Ark Royal was the first 50 to be preserved, and at the time it looked likely that very few of these complex machines would survive into preservation. It was moved initially to St Leonards where the initial restoration work and start-up was carried out.

Subsequently, the loco was moved by road to our new home at the Severn Valley Railway, where further work was undertaken before the loco could enter traffic.
The loco has been a popular performer at the SVR, and has visited other railways for special events.