A SQUADRON of Sunderland flying boats was flown in by Penfro Modellers to welcome the newest arrival at Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre.

The newcomer is an exquisite 1:72 scale diecast model of a famous Sunderland - made by the Corgi company.

Corgi’s parent company, Hornby, has generously donated one of the new limited edition Sunderland models for display at the Heritage Centre.

It depicts Sunderland serial number EJ134 of 461 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, which had a very special connection with RAF Station Pembroke Dock.

In June 1943 EJ134 successfully fought off waves of attacks by eight German Junkers Ju88 fighters in an hour-long battle over the Bay of Biscay.

The Sunderland’s gunners inflicted considerable damage and claimed at least three Junkers shot down.

Riddled with bullet holes the Sunderland managed to reach the south west coast and force-landed at Praa Sands in Cornwall.

The one crew member killed, Pilot Officer Ted Miles, is buried in Pembroke Dock’s Military Cemetery.

Penfro Modellers members brought along their own Sunderlands to greet Corgi’s EJ134.

Many Penfro Model Club members are Sunderland Trust volunteers, running the Heritage Centre, where EJ134’s epic story is told.

The Penfro Model Club meet every third Wednesday of the month at the Heritage Centre at 7pm. For further information see www.penfromodelclub.co.uk or call 01646 680270.