‘Ghost signs’ is the name given to old adverts that were once painted onto the side of buildings which are still evident today or inscriptions of old businesses.
Here’s a round up of some of Sunderland’s Ghost Signs that offer a window into the past, from old cigarette adverts to court buildings.
1. Carrick's, Villette Road
As part of the redevelopment of shops on Villette Road, this old Carrick's sign has been revealed. The bakery chain once had more than 100 branches across the North East. | Sunderland Echo
2. Empire Food Store, High Street West
The new DB/CB burger restaurant, formerly Mexico 70, uncovered this Empire Food Store old signage on High Street West when renovating the front. The team at Bishopwearmouth Townscape Heritage Scheme found out that records date back to 1951 for the food store. | sn
3. Capstan cigarettes, Newcastle Road
You won't see any adverts for cigarettes these days, but they were once part of everyday life. This one advertising Capstan Cigarettes is on a gable end in Newcastle Road. The Victorian brand dwindled in popularity when the health effects of tobacco became more widely known. | Sunderland Echo
4. Double Maxim, Cresswell Launderette
Classic Mackem pint Double Maxim looms large on the Cresswell Launderette in Thornhill. Once a classic brew at the old Vaux site, it's still brewed today by Maxim Brewery in Rainton Bridge who kept the drink alive when the original Vaux closed. | Sunderland Echo