STAFF at a Cheshire Oaks food store were joined by a teenage girl with a rare premature ageing disorder to kick start their latest fundraising campaign.

Marks & Spencer Simply Food based at the Coliseum Retail Park, are supporting Amy & Friends, a charity founded by the family of 17-year-old Amy Garton-Hughes from Wallasey.

Amy was diagnosed with the rare condition, Cockayne Syndrome, three years ago.

Her family decided to set up Amy & Friends to help other sufferers and their families.

As part of M&S’ 125th anniversary celebrations this summer, the Port store is aiming to raise £2,000 for the charity in 125 days between May and September.

During that period staff will take part in a sponsored slimathon, and aim to lose a total of 125lbs in 125 days.

The store’s charity co-ordinator Kerry Zema will also be sponsored by friends, family and colleagues to give up smoking for a minimum of 125 days.

She said: “The team here is really pulling together to raise funds for this very worthwhile cause. We’ve all been really touched by Amy’s story.

“As well as the slimathon, we’re also organising a number of fundraising events including quiz nights and race nights and a sponsored bike ride in June.”

Amy’s mum Jayne Hughes said: “When Amy was diagnosed we didn’t know of anyone else in the world with this condition and that was a very isolating experience for all of the family.

“Without donations from individuals and companies like M&S, there would be no opportunity for those living with Cockayne Syndrome to meet other sufferers, siblings and families with this condition and benefit from our network of support.”