Matchbox decals - removing fused cover paper?

[Rabbit Leader]

All, 

I was just wondering if anyone has mastered a technique to remove the clear 'tracing paper type' layer that is often associated with old Matchbox kits?

I have an original Matchbox Canberra PR.9 and wish to use a number of decals provided, unfortunately this clear paper is fused to the decals and I'm having no luck using them. The decals themselves seem to lift off the backing paper with hot/warm water, however the top layer won't seem to budge. If anyone has any tips that work, could you please add your comments below. 

 

Cheers and thanks.. Dave