One of the UK's best-known local currencies, the Lewes Pound, has announced it will be ending after nearly 17 years in circulation.
The currency was launched in 2008 by Transition Town Lewes to celebrate the East Sussex town and support its independent businesses.
The Lewes Pound is essentially a voucher that people can purchase at selected shops in the town.
One Lewes Pound is worth the same as one British pound.
The currency comes in denominations of one, five, 10 and 21 and is accepted by more than 100 local businesses.
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.
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He said: "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.
"However, fewer people are using the Lewes Pound in later years because there has been less footfall to the town."
The currency has been involved in charitable projects including the Donate-a-Drink scheme at the Depot Cinema and Restaurant.
Customers can add an extra £3 to their bill when buying a drink or meal.
This money is then distributed, in envelopes of Lewes Pounds, to users of local food banks.
Murray said they had raised and distributed a total of £12,700 in the past eight years through charitable initiatives.
She added that the current issue of the Lewes Pound remains valid and can still be used in shops and businesses throughout the town until August 31.
Price noted that online shopping and rent rises had also impacted local businesses.
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The currency was launched in 2008 by Transition Town Lewes to celebrate the East Sussex town and support its independent businesses.
The Lewes Pound is essentially a voucher that people can purchase at selected shops in the town.
One Lewes Pound is worth the same as one British pound.
The currency comes in denominations of one, five, 10 and 21 and is accepted by more than 100 local businesses.
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.
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He said: "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.
"However, fewer people are using the Lewes Pound in later years because there has been less footfall to the town."
The currency has been involved in charitable projects including the Donate-a-Drink scheme at the Depot Cinema and Restaurant.
Customers can add an extra £3 to their bill when buying a drink or meal.
This money is then distributed, in envelopes of Lewes Pounds, to users of local food banks.
Murray said they had raised and distributed a total of £12,700 in the past eight years through charitable initiatives.
She added that the current issue of the Lewes Pound remains valid and can still be used in shops and businesses throughout the town until August 31.
Price noted that online shopping and rent rises had also impacted local businesses.
Find Out More...