"Mallard" was restored to working order in the 1980s, but has not operated since, apart from hauling some specials between York and Scarborough in July 1986 and a couple of runs between York and Harrogate/Leeds around Easter 1987. There was also the "Postal Pullman" from London Marylebone to Banbury in 1988. The journey had good prior publicity and a large crowd had gathered in the large car park at Kings Sutton station and watched the train go through the station at speed. The train returned to London hauled by a diesel locomotive, while "Mallard", pulling its support coach, went on to Tyseley Locomotive Works. This was related to a special commemorative postage stamp issue.