CLYDESDALE Bank launches the first fully polymer banknote to enter circulation in Great Britain this week with the new £5 note available from its branches from today.

The note, which is made of a more durable material than existing paper notes, is being launched to coincide with the 125th anniversary of the opening of the Forth Bridge. Two million notes – worth £10 million – will eventually enter circulation.

Pupils from the Bearsden Academy branch of Young Engineers and Science Clubs Scotland (YESC), pictured, were invited to put the polymer notes to the test.

The limited edition note also features a portrait of prominent Scottish engineer Sir William Arrol whose company was responsible for construction of the Forth Bridge and other famous landmarks including the Titan Crane in Clydebank.