Why We Need to Save Britain’s Neon Signs Before They Disappear > 자유게시판

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Neon signs have long been staples of British cities—those vibrant, eye-catching signs that illuminate the streets of Soho, the West End, and countless other areas. They’ve been a symbol of British nightlife for over 100 years, but they’re now at risk of vanishing. The problem isn’t that people don’t appreciate them, but that cheaper, mass-produced LED signs are flooding the market, often marketed as "neon" when they’re a far cry from the authentic neon. It’s a problem that’s affecting small businesses, traditional artisans, and even the future of this iconic craft.

The Origins of Neon in Britain

It’s hard to imagine London without its neon lights, but did you know they were first invented here in the UK in 1898? Scientists Sir William Ramsay and Morris Travers discovered how to make this gas light up, and from there, the world was introduced to the neon sign. From bustling London streets to the bright lights of New York’s Times Square, neon became a staple of cities worldwide. But now, we’re losing this part of our heritage. With only 27 skilled neon artisans left in the UK, the art is dying out fast.

Why the Real Deal Matters

So what’s the issue? Well, the problem comes with cheap LED alternatives that look like neon but are nothing like the real deal. Neon signs are made from glass tubes that are carefully bent by hand, filled with gases like neon or argon, and this art takes years of training to perfect. These signs are true masterpieces, but mass-produced LEDs are easy to make, inexpensive, and often marketed as "neon signs shop". It’s confusing for customers and hurting small businesses that still handcraft real neon signs.

Take a company like Neon Creations in Bolton, run by Tony and Catherine Spink. They’ve been making real neon signs since 2005, but their business has seen a sharp drop in demand as customers are tricked into buying LED "neon" signs from big box stores. When these customers discover the difference, they often contact small businesses for repairs on products that are fake to begin with.

Why Neon is Still Important

Neon signs aren’t just about making a quick sale; they’re part of our cultural landscape. Think of the signs outside classic theatres, music venues, and restaurants. They’re part of our culture, and despite the growth of the creative industries in the UK, with over £124 billion pumped into the economy from creative industries, neon is a small but vital part of that creative scene.

The Call for Protection

So, what needs to be done? The solution is simple: we need clearer recognition for authentic neon signs. What we’re asking for is a formal certification mark, or a British standard, that clearly identifies neon signs as authentic. This way, customers can tell the difference and know they’re getting what they paid for.

It’s not about stopping innovation; it’s about setting the record straight. We also need to support the artisans who are keeping this craft alive, like Tony and Catherine at Neon Creations, who are trying to pass on their skills but struggling because the demand just isn’t there.

The Future of Neon

The reality is that the clock is ticking. If we don’t act now, we could see this British tradition disappear. Neon is more than just some decorative lights—it’s part of what makes our cities shine bright. We’ve got to protect it for future generations—so they can look up at the cityscape and still see the glow of neon.

If we don’t act now, we could lose it for good. Let’s protect neon signage for what it represents—a symbol of Britain’s creative legacy.