A rather unusual sight was seen on Tuesday when the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service delivered a new fire engine to the residents of Caldey Island.
A large appliance is a permanent requirement on Caldey Island as it provides its own water for firefighting in an area with severely limited water supplies.
With a ferry crossing not possible for such a significant operation, the transportation was undertaken as part of a routine RAF training exercise, thereby keeping the cost of the operation limited to a reasonable figure.
The exercise itself also involved the joint air transportation evaluation unit from RAF Brize Norton, who made arrangements for under-slingling the load from the Penally Range to Caldey Island Fire Station.
Commenting, Clr. Gareth Sullivan, chair of the Mid and West Wales Fire Authority, said: "The fire authority is committed to safer communities and this fire engine is seen as necessary for the people of Caldey, as it is not possible to reach them from the mainland."
Wing Commander, Wyn Evans, RAF regional liaison officer, who co-ordinated the exchange, emphasised the harmonious partnership working between the military and civil authorities.
"Once again the RAF and the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service were able to demonstrate their ability to work together efficiently to the benefit of the communities they serve."
Here are some things you did not know about firefighting on Caldey Island:
• Caldey Island is a private estate owned and run by the Monastery.
• The first fire engine went over to Caldey in 1986. At that time the monks were responsible for running the fire brigade there.
• There are no hydrants on the island.
• The Monastery was severely damaged by fire in 1940.
• Caldey Island can expect to receive some 2,000 visitors during peak seasonal periods.
• The risks on the island include factories, farm buildings, churches and the grade 2 listed Abbey, amongst other monastic properties.
• There are 35 residents on the island, which include men, women and children, ranging in age from eight years to 90 years.
• Sub Officer Frank Miller, the fire officer in charge at Caldey Island, is also the manager of Caldey's chocolate factory!