‘Workmanship is mighty good’ says U.S. spokesman

One of a group of such vessels being built in the United Kingdom for NATO nations under the United States off-shore procurement plan, the 106-ft inshore minesweeper Stedham was launched from the Bideford yards of Messrs. M.W. Blackmore and Sons after having been christened by the Mayoress of Bideford Mrs D.F.B. Stucley.

H.M.S. Stedham is one of the largest vessels to be built above Bideford bridge since 1868 was later taken through the fourth arch from the east end of the bridge and towed to Appledore for fitting out.

Gazette article 14 January 1955