We had a 143 donated by Porterbrook, for a nominal fee which I was paying to cover admin costs. Initially we were going for 603, but changed that to 621. Unfortunately covid hit our revenues so hard, that despite the donation, the transport costs to the Swindon and Cricklade would have meant something else suffering, so had to turn down the offer. Glad to hear another group has stepped up.
Yes the 2+3 HSTs are being formed and diagrams have been published. It is a temporary solution to cover services with short platforms and enable the 143s to go in the absence of the 769s.
The last 143 is getting a B exam today, 143619. Following the cessation of use, all reusable components such as GSMR, CCTV, etc. will be stripped out and away they go. At least two are on scrap / damaged wheels so may have to go by road.
From what the recipients have said publicly they have 143611 (current spares donor on small wheels) and 143612 which had a bit of meat left on the wheels a month ago.