‘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.
5. Swan Vestas, off Hylton Road
Another brand once popular with smokers, this advert for Swan Vestas matches can still be seen off Hylton Road. Underneath reads Bryant & May who set up the company who manufacture the matches. | Sunderland Echo
6. R W Chapman Stylish Millinery, Ryhope
Tucked away behind the Go Local store on the main road through Ryhope is this ghost sign gem for the long gone R W Chapman Millinery store. It's thought the hat maker traded in the early 1900s. | Sunderland Echo Photo: Sunderland Echo
7. Crowtree Leisure Centre, city centre
The much-missed Crowtree Leisure Centre may be long gone, but its old sign is still there as a reminder of the good times. It's above what was the old walk way past the swimming pool. | Sunderland Echo
8. Liverpool House, Sunniside
Liverpool House was one of Sunderland's great old shops. The property first appears in records as a townhouse on a plan of 1826, with the buildings later becoming a department store that ran for decades - with its Santa's Grotto a much-loved feature. | Sunderland Echo