*ARMS: Paly wavy of six Argent and Vert on a Chief dancetty of three points downward per pale Azure and Sable three Fleurs de Lys Or.
*CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours upon a rocky Mount proper a Dragon passant Gules breathing flames collared with a Ring of Steel and supporting with the dexter foreleg a Pair of Millrolls proper.
*SUPPORTERS: On either side a Dragon Gules breathing Flames collared with a Ring of Steel and supporting with the dexter foreleg a Pick Axe head downward proper.
*?BADGE: A Roundel paly wavy of six Argent and Vert charged with six Fleurs de Lys Or.

Motto 'UNBED A RHYDDID' - Unity and freedom.
Granted 13th November 1975, to Borough of Blaenau Gwent.

The former Borough of Blaenau Gwent was formed by the amalgamation of the Abertillery Urban District, the Brynmawr Urban District, the Ebbw Vale Urban District, the Nantyglo and Blaina Urban District, the Tredegar Urban District and part of the Crickhowell Rural District.

Picture used with permission, do not reproduce.

The shield is a kind of heraldic map illustrating the County Borough's name (Where the valleys meet the mountains of Gwent). The six white and green waves represent the three main valleys and rivers of Sirhowy, Ebbw and Clydach where all the five former constituent areas lie. The three indentations at the top of the shield allude to the mountains above which are the three gold fleurs-de-lys on blue and black from the ancient arms of the Kingdom of Gwent and the modern arms of the Gwent (formerly Monmouthshire) County Council.
The white and green of the wreath are the colours of the Tudors and of Wales. The red dragon is like those in the crests of Ebbw Vale UDC and Crickhowell RDC. The mound of coal, collar of steel, flames and pair of millrolls symbolise the main local industries, and is carried on in the supporters.

ARMS: Per chevron raguly per pale Or and Gules and Argent in chief on the dexter a Lozenge Sable and on the sinister a Garb Or and in base three Barrulets wavy Azure thereon a Dolphin naiant embowed proper.
CREST: On a Wreath Or and Gules a demi Dragon Gules gorged with a Steel Collar pendent therefrom a Steel Chain proper holding in the dexter claw an Anchor Azure and resting the sinister claw on a Cogwheel Sable.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter a Dragon Gules gorged with a Mural Crown Or attached thereto a Steel Chain reflexed over the back proper attached to a Triangular Harrow Or supported by the dexter claw and on the sinister a Sea Horse Argent the tail Vert gorged with a Mural Crown Or attached thereto a Steel Chain reflexed over the back proper attached to an Anchor Sable supported by the sinister webbed foot.

Motto 'ONWARD WITH CONFIDENCE'.
Granted 21st December 1977, to the former Ogwr Borough Council.

The former Borough of Ogwr was formed by the amalgamation of the Bridgend Urban District, the Maesteg Urban District, the Ogmore and Garw Urban District, the Porthcawl Urban District and the Penybont Rural District. The Bridgend County Borough was formed on 1st April 1996 from the former Ogwr Borough, apart from the communities of Wick, St. Bride's Major and Ewenny, which were transferred to the Vale of Glamorgan.

The black diamond, as the in the arms of the Maesteg UDC and the Penybont RDC, symbolises the coal industry in the area and the golden wheatsheaf, like those in the crest of the Bridgend UDC, signifies agriculture. The ragged line represents a part of the heritage coastline and the Borough's association with the sea is depicted by a green dolphin on three wavy blue lines.
The red dragon represents Wales and its steel collar and chain, the anchor and cog-wheel signify industry.
The supporter on the right hand side of the shield is again the red dragon, with a mural gold crown signifying local government. The steel chain reflexed over its back attached to a triangular gold harrow represents agriculture. The supporter on the left side of the shield is a silver sea horse with a green tail. The steel chain reflexed over its back attached to a black anchor, similar to that in the crest of the Porthcawl UDC, also represents the sea.

ARMS: Argent on a Mount Vert a Dragon rampant Gules supporting in front of a Leek issuing from the Mount a Flag Staff erect proper flying therefrom to the sinister a Banner of the third charged with three Chevronels of the first.
CREST: A Tudor Rose on three Ostrich Feathers Argent issuing out of a Mural Crown proper; Mantled Gules doubled Argent.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Goat and on the sinister side a Sea Horse both proper as an Honourable Augmentation Her Majesty's Royal Badge for Wales, videlicet within a circular Riband Argent fimbriated Or bearing the motto Y DDRAIG GOCH DDYRY CYCHWYN in letters Vert and ensigned with a representation of the Crown proper an Escutcheon per fess Argent and Vert and thereon a Red Dragon passant pendent by a Golden Chain from the neck of each supporter.

Motto(above the crest) 'DEFFRO MAE'N DDYDD' - Awake! It is day.
Motto(below the shield) 'Y DDRAIG GOCH DDYRY CYCHWYN' - The Red Dragon shall lead.
Arms granted 26th August 1906. Crest granted by Royal Warrant 6th October 1906, exemplified 15th February 1907. Supporters granted 25th February 1907, and augmented by Royal Warrant 19th October 1956, exemplified 23rd October 1956.

The red dragon is the well-known emblem of Wales it holds a standard bearing the arms attributed to Iestyn ap Gwrgant, the last Prince of Glamorgan. The banner also links to the arms used by Cardiff before it obtained its grant, namely the three red chevrons on gold of the Clare Lords of Glamorgan. Thus the Welsh and Norman history of the City is suggested. The leek is, of course, the floral emblem ofWales, and the traditional origin of the leek as a Welsh emblem is the battle of Poictiers. According to Fluellen in Shakespeare's Henry V 'the Welshmen did good service in a garden where leeks did grow, wearing leeks in their Monmouth caps.' An alternative theory is that the true Welsh emblem is not the vegetable leek, but 'St Peter's Leek' - the daffodil.
The ostrich feathers are the famous badge of the Princes of Wales, and their use was specially authorized by Royal Warrant. The Tudor rose is taken from an old Corporation seal and the mural crown is a symbol of civic government.
The goat represents the mountains of Glamorgan, and the sea-horse stands for the Severn Sea and the port, whereby their mineral wealth is distributed to the world.
The complete achievement depicts the status of the City and County of Cardiff as the Capital City of Wales and its commercial position linking the mountains with the sea. The crest and the Royal Badges on the supporters show the special Royal favours to the City as well as its fealty to the Crown.

ARMS: Quarterly indented Or and Gules in the first and fourth quarters a Dragon rampant and in the second and third quarters a Lion rampant all counterchanged.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours a Dagon passant Gules gorged with a Collar flory counterflory and resting the dexter foreclaw on a Harp Or.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Dragon Gules gorged with a Collar flory counterflory attached thereto a Chain reflexed over the back Or and on the sinister side a Sea Horse Argent the piscine parts proper gorged with a Collar flory counterflory attached thereto a Chain reflexed over the back Or.
BADGE: Within an elliptical Cable Azure knotted in base issuing out of a Bailey of five Towers a Garb Or banded Vert.

Motto 'RHYDDID GWERIN FFYNIANT GWLAD' - The freedom of the people is the prosperity of the country.
Arms and crest granted to the former Carmarthenshire County Council 28th August 1935. Transferred by Royal Licence dated 18th March 1996 to new Carmarthenshire County Council. Arms and Crest exemplified and Badge and Supporters granted 1997.

Picture and information courtesy of Laurence Jones.

The arms combine the Welsh dragon and the gold lions and indented division from the arms of Rhys ap Tewdwr Mawr, King of South Wales in the eleventh century and his grandson the Lord Rhys whose descendants still form a notable county family.
The harp symbolizes Welsh musical traditions and poetry, of which the County is an important centre.
The dragon supporter again represent Wales and the seahorse reprsents the sea, they are both chained to signify protection and stability.

ARMS: Quarterly per pale indented first Sable a Lion rampant reguardant Or second barry wavy of six Argent and Azure a Herring haurient proper third Azure a Garb Or banded Gules and fourth Sable a Chevron between three Roses Argent barbed and seeded proper; The Shield ensigned with a Mural Crown Or.

Motto 'GOLUD GWLAD RHYDDID' - A nation's wealth is freedom.
Granted 21st October 1937, to the former Cardiganshire County Council and also used by the Ceredigion District Council from 1974.

