These coaches were built by the Great Western Railway in 1937 as part of lot 1575 to Collett design diagram C.74.
 

1285 at Buckfastleigh April 2003 - awaiting repair	1295 on service train at Buckfastleigh April 2003

When complete they will form part of the Great Western train with 6515,  Hawksworth "Composite" 2180, Full Brake 276 , Hawksworth First/Third Brake 7377 and 9111 (King George).

  The SDR Carriage & Wagon Department are currently concentrating their efforts on the restoration of Great Western Collett 'Excursion' coach No.1295 of 1937 which will form the third GWR coach for the regular train set. Completion is expected in time for the 2001 season.
    To date the wooden frame has been repaired, the bodyside panels have been renewed where necessary, new windows provided and fitted and internal wiring has been replaced. Work is ongoing on repair and replacement of the interior art deco style panelling, refurbishment of the seat ends and general internal fitments. Ceiling panels are being renewed and new plumbing is needed for both toilets. The roof water tanks have also needed repair. New upholstery is being manufactured by British Furco in Halifax to an original GW pattern. The pictures show progress to early October.
 
 

Update: 18 November 2000
The South Devon Railway's Carriage and Wagon Department have been pressing on with work on Collett excursion coach 1295. The exterior has now received its chocolate and cream livery. Inside the ceiling is back up after re-wiring of the electrics, art-deco panels have been restored, repaired and replaced where necessary. The seating frames are now going back and await the newly reupholstred seat cushions and backs. It is planned to reinstate the long removed arm rests and also the missing tables which are believed to be in store on the Paignton and Dartmouth Railway from whom the carriage was purchased in 1992.  Re-entry into traffic is planned for the 2001 season.