The Deltic Preservation Society (DPS) was founded in 1977 following the entry into service of the Class 43 High Speed Train. A group of Class 55 enthusiasts made the decision to join together to ensure that a working locomotive was kept running, forming the DPS to raise funds to this end. By 1982, when the Class 55 was withdrawn, the Society numbered over 1,500, with the result that it was able to purchase two locomotives, D9009/55009 (Alycidon) and D9019/55019 (Royal Highland Fusilier), from British Rail.
The Deltic Preservation Society (DPS) was established in 1977 following the introduction of the Class 43 High Speed Train. A group of Class 55 enthusiasts came together to preserve a working locomotive, forming the DPS to raise funds for this purpose. By 1982, when the Class 55 was withdrawn, the Society had grown to over 1,500 members, enabling it to purchase two locomotives.