At the 2003 Reunion it was agreed that a fitting memorial should be placed within the Yangtze Grove at the National Memorial Arboretum, in memory of those who had lost their lives aboard HMS London in April 1949. The membership of the London Association dug deep in to their pockets and by the end of August sufficient funds were in place for a new stone.

As a matter of courtesy Chairman John Parker advised the other ships Associations of our intentions regarding a new  stone and immediately both the Amethyst and Black Swan Associations indicated that they were keen to be involved. John Dunstan (Black Swan), Stewart Hett (Amethyst) and John Parker then set about trying to find a suitable stone mason who could have the stone ready for the end of April 2004.

For a number of months all three Associations were actively involved in deciding the design and wording of the new stone. Once the Arboretum had agreed the design was suitable the order was placed and lots of fingers crossed that the stone mason would be able to meet our deadline of Sunday 25th April.

In anticipation of the dedication of the new stone both the London and Black Swan Associations planned their 2004 reunions within easy reach of Alrewas, London's in Coventry and Black Swan's in Derby. By 1 pm upward of 150 shipmates and guests were assembled for the Dedication of the new Memorial Stone.

Much thanks are extended to John Parker, John Dunstan and Stewart Hett for all their hard work that ensured the stone was manufactured, engraved and in place for the Dedication Ceremony on the planned date.