Clydesdale Bank is to introduce new £50 and £100 banknotes commemorating the 550th anniversary of the founding of the University of Glasgow.

The new notes, which are dated 6th January 2001 - the date of the University's anniversary - bear the University's celebratory logo and are the first notes to be signed by Stuart Grimshaw, Clydesdale Bank's Chief Executive. The new banknotes will be a limited edition and will bear the special serial number prefix GU denoting the link to Glasgow and the University.

Mr Grimshaw said: "With our headquarters here in the city, we wanted to acknowledge and support the University in a special way. We are delighted to create a commemorative note which is not only striking but which will remind the people of Scotland of the distinguished history of the University and its unique contribution to Scottish life."

Professor Sir Graeme Davies, Principal of the University, said: "We are delighted that Clydesdale Bank is commemorating the University's 550th anniversary with these very attractive bank notes. This imaginative gesture links two institutions which not only share roots in the city of Glasgow but enjoy national and international reputations for excellence in the two very Scottish traditions of banking and higher education."

A framed set of the new banknotes was presented to the University during the Alumni Ball on Saturday January 6 by Jack Queen of Clydesdale Bank.

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For further information, contact Clydesdale Bank Corporate Relations on 0141 223 2555.?

First published: 9 January 2001