Carrying D5557 as its first number, the locomotive was initially allocated to the Ipswich Engine Shed before moving to a great many others across the country. Given the number 31139 under TOPS, upgraded to Class 31/4 specification in 1984, re-numbered again to 31438.The storied locomotive's final reallocation to Crewe occurred in 1988, with another re-numbering to 31538 in 1993 following modifications, with the locomotive remaining in BR service until 1995. The locomotive was chosen for preservation and is currently located at the Epping Ongar Railway numbered 31438.