THE International Fire and Rescue Association (IFRA) in Dunfermline has reached an historic landmark in their efforts to save lives worldwide.

The charity and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) donated their 100th appliance, named Centurion, recently to the people of Paraguay, where it will begin a new life as a frontline fire engine.

She has been fully restored and equipped and will now make the 6,000-mile journey to be deployed in the rural community of Ybycuí in Paraguay.

It is the 100th appliance IFRA has sent overseas since its formation in 2001.

Director David Kay OBE said: "This appliance will make a massive difference to not only the volunteer firefighters but also the communities she will serve.

"The appliance has been kindly donated by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service who strongly support our activities and work in the 21 countries we are assisting in, and we are proud to carry on the partnership we have in this fantastic manner."

IFRA members welcomed the Paraguayan ambassador, Genaro Vicente Pappalardo, to Scotland on Friday for the official handover on behalf of the National Board of Voluntary Fire Brigades of Paraguay.