Heritage Traction Preservation has confirmed that they have purchased Class 143 units, No. 143601 and 143616.

Heritage Traction Preservation was set up to acquire and safeguard historically significant traction that may be lost.

Their aim is to see them actively used, enjoyed by the public and work with partners to ensure a longer future in use.

Both units are currently based at the Tanat Valley Light Railway and were recently put up for sale.

However, HTP are now the owner of both units, and we have spoken with the group about early plans for the units.

It has been confirmed that both units will be kept at the Tanat Valley Light Railway in Shropshire.

Discussions are ongoing with other railways regarding new long-term arrangements, but nothing is fully confirmed yet.

143601 is the pioneer Class 143 and was one of the first units to operate on the mainline, as well as being the very last to operate.

The group says that they are keen to reflect their earlier years, with a potential return to a more retro appearance, but this is being kept under wraps for the time being.

Moving on to 143616, a previous colour scheme is being considered as well, but may reflect the post-privatisation era.

Both units are currently operational. ‘616 is fully serviceable, whilst ‘601 has a battery issue but is thought to be straightforward to fix.

Once the necessary work has been completed, both units will return to full passenger service at their new home, wherever that may be.