Class 15 Preservation Society
The Class 15 Preservation Society is a registered UK charity (no. 293828) dedicated to the preservation and operation of British Rail Class 15 diesel locomotives. Its primary focus is the restoration of D8233, the sole surviving Class 15 locomotive, which it owns and maintains.

History
The society in its current form was established in 2005, though its roots trace to earlier preservation efforts. D8233, built in 1957 by the Clayton Equipment Company, was rescued from potential scrapping through decades of volunteer work. Key figures such as Simon Altham (involved for over 30 years) and Chris Baily (project lead during its reactivation) played pivotal roles in securing the locomotive’s survival, including its relocation from Crewe Heritage Centre and the replacement of its original Paxman engine with a functional V16 unit.

Operations
The society undertakes mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic restoration of D8233, addressing components such as traction motors (geared to 15/67 ratios for later batch locomotives) and sourcing compatible parts from historical stocks, including motors acquired from the Irish Traction Group. Governance includes an annual general meeting, with recent leadership changes following the departure of longstanding committee members.

Objectives
Registered objectives include restoring, exhibiting, and operating Class 15 locomotives for public benefit, emphasizing their historical significance within Britain’s railway heritage. The charity relies on membership contributions, donations, and volunteer labor to advance its preservation goals.

[1] http://www.d8233.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/293828 [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/293828/full-print [4] http://www.d8233.org.uk/about.htm [5] https://www.cfps.co.uk/about