Came across an interesting website today
www.fleurdelis.com which offers an
alternative explanation of the unofficial coat of arms.
It is probable that cats are used as a pun on Cattley, however the cat is
used on shields to symbolise liberty, vigilance, forecast and courage.
The anchor as well as possibly symbolising a link to the sea or shipping,
can mean hope or religious steadfastness
As to the motto, if it is T'Espere, then this is Spanish, and would mean
something along the lines of 'Waiting for you'
The phrase may be linked more narrowly to Valencian which would be an
interesting thought to follow up.
If the T is actually a J then the motto would read J'Espere which is French
for 'I hope'
Hope could therefore be a key theme to the coat of arms.
--
Jenna Catley
Research Student
Institute for Law, Politics and Justice
Keele University
Staffordshire
ST5 5BG
01782 638881