|
|
|
|
Hopes for a return to service of four locomotives awaiting power units at Doncaster in 1979 soared in September when 55016 (D9016) "GORDON HIGHLANDER" was released having been out of service since January of the same year. The three remaining locomotives looked certain to be repaired when 55004 (D9004) "QUEEN'S OWN HIGHLANDER" was moved into the paintshop for drying out on 26th October. Here 55004 shares the paintshop with the frames of a brand new class 56 locomotive on the day of its move from the works yard. 55004 had been present awaiting repairs since the 28th April 1978 and because of problems with 55016, now back in service, following 'quick repairs' it was decided to dry out all 55004's electrics before work could begin...
|
|
...55004 dries out in Doncaster Works paintshop on Friday 26th October 1979. During a Deltic Preservation Society meeting on the following day it was announced that 55004 would finally re-enter service and that 55001 (D9001) "ST. PADDY" (works since 24th March 1978) and 55020 (D9020) "NIMBUS" (26th April 1978) would have repairs sanctioned. 55004 was released from works on 29th November 1979 but by this time it had been realized that repairs to the two remaining locomotives would be too costly. 55001 and 55020 were condemned in December 1979 and officially withdrawn in early January 1980 - they were broken up in January and February 1980.
