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Ghost sign unveiled and then painted over
A tantalising glimpse of Bristol from several generations ago was recently unveiled.
The handpainted sign for Hewett’s Stores is usually hidden behind a billboard but was on show once again until it was promptly painted over, never to be seen again.
“Well, this is tragic,” wrote Marc Leverton who managed to take a photograph of the ghost sign on the side of Cave on Gloucester Road.
is needed now More than ever
– photo: Marc Leverton
A look at Google Street View confirms that the billboard has been on the side of the building – that has also been a newsagent and cafe – since at least 2008 and likely much longer.
Underneath the wording for Hewett’s Stores, the ghost sign says ‘for provisions’.
Writing on the Bristol & District Old Images & History Facebook group, Patrick Healey said: “This was a general grocery store.
“My family used to provide them with a shopping list, Hewetts would then fulfill the order, box it up, and I would collect it in the 1950s.”
Lin Bigwood added: “My mum shopped at Hewett’s every week throughout my childhood. I used to love to go with her as the staff were so friendly. I especially remember Mrs Manley who was always smiling. I can picture it all so clearly, a proper old fashioned grocery store.”
Main photo: Marc Leverton
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