The Gloucester RCW Cross Country sets appear to have been associated with the Bristol-Weymouth workings from their introduction. However, their use was widespread throughout the old Western Region and on services in the Midlands sourced by Tyseley Depot. There are photographs of a set on the Bromyard branch and on the Cambrian coast line, for example. Shortly after their introduction, sets were transferred from Cardiff to work the outer suburban services to Oxford. These were as 7 car sets, with the addition of Hawksworth composites adapted to run as DMU trailers. As all three preserved vehicles were late in the production sequence, it is possible that they were amongst those transferred.

Exeter St. Davids, with 51107 leading. April 1975. Robert Frise Collection.

Sets worked over most of the Western Region, notable early use being the last passenger train over the Plympton branch. Minehead, Calne and Bridport branches that have since closed were also served by the sets, which also covered main line services in company with the Swindon Cross Country sets.