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I've just returned from a short holiday in Scotland to see my family and I have brought back with me a pocket full of Scottish currency. If you've ever tried to spend Scottish money in England you will probably be in a good position to understand my gripe.
The problem is the funny looks you get from the cashier at the supermarket, or from the guy behind the bar when you hand over your Scottish notes. More often than not, they hold it up to the light to check the watermark or scan it with a UV light, probably because they assume that its a counterfeit and you are trying to rip them off. The way they treat you almost makes you feel like a criminal. Why is it so difficult to accept that a Scottish bank note is actually still 'good money' in England?
It's actually really embarrassing, especially if you are standing in a long queue at the supermarket and it happens to be really busy that day. I know its quite irrational, but sometimes I actually dig into the wallet to see if I can find some English money to use instead so that I dont have to put up with all the hassle. Scottish money is every bit as good as the English equivalent and although no one has actually refused to take it, theres always that doubt in your mind. The thought that your cash might be refused just makes it a bit of an awkward situation
Staff that handle money probably ought to be better trained. Although they dont see a Scottish bank note on most days, they should be able to easily recognize them for what they are valid UK currency!
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