Picture used with permission, do not reproduce.

The black lion on gold is based on the arms of Gwaithfoed, a medieval Prince of Ceredigion. The herring and the wheatsheaf represent the fishing industry and agriculture. The chevron and roses are the arms ascribed to Dewi Sant (Saint David), the patron saint of Wales, who has very close associations with Ceredigion.

ARMS: Barry wavy Argent and Azure a Tower Gules on a Chief Vert between two Spears palewise Sable embrued proper each transfixing a Garb Or tied Gules a Saracen's Head affronty erased proper wreathed about the temples Argent and Azure.
CREST: On a Wreath Argent and Gules within a Circle of Oak Sprigs Vert fructed Or five manifest a demi-Dragon Gules langued and armed Azure supporting with the dexter foot a Book Argent bound Azure clasped and charged on the front with a Celtic Cross Or.

Motto 'TEGWCH I BAWB' - Fairness for all.
Granted 27th August 2001.

The County Borough of Conwy was formed on 1st April 1996 by merging the districts of Aberconwy and Colwyn when it was originally named Aberconwy and Colwyn. However, its council renamed the district a day later, on 2nd April 1996 to Conwy.

Picture and information thanks to Gerry Stevens.

The shield illustrates the topography and history of the region. The wavy white and blue field suggests the coastal position of the County Borough, and the embattled tower the castle of Conwy. The spearheads, garbs and saracen's head are taken from the arms of the former Boroughs of Aberconwy and Colwyn. The spearheads represent Nefydd Hardd (Nant Conwy), the wheatsheaves suggest the formal rural districts of Aled and Hiraethog, and the saracen's head comes from the arms of Marchudd ap Cynan, founder of the eighth Noble tribe of North Wales and Lord of Abergele and Rhos.
The sprigs of oak are suggested by the oak tree with golden acorns in the arms and seal of the former Borough of Colwyn. The red dragon, the national symbol of Wales, was common to the armorial bearings of the former Brorough of Colwyn and County of Clwyd. The bible charged with a Celtic cross is taken from the crest of the former Borough of Aberconwy, and represents the emergence in this area of the first Welsh bible.

ARMS: Argent on a Cross engrailed fleury Sable between four Cornish Choughs proper a Mascle of the field between four Plates.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours a demi Dragon Gules supporting with the claws an Ostrich Feather Argent.

Motto 'GOROU TARIAN, CYFIAWNDER' - The best shield is justice.
Granted 12th May 1938, to the former Flintshire County Council.

The County of Flintshire was abolished in 1974. In 1996 it was reformed as a unity authority.

Picture used with permission, do not reproduce.

The shield incorporates the arms of Edwin of Tegeingl following an earlier use of these arms on the Common Seal of the County. Edwin is said to have been King of Tegeingl in the Dark Ages - the kingdom covered that part of the present County lying north of a line from Mold to Hawarden. According to one account he was a descendant of Hywel Dda. He founded one of the Fifteen Royal Tribes of North Wales. The County Horticultural College at Northop is near the site of his palace, Llys Edwin. The Choughs in the arms, although designated in the official blazon as Cornish Choughs, were undoubtedly widely distributed throughout Wales in earlier times and are properly regarded as Celtic.
The crest is a Welsh dragon with a white feather carried in the right paw. The single plume, the 'Peace Badge' of Edward the Black Prince, was adopted by Henry VII, the first Tudor (or Welsh) King of England.

ARMS: Gules a Chevron between three Lions rampant Or a Bordure barry wavy of eight Azure and Argent.
CREST: Out of an Antique Crown Or a demi-Dragon Gules supporting a garb Gold; Mantled Gules doubled Or.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Bull Argent gorged with a Wreath of Seaweed proper and on the sinister side an Heraldic Tiger Sable gorged with a Wreath of Oak also proper fructed Or.

Motto 'MON MAM CYMRU' - Anglesey, Mother of Wales.
Granted 9th April 1954, to the former Anglesey County Council.

The chevron and lions, gold on red, show the arms formely used by the Council, the attributive arms of Hwfa ap Cynddelw, one of the Fifteen Peers of North Wales in the twelfth century. The border of blue and white waves depicts that Anglesey is an island.
The red and gold of the mantling are the main colours of the Princes of Gwynedd, whose seat was in Anglesey until 1277. The Welsh Dragon supports a great golden wheatsheaf in reference to the county's ancient fertility whereby it was able to sustain Wales in the early wars, and to which the motto refers.
The white bull is derived from the heraldry of the Bulkeleys of Beaumaris, and with its collar of seaweed, typifies the agricultural and seafaring activities of the island. The black heraldic tiger is a supporter of the arms of the Marquess of Anglesey, and his collar of oak refers to Anglesey's former position as the stronghold of the Druids to whom the tree is sacred.

ARMS: Azure a Figure representing Saint Tydvil the Martyr in chief two Crosses patée fitchée all Or.

Motto 'MID CADARN OND BRODYRDDE' - No strength but in fellowship.
Granted 17th August 1906, to the former Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council. Regranted in 1976 and 1996.

The central motif is a likeness of St. Tydfil. The town owes its name to Tydfil the daughter of Brychan, a 5th Century Chieftain, who had been converted to Christianity. One of her brothers, Cadoc, became the Patron Saint of Brittany. Tydfil and her family were massacred by a band of marauding Picts and Saxons about AD 480 and it is generally believed that she died on the site of the Parish Church, which bears her name. The shrine of St. Tydfil the Martyr soon became a place of Christian pilgrimage and as the years passed by a village grew up around it. The distaff she is bearing in her hands signifies the industrial history of the County Borough of Merthyr Tydfil, and the crosses patée fitchée, resembling daggers are meant to remind us of how she met her death.
The motto is taken from an Old Welsh manuscript, 'The Sayings of the Wise'.

ARMS: Per pale Azure and Sable three Fleurs-de-Lis Or on a Chief of the last two Towers triple towered Gules.
CREST: On a Wreath of Colours a Tower triple towered Gules charged with an Escutcheon of the Arms of Somerset that is to say quarterly first and fourth Azure three Fleurs-de-Lis Or second and third Gules three Lions passant guardant in pale Or all within a Border gobony Argent and Azure.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Lion guardant Or grasping with the interior paw a Rose Gules barbed seeded stalked and leaved proper and gorged with a Coronet composed of four Fleurs-de-Lis set upon a Rim also Gules and on the sinister side a Dragon of the last grasping with the in­terior claw a Leek also proper and gorged with a like Coronet Gold.

Motto 'UTRIQUE FIDELIS' - Faithful to both.
Granted 28th January 1948, to Monmouthshire County Council. Transferred by Order of Her Majesty in Council on 16th April 1975, to Gwent County Council. Transferred by Royal Licence dated, 18th October 1996 to the newly constituted Monmouthshire County Council.

The gold fleurs-de-lis upon blue and black are the arms of the ancient Kingdom of Gwent. The castles are the arms of the ancient Princes of Gwent and also refer to the many castles situated in the County.
The Somerset Coat of Arms shown on the castle forming the crest, refers to the connections of the Somer­set Family with the county. In particular to the defence of Raglan Castle on behalf of King Charles I, by Henry Somerset, fifth Earl and first Marquess of Worcester.
The lion of England and the dragon of Wales, each holding its country's National Emblem illustrate the County's double allegiance.

*ARMS: Per chevron Vert and Argent two Plies reversed and overlapped counterchanged in dexter chief a Roundel Argent charged with a Cogwheel Sable.
*CREST: Out of a Mural Crown Sable a demi Cistercian Monk affronty habited proper holding aloft in the dexter hand a Clarion Vert; Mantled Vert doubled Argent.
*SUPPORTERS:On either side a Dragon Gules each gorged with a Mural Crown Argent and holding in the exterior claw a twisted Cord Argent and Vert pendent therefrom a Pine Cone Vert dimidiating a Goutte Sable all upon a Compartment comprising a Grassy Mount set with of Daffodils proper rising from Water Barry wavy Argent and Vert.

Motto 'LLWYDDO DRWY YMDRECH' - Succeeding through endeavour.
Granted 1996.

