From the match programme:-
"Club Notes"
"The news of the early retirement of the 'Flying Farmer' due to his injured knee, sees the departure of one of the crowds favourites from Rodney Parade. Ken Davies was very popular with the supporters, as they proved a season ago by naming him as their "Player of the Season". During his first team career in a Black and Amber jersey, Ken scored 111 tries in 216 games. Who will ever forget his try versus Cardiff, when we won the Cup? He toured America and South Africa with the Club and played on many occasions for Gwent. On behalf of your many fans Ken, we say "thanks for the memory"."
"One player leaves and a new one arrives in the person of centre three-quarter Peter Holland, who has joined us from Tredegar. A former Cardiff player, Peter joined the Tredegar Club a few seasons ago and has given them tremendous service both as a centre and as a goal kicker. He is the present points record holder with over 300 points last season. Although he will obviously have to prove his worth in the centre, our present goal kicking record must bring him to the minds of the Selectors."
"Following our forward displays during our last two matches, the Selectors must be aware that we have only three games, including today's before we meet the All Blacks. The backs have been starved of 'good ball' to play with, and this is unfortunate, for they showed in Cardiff what they can do even with limited ball."
"Congratulations must be extended to Robert Ackerman on his selection as substitute for Wales 'B' today, let's hope he will have the opportunity of displaying his talent."
"Welcome to Rodney Parade"
"This afternoon we extend a very warm Rodney Parade welcome to our oldest opponents from that foreign country - the other side of the Severn Bridge. Only last season our two clubs celebrated the Centenary of matches between the Red and Blacks and the Black and Ambers at the Rectory Field, Blackheath. The home side winning a very exciting game."
"Formed in 1858, 'the Club' are very aware of the traditions that have kept the Red and Blacks to the fore front as far as London and English rugby. But like ourselves they have gone through a lean period during recent years and last season finishing bottom of the London Merit Table. It is certain that their most capped player C. N. Lowe, who wore the All White jersey emblazoned with the red rose, 25 times, would disapprove of this state of affairs."
"Full-back Ian Williamson, who captained 'the Club' last season, is a very talented player who has caused the Black and Ambers many heart aches. It is certain that he will be striving to achieve one of 'the Clubs' rare victories at Rodney Parade and giving his new captain Peter Bullock every support and help."
"Last Saturday 'the Club' were defeated at home by 22 pts. to 12 pts. by one of their London rivals Wasps. So like ourselves they will be looking to improve their form and this should provide a game worthy of such long standing rivals."
"Welcome Blackheath, may today see the start of another long history of fixtures between our two clubs."