Wildlife calendar launched in memory of father

Michael Staniforth, who enjoyed birdwatching, died aged 64 from an asbestos-linked cancer

A wildlife calendar has been launched in memory of a man who died from an asbestos-linked cancer to help raise money for a support group.

Michael Staniforth, a former plumber from Sheffield, died aged 64 after being diagnosed mesothelioma.

He was a keen birdwatcher and his daughter, Lisa, said she channelled her grief at his death into travelling the country to take photos of birds for the calendar.

"Dad loved birds and he shared his passion with us all the time. Some of my favourite memories are of him taking me birdwatching as a child," she said.

Money raised from sales of the calendar will be donated to Yorkshire & Humberside Asbestos Support Group (SARAG), which helped Mr Staniforth's family during his illness.

An inquest into his death in 2022 recorded a conclusion of industrial disease, according to solicitors Irwin Mitchell.

Michael's daughter Lisa took up wildlife photography following his death

More than 2,700 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year in the UK, according to the NHS.

Most cases are diagnosed in people aged 75 or older and men are affected more commonly than women.

Mr Staniforth was diagnosed with the disease in April 2021 and died nine months later.

The support group's 2026 calendar features Lisa's photographs

Lisa said she took up wildlife photography after her father died.

She said he had "just loved being outside on walks in the countryside".

"Creating this calendar has been a way to feel close to him and to give back to SARAG, who were a lifeline for our family during the most difficult time of our lives," she said.

Nevyn Stephenson, head of services at SARAG, said: "I think it's a reflection of the support we gave the family and unfortunately in our area because of its industrial heritage, there are still hundreds of people referred to our charity each year."

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