fire fighters who might one day find themselves in need.

Businessman Peter Green, who runs the Mitchell empire, has sent a $10,000 thank-you to the Fire Service for their speedy response to a fire at his home in January.

Senator Col. David Burch revealed the donation -- which was made to the Fireman's Benevolent Fund -- during yesterday's Senate session.

Col. Burch told The Royal Gazette the donation was made for "the good work that the firemen did''.

The Fire Service was notified of a blaze at Mr. Green's home by a neighbour.

The call came on the morning of January 24. Fire Service personnel were transported to the island by Marine Police and had the blaze under control within one hour.

The speedy Fire Service response stopped the blaze from reaching the home's library and drawing room which housed many valuable first editions and chairs which had been used in the Queen's Coronation.

Mr. Green also owns a significant art collection, although many of his most valuable pieces were not in the home at the time.

Two bedrooms were destroyed in the blaze and antique furniture, tapestries and paintings were also lost.

Last night Chief Fire Officer Reginald Rawlins said the Fireman's Benevolent Fund often received donations from people grateful for Fire Service assistance.

"We often get thank you cards and sometimes they include a cheque, so it's not that unusual,'' he said.

The amount of the donation was a little unusual, he admitted, "but people tend to give what they can''.

Mr. Rawlins said that the Benevolent Fund is a very old fund which dates back to when firefighters were primarily volunteers.

The fund is used to assist fire fighters who may be injured or fall into hard times, he said.

Mr. Green was off the Island last night and could not be reached for comment.