Walk of Champions to take a hike?
By Tim O?Connell
With such a large number of events celebrating Petone?s rich history planned in 2009, one of the village?s most prestigious honours could be put aside in favour of other heritage projects. A regional heritage promotion in June as well as plans to hold a centenary for the Old Jackson Street Police Station and Jail has prompted local heritage organisations to consider their project priorities for the months ahead. One of the projects slated for postponement is the Petone Walk of Champions, which has annually celebrated local sports achievers in plaque form. ?It looks like we might have to give it a miss this year,? said Roy Hewson of the Petone Historical Society. While many locals will be disappointed to not have a new batch of Petone sports stars on the Jackson Street pavement, Mr Hewson says he is looking forward to having a strong list of nominees to choose from in 2010. ?It?s not so bad if we miss this year, because next year Riki Flutey becomes eligible for it-we might even have him back in town for it.? Now plying his trade in Europe with French Club Brive, and as a regular member of the England Rugby squad, Flutey made a name for himself in the Petone senior team for many seasons as well as a handful of appearances for both the Wellington Lions and the Hurricanes. Meanwhile, the Historical Society is still looking for people to assist with the running of the Petone Jail during the weekend. Concerns had previously been raised about a lack of volunteers to man the building during the historic building?s busiest times. While Volunteer Hutt has come to the rescue to fill some gaps, Mr Hewson says there is still a need for more amateur jailers to cope with visitor numbers.
