TOP tips to survive psychometric tests and start a career in the armed forces are the subjects of a new book by a Middlewich author.

Bernice Walmsley, of Paddock View, has had eight of her books published since she started writing just four years ago and her latest offering, Succeed at Psychometric Testing - The Armed Forces Entry Level, aims to help people through this initial intimidating step.

The 53-year-old said: "The score from the tests decides the range of occupations the armed forces can offer you.

"They're very straightforward and you just need to apply yourself, but they can be quite intimidating.

"This book is about getting people to realise what the tests are about and how they should tackle them."

As part of her research Bernice, who fought her way back from breast cancer two years ago, endured a test at the army recruitment office in Chester.

She said: "I enjoyed taking the test but mine was just a fact-finding mission.

"I went back to the recruitment office and gave a copy of the book to the officer who supervised my test.

"He was absolutely thrilled to bits because so many people ask them for help and ask how they can prepare better for tests.

"This will give them a bit more advice and help."