TATA Chemicals Europe employee Dave Flood is taking on a “hellish” challenge to raise money for a charity close to his heart.

Dave’s niece Sophia Flood was diagnosed with a rare degenerative disorder last year, and has been given a life expectancy of about 12 years of age.

Dave, from Castle, has signed up for Hell Up North, 13 miles of trail running at Delamere Forest Park, to raise money for Amy and Friends, which supports children with Cockayne’s Syndrome.

Cockayne’s Syndrome is characterised by growth failure, impaired development of the nervous system and premature ageing.

Amy and Friends provides equipment for children and young adults, holds an annual fun day out and a weekend retreat for families.

Sophia, aged three, lives in Castle, and Dave is taking part in the run because of the help the charity has given Sophia’s family.

“The charity has helped my brother’s family and Sophia loads, and I wanted to give something back,” said Dave, who works at Tata’s Lostock site.

He will be running with Andrew Maddock, from Lostock, who also works at the Lostock site, and Dave has raised £656 towards his target of £1,500.

His company is also supporting the charity by organising a car boot sale during the same month for the organisation.

Hell Up North Is regarded as the toughest half-marathon in the UK, takes place on Saturday, October 17, and consists of tracks and trails, water-filled areas and steep hills.

Two weeks earlier, on Sunday, October 4, there will be a car boot sale on the rear car park at Natrium House in Winnington Avenue, Northwich, and Guardian readers are invited to have a clear-out to support the event.

“It’s time to let go of that Lego, relinquish those roller skates and off-load those old odds and ends,” said Tata communications manager Richard Redman.

“Following the success of last year’s sale we are hosting an even bigger event in October, so it’s a great opportunity to clear some space in your house for a good cause.”

Buyers at the car boot sale, which starts at 8am, will park in the overspill car park, and will be asked for a £2 donation when they enter. The event is expected to last until about lunchtime.

“If anyone would like to get involved and sell their stuff we are offering an early bird price of £5 per pitch,” said Richard.

“This offer will run until September 10, after which the price will still represent great value at £10 - not a bad price to clear out that loft or wardrobe, and probably even make a nice profit.”

To secure your place at the car boot sale email tcereception@tatachemicals.com.

Dave and Andrew Maddock took part in Hell Up North in 2013, and Dave has set up a just giving page online in honour of Sophie and Amy and Friends - justgiving.com/David-FLood4.