The County Borough of Neath Port Talbot was formed on 1st April 1996 by the amalgamation of the Borough of Neath, the Borough of Port Talbot and part of the Borough of Lliw Valley.

The shield is divided per chevron three times as a reference to the three chevronels of the Clare family, Earls of Gloucester descended from Robert Earl of Gloucester (illegitimate son of Henry I) who founded Neath and Margam Abbeys and whose family became Lords of the Manor of Glamorgan. Three chevronels are also said to be the arms of Iestyn ap Gwrgan (living 1083-93) ruler of Glamorgan. The three chevronels occurred in the shield and badge of the former West Glamorgan County Council and the shield of the former Borough of Port Talbot. The silver roundel charged with a black cogwheel uses the colours of the arms of the former Borough of Neath. The black relates to the coal, oil and manufacturing industries and the silver to metal industries. Cogwheels featured in the crests of the former West Glamorgan County Council and in the former Borough of Lliw Valley.
The Cistercian monk in the crest refers to the Cistercian Abbeys of Neath and Margam and it formed part of the crest of Neath. The monk emerges from a black mural crown as in the crest of the former Lliw Valley. The crown is also a reference to the black and white towers in the arms of the former Neath. The monk holds a clarion, an emblem said to have been used as a punning Badge by the Clare family. Three clarions were used on early seals by the Abbeys of Margam and Neath. The origins of this heraldic emblem are obscure but it may possibly represent a portable organ and in modern times it has certainly been used as a symbol of music. It represents not only the Clare family but the importance of music locally and throughout Wales. It appears prominently in the arms and crest of the former Port Talbot, but the musical allusion is made in the Neath arms by a harp.
Two Welsh dragons serve appropriately as supporters. The dragon occurred in the former West Glamorgan crest and in the supporters of the former Neath and former Lliw Valley crests. They hold cords of the livery colours from which are suspended the two hybrid emblems from the arms of the former West Glamorgan namely a green pine cone (for forestry and the countryside) dimidiating a black droplet (for oil refining and connected industries). The dragons wear mural crowns round their necks as a reference to their civic nature. They stand on a grassy compartment set with Welsh daffodils and stylised waves of white and green as in the arms and badge of the former Lliw Valley and part of the former West Glamorgan compartment (where they are white and blue).

ARMS: Or a Chevron reversed Gules; the shield ensigned by a Cherub proper.
SUPPORTERS:On the dexter side a Winged Sea Lion Or and on the sinister side a Sea Dragon Gules the nether parts of both proper finned Gold.

Motto 'TERRA MARIQUE' - By land and sea.
Arms granted 17th April 1929, supporters granted 7th May 1958, to the former Newport County Borough Council. Used 1974 to 1996 by the Newport Borough Council.

These arms were in use before 1929, when they were officially confirmed. They are based on the red chevron on gold which formed the arms of the family De Stafford, the Earls of Stafford and Dukes of Buckingham having held the lordship of Newport in the 14th and 15th centuries - but the reversed chevron marks the difference between these Borough Anns and those of the family. The use of the cherub above the shield is unusual, It is not known whether the cherub was intended to have any significance when it was adopted, but it is believed to be merely decorative.
The supporters indicate that Monmouthshire, including Newport, had been for some centuries alternately officially designated either as part of England or part of Wales. Their animal and fish parts, and the fact that they are winged, make them also representative of strength on land, sea and in the air.
The motto echos the symbolism of the supporters.

ARMS: Quarterly first and fourth per fesse Gules and Or in chief a Lion passant and in base two Fleur-de-lys counterchanged second and third Argent two Bars Gules over all a Cross Sable and a Bordure Argent charged with eight Martlets and as many Ermine Spots Sable.
CREST: Issuant from a Mural Crown Or a Rock proper thereon an Eagle wings elevated and addorsed Gold; Mantled Gules doubled Or.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Lion Or gorged with a Collar and charged on the shoulder with a Fleur-de-Lys Gules and on the sinister side a Dragon Gules gorged with a Collar and charged on the shoulder with a Fleur-de-Lys Or..
BADGE: Within a Circlet of alternate seven Tudor Roses proper and seven Fleur-de-lys Or a representation of the Celtic Cross at Nevern sans pedestal fimbnated Vert.

Motto 'EX UNITATE VIRES' - Strength from unity.
Arms, crest and supporters granted 11th October 1937. Badge granted 22nd November 1996.

Picture used with permission, do not reproduce.

The fleurs-de-lys, lions and martlets are from the arms of Jasper Tudor, Earl of Pembroke, whose arms (Quarterly France and England within a Bordure Azure charged with eight Martlets Or) were formerly used by the County. The Tudors were closely associated with Pembrokeshire, and Henry VII was born at Pembroke Castle.
The mural crown refers to the castles of Pembrokeshire, and the rock to its rugged coastline, while the eagle represents wildlife.
The lion and the dragon refer to the County's dual heritage; the northern part being predominantly Welsh and the southern part English. The County is sometimes called 'little England beyond Wales'.
The motto signifies the unity of the two elements.

ARMS: Per chevron bevilled Or and Sable three Fountains proper.
CREST: On a Wreath Or and Sable rising from a Tower Sable masoned Argent a Red Kite Or semy of Lozenges Sable grasping between its talons a Golden Fleece; Mantled Sable doubled Or.

Motto 'POWYS PARADWYS CYMRU' - Powys, the paradise of Wales.
Granted 2nd March 1984.

The gold background symbolises the wealth of the area, and the black, both mining and the Black Mountains. The heraldic fountains represents water and, therefore, both refers to the water catchment area and the rivers and lakes. Three fountains have been placed on the shield to produce a distinctive design and can also be seen as refering to the three former counties amalgamated into Powys.
The red kite with black diamonds refers to local fauna and coal mining. The importance of sheep rearing to the area is refered to by the golden fleece. The castles and historical military connections of the area are alluded to by the tower.

*ARMS: Or three Chevronels Gules on a Chief wavy barry wavy of fore Argent and Azure a Celestial Crown between two Acorns Or.
*CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours issuant from Flames proper a demi Dragon Gules holding in the dexter claw a Bolt of Lightning Or.
*SUPPORTERS: Dexter a Laboratory Technician habited and holding in the exterior hand a Clipboard all proper sinister a Coal Miner habited and supporting in the exterior hand a Mandrel all proper.

Motto 'ADSUMUS UT ADIUVEMUS'.
Granted ?

The County Borough of Rhondda Cynon Taff was formed on 1st April 1996 by the amalgamation of the Borough of Cynon Valley, the Borough of Rhondda and the Borough of Taff-Ely (with the exceptions of Creigiau and Pentyrch, which were added to Cardiff).

The three red chevronels on gold, as seen in the arms of the Mid Glamorgan County Council and the crest of the former Borough of Rhondda, are from the arms of the Clare Family, who held the medieval lordship of Glamorgan. The blue and white wavy chief is taken from the arms of the former Borough of Cynon Valley, and refers to local rivers. The acorns come from arms of Rhondda, where they represented the ancient forest and the growth of new industries. The celestial crown is taken from the arms of the former Borough of Taff Ely, and its predecessor Llantrisant and Llantwit Fardre RDC.
The crest is the Welsh symbol of a dragon, here depicted as a demi dragon in allusion to the crests of the constituent bodies making up the new authority. It emerges from flames in token of the regeneration of industry, and holds a flash of lightening as an emblem of new technology.
The dexter supporter is a laboratory technician, representing the new forms of industry attracted to the area. The sinister supporter of a miner is taken from a supporter to the arms of the former Mid Glamorgan County Council, and stands for the traditional skills of South Wales.

ARMS: Per fess wavy Azure and barry wavy of six Argent of the first a double-towered Castle Or in chief on an Inescutcheon of the third a Lion passant guardant Gules.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours an Osprey rising holding in the beak a Fish proper.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Lion Gules gorged with a Mural Crown Or and on the sinister side a Dragon Gules gorged with a Mural Crown Or.

Motto 'FLOREAT SWANSEA' - May Swansea flourish.
Granted 22nd October 1922 to the City of Swansea. Re-granting of the unchanged Arms to the District and City of Swansea was confirmed by Certificate of Transfer of the College of Arms dated 11th March 1976. Transferred again in 1996.

