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DALMELLINGTON'S PROUD HERITAGE
DISPLAYED IN NEW SHIELD
The people of Dalmellington have decided on the design for a new shield that reflects the proud heritage and exciting history of their community.
The shield was the idea of Councillor Robert Taylor, who challenged pupils at Doon Academy to carry out the initial research and designs as an educational exercise. The pupils came up with a design that was put out to local consultation. From the comments generated at this stage, the design was further refined by Rhona Arosi, Senior Graphic
Designer with East Ayrshire Council. Following further consultations, a final design was agreed that incorporates:
Tree: Forestry.
Black Diamond: Coal.
Arctic Char: A rare fish found in Loch Doon.
Musical Notes: Dalmellington Silver Band.
Mash and Pick: An old symbol that is carved in stone above
the entrance to Dalmellington Co-op.
The Shield: The shape of this is associated with
the "old marriage stone".
Motto: "It well recalls the triumphs past".
This is taken from the miners memorial.
Councillor Taylor said: "I am delighted with the final design, as it reflects the varied and fascinating history of the community of Dalmellington. It is now my intention to get a flag made and have a formal dedication ceremony in the village that will allow the whole
community to thank all of the people involved in turning my initial idea into a reality.
A number of people have asked why I wanted to pursue this idea. My answer is simply that following the demise of the coal industry, a void has been left in the community, and it has proved very difficult to fill. My idea for a Dalmellington shield is one element of the various initiatives that people in the village are coming up with to keep the heart of the village alive and to strengthen our sense of community. We have a long and proud heritage, and as we approach the new millennium, we must not lose our sense of identity. Dalmellington folk, wherever they are in the world, now have a shield that reflects the place of their birth."
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