OLD adverts painted on to the side of a Clacton shop could be left on show.

The adverts for Ambrosia, Black Cat Cigarettes and breakfasts, teas and coffees were uncovered after advertising hoardings were taken down in Meredith Road.

They were painted on to the side of what is now Sheen’s estate agents – formerly the Tudor Cafe and sweetshop.

It is thought the adverts date back to 1946.

Clacton historian Norman Jacobs called for the “ghost signs” to be saved, and there was also support on social media from Clacton blogger Danny Sloggett.

Gabriella Navarro, spokeswoman for advertising firm JCDecaux said the billboard had been permanently removed, but declined to comment any further on whether the signs would be preserved.

She said: “We can confirm that the panel will not be reerected.”

Mr Jacobs said it was fantastic news for the town.

“I understand that the owners wants to leave the adverts there because they find them interesting themselves.

“I haven’t spoken to them directly, but it would be very nice to keep them on show.

“It has stirred up a lot of interest from people in the town and they would like to see it kept.

“It has been there for a long time and won’t fade away overnight, but it will require some maintenance, otherwise it will start towear off.”

Jean Creasey, 84, of Chilburn Road, was the shop’s first assistant in 1946, aged just 15. She said: “I think it’s great news that the old adverts will stay there.

“I don’t really remember them being there at the time, even though I used to walk past it every day.

“But I’m please they will be left on show – they’re a little piece of Clacton’s history.”