On 1st April 1974, the former City of Swansea was amalgamated with the Gower Rural District to form the new District and City of Swansea. The current City and County of Swansea was formed on 1st April 1996 by the amalgamation of the District and City of Swansea and part of the Borough of Lliw Valley.

The early history of the Arms of Swansea is obscure. An unfounded legend has it that the original device was an Osprey, which now forms the present crest and also the present badge of the Lord Mayor. Between 1632 and 1922, the Seal of the Council bore a portcullis of eight bars, probably derived from the Crest of Arms of the Somerset family, who had been Lords of Gower. The portcullis is also depicted on the ceremonial maces of the Borough, which date from 1753, and on other items from this period. This suggests that the portcullis may have been regarded as the insignia of the Borough during this period.
In January 1843, the General Purposes Committee of the Council resolved to abandon the portcullis seal for a design which had appeared on the seal of a document dated 1548, entitled 'Ordinances for the Towne of Swaynsey'. The seal on this document was possibly the Borough Seal of the time, and it was claimed by historians of the early 19th century that the devices depicted on it were the Arms granted to the Borough by William de Breos, Lord of Gower, in 1306. Such claims cannot be supported by documentary evidence, although there is certainly some connection, since the Arms of de Breos appear in the design of the Seal.
These Arms have been blazoned as follows:- 'Gules a Castle double-towered Argent, in the gateway a portcullis half-down or; on each tower a banner bearing the Arms of de Breos, viz. Argent a lion rampant crusilly Or. In Chief on a shield or an Osprey rising regardant with a fish, the tail-end in its beak, both proper'.
For some reason, however, this design was not adopted for the Seal of the Corporation following the Committee resolution, although it was displayed on many items of Corporation property, and appears especially on the covers of 19th-century Minute Books and volumes of other Corporation documents. The device, however, was finally adopted as the Common Seal of the Council in November 1922, and, indeed, it still appears on the present Seal of the Council.
The castle represents the mediaeval fortifications of the town and the castle erected by Henry de Beaumont in 1099, around which the town grew up. The blue and white wavy bars represent the sea, since Swansea is a port.
The lion as dexter supporter and on the inescutcheon commemorates the link with the de Breos family, while the dragon as sinister supporter is the National Emblem of Wales and is a supporter in the Achievement of Arms of the present Lord Swansea.

ARMS: Quarterly Or and Gules overall a Fess Argent charged with two Barrulets wavy Azure first and fourth quarter a Lozenge Sable charged with a Garb Or second and third quarters a Crow wings addorsed proper holding in its dexter claw a Japanned Vase Or.
CREST: On a Wreath Or and Azure issuant from a Circlet of Garbs Or and Lozenges Sable rising behind a Range of Hills proper a Sun in splendour Or.

Motto 'UNITED WE SERVE'.
Granted 29th May 1975?, to the former Torfaen Borough Council.

The former Borough of Torfaen was formed by the amalgamation of the Blaenavon Urban District, the Cwmbran Urban District, the Pontypool Urban District, part of the Magor and St Mellons Rural District and part of the Pontypool Rural District.

Picture used with permission, do not reproduce.

The blue wavy lines represent the Afon Lwyd (Grey River) which runs the length of Gwent's Eastern Valley. The Afon Lwyd runs through the three towns of Pontypool, Blaenavon and Cwmbram, before industry came to the area and made it dirty the river was called the Torfaen (Rock Breaker), because of its speed. The black diamonds, like those in the arms of the Blaenavon UDC, depict coal and the wheatsheaves represent the Borough's agriculture. The crow derives from Cwmbran (Valley of the Crow or blackbird), being the traditional emblem of the town, the vases held by the crows depict Pontypool Japanware, one of the area's most famous industries of the past.
The rising sun behind the range of hills depicts new authority and its terrain.

ARMS: Per pale Or and Gules a Pile counterchanged over all three Chevronels per pale and per pile Argent and Gules.
CREST: On a Wreath Argent and Gules issuing from the top of a Tower Or a demi Bear supporting a Ship's Mast with a main sail furled proper; Mantled Gules doubled Or and Argent.
SUPPORTERS: On a Compartment representing the Coastline of Glamorgan with two Headlands proper and an Inlet of the Sea barry wavy Azure Argent and Azure with a Sandy Beach and Cliffs proper on the dexter upon a Garb fesswise Or a Unicorn Argent armed maned crined and unguled Or gorged with two Bars gemel and crowned with a Mural Crown Gules masoned Or and on the sinister on a like Garb a Lion Gules charged on the body with six Crosses Crosslet Argent head and mane of the same crowned with a Mural Crown Gules masoned Or.

Motto 'UNDOD CADERNID CYNNYDD' - Unity Strength Progress.
Granted 10th September 1975, to the former Vale of Glamorgan Borough Council.

The former Borough of Vale of Glamorgan was formed by the amalgamation of the Borough of Barry, the Borough of Cowbridge, the Penarth Urban District, part of the Cardiff Rural District and part of the Cowbridge Rural District.

The arms combine the three white chevronels on red attributed to Iestyn ap Gwrgant, ruler of Glamorgan, and the three red chevronels on gold of the de Clare family. The pile or V-shaped device issuing from the top of the shield provides an outline of the initial letter of the Vale and its wedge shape may also be taken to be a very simple picture of a vale.
The crest derives from the bears seen in the unofficial device of the Penarth UDC combined with a ship's mast and sail, as a reference to the arms attributed to St.Illtyd which are of significance in standing for Llantwit Major. The tower also alludes to Llantwit, three towers appearing in the arms attributed to St.Illtyd.
The unicorn and the bars on its neck are derived from the arms and its supporters of Borough of Barry, where the bars are from the arms of the de Barri family and the unicorn is from the supporters of the Earl of Plymouth's arms. The lion and the crosslets are derived from the arms of the Borough of Cowbridge, where they commemorated the medieval de Braose family. The six churches which were founded in or about Llanilltud Fawr are represented by the number of crosses on the body of the lion. Each supporter is crowned with a mural crown as an emblem of civic responsibility.
The supporters stand upon a 'Compartment', which presents in partly conventionalised form, the coast of Glamorgan with its headlands and inlets, beaches and cliffs. The sheaves of wheat commemorate the agricultural activities of the Vale.

ARMS: Vert semee of Ermine spots Argent two Crosiers in saltire on a Chief wavy Or a Lion passant guardant Azure.
CREST: On a Wreath Or and Vert out of a Mural Crown Gules masoned Argent a Mount Vert thereon in front of an Oak Tree proper fructed Or a Dragon passant Gules resting the dexter forefoot on a Lozenge Sable fimbriated Or.
SUPPORTERS: On either side a Dragon Gules gorged with a Collar dancetty and supporting with the interior forefoot a Staff erect Or flying therefrom a forked Pennon Vert the dexter dragon charged on the shoulder with the Astronomical Symbol for Mars and the sinister with a Cogwheel Or.

Motto 'LABOR OMNIA VINCIT' - Hard work overcomes all things.
Granted ?, to the former Wrexham Maelor Borough Council.

The Borough of Wrexham Maelor was formed by the amalgamation of the Borough of Wrexham, the Maelor Rural District, part of the Harwarden Rural District and part of the Wrexham Rural District.

Picture used with permission, do not reproduce.

The green field is common with the arms of the Wrexham RDC and the ermine spots are from the arms of the Borough of Wrexham. The crossed crosiers common to the arms of both former Wrexham authorities, represent Valle Crucis Abbey and it is said the grazing land in the district. The blue lion on gold is from the heraldry of the Hanmers of Maelor and the wave represents the River Dee in an heraldic map of the new area.
The red mural crown symbolizes brick-making and Madog ap Meredydd's castle at Overton. The Welsh red dragon rests a foot on a black diamond edged with gold, for coal and other mineral wealth, and the tree stands for forestry and the rural areas.
The Welsh dragons hold a green pennon for agriculture, and the other emblems represent iron founding and engineering.
The motto is from Virgil.

