Clifford Davies died 11 months after being diagnosed with mesothelioma
The family of a Birkenhead man who died after developing an asbestos-related cancer is appealing to his former colleagues at Freeman Hardy & Willis for information on how he may have been exposed to asbestos.
Clifford Davies died aged 64, 11 months after being diagnosed with mesothelioma - a cancer associated with asbestos exposure that affects the lining of the lungs.
He worked for Freeman Hardy Willis, later known as the British Shoe Corporation, from 1976 to 1992. During the 16 years he worked there, his roles included being a sales manager at stores in Birkenhead, Widnes, Old Swan in Liverpool and Liverpool’s Church Street.
His brother, Douglas, said: “If anyone has information that can confirm how my brother was exposed to asbestos, please get in touch as soon as you can. Your information could be the missing piece of the puzzle we need to get some answers on how my brother was exposed to asbestos.”

Clifford Davies, left, with his family
The family believe there was asbestos insulation in the basement where Clifford spent significant time during the course of his employment collecting and organising shoes. The asbestos would have been disturbed during refurbishments and repairs.
“It is important we trace Clifford’s co-workers and obtain the information the family needs to progress his case. Compensation will never make up for their loss, but it is important to them that his previous employers are held accountable.”Paula Wrigley Asbestos specialist, Thompsons Solicitors
Paula Wrigley, who is representing Mr Davies’ family in an asbestos disease claim, said: “Asbestos-related disease is expected to cause thousands more deaths a year and is already considered the biggest industrial killer of all time.
“It is important we trace Clifford’s co-workers and obtain the information the family needs to progress his case. Compensation will never make up for their loss, but it is important to them that his previous employers are held accountable.”
If anyone has information about the working conditions or refurbishment carried out at Freeman Hardy and Willis, then British Shoe Corporation, please contact Paula Wrigley as a matter of urgency on 0151 224 1608 or email PaulaWrigley@thompsons.law.co.uk.
Asbestos disease diagnosis? Talk to us for advice and support on how to secure compensation.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we can support you with advice on how to make a claim.
The process will be explained in plain English and with no obligation – our priority is to provide you with the best, expert advice on whether you have a valid case for compensation, and to signpost you to further sources of support.
There are strict time limits applied to making a claim – usually three years from the date of diagnosis. It doesn’t matter if the exposure to asbestos took place – as it often does – decades ago, the three year time limit applies to the date of knowledge of diagnosis or date of death.
For further information, visit our How to Make A Compensation Claim page.