The family of Diane Clements, a former Marks & Spencer (M&S) shop assistant, believe that exposure to asbestos during her 30-year tenure at the Hereford store may have caused the mesothelioma that claimed her life.
Diane, diagnosed last May with mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure, sadly died just three months later at the age of 74. Having worked at the Hereford branch since 1966—initially when it was Greenland’s before M&S acquired it in 1968—her children are now pursuing legal action to investigate the possible link between her illness and her working environment.
Christopher Clements, Diane’s son, described her as a vibrant and active woman who had never experienced breathing issues and was a lifelong non-smoker. “Mum was incredibly active, walking up to 17,000 steps a day not long before her diagnosis," he said. The family was shocked by the terminal diagnosis and deeply affected by her rapid health decline.
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The family suspects asbestos exposure during Diane’s years at M&S, especially since the store underwent a major refurbishment and extension a few years after her retirement in 2005, during which asbestos-containing ceiling tiles were removed. They are appealing to anyone who worked alongside Diane or has information about the store’s conditions to come forward and assist their investigation.
Mesothelioma typically appears decades after asbestos exposure and most commonly affects the lining of the lungs. Diane’s symptoms initially mimicked gastrointestinal issues before fluid buildup in her lungs prompted further tests that confirmed the diagnosis.
Stephen Fitzwalter, an asbestos-related disease specialist lawyer from Irwin Mitchell representing the family, emphasized that while asbestos exposure is often associated with heavy industry, it was also commonly found in public buildings, including retail stores. He said, “The reconfiguration of retail spaces over the years meant asbestos materials were frequently disturbed or removed, raising significant exposure risks.”
M&S released a statement affirming that all their stores are safe environments for staff and customers, with rigorous asbestos management protocols in place to ensure safety.
As Diane’s family seeks justice and answers, they hope their story will raise awareness about the potential dangers of asbestos exposure in unexpected workplaces and encourage others with relevant information to support their legal case.