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Before the Covid-19 pandemic, pupils from Caerphilly’s Lansbury Park estate teamed up with Gwent Police and children’s author Mike Church to pen a story book.

The book, called Llamas, litter picking and the mini police, carries a message encouraging children to ‘do the right thing’.

Written in 2019, the book was officially launched at Van Community Centre last November – and is now available at Caerphilly Library.

The story was written by Mr Church, of Bargoed-based PETRA Publishing, after a number of sessions with pupils at St James Primary School. Its official launch was pushed back due to the pandemic.

The book has now been delivered to Caerphilly Library by pupils involved in the school’s Heddlu Bach (Mini Police) scheme.

The idea for the book was first suggested by Sarah Barbour, a community support officer for the St James ward, which covers Lansbury Park, and PC Anthony Moore.

CSO Barbour said: “The idea was to get the children thinking and talking about their community, and how their actions may affect others.

“The book was a real labour of love and it is fantastic that it will now be available for children across Caerphilly to enjoy.”

Gwent’s police and crime commissioner, Jeff Cuthbert, said: “I am incredibly proud to have instigated the Mini Police scheme. It helps to break down barriers and build trust between children and the police, but also gives children an opportunity to build their confidence and learn new skills.

“I hope that children in Caerphilly read this book and are inspired to join the Mini Police unit at their own schools.”