Melksham

MELKSHAM (borough council)

Incorporated into : 1974 West Wiltshire (2009 Wiltshire)

Official blazon

Arms: Per pale Azure and Vert a Fesse dancette Argent in chief an Ancient Crown Or.
Crest: On a Wreath of the Colours in front of a Cogwheel proper a Stag's Head affrontée Gules attired Argent.
Motto: 'UNITY AND PROGRESS'

Origin/meaning

The arms were officially granted on December 6, 1948.

The blue and green of the background represents the River Avon and the surrounding countryside, and the fess dancetty suggests both the bridge and the downs, while also forming the initial letter of the town's name. The crown refers to the fact that Melksham was part of the royal domain and a hunting-ground of the Norman and Plantagenet kings.

The stag's head alludes to the old forest lands and the cog-wheel represents modern industries.

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