.

The image of the Elizabeth Tower with the hands of the Great Clock at 3 o’clock – the approximate

time on 13 May 1940 when Sir Winston Churchill declared in a speech to the House of Commons: “I

have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat.” This declaration is quoted beneath the portrait.

A background image of the Nobel Prize medal which he was awarded in 1953 for literature, together with the wording of the prize citation.

Further details on the full design will be revealed when the new note is launched, together with a full

promotion and awareness campaign.

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