I am quite sure it hasn’t escaped notice but it intrigues me that the Petone Rugby Club, in addition to many other ‘firsts’, enjoys a special claim to a unique achievement.

I doubt if any Rugby club anywhere in New Zealand can match such a rare instance, I refer of course to the fact both Les Everson and his wife Marie, are both Life Members of the club.

Their contribution to the club over many seasons has been substantial.

Les chatting to a visitor at last year's Old Timers' Day.

Les of course was a member of the very successful Petone sides of the 1950’s, when games against Victoria University would attract attendances of 8,000 at the Petone Recreation Ground or massive crowds of in excess of 20,000 at Athletic Park.

He played numerously for the Wellington ‘B’ representative sides and his senior Petone career extended from 1952 until 1961 and over 100 games.

His work then took him to Auckland for many years but returned to Petone in 1978.

Marie sadly widowed at that time then became Secretary of the club in 1980. Les by then was again involved as well.

Marie going into the shop to help yet another club member.

It was an inspired decision that the two decided to travel to Wales to attend the Welsh Centenary Test against the All Blacks during 1980 and marry soon after their return home.

Marie continued as Club Secretary with Les on the Management committee for many years, Les also serving on the Wellington Rugby Union Committee for some time.

All these years later both still donate a mammoth amount of their time to the welfare of the club. Their commitment to a great variety of duties impressive.

Les, forever cheerful, Marie charming and especially helpful, are people who give of their time well beyond the call of duty.

Again, I think it is doubtful if their uniqueness is equalled anywhere else in New Zealand club rugby.

Currently this club is interviewing on film Petone Rugby identities for the archives and I reckon it would be most appropriate to interview the Everson’s together in bed.