From the match programme:-
"Once again the warmest welcome is extended to the Watsonians on their annual Boxing Day visit to the Athletic Grounds this afternoon. The Watsonians' game, the character of which for players and supporters alike never fails to live up to the age old traditions of both clubs, is of great popular appeal and to so many of us an important part of the Christmas celebrations."
"Newport expect to field their strongest side to-day since the opening matches of the season. It is almost certain that Roy Burnett will make his first appearance since illness kept him out of the
side in mid-September. He will be warmly welcomed, and it is eagerly anticipated that his return may welcome ………………………………………. favour in the second half of the season ahead. The old Newport half-back partnership will not yet be renewed, however. Haydn Thomas is playing for the Barbarians at Leicester to-morrow, and it is perhaps unfortunate for Newport that this honour prevents his appearance in to-day's game. Wynford Davies, a most able deputy, is selected to play in his place."
"All who support Newport Rugby will have learnt with the greatest regret that for health reasons Hedley Rowland has had to relinquish his captaincy of the Newport side this season. To his successor, L. E. T. Jones, and his new vice-captain, Ken Jones, full support will be acclaimed from players and spectators alike in the gallant efforts they will make to uphold the traditions of Newport Rugby. In the meantime the greatest pleasure can be expressed at the recovery Hedley has made from his illness, and it will be a pleasant occasion when he may one day again done the Newport jersey."
"The collection this afternoon is in aid of the Restoration Funds for Christchurch and St. John's Churches, burnt down in the recent disastrous fires. No appeal will be necessary to our Supporters to give to this cause as generously as they are able." "This evening the Newport and Watsonians teams will be the guests at a Members' Dance to be held in the Club's Social Centre. Later in the evening they will be joined by the Birkenhead Park team who will travel down from Leicester for tomorrow's game at the Athletic Ground ."
"SUPPORTERS CLUB NEWS"
"After several very pleasant visits where many new friends were made, our travelling supporters look forwad to watching the first XV at home. We extend our good wishes to Roy Burnett on his return, and wish all selected players good fortune in the Final Welsh Trial."
"On Friday, December 30th, the club are staging the second of a series of dances at the G.W.R. Institute, Mill Street. Dancing will be from 7.30 p.m. to 12 toi the music of Ken Wells and his All Star Sextet. If the result of the first dance is any criterion, then this should be a very successful effort, because despite the snow there was a gathering of 200 at our first venture."
"Arrangements are going ahead for the annual dance in February."
"The Supporters' annual outing will be to London for Newport's game against the Wasps on March llth. An outing fund has now started, and subscriptions can be made after any match at the Bowls Pavilion."
"Are you one of the 700 members yet? If not, get your badge at once. A limited quantity only remains."
"Watch this space for further activities."