TWO men with a total of 101 years' service have been honoured by Maryport rugby club.

Alan Jackson joined Maryport Amateur Rugby League Club 51 years ago and “newcomer” George Huddart one year later.

Together they are known as George and Midge.

Among their presentations on Saturday night, the pair were given replicas of the jerseys they wore when they joined the club.

They also had a surprise “appearance” by rugby league legends Paul Sculthorpe and Wayne ‘Wagga’ Godwin, who sent video messages of congratulations.

The presentation was given by Spencer Ivison who related some of their history – as told by the men themselves.

The men joined what was then the Maryport Biritish Legion club, one of the founding clubs in the northern rugby football union in Cumberland.

They were part of a very successful Maryport team in the1970s, winning the league unbeaten in 1974.

In 1976 a fall out with the legion resulted in the team being locked out of the field. George and Midge were both involved in knocking down part of a 6ft wall to gain access to the Mealpot Road field and changing rooms.

The team then moved socially to the Top Tap and changed its name to Maryport ARLFC.

Plans were then made to build a new clubhouse and both George and Midge played their part in helping with the build, which was completed in 1978.

The pair played on until the 1980s and have continued to support the club both socially and wherever needed.

George Huddart became known as Honest George for his fairness as a linesman. He served as secretary and chairman while Midge was “the tightest, meanest” treasurer for many years.

They have also both been supporters and instrumental in promoting the social side of the club, being instrumental in organising darts and dominoes.

They were regular supporters of the frequent Saturday night entertainment and even had their own seats. The men are both honorary life members of the club to which they have contributed so much.