ARMS: Gules a Saltire Argent between a Rose in chief and two Fleurs-de-Lis in fesse and a Portcullis chained in base Or.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours upon the Trunk of a Tree fessewise eradicated and sprouting to the dexter proper a Bull passant Argent pied and unguled Sable gorged with a Collar and Chain reflexed over the back and charged on the body with two Fleurs-de-Lis Or.

Motto 'HOSTES NUNC AMICI' - Foes now friends.
Granted 27th March 1901, to the Abergavenny Borough Council. Transferred by Order made 19th April 1976.

The white saltire is from the heraldry of Nevill, Marquess of Abergavenny. The rose and portcullis were used as badges by the Nevills to indicate their descent from Joan de Beaufort, daughter of John of Gaunt and wife of Nevill, first Earl of Westmorland. The fleurs-de-lis, royal emblems, denote the Marquess's descent, through John of Gaunt, from Edward III.
The pied bull is also derived from the Nevill crest and supporters.

ARMS: Or in chief two Lymphads Sable sails furled Argent flags and pennons flying to the sinister Gules and in base an open Book proper bound also Gules and clasped Gold inscribed on the pages with the Arabic numerals 1277 fessewise also Sable.
CREST: On a Wreath Or Sable and Gules a representation of the Castle Tower at Aberystwyth proper; Mantled Gules Sable and Or.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Dragon reguardant Gules supporting a Staff Or flying therefrom a Pennon Sable charged with a Garb Gold and on the sinister side a Lion reguardant Sable supporting a like Staff flying therefrom a Pennon Gules charged with a winged Wheel Or.
BADGE Within two Leeks the roots crossed in saltire proper a Lion rampant reguardant Sable.

Motto 'GORAU MOES GWASANAETH' - The best way of life is service.
Granted 15 May 1961, to the Aberystwyth Borough Council. Transferred by Order made 16th April 1975.

The black ships record Aberystwyth's past importance as a port and ship building industry. The open book represents academic aspects in the town's life as represented by the University College of Wales and the National Library of Wales. The date 1277 is the date of the original Charter granted by Edward I.
The crest shows the Aberystwyth Castle Tower.
The red dragon refers to Wales and the black lion is taken from the arms of the Pryse family of Gogerddan, near Aberystwyth, who played an important part in the life of the Town and the County of Cardigan. The wheatsheaf signifies the importance of the town as a market centre, and its dependence on the agricultural hinterland and the winged wheel is a heraldic symbol for tourism and indicates the importance of the tourist trade to the town.

ARMS: Per fesse dancetté Or and Sable in chief a Cross couped of the last.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours issuant from a Wreath of Oak Leaves Sable a demi Boar Gules armed Or.

Motto 'HANFOD TREF TREFN' - The essential of a good town is orderliness.
Granted 9th April 1952, to the Ammanford Urban District Council. Transferred by Order in Council 16th April 1975.

The ancient ecclesiastical Parish of Betws and its beadhouse is represented by a cross on the golden shield. The cross also represents 'Cross Inn', which was the name by which the village was known before the district became urbanized. The hills of the district are shown in the black peaks at the bottom of the shield, and the basic coal industry is shown as a black base to the shield itself. The river Amman which passes through the district has its source in the Black Mountain.
The red wild boar represents 'Y Twrch Trwyth', because legend has it that King Arthur and his knights hunted the Wild Boar in the Amman Valley. This is perpetuated in the names of a number of farms within the District, eg:- Myddynfych, Glynynmeirch, Glynmoch, etc. The wreath of oak leaves conveys the impression of Tirydail (Land of the Leaves), a small hamlet within the Urban District.

ARMS: Or three Bars gemel Gules between in chief two Fleurs-de-Lys Azure and in base a Dragon passant of the second.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours upon Water barry wavy proper a Lymphad Sable sail set Argent lozengy also Sable pennons flying Gules.
SUPPORTERS: On either side a Unicorn Argent armed crined and unguled Or gorged with a Chain of the last pendent thereform by a like Chain an Escutcheon that on the dexter Argent three bars gemel Gules and that on the sinister as the Arms.

Motto 'CADERNID CYFIAWNDER CYNNYDD' - Stability, justice, progress.
Granted 31st October 1939, to the Barry Borough Council. Transferred by Order made 19th April 1976.

The bars gemel or pairs of barrulets are from the arms of the De Barri family and the fleurs-de-lis are from the heraldry of Lord Davies of Llandinam. The red dragon is that of Wales.
The ship with the black diamonds on its sail alludes to the coal exported from Barry.
The supporters are those of the Earl of Plymouth, suitably differenced.

ARMS: Argent on a Mount Vert an Oak Tree proper fructed Or on a Chief per pale of the last and Gules a Lion passant guardant counter-changed.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours a demi Dragon Gules holding between the claws a Man's Head in profile couped at the neck Argent.

Motto 'IECHYD, HARDDWCH, HEDDWCH' - Heath, beauty and tranquility.
Granted 11th September 1934 to the Colwyn Bay Urban District Council.

Used with permission. Not to be reproduced without permission.

The oak tree is from the device formerly used by the Urban District Council. The lion is derived from the arms of the Principality of Wales, which are those of Prince Llewelyn, with whom the district has historic associations.
The wreath and mantling are in the Tudor livery colours and the Welsh dragon, is of course a national emblem. The Saxon's head from the arms of Ednyfed Fychan, who displayed three heads in his shield in token of his victories against the English army under Ranulph, Earl of Chester.

ARMS: Quarterly wavy Sable and Or in the first and fourth quarters a Key wards upwards and to the dexter and in the second and third quarters a Lozenge all counterchanged.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours issuant from a Circlet of Lozenges conjoined Sable a dexter Cubit Arm in Armour proper charged on the wrist with a Buckle fessewise Or the hand grasping a Sword in bend sinister with blade bent downwards also proper hilt and pomel Gold.

Motto 'AT SPES NON FRACTA' - Yet hope is not broken.
Granted 12th May 1952, to the Blaenavon Urban District Council.

The black lozenges refer to the coal industry. The keys, crest and motto are derived from the heraldry of the Kennard fmily, who concerned in the formation of the Blaenavon Coal and Iron Company.

ARMS: Vert a Pall wavy Argent thereon another Azure over all a Mantle of Estate Gules doubled Ermine.
CREST: Out of a Mural Crown Or a Long Bow and a Pitch-fork interlaced in saltire proper; Mantled Vert doubled Argent.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side an Eagle wings elevated and addorsed Or the under wing charged with a Roundel per pale Vert and Argent thereon an open Book proper bound Gules edged Gold and on the sinister side a Dragon Gules wings elevated and addorsed the underwing charged with a Bezant thereon the Roman numerals XXIV Sable each standing on a representation of a Walled Town in front of the Brecon Beacons.
BADGE: A Roundel Vert charged with a Mantle of Estate Gules doubled Ermine encircled by a Civic Wreath proper and ensigned by a Mural Crown Or.

Motto 'CANMOL DY FRO A THRIG YNO' - Commend thy locality and dwell therein.
Granted 20th July 1962, to the Brecknock Borough Council.

The red mantle lined with ermine is a device long associated with the Town of Brecon and which for more than 400 years has been the Borough Badge. The white and blue wavy pall represents the three rivers which have their confluence at Brecon, namely the Usk, the Honddu and the Tarell. These are placed upon a green field representing the countryside.
The long bow is in allusion to Brecon's long military tradition, and the hay fork to the position the Town enjoys as the centre of an agricultural area.
The gold eagle stands for St. John the Evangelist, in allusion to the Cathedral Church of St. John the Evangelist, and is differenced by a green and white rounded charged on the wing by an open book. The Dragon of Wales needs no explanation, and is here differenced by a rounded charged with XXIV referring to the XXIV Regiment, South Wales Borderers who on the 11th June, 1948, received the Freedom of the Borough. The compartment is a conventional repre­sentation of Brecon as an ancient walled town behind which can be seen the twin Brecon Beacons.

ARMS: Vert a Salmon leaping to the dexter proper on a Chief Sable a Bridge of two arches masoned Or.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours a Raven proper between two Garbs Or.

Motto 'A VO PENN BIT PONT' - He who will be chief, let him be a bridge.
Granted 18th June 1951, to the Bridgend Urban District Council.

