Sherman Firefly in Italy

[Larry Hayward]

Can anyone confirm which versions of the Sherman Firefly were used by the British & Commonwealth Armies in Italy?

I have heard that the 2nd Armoured Brigade used the M4 Hybrid 1C (late production M4 with cast front hull) but what other units had the Firefly in Italy.

On a similar note did the Sherman IIC Firefly really exist, as some people I have corresponded with say that they have never seen a 17 pdr Firefly on a cast hull M4A1. I can't say I have either despite many references saying it did exist.

So in to put them in order of most common first should it be - Sherman VC (M4A4) then Sherman Hybrid IC (late version M4)and then Sherman IVC (M4A3) ?