Around 1952, Somerville brothers were making K Shoes at Kendal but were running out of expansion room. It was decided to open a new factory