FIREFIGHTERS demonstrated new state-of-the-art fire and rescue equipment for use in flooding and water rescues on Monday.

Wales’ three fire services have taken delivery of new hi-tech gear, which includes 16 inflatable power boats, a high volume pump as well as water rescue protective clothing.

The specialist equipment is part of an £1.8 million investment by the Welsh Government.

The Cardiff-based body has introduced new duties for fire services to respond to flood and water rescues.

Three of the FC470 four-stroke inflatables were put through their paces on the Menai Strait, at Menai Bridge, on Monday morning and the pump, which can handle 7,000 litres of water a minute, was seen in action pumping seawater at Beaumaris in the afternoon.

The pump will be based at Caernarfon but will be available for use locally and nationwide.

Two of the boats will be stationed at Menai Bridge, with the others at locations across Wales.