A LARGS antiques dealer has discovered an historic map of the town dating back to 1910.

Franco Narducci, owner of Narducci Antiques in Waterside Street, says the find offers a rare glimpse into the history of the area during the Edwardian era.

The map depicts a number of forgotten landmarks, including the former Marine and Curling Hall Hotel in Largs when they were divided, an abattoir and Brisbane House, the former residence of the governor of New South Wales, Sir Thomas Brisbane.

Old street names such as Pyper's Row, which went on to become Aitken Street, and the Stevenston Institute building, which used to host a snooker hall and library in the town, also feature.

Franco, who has starred on BBC1's Antique Roadtrip, said: "I like to think that I have helped put Largs on the map as the Antiques Roadtrip has featured the town so often in recent years and it shown not just in the UK but around the globe.

"Now I am hoping this historic map of the town can go to a good home locally.

"It is a remarkable find. It shows the town long before Nardini's and everything from Moorburn Road upwards is barren as this was made before all the big housing estates were built.

"It was produced in 1910 so it is a real snapshot of a bygone era from over 100 years ago.

"It would better if it was on display somewhere locally rather than being bought up abroad. It could perhaps be a feature in a cafe or restaurant."

The map is six feet in size, leading the antiques expert to believe it could have had a special purpose.

He explained: "I wondered what a map that size could have been used for and concluded it could have been used by the local town council or the police as they normally required a detailed map for finding specific locations.

"The population back then would only have been a few thousand people and it is remarkable to see how things have changed in a relatively short space of time."

The year 1910 was a historic one for the town in many respects as the former Gogo Burn was wrecked in a winter storm and had to be re-built while another famous Largs landmark - The Pencil - was being constructed.

To enquire about the map, contact Franco on 01475 672612.