Londoners are being asked to keep an eye out for ghostly signs this Halloween as Historic England starts an online map of faded advertising signs across the capital.
Ghost signs are historic hand-painted advertising or old shop signs preserved from before billboards became popular, in the late 20th century.
The new online map will encourage people to “look beyond” shopfronts on high streets and learn more about the cultural significance of ghost signs.
Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said: “Once you start looking up on high streets and hunting for ghost signs, you’ll find that they’re hidden in plain sight, tucked away down alleyways or hiding among rooftops.”
“These mysterious pieces of secret history are a special reminder of the people who came before us, and the urban spaces and high streets they made their own.”
“We want to hear what people know and love about their local ghost signs, and to create a map that we can all use to explore this evocative part of our urban heritage.”
Helen Cox, author of Fading London: The City’s Vanishing Ghost Signs, said the map was important for "preserving our cultural and commercial heritage."
She said: "These time-worn advertisements provide a window into how Londoners once lived their everyday lives against the backdrop of an ever-changing city. This creation by Historic England, however, is particularly exciting because a lot of families celebrate Halloween which means that parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to explore the businesses and products of vintage London with their children."
Sam Roberts, author of Ghost Signs: A London Story described ghost signs as “history written onto contemporary cityscapes.”
He said: “They reveal fascinating stories of everyday life and each sign has its own tale to tell — not just of the business it represents and the people behind it, but of its own improbable survival.”
Roberts, who is also a guide for the online Ghost signs Walking Tours, said : “As placemakers and public displays of local, commercial, and craft history, ghost signs are valued by communities and historians alike. While explicit protection within existing frameworks is difficult, I support all efforts to raise awareness of their presence and significance.”
“And, over time, I believe that landlords, who wield the most power over their survival, will come to see them as adding value to their properties; akin to having a Banksy piece on the wall."
Londoners can upload their photos onto the Historic England website. Any contributions will be reviewed within three days and shown on the map.
