Grammar Curmudgeons .... Kindly explain the correct usage of the past tense of spell

[Twiglett]

spelled / spelt

brian seems to have keeled over in the night

I thank you

I think they are both correct. Though spelled is more amercian.

does brian often help you with your spelling?

What was "brian" doing with you in the night?

isn't it funny when you get asked a question like this with 2 alternatives, you start questioning yourself.

I'd say spelt

when brian recovers he might agree spelt is right - but spelled is ok too I think.

OED says 'spelled or spelt (chiefly Brit.)'

so either is correct but 'spelled' is more likely to be accepted in an international context.

so they are both alternative spellings of the past participle of to spell

as in

I spelt that wrong
I spelled that wrong

is that right?

but 'spelt' is British