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2426 was purchased by SVR(H) in 1972 for use as volunteer dormitory accommodation. It was initially used for that purpose at [[Bridgnorth]] before moving to [[Hampton Loade]] in 1988, where it continued in that role until mid-2016. It was then moved into storage at [[Kidderminster]] pending overhaul, with its place at Hampton Loade being taken temporarily by [[GWR 55 Riding/Dormitory Van | GWR Riding Van 55]] until fitting out of volunteer accommodation in the station building was completed.
Ownership of 2426 has been transferred to the [[Great Western (SVR) Assoc. | The Great Western (SVR) Association]]. For a few years it will become the [[The LNER Carriage Group|LNER Carriage Group's]] workshop, replacing [[GWR 9581 Wheelchair accessible Buffet Car]] (formerly 5043 Full Third) while the Association restores [[GWR 4786 Full Third]].
The Association's long-term aim is to restore it to its original condition and to this end parts are being made and drawings are slowly being found to aid restoration. In March 2017 2426 spent a few weeks in the siding on [[Sandbourne Viaduct]] at [[Bewdley]] before moving into [[Bewdley Down Yard]] for conservation work including frame, body panel and window repairs for which occasional updates are issued on the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1802133566694120 GW(SVR)A Facebook page]. Work carried out in early 2019 included making new coving for the corridor and both the new distant switch and regulator cupboard.<ref>GW(SVR)A Newsletter, Summer 2019</ref> Summer 2021 saw only one upper panel remaining to be bedded in mastic<ref>[https://www.facebook.com/groups/1802133566694120 Price, G. J., GW(SVR)A Facebook post, 17 June 2021] (Retrieved 10 August 2021)</ref>.
