Meston was born in Arbroath and started his career with his local team, Arbroath Victoria before signing as a professional with Stoke in January 1894. Meston spent two seasons at the Victoria Ground making thirteen appearances scoring four goals. At the end of the 1894–95 season, he joined Southampton, together with several other Stoke players and soon proved to be one of the most valuable players signed for the Saints in their Southern League days. His trademark hard shots were nicknamed Long Toms after a cannon used during the Boer War and elsewhere.
