A DAD is raising funds for an outdoor play area for young patients at Warrington Hospital to thank staff for treating his son.

Aaron Prendergast has severe epilepsy which causes him to have 15-20 seizures a day.

The seven-year-old has been regularly admitted to the children’s ward over the past three years.

After his first seizure in August 2013, he went on to have more than 1,000 fits the following year.

Dad Mark is hoping to raise £1,000 towards the hospital’s £100,000 Making Waves campaign to create a nautical themed play area where young patients from Halton and Warrington can have fun.

“With the help we’ve had I just wanted to give a little bit back,” said Mark from Lowton.

“The hospital has been outstanding and I can’t fault any of them.

The 44-year-old is tackling a Tough Mudder challenge in September.

He added: “The play area will make a big difference – older kids want to go outdoors and have a kickabout.

“Kids get bored very easily and want to get out and get some fresh air and get a bit of an escape, especially kids who are in the hospital long term.

Helen Higginson, charity fundraising manager at Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted to have Mark on board fundraising for our Making Waves campaign for a new children’s outdoor area on the paediatric ward.

“We wish him well on his first Tough Mudder – we have every confidence that he will smash it.

“It’s always amazing when people want to get involved and help us change the hospital environment, especially for our younger patients so we ask you all to dig deep and help Mark reach his goal to help us improve our play area for your children.”

To donate go to justgiving.com/fundraising/Mark-Prendergast