Trevor Hayter, Bryan Nelson and Jim Moran

 

"Life Service" is what it's all about for three very devoted and talented Hawke's Bay signwriters, Bryan Nelson, Trevor Hayter and Jim Moran.  They were awarded at a special presentation in September of 2001 for their extraordinary dedication to signwriting in Hawke's Bay. "It's a Life Service recognition.  It is signwriters saying thanks to those signwriters for being around for so long and doing all the wonderful things for people in Hawke's Bay", says organiser of the event, Joe Atkin. The trio are near retirement and were invited out for the special presentation with their families to celebrate their 'life service' to the community.  There was a light lunch, a brief history of their work and "Oops" stories, telling of a few mishaps that occured during their career. Bryan Nelson is well known for "Bryan J Nelson Signwriters" but his career didn't start there....  It took a five year apprenticeship starting in 1950 with Walker and Little to get him as good as he is now.  Straight after completing his apprenticeship he went into business for himself, trading in the toilet block of the old RSA dance hall, which was about eight foot square - he started off small alright! Trevor Hayter on the other hand started his career in signwriting in 1952 as an adult apprentice with Smith Signs.  He eventually formed his own business, which in 1964 became Hayter and Flemming Signs.  Mr Hayter was encouraged to paint and now his work can be spotted in art galleries around New Zealand.  You may also be familiar with his magnificent artwork in Ahuriri. Jim Moran kicked off his apprenticeship with Gordon Spurdle of Spurdle Bros. Signs in 1937.  Jim went off to war and on returning became a partner in Spurdle Bros, which was later changed to Spurdle and Moran Signs in 1960.  After Gordon Spurdle retired in 1973 two lads - Ross McKee and Brent Cullen joined Jim to form SM Signs. It is obvious why these men are receiving a 'life service' award, so thank you for your hard work, dedication and..... life service.

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