A SANDBACH dad is hard in training for an epic challenge - a marathon in Antarctica to help raise money for a Cheshire charity helping his son to live with autism.

Chris Woolnough, 40, is taking part in the 'Ice Marathon' in December running a full 26.2 miles in the coldest place on earth to boost funds for Cheshire Autism Practical Support (CHAPS) in Northwich which supports his seven year-old son Thomas.

The father-of-three, who heads up the UK division of insurance company Assurant which has headquarters in Crewe, wants to show appreciation to the charity by raising £5,000.

Although Chris is no stranger to marathons, he has competed in the Chester and Manchester events just this year, he says running across snow and ice in temperatures of minus 35 will be a true test of endurance.

He said: "Every bit of skin has to be covered to avoid frost bite and it's so cold, sweat turns to ice on the body. You have to wear multiple layers and ski goggles and mask to help protect against the wind chill and even carrying water isn't possible as it turns to ice.

"It will be the toughest thing I have ever done but CHAPS has been a tower of support to my son Thomas and family. It runs training courses for parents and the dedicated swimming and trampolining it offers children really helps Thomas cope with anxiety.

The father-of-three heads up the UK division of insurance company Assurant. (Photo: Jan Roberts)

"One of the biggest issues we deal with as parents is known as 'demand avoidance' when a child flatly refuses to do something such as go to school or on a family outing. The training has helped my wife and I handle these situations and give us all quality time together."

The couple whose children are 11, seven and two, can look forward to attending events together.

Chris added: "As Thomas grows older there are clubs and activities he can enjoy with youngsters his own age. It really is a wonderful charity and I hope I can meet this challenge."

Chris travels the world in his role as UK Managing Director & European Commercial Director for Assurant which insures millions of mobile phones, cars and household valuables and employs more than 400 people on Crewe Business Park.

To prepare him for Antarctica he went running in Finland but was hampered not by the cold but charging reindeer!

He had planned to run a North Pole marathon but issues over Russian flight paths due to the Ukraine war meant runners couldn't get clearance.

He added: "There are 50 people from around the world taking part in the Ice Marathon and I'm one of five Brits so we can support each other.

"There's been a great response to my fundraising so far, from work colleagues and friends and family in the Sandbach area. I hope to do the charity proud and plan other marathons for the cause next year."

Chris's son Thomas. (Photo: Jan Roberts)

Chris will travel to Antarctica, via Chile and Brazil, and will have a few days of preparation before the marathon begins.

There's been support from the Cheshire business community for his effort via LinkedIn.

He also has a fundraising page for anyone who can support the charity HERE