Spalding UDC

Heraldry of the World Civic heraldry of the United Kingdom

SPALDING (urban district council)

Incorporated into : South Holland

Official blazon

Arms : Azure an Estoile between three Garbs two and one Or on a Chief of the last an open Book proper bound Gules edged of the second between two Tulips of the third stalked and leaved Vert.
Crest : On a Wreath of the Colours a Lymphad Or with Pennons of St. George flying to the dexter the Sail Azure charged with a Lily stalked and leaved proper.
Motto : 'VICINAS URBES ALIT' - She nourishes the neighbouring cities

Origin/meaning

The arms were officially granted on June 28, 1950.

The blue background and gold wheatsheaves derive from the arms of the Earldom of Chester and Lincoln. In 1230 the Earl of Lincoln gave Spalding Priory licence to use and bear his arms, this implied that the Earl was patron of the Priory. The golden star has been added for difference. It can be seen as a starfish, refering to the former fishing industry, against a blue background, representing the cornfields and wide sky-scapes of the Fenland district. The book represents the Spalding Gentlemans' Society, founded in 1710, and the second oldest learned society in the country. The tulips represent the local flower growing industry.

The patron saints of Spalding - St.Mary and St. Nicholas - are symbolised by the lily and galley respectively. The galley also recalls the former Port of Spalding.

The motto was adopted many years ago, probably in reference to the agricultural produce of the district.

Literature : Image and information from Scott-Giles, 1953 and here.