A historic mosaic, which was uncovered during a shop re-fit, will be restored to former glory Co-op has confirmed.

Hundreds of people recently signed a petition to keep signage discovered at Wimbledon Chase Co-op following a branch refit.

On May 31, Dundonald ward councillor Anthony Fairclough asked the company whether the 'beautiful' sign could be retained.

Following his request, Merton Lib Dems launched a campaign highlighting the 'Royal Arsenal Co-op' signage - which they said would enhance the local parade of shops.

Wimbledon Times: Signage Signage

The Royal Arsenal Co-operative Society (RACS) was a consumer co-operative based in South East London taking its name from the royal munitions works (Royal Arsenal) in Woolwich, said website Royal Arsenal History.

According to Royal Arsenal History, 20 workers established the Royal Arsenal Supply Association in 1868 and the society renamed itself Royal Arsenal Co-operative Society in 1872.

It is believed that the society's activities expanded from food retail into a range of commercial, social and political activities.

Operations are thought to have begun from a room of a house in Plumstead, and the society had outlets across most of South London.

On June 8, Lib Dem Councillor Anthony Fairclough received a letter of confirmation from Co-op.

The letter stated that the sign will be restored and that the company plans to start work 'as soon as possible'.

Speaking to Wimbledon Times, Mr Fairclough said: “I am really grateful to the Co-op for agreeing to restore the old mosaic signage that was uncovered as they started a re-fit.

"Thank you also to the 540 plus residents who signed our petition to them on this, in less than a week!

"Together we've helped saved a piece of local heritage and created an opportunity to enhance a local shopping parade.”

The petition can be found here.