Local currency to end after 17 years

Lewes Pounds feature an image of the political writer and philosopher Thomas Paine, who lived in the town

One of the UK's best-known local currencies has announced it will be ending.

The Lewes Pound was launched in 2008 by Transition Town Lewes to celebrate the East Sussex town and support its independent businesses.

It is essentially a voucher that people can purchase at selected shops in the town, with one Lewes Pound being worth the same as one British pound.

Susan Murray, a director of the Lewes Pound, said the current issue of the currency would be the final one.

"While this chapter is closing, the values the Lewes Pound represents - supporting local businesses, sustainability and community collaboration - will continue to thrive in Lewes," she said.

Ashley Price, president of Lewes Chamber of Commerce, said he was "sad" to see the currency go.

"When Lewes Pound was launched it was an innovative idea because it encouraged people to support Lewes' economy when they were visiting the town, rather than go to Brighton and Eastbourne," he said.

"However, fewer people are using the Lewes Pound in later years because there has been less footfall to the town."

He added that online shopping and rent rises had impacted local businesses.

Lewes Pounds come in denominations of one, five, 10 and 21 and are accepted by more than 100 local businesses.

The currency has been involved in charitable projects including the Donate-a-Drink scheme, where customers who buy a drink or meal from the Depot Cinema and Restaurant can add an extra £3 to their bill.

It is then given out, in envelopes of Lewes Pounds, to users of local food banks.

Ms Murray said they had raised and distributed a total of £12,700 in the past eight years.

"The current issue remains valid and can still be used in the many shops and business in the town until 31 August," she added.