STORYBOOK Dads, the charity that helps imprisoned parents keep in touch with their children, has published its first book — with illustrations contributed by pupils at Princetown Primary School.

'Tales From Beyond the Walls' is an anthology of children's stories written by imprisoned mothers and fathers, grandfathers and uncles from all over the UK.

It is the result of collaboration between Storybook Dads, based in Dartmoor Prison, and the Writers in Prison Foundation — both charities encourage prisoners to explore their creativity and improve their skills as a means of rehabilitation.

The stories are connected to the writers' need to show the child that they are cared for.

They reflect the familiar themes of a youngster's life: magic, animals, friends, bullies, fear of the unknown.

Many reflect a subtle message of moral integrity that could read as the writers' desire to remind their sons and daughters not to repeat their mistakes.

Sharon Berry, chief executive and founder of Storybook Dads, said: 'We are really pleased that we have our first book published.

'This is a great way for the imprisoned parents to show the talents they have got.'

The book has taken almost eight months of hard work to complete and is available from Storybook Dads' website http://www.storybookdads.org.uk">www.storybookdads.org.uk and will be available from Amazon towards the end of January.

All proceeds will go towards helping prisoners keep in touch with their children.

Around 25 children from Princetown school's Buzzard Class, from years 4 to 6, were involved.

Headteacher of the school Alison Hirst said: 'We were approached by the prison to see if we would be involved in the project, and we were happy to be involved.

'The children heard the stories and did some illustrations to go with them.'

Andy McNab, author and former SAS soldier, said: 'Improving literacy changes lives — this is a simple truth.

'Writing these stories has given prisoners the chance to engage with their children and encourage them to read.

'It's the most important thing they can do to help their children to succeed. These stories are funny and heart-warming, and definitely worth reading.'