Head of practice Clive Garner is championed by sources as a lawyer "at the very top of his game," and whose involvement on behalf of [claimants] is seen as the "kiss of death for defendants." Garner has acted on securing millions of pounds in damages for illnesses and injuries suffered abroad in 90 mass class actions over the past year.
Chambers and Partners Directory (2007)
Discovery Bay Hotel
Irwin Mitchell represented a mother and her 15 year old son in their claim against tour operator Thomas Cook following a disastrous holiday at the Discovery Bay Hotel in Barbados in July 2004.
As a result of the inadequate food hygiene standards at the hotel, the mother fell ill with gastric symptoms including acute diarrhoea, abdominal pain and nausea. She was so ill that she needed to see the hotel doctor and also her own GP on return home. She continues to suffer sporadic episodes of diarrhoea and stomach cramps. Her son did not suffer any illness but he did have to care his mother and so his holiday was also ruined.
The holidaymakers also had many quality complaints about the hotel, which appeared to be neglected and poorly maintained. Despite paying extra for an upgrade to the best room in the hotel, they found the room to be very basic with worn and shabby furniture, and with sewage smells coming from the bathroom. Service at meal times was very slow, with food being left out uncovered for long periods of time. Hot food was not kept hot and there was no refrigeration for cold food.
Thomas Cook admitted liability and, following negotiations, Irwin Mitchell was able to achieve a total settlement award of £13,000. Thomas Cook also agreed to pay our clients’ legal costs.
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I was very pleased to received my settlement cheque and was delighted with the amount I received. I was very pleased with the service that was provided at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors and wish to pass on my personal thanks.
Sharon Tomilinson, Lancashire