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Neon’s Proper British Roots
exterior neon signs wasn’t born in somewhere else, it was discovered right here in 1898 by a couple of clever lads. They found out that if you shoved electricity through this gas, you could get it to glow proper bright. Since then, neon signs have been the staple of our city’s glow, from the big signs in Soho to across the pond.
But here’s the thing: the proper neon craft is now on the ropes. There’s only 27 proper glass benders left in the whole of the UK. These craftspeople are the ones who bend the glass by hand, fill it with the good stuff, and make signs that’ll last a lifetime. The knockoffs? They’re just plastic rubbish that aren’t worth a tuppence.
The Real Difference: Neon vs. LED
Now, don’t get me wrong, LED signs are alright if you’re after something quick and cheap. But, if you’re after something that’s got history, there’s no comparison. Real neon is made from proper hand-bent glass, and it’s filled with the right gas. This ain’t something you can just whack out in a factory—this is a skill that’s been passed down through the years. These signs take years to learn, and they’re made to shine forever.
But the thing is, people are getting confused. Shops are flogging plastic neon signs and calling them “neon.” That’s a load of nonsense. It’s making it hard for proper craftspeople like Neon Creations in Bolton to keep the lights on. Their business is dropping off ’cause punters are buying the wrong stuff.
Why Neon Matters to Us
Neon’s not just about selling a bit of light; it’s about our identity. It’s part of our cultural heritage. From old cinemas to the shops we pass by, neon is what makes our streets shine.
The proper neon lights have a real value in the UK’s creative industries. We’re talking about a £124 billion a year industry, and neon is a niche but important part of that. If we let the cheap rubbish take over, we’ll lose a bit of London’s identity.
What We Need to Do
So, what’s the answer? Well, it’s simple. We need to set the record straight. We need to make sure people know the proper neon signs from the plastic LEDs. We’re pushing for a certification so only genuine neon signs get called neon. Think of it like Harris Tweed. It’s not about banning anything; it’s about making sure people get what they’re paying for.
We also need to make sure the artists get the credit. These blokes are the ones who’ve been keeping this tradition going, and they need our support.
The Future of Neon in London
Neon isn’t just some fancy light; it’s part of what makes our cities shine bright. We’ve got to protect it for future generations—so when they walk down the streets, they’ll still see the real thing. This isn’t just about keeping the glow alive; it’s about keeping London’s character alive.
If we don’t act now, we might just let the lights go out for good. We need to stand up and protect neon signage—for the artists, for the history, and for the soul of London.
