A science fiction author will donate all the royalties from his book to charity.

Author Steven Pemberton, of Station Road, Borehamwood, decided to make the donation after his book was selected to be part of a series of novels.

The 44-year-old was asked if he would consider allowing his novel Escape Velocity to be included as part of the 'Fates of Worlds' ebooks box set, which features seven full-length science fiction novels.

All proceedings from sales of the collection will be donated to US literary charity, Reading Is Fundamental.

The charity, which is based in Washington and is the US’s largest and oldest literary organisation, aims to motivate children to read by making the experience a fun and beneficial part of everyday life.

Mr Pemberton said: "It was an honour to be asked to contribute to the box set, and an easy decision to say yes. Reading is a vital skill for everyone, and if you don't master it in childhood, it's hard to catch up later.

“As an author, I'm delighted to support a programme that helps children to enjoy reading and gain skill and confidence in it."