The green field suggests pasture land and the salmon refers to the name of the River Ogwr. The bridge stands for Bridgend.
The raven alludes to Lord Dunraven and the wheatsheaves are for agriculture.

ARMS: Gules a Lion passant guardant Or between three Plumes each of three Ostrich Feathers Argent.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours an Eagle displayed Or charged on the breast with a Plume as in the Arms.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Dragon Gules and on the sinister side an Eagle wings addorsed Or each supporting an Ostrich Feather Argent.
BADGE In front of a representation of the Eagle Tower of Caernarvon Castle proper a Plume as in the Arms and on the battlements of the turrets a Lion passant guardant Gules.

Motto 'BRENHINOL BRIG GWYNEDD' - Royal peak of Gwynedd?
Granted 1st January 1965 to the Royal Borough of Caernarvon.

The emblems denote the links with both Welsh and British Royalty, appropriate as the former municipal borough was designated a royal borough in 1963. The lion is not only from the Royal Arms but link to the four lions are those of Llywelyn Ein Llyw Olaf (Llywelyn the Last). The plumes are those of the Prince of Wales, Cearnarfon Castle, being the location of modern investitures.
The eagles are those of Owain ap Gruffudd, King of Gwynedd from 1137 until his death in 1170, and the first to be styled "Prince of Wales". Three eagles were also supposedly emblazoned on the banners borne by the men of Caernarvonshire at the Battle of Agincourt. The dragon is of course a well known Welsh emblem.

ARMS: Or a Dragon rampant and on a Chief Gules a representation of the Ash Tree called Caerwys Cross proper.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours out of an Ancient Crown Or a representation of the Caerwys Eisteddfod Harp Argent.

Motto 'TANNAU ARIAN GEIRIAU ARIAN' - Silver trings (inspire) silver Words.
Granted 5th September 1967, to the Caerwys Parish Council.

Picture provided by and Copyright of Caerwys Town Council used with permission. Not to be reproduced.

The upper part of the shield shows a representation of Caerwys Cross, which is an ancient ash tree. The Cross was recorded in history and the Bards composed their odes in the shadow of the ash tree at the Caerwys Eisteddfod of 1568 - which was held under the commission of Queen Elizabeth 1, dated October 1567. The dragon is of course a national symbol and is also significant, as Caerwys was the only Welsh Borough of Norman creation in 1290.
The crest shows a representation of the Mostyn harp ( of the 1568 Eisteddfod ) rising out of a bardic crown. Such terms as ‘bardic crown’ are unknown in heraldry, and an ancient was used in its place.

ARMS: Gules a Castle triple-towered between two Ostrich Feathers erect in fesse Argent on each of the outer towers a Cornish Chough proper respecting the centre tower and in base a Lion passant reguardant Or.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours a Fisherman carrying a Coracle proper.

Motto 'RHYDDID HEDD A LLWYDDINT' - Freedom, peace and prosperity.
Granted 9th April 1936, to the Carmarthen Borough Council.

The arms were based on a seal in previous use. The feathers are from the insignia of the Princes of Wales, and the lion may have been derived from the arms ascribed to Cadell, Prince of South Wales in the last part of the ninth century.
The crest represents the salmon and sewin fishing industry, in connection with which the coracle is still in use.

ARMS: Vert on Water Barry wavy in base charged with three Salmon naiant proper a Lymphad Or the sail quarterly Gold and Gules a Bendlet Sable.
CREST: Out of circlet of Steel Flames proper therein a demi Dragon Gules holding between the claws a Cross Fleuretty engrailed Sable; Mantled Vert doubled Argent.

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Motto 'LLWYDDIANT O DDIWYDIANT' - Success through industry.
Granted 30th January 1961, to the Connah's Quay Urban District Council.

The shield combines references to the three districts of Connah's Quay, Wepre and Golftyn. The ship is represents Connah's Quay, and the sail bears the arms of William de Malbank or Malbedeng, Baron of Nantwich under the Earldom of Chester, who held Wepre in Mediaeval times. The waves and salmon refer to the River Dee and its fisheries, for which Golftyn was the local centre. The green background is a reminder of the hills, woods and natural amenities which form the background to the industrial scene, and also of the green shield with white stag attributed to Cynwrig Fychan, a descendent of the Old Welsh tribal chief Llywarch Holbrwch to whom these arms were assigned by the Tudor Heralds. Cynwrig held "Wepra" and its environs.
The mantling is in the Welsh National colours of green and white. The crest refers to the town's modern industries and its situation in Flintshire. The circlet of steel and the flames refer to the local steelworks and power station. The dragon of Wales is in the same attitude and position as in the crest of the County Council. It holds the distinctive black cross of Edwyn, Lord of Tegeingl, the district which covered the modern Deeside; this cross is the basis of the County arms, and appears in the Device of the Flintshire Technical College at Connah's Quay.

ARMS: Per fess wavy Or and Gules a Fess enhanced wavy barry wavy Azure and Argent in chief between a Salmon leaping in bend sinister and a Ram's Head caboshed all proper a Pale Sable thereon a Garb Gold in base three Towers triple-towered also Argent.
CREST: On a Wreath Argent and Azure a Dragon passant Gules supporting with the dexter claw a Longbow stringed Or. Mantled Azure doubled Argent.

Motto 'OPORTET NOS PROGREDI’ - It behoves us to progress.
Granted Granted 10th February 1960, to the Crickhowell Rural District Council. I have no information whether the use by the Town Council is officially sanctioned.

The wavy fess, depicted blue and white across the centre of the shield represents the River Usk flowing through the district which is largely mountainous in character. As Crickhowell itself stands on the banks of the Usk, a river famous for its fishing, the salmon represents the fishing pursuits of the district. The wheat sheaf, depicted in gold on a black vertical band, indicates the general agricultural background as well as the ancillary industries. The ram's head represents the considerable sheep rearing that is carried on in the district. The red background and the triple turreted towers, depicted in silver on it were the arms traditionally borne by Howell, Prince of Caerleon-upon-Uske.
The red Dragon is the national emblem of Wales, supporting a bow with its right claw. The bow illustrates the association with the Welsh bowmen at Agincourt.

ARMS: Per fess wavy Zzure and barry wavy of eight Argent and of the first in chief upon a Rock issuant proper a Castle of two towers Or and in base an Ancient three-masted Ship sail furled pennons flying Gold.
CREST: Out of a Coronet composed of four Fleurs-de-Lis Argent and as many Mullets Or set alternately upon a Rim Silver in front of Flames proper a demi eagle displayed Gold.
SUPPORTERS: On either side a Dragon Gules charged on the shoulder with a Rose Or barbed and seeded proper supporting between the forelegs an Ostrich Feather erect Argent; the whole upon a Compartment of Rocks proper.
BADGE: Upon a Pellet environed by a Chaplet of Roses Or barbed seeded and leaved proper in front of an Ostrich Feather erect Argent a Castle as in the Arms.

Motto 'CASTELLUM SUPRA FLUVIUM' - A castle on a river .
Granted 10th October 1962, to the Flint Borough Council. Transferred by Order made 16th April 1975.

Picture and information courtesy of Laurence Jones.

The castle upon a rock and ship are taken from the ancient borough seal and show that Flint is a sea port with a castle.
The crest symbolically represents the steel industry.
The red dragons represent Wales and the golden roses are from badge of Edward I, who founded the town and built the castle. The ostrich feathers are from the badge of the Prince of Wales. They stand upon a rocky compartment, depicting the area's rugged coastline and mountains.

ARMS: Barry wavy Argent and Azure a Lymphad sails set proper and flags flying Gules on a Chief Vert a Castle triple-towered between two Plumes each of [three] Ostrich Feathers Argent.
CREST: On a Wreath Argent and Vert out of the Battlements of an hexagonal Tower a demi Man winding a Horn proper habited per pale Vert and Argent on his head a Steel Cap proper.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Dragon Gules the undersides of the wings charged with a Cross Or thereon five Cinquefoils Sable and on the sinister side a Lion Sable about the neck an Ancient Crown [Eastern or antique crown] with a Chain reflexed over the back Or.

Motto 'O LECTOR SALVE COELI PATEANT TIBI VALVE' - O reader hail, may the Gates of Heaven stand open for thee.
Granted 5th October 1966, to the Borough and County of the Town of Haverford alias Haverfordwest. Transfered by Order made 16th April 1975.

