Suggestions from Rose and Rosie that the K-like cane might be a symbol of some kind has prompted several internet searches. These have lead into varied and diverse fields - e.g. zodiac, alchemy, heiroglyphs, runes, the Mayan alphabet, tattoo symbols(!) - but all to no avail. I'll keep an eye out and also pursue the Murano and ALT leads from Alan and 'alpha' respectively.
Many thanks to all who have contributed to the hunt.
Peter