Introduction
Several preservation groups were formed prior to the demise of the class. Early examples were stripped by British Rail (BR) for components to keep the remaining class members running and were unsuitable for preservation. Clearance for their sale to these groups came when BR was satisfied that there was no risk from asbestos. As these locomotives had been very popular with enthusiasts, a good number were saved from the cutter's torch.
Two members of the class, 50044 Exeter and 50049 Defiance, are fully-preserved and registered for use on the national mainline. The remaining members usually in running order but not mainline-certified: 50007 Sir Edward Elgar, 50008 Thunderer, 50015 Valiant, 50019 Ramillies, 50026 Indomitable, 50027 Lion, 50031 Hood, 50035 Ark Royal and 50042 Triumph can be seen at various preserved railways across the country.
Class 50s
from the