MCDONALD’S workers are set to bust a gut when they run a series of obstacle courses to raise money for a little boy with a brain cancer.

Four-year-old Mitchell Matthews was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year and will be in out of hospital.

His aunt, Carly McDonald, 26, has rallied her colleagues at Newhaven McDonald’s to support Ronald McDonald House, a charity which provides accommodation for parents at children’s hospitals.

Ronald McDonald House allows parents to stay for as long as their child is receiving treatment at a cost of £25 for any length of time.

Mitchell’s parents spent four nights at the specialist cancer hospital the Royal Marsden in London and will rely on the service again as he continues treatment.

The restaurant workers hope to raise more than £2,000 for the charity by getting through the Rough Runner and Whole Hog races, obstacle courses similar to TV’s Total Wipeout or Gladiators, in May.

Ms McDonald said: “Mitchell was diagnosed last year, just before his third birthday.

“When he was in hospital recently for a week, his parents stayed in the Ronald McDonald House at the hospital.

“He’ll be in and out for more treatment, but it’s made easier knowing his family can be near him.

“He’s been really brave and he recovered quickly from his first operation.”

The team are also hoping to raise money through a tea/coffee day in March.

Business manager May Krasnicka, 32, said there are no fitness worries and competition has added some spice to the event.

She said: “The Rough Runners are doing some intense training, a bit more training than I plan to do.

“It’s a cause that’s touched a lot of our hearts.”

Donations can be made at http://www.justgiving.com/teams/NewhavenMcsquad.