Vincent Perera

Vincent joined the ground staff in 1958. Ranis, the bell ringer, quite seriously told me that he would not fit in, because " he was wearing shoes".
                         But following the good example set by Wilbert, Vincent served the school with great acceptance till he resigned in 1985, after a period of 27 years.
                         His family lived about 25 miles away, but he seldom took leave of absence. He was dependable, courteous, thorough in his work, and absolutely efficent.
                         One incident about his integrity is recalled. When the School wanted to purchase a set of balls for practice, he made available 24 Kookaburra balls used in the previous season.( Most ground boys used to sell used balls for a few rupees).
                         Cricketers who knew him were full of praise for Vincent. Men of his caliber are a rare commodity today.

E. Dissanayake
from the 125th Anniversary commemorative souvenir- 1999 

Wilbert

Wilbert joined ground staff of Wesley in 1920, he was only 15 years old. He served the school devotedly for 48 years, when he retired because of feeble health. He passed away on the 23rd of April 1968.
                    Wesleyites had the highest regard for Wilbert. He had a good knowledge of the game. Very often the team that was selected by the school, was the same that he himself had in mind. Umpires who came to campbell park did not have to double check the markings of the wicket. Wilbert's measurements were always accurate.
                    Wilbert had great faith in Wesley. The old boys rallied around splendidly to launch a fund for his family. The principal, Mr. P. H. Nonis, and the secretary of the OBU Mr. J.G.P. Wickramanayake were of great help to him.
                    Wilbert's devoting to duty, loyalty, integrity, sense of responsibility and quiet efficiency were the hall mark of his character.

E. Dissanayake
from the 125th Anniversary commemorative souvenir- 1999
( Part of the article )