A MILITARY charity has partnered with a best-selling book to carry on the legacy of the late author.

Benedict's Brother, written by Northallerton author Tricia Walker and soon to become a film, tells the story of a young woman, Benedict, whose late uncle leaves a request for her to scatter his ashes from the River Kwai in Thailand.

Without previously knowing of his past ordeal, she goes on to discover that he was a former Japanese prisoner-of-war in World War II and forced to work on the railway.

Sales of Benedict’s Brother aim to support SSAFA’s work with the Armed Forces community, increase knowledge about this chapter of Britain’s military history in schools and to lift the gagging order on all soldiers involved in the conflict in Japan – whilst keeping the memory of Ms Walker alive.

For every copy of Benedict’s Brother sold, a donation of £3 will be made to SSAFA – with an overall target of £42,000 being set to help SSAFA support the military community.

Mike Curry, managing director of Benedict’s Appeal said: "Tricia wanted to show her appreciation to all of those who have served our country and still do, and their families who sometimes have to bear even greater suffering long afterwards.

"It was a project close to her heart and we are proud to continue her legacy with this new partnership with the oldest tri-Force military charity."

Rebecca Keaveney at SSAFA said: "We are honoured to be involved with Benedict’s Brother. It is an important tool in opening up discussion about a conflict shrouded in secrecy."