friend of mine just asked some advice and I know nothing.
Is there any difference between racks for a road bike or "proper" bike? It is an older road bike he's got not sure if it has any mounting points (if they are needed?)

You don't necessarily need mounting points as you can get these clips which clip onto the frame and you bolt the pannier rack to the clips. I would just go for something reasonable like Topeak or something but he'll have to see what racks fit his bike and it'll also depend on type of bag he wants to carry. Best to tell him just to go into LBS and see what they recommend.

Ortlieb panniers and Blackburn rack here. I've (literally) toured the length and breadth of the country, and this combo has never given me any problems.

Tubus are far superior quality to other racks – at a far greater price. More stable and stronger

Chances are it will have rack mounting eyelets. Check the frame, there should be some small threaded holes on the seat stay and the rear droputs.

Madison do a very reasonable rip-off version of Tubus/Nitto racks. It's heavy but very sturdy. Only really necessary if you're planning to carry lots and lots of weight.

http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/src/froogle/product-Madison-Madison-Summit-Stainless-Steel-Rear-Cycle-Pannier-Rack-15297.htm

Ortlieb panniers are great. Altura Dryline panniers are a bit cheaper and fix really securely – you can even go off-road with them with minimal issues.

http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/src/froogle/product-Altura-Altura-Dryline-Large-Capacity-Rear-panniers-Grey–Black-13896.htm