This will help the local economy

GREAT to see good publicity for the Bristol Pound and thus publicity for many local businesses in The Post. Also good to see the local currency issue brought into the Mayoral election with George Ferguson saying he would be happy take his pay – if he wins – in Bristol Pounds. The Bristol Pound is a good idea. Given the chaos that has ensued from creating fewer currencies within the EU with the Euro adopted by many countries, doing the opposite and creating more currencies seems good sense to me.

The advantages of the Bristol Pound are that it enables people to support the local economy and local businesses to support each other. It helps to build the local economy by creating a protective area defined by the currency; local businesses that accept the Bristol Pound are distinguished from any big operations that do not; supportive linkages between local people and local businesses are strengthened; the ideas of buying locally first, taking personal responsibility for the health and wellbeing of the community are promoted; stress is laid on local economic vibrancy and thriving, a broader and greener emphasis than just growth.

The new Bristol Pound notes which were launched on Wednesday

Anyone who simply does not like the idea of supporting local businesses that take the local currency doesn't have to use the Bristol Pound. Personally I object to the money I spend in Bristol not circulating here and doing more work here, so I support the Bristol Pound.

Glenn Vowles