The blue and white waves are a reminder of the importance of the River Cleddau, which was used to bring most of the trade into the centre of Haverfordwest. The ship and the castle are taken from the obverse and reverse of the Common Seal, refering to the port and castle. The feathers refer to the granting of a charter to the town by Edward, Prince of Wales, in 1479.
The figure on the crest is also derived from the Common Seal, his jerkin is coloured white and green, which were those worn by the Prince of Wales's Welsh troops fighting in the French campaigns.
The red dragon represents Wales and the gold cross and cinquefoils (not shown in image) on its wing are from the arms of the See of St. Davids. The black lion with gold collar and chain is derived from the arms of Philipps of Picton, a family closely associated with the town.
The motto is also taken from the Common Seal.

ARMS: Barry wavy of eight Azure and Argent on a Mount in base a representation of the Church of St. Tudno at Llandudno proper on a Chief per pale Or and Gules two Lions passant guardant counterchanged.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours upon a Mount Vert charged with two pierced Mullets Argent a Dragon passant Gules resting the dexter fore claw on an Escutcheon per bend sinister Ermine and Ermines a Lion rampant Or.

Motto 'HARDD HAFAN HEDD' - Beautiful Haven of peace.
Granted 14th July 1959, to the Llandudno Urban District Council.

Property of Llandudno Town Council used with permission. Not to be reproduced without permission.

The shield shows the ancient church of St. Tudno on the Great Orme overlooking the sea, represented by the blue and white waves. The two lions from the arms of the Welsh Princes of Gwynedd.
The dragon is that of Wales and supports a shield bearing the arms of the Mostyn family, and the hill on which he stands bears two spur-rowels from the arms of the Bishops of Bangor, who had a Palace on the hill at Gogarth.
The motto is the Welsh version of the phrase used by Queen Elizabeth of Roumania in the year 1890 to describe Llandudno.

ARMS: Barry wavy Argent and Azure on a Pile overall issuing in base Vert a Male Figure representing St. Elli Argent nimbed Or the Church and Palm held in his hands also Or on a Chief Azure an Anchor its ring fracted Gold between two Coils of Tinplate in perspective the edge of the dexter upwards and that of the sinister downwards both proper.
CREST: On a Mural Crown checky Or and Azure with Pennons between the battlements pendant Gules a Dragon statant also Gules the underwing Vert armed also Vert holding up in the dexter paw a Saucepan the handle inwards Gold; Mantled Gules and Vert doubled Argent.

Motto 'CYFOETH CYMDEITHAS: CYMUNED' - A society's weath is its community.
Granted 15th July 1981.

Picture provided by and Copyright of Llanelli Town Council used with permission. Not to be reproduced.

The central figure as in the arms of the former Borough of Llanelli is a representation of St. Elli, from whom the town takes its name. The waves refer to the town's coastal location and the anchor the port. The coils of tinplate refer to one of the town's principal industries.
The dragon represents Wales and the mural crown is a symbol of civic government, it is coloured with gold and blue chequers derived from the arms of the Stepney family. Lady Stafford Howard, was heiress of the late Sir Arthur Stepney and first Mayoress of the former Borough. The saucepan refers to the traditional Welsh folk song "Sosban Fach" (Welsh for "Little Saucepan"), which is closely associated with the rugby union club Llanelli RFC and, more recently, the Scarlets regional rugby side. The association derives from Llanelli's tin plating industry, which used to tin-plate steel saucepans and other kitchen utensils.

ARMS: Or three Lozenges Sable in pale between two Flaunches indented Vert.
CREST: On a Wreath Argent and Vert a demi Dragon issuant Gules supporting a Celtic Cross Or.

Motto 'GORAU GWEITHIO-CYD WEITHIO' - The best service is co-operation.
Granted 4th February 1970, to the Maesteg Urban District Council.

The gold background or field refers to the Maesteg, which means 'fair field'. On either side of the valley in which Maesteg lies are hills and these have been symbolised by the two arcs of a circle, these are green to suggest agriculture and indented to underline the fact that they symbolise hills. The black diamonds are used to symbolise coal; Three are shown on the shield to represent the three collieries, Caerau, Coegnant and St. John's.
The wreath at the base of the crest is of the Welsh colours, silver and green and the Welsh dragon supports a Celtic Cross, symbolising the Church at the head of the Valley. It is fitting that a symbol of the church should dominate not only the valley, but also the Coat of Arms.

ARMS: Azure three Chevronels Or over all a Fesse Gules; the shield ensigned with a Mural Crown of the second.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Lion guardant murally crowned Or and on the sinister side a Heraldic Antelope Argent gorged with a Mural Crown Or.

Motto 'MONEMUS ET MUNIMUS' - We counsel and protect.
Granted 8th August 1946, to the former Monmouth Borough Council.

The arms were associated with the town long before they were officially granted. They appear to be a variation of the arms of the family De Monmouth, which were probably based on those of De Clare. The mural crown represent civic government. The supporters are those of King Henry V, who was born at Monmouth, with mural crowns in substitution for royal crowns, for difference.

ARMS: Per fesse Or and barry wavy Azure and Argent on a Mount Vert in base point a Tower double-towered Gules between two Lymphads issuant from the fesse line Sable flags and pennons per fesse of the third and Vert the sails also Gules charged with a Clarion Gold.
CREST: Out of a Mural Crown Sable a demi Eagle displayed wings inverted Or incensed proper and gorged with a Collar of Steel also proper pendent therefrom an Escutcheon Argent charged with the astronomical sign for Mars also Sable; Mantled Azure doubled Or.
SUPPORTERS On either side a Dragon Gules gorged with an ancient Crown Or pendent therefrom an Escucheon that on the dexter Or three Chevronels Gules that on the sinister quarterly Argent and Gules fretty Or a bendlet Sable.
BADGE: Upon an Oval barry wavy of six Argent and Azure environed of a Steel Hawser proper and ensigned with an ancient Crown Or a Tower as in the Arms.

Motto 'TU NIDAM SERVAS' - You keep your nest (i.e. home).
Granted 20th February 1961, to the Borough of Neath.

The arms are based on the Borough's original seal showing the Castle and ships signifying Neath’s early development as a significant fortified trading port. Here the ships are black to represent the coal trade with the blue and white waves representing the river below. The flags flying from the ships' masts are green and white, the colours of Wales, and the gold clarion on the sails are from the arms of Richard de Granville, Lord of Neath, Constable of the Castle of Neath and founder of Neath Abbey. The red tower on a green base represents the castle on the river bank.
The tower is a reminder of Neath’s fortifications, coloured black to further emphasise coal, whilst the Roman eagle, with its steel collar, breathes flames, representing the heavy metal industry.The symbol of Mars is generally used to represent metal working.
The two red dragons are symbols of Wales and their crowns are a link to the Welsh Princes. The one on the left carries the arms of the de Clare family, Lords of Glamorgan, while the one on the right carries the arms of Hugh de Despenser, Lord of Gower. These families granted early charters to the town.
The motto is a quotation from Horace and can be translated as “Thou guardest Neath” with the Romans using the ancient Celtic “Nid” (a river goddess) to make their name for Neath as “Nidum”.

ARMS: Or six Chevronels Gules within a Bordure quarterly Argent and Azure charged with twelve Martlets those on the Argent of the second and those on the Azure of the field.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours in front of a Castle with three Towers the outer two steepled proper an Anchor Sable.
SUPPORTERS: On the dexter side a Lion Gules charged on the shoul­der with a Portcullis chained Or and on the sinister side a Lion Argent charged on the shoulder with a Tudor Rose each gorged with a Naval Crown Gold

Motto 'UNG NOUS SERVONS' - We serve as one.
Granted 12th September 1950, to the Pembroke Borough Council.

