TREE sculptor Andy Burgess is branching out with his first marathon challenge.

Andy, 44, from Mobberley, is taking part in this year’s London Marathon to raise money for Genetic Disorders UK.

Andy, a member of Run Knutsford, is stepping up to the full marathon after taking part in the Wilmslow Half Marathon two years ago, and is also entering this year’s event.

Andy said: “I’m doing all I can to raise as much money as possible for an extremely worthy cause - Genetic Disorders UK.

“Early in 2014 my very good friends Andy and Suzie were given the news that their then four-year-old daughter Ava had an extremely rare genetic disorder, MDP Syndrome.

“Andy and Suzie were helped hugely by The University of Exeter and the genetics team at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

“It is estimated that one in 25 children are affected by a genetic disorder. This means that in the UK 30,000 babies and children are newly diagnosed each year.

“The charity I am supporting - Genetic Disorders UK - is amazing in raising money to support children and their families across the full spectrum of disorders.”

Andy has raised £990 towards his target of £2,500, and anyone who would like to support him can donate at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AndyBurgess4