Coat of arms of the London Borough of Barnet

Coat of arms of the London Borough of Barnet

The Coat of Arms of the London Borough of Barnet is the official heraldic symbol of the London Borough of Barnet. It was granted on 1st September 1965, shortly after the borough was created on 1st April 1965 by the amalgamation of the former boroughs of Hendon and Finchley, along with the urban districts of Barnet and East Barnet, as part of the creation of Greater London.

Design and Symbolism

The coat of arms is rich in symbolism, reflecting the history, geography, and aspirations of the borough.

Escutcheon

The escutcheon (shield) is divided into two main parts. The upper half shows a black background with two crossed swords, taken from the arms of the Diocese of London, indicating the borough's historical association with the Church of London. The lower half is green, symbolizing the green fields and parks within the borough. A series of gold and black pallets (vertical bars) are depicted at the base of the shield, representing the ancient Watling Street, a Roman road that runs through the borough.

Crest

Above the shield, the crest features a rising phoenix, symbolizing the rebirth and growth of the area, especially after the destruction experienced during World War II. The phoenix emerges from a mural crown, a common heraldic symbol for local government, which in this case is colored gold to signify excellence and high standards.

Supporters

On either side of the shield stand two supporters: a stag and a bull. The stag is derived from the former Hendon coat of arms and represents the rural parts of the borough. The bull comes from the Finchley arms, symbolizing agriculture, which was historically significant in the area.

Motto

The motto of the London Borough of Barnet is "Unitas Effortium" which translates to "Unity of Efforts". This motto encapsulates the spirit of cooperation and collective progress that characterizes the borough.

Usage

The coat of arms is used in official documents, on the borough's properties, and in ceremonies to represent the authority and identity of the London Borough of Barnet. It serves as a visual symbol of the area's heritage and values.

Legal Status

As with all coats of arms in the United Kingdom, the coat of arms of the London Borough of Barnet is protected by law. Its use is strictly controlled and requires permission from the borough council to ensure it is used appropriately and to maintain its significance and dignity.