AN ALBION fan has started a petition to bring back a giant mural of captain Bruno.

The picture, on the side of an ice cream parlour in the centre of Brighton, was painted over earlier this week, sparking widespread dismay.

The picture, high up on the wall of Gelato Gusto on the corner of Gardner Street and Church Street, has been covered with an image promoting an up-and-coming musician.

Now Seagulls supporter Jordan Webb has started a campaign to bring the mural back.

It comes just as Bruno has announced his retirement.

The 38-year-old revealed his decision to his team-mates yesterday morning, which was followed later by an official announcement.

He also talked about the mural.

He said: “To be honest, when that mural came, I couldn’t even walk around there because I was so embarrassed.

“Of course, it’s just so special. I know that the mural is not there any more and a lot of people are trying to... it’s crazy, really.

“It means a lot. I am really thankful and I will always be thankful with this city.”

Jordan, 24, from Hove, is a long-term season ticket holder at the Albion and believes the timing of the mural disappearing is what has really hurt fans.

“It is Bruno’s last game on Saturday and to have it taken down the week of the game is a bit of a kick in the teeth.

“He’s a great symbol in the city, on and off the pitch.

“He’s always about in Hove and always has time for everyone.

“I think that’s the problem.”

Jordan said while the Spaniard, who joined the Albion from Valencia in 2012, would not “kick up a fuss” about the mural going, the symbol was a way for fans to show their appreciation for what he has done for the club.

He said: “He’s very humble so I’m sure he wouldn’t kick up a fuss but it’s the fans way to give back to him.

“He will always be remembered in the club and in the town.”

In his farewell message Bruno said that while he is retiring, he wants to stay local.

He said: “My missus and my kids love living here and we’re going to stay.”

Jordan’s mural petition has already gathered more than 800 signatures.

He hopes there can be a mural of Bruno somewhere in the city and insists it has to be in full view of everyone.

He said: “I think it would be nice to have something in the city itself, not just at the stadium, somewhere bold and that everybody can see.”

The Gelato Gusto mural has been replaced by a promotion for singer Ricardo Gold.

The cafe owner said he let the singer advertise free because he wanted to help an “up-and-coming artist.

To sign Jordan’s petition visit www.change.org and search “Brighton Bruno”.

For more on Bruno and his retirement see sport.