The chevronels are those of Gilbert de Clare, first Earl of Pembroke, while in the border the red martlets on white are from the arms of William de Valence, Earl of Pembroke 1251-96, and the gold martlets on blue are from the arms of Jasper Tudor who was created Earl of Pembroke in 1453.
The castle and anchor stand for Pembroke town and dock.
The red lion is derived from the arms of William the Marshal, who was Earl of Pembroke 1199-1219, and was succeeded in the earldom by his five sons. The white lion is from the heraldry of the Herbert family, who have held the Earldom of Pembroke since 1468. The naval crowns refer to Pembroke Dock, with particular reference to the former Royal Naval Dockyard, and the portcullis and rose are badges of King Henry VII, who was born at Pembroke Castle in 1457.
The motto is a variation of that of the Herbert Earls of Pembroke, Ung je serviray.

ARMS: Per pale Azure and Gules on a Chevron wavy between in chief two Eagles displayed and in base a Lion rampant Argent a Chevron wavy Azure.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours two Dragons' Legs embowed Gules supporting an Anchor erect Or fouled Sable.
BADGE: A fouled Anchor Azure enfiled with a Circlet of ten Escallops conjoined Or.

Motto 'ARF DOETH YW PWYLL' - Reason is the weapon of the wise or The weapon of the wise is care.
Granted Granted 1st March 1965, to the Porthcawl Urban District Council.

Property of Porthcawl Town Council used with permission. Not to be reproduced without permission.

The division of the shield into red and blue and the white lion is derived from the arms of Herbert - anciently and for a long period Lords of the Manor. The two white eagles are taken from the arms of Blundell, at the time of the grant a member of that family was the Lady of the Manor. The white wavy Chevron charged with a wavy blue Chevronel alludes to the "Weare" or Port.
The anchor refers to the Port and "Seaside" character of Porthcawl supported on either side by a dragon's leg - taken from the Red Dragon of Wales.
The Badge includes the anchor which is the emblem hitherto used by the Council - it is coloured blue in reference to the sea. The escallops, again, are an allusion to the seaside character of the resort whither people make pilgrimage in search of health and recreation.

ARMS: Barry wavy of six Azure and Or on a Mount in base Vert a Castle triple towered on a Chief Argent a Rose Gules barbed and seeded between two Sprigs of Oak fructed proper.
CREST: Out of a Circlet Azure charged with three Crescents Or a demi Dragon Gules supporting a Tree Stock raguly in bend proper. Mantled Azure doubled Or.

Motto 'CYNYDDAF A LLAWENYCHAF’ - I grow and I rejoice.
Granted September 2nd 1964, to the Prestatyn Urban District Council. Transferred on December 10th 1975 under the provisions of the local Government Act 1972.

The blue and gold waves represent the sea and sands, and the grassy mound represents the local uplands. The castle is an heraldically stylized one referring to the strongholds that have indicated the strategic position of Prestatyn from pre-Norman days until the late thirteenth century, under the lordship of the Banastres and Crèvecoeurs. For many generations Prestatyn and Meliden were held by the Conwy family now represented by Lord Langford. The red rose is a principle emblem in the Conwy arms, and this appears to commemorate the long association of the that family with the town. The rose is also an obvious allusion to the fame of Prestatyn as the ‘Rose Town of North Wales’ and, with two sprigs of oak referring to the abundant woodlands, especially Coed-yr-Esgob and Coed Bell, suggests the natural amenities which are so characteristic of Prestatyn.
The decorative mantling is in the basic colours of the shield, the blue and gold of the sea and sands. The blue circlet with three gold crescents alludes to the rapid growth of this seaside town, and from it rises a derivative of the device formerly used in the Council’s seal — a tree-trunk supported by the Welsh dragon, shown as he appears in the crest of Clwyd.
The motto is from Seneca’s “Epistulae”.

ARMS: Tenny a Pile barruly wavy Argent and Azure over all a Fish-Weir Sable staked Gules in fess between a Lymphad sail set pennon and flags flying Gules and in base a Salmon naiant proper.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours on a Mount Vert a Dragon sejant Gules supporting a Staff proper flying therefrom a Banner of the Arms.

Motto 'YR HAFAN DÊG AR FIN Y DÔN' - The fair haven at the edge of the waves.
Granted 1st August 1967, to the Rhyl Urban District Council. Transferred by Order made 27th July 1983.

The basic colour of the shield is known as Tenny, derived from the French word Tenné, meaning a tawny colour, and is a direct reference to one of the possible meanings of the name Rhyl, namely a sandbank, and also to the beaches for which the resort is justly famous. The colour is a very rarely used heraldic tincture and the arms have the unique distinction of being the first civic arms in the British Isles to be granted with a Tenny field. The blue and white pile symbolises the sea and port at Rhyl giving access to the River Clwyd. The word "Clwyd" includes amongst its meanings a moveable hurdle or wattle and the River Clwyd is represented by the wattle extending across the shield. The heraldic ship and the salmon in the shield represent the sailing which was popular at the resort and both the fishing industry and the fishing sport of the resort. The colour red has been used in design as a reference to the Principality of Wales.
Another probable meaning of the word "Rhyl" is "hill" or "hillock" and for this reason a green mound has been incorporated above the wreath and on top of which sits the Red Dragon of Wales holding a banner repeating the arms.

ARMS: Or three Cinquefoils Sable on a Chief barry of four Argent and Azure three Martlets two and one Gules.
CREST: On a Wreath Argent and Azure a Lymphad Or the sail Gules charged in base with a Mount Vert thereon a Port between two Towers Or pennon and flags flying Azure each charged with a Fleur-de-Lys Argent.
SUPPORTERS: On either side a Dolphin Or charged with a Roundel gyronny of sixteen Argent and Sable thereon a Mural Crown Or supporting between the fins a Staff Proper flying therefrom a forked Pennon that on the dexter per fess Argent and Azure that on the sinister per fess Argent and Vert; The compartment a Mount issuant from Waves of the Sea proper.

Motto 'THALASSA KLUZEI PANTA TANTHRÓPÓN KAKA' - The sea washes away all the ills of men.
Granted 1st August 1963, to the Tenby Borough Council. Transferred by Order.

Picture provided by and Copyright of Tenby Town Council used with permission. Not to be reproduced.

The shield previously appeared for centuries upon the ancient seal above a stylised castle. The upper half is evidently derived from the arms of the de Valence Earls of Pembroke, who built the castle and walls and gave the earliest charters. The lower half of the shield is believed to be based on the arms of the See of St Davids. The de Valence martlets are shown red upon white and blue bars, and the cinguefoils black upon gold, as in the parent arms.
The crest-wreath is in the de Valence colours of blue and white and the crest itself combines the ship and castle from the two sides of the ancient seal. The white fleur de lys on blue refer to St Mary the Virgin, patron Saint of the Parish.
The two heraldic golden dolphins refer to Tenby's descriptive Welsh name "Dinbych-y-Pysgod", and allude not only to the ancient fishing industry but also to the modern importance of Tenby as a seaside resort. They support pennons bearing the white and blue liveries of the House of Lancaster and the white and green of the House of Tudor, in reference to the Charters of Henry IV and Elizabeth I. The roundels derive from the badge of the Round Table which presented the arms to the town. The gold mural crown set over the black and white background suggests the links between the Round Table and the life of the town.
The motto in Greek, over the door of Laston House (the Tenby Bath House), is from Eurpides "Iphigeneia in Tauris".

ARMS: Per fess Or and Azure in chief a Davy Lamp Sable the Glass proper between two Horological Balance Wheels also Sable and issuant from the base a Mount Vert thereon a Port between two Towers Argent perched on the Battlements of the Port a Nightingale also proper.
CREST: On a Wreath of the Colours a Dragon segreant Gules supporting with the sinister foreclaw and dexter hindclaw a Pick head downwards proper.

Motto 'AMSER YW'N GOLUD' - Time is our wealth.
Granted 9th November 1951, to the Ystradgynlais Rural District Council. No information whether these are officially transferred.

The Davy lamp and pick denote mining, formerly the district's main industry, while the balance-wheels allude to the Anglo-Celtic Watch Co. Ltd., founded in 1946, by Smiths Industries Ltd, Ingersoll Ltd and Vickers Armstrong on the Ynyscedwyn estate on the outskirts of Ystradgynlais. The castle is that of Craig-y-Nos, built beside the River Tawe, it was formerly owned by opera singer Adelina Patti, to whom the nightingale refers. The mount alludes to agriculture and the dragon is of course a national emblem.