140 diesel shunters were built by Drewry (but subcontracted to Vulcan Foundry) and Robert Stephenson & Hawthorn between 1952 and 1962. Later, these would be designated Class 04 under the 1971 TOPS system and the fleet originally totalled 142.

At 30.5 tons weight, the class could be used on lines with severe weight limitations. They were used for general shunting and pilot duties and saw service on the Eastern, North Eastern and Southern Regions. The first four locomotives were fitted with running gear protection (side skirts) and cow catchers to enable them to operate on the Wisbech & Upwell Tramway and other former LNER lines with on-street running.

All were withdrawn from the national network between 1968 and 1972, many being sold on for industrial use. 18 of the class have been preserved as useful shunting engines on heritage lines and two remain in industrial use in Italy.