A BOOK series dreamt up by an RAF Benson officer will be piloted to help improve children's mental health.

Pupils at RAF Benson Community Primary School were among the first to flick through the Cloud Nine books, written to help children face challenges of growing up in a military family.

Meg Wickett, community development officer at the air base, came up with the original idea for the books.

She said: "I have worked with RAF families for a number of years so I know the difficulties they face.

"I think these books are unique and much-needed.

"There is nothing else like them out there to help youngsters in this way."

The books were commissioned by welfare charity the RAF Benevolent Fund.

According to research recited by the charity, more than half of military parents believed a military lifestyle had a negative impact on their children.

It is hoped the four books, each aimed at a different age range, will encourage emotional resilience.

The first is fictional and aimed at children aged four-seven, and reflects a story that readers might experience themselves.

The subsequent three are non-fiction guides, including one for parents.

Alison Wyman, head of welfare programmes and development at RAF Benevolent Fund, said: "Having stood side-by-side with the RAF Family for 100 years, we know too well the challenges they face.

"These books are designed to be picked up and put down as and when life gets a little tough and extra support is needed.

"It is our hope that the techniques and tools found within the Cloud Nine series will instil in RAF children, young people and their parents, positive mental health habits to take into adulthood."

Former Countdown co-host Carol Vorderman, who wrote the foreword for the teenagers' book said: "Promoting positive role models and healthy attitude for young people is something close to my heart, particularly for those who have an RAF background.

"I know they will find this useful as they navigate life growing up in an RAF family and become the successful, positive young adult they want to be."

The books were written and illustrated by The Big Happiness Experiment.

Founder Jules Mitchell said: "We truly believe they will have a positive impact on mental health and emotional wellbeing of RAF children and families."

As well as Benson, the books will be piloted at RAF bases in Brize Norton, Honington and Odiham.