Changes

80969 arrived on the SVR at Bewdley in on 6 April 1973, having been privately purchased by a member of the Great Western (SVR) Association. It was initially painted in BR all-blue livery and used as the General Manager’s office.<ref>SVR News 28</ref><ref name=SB9/> By 1977 ownership has been assumed by another private individual. 80969 then received an overhaul in summer 1978. The interior was stripped and re-varnished, while the plumbing and gas cooker were also overhauled. The exterior was repainted into Hawksworth era Chocolate and Cream livery and new carpets were fitted, with the overhaul being completed just in time for a return to service as an Observation Car in the September 1978 Enthusiasts weekend.<ref>SVR News 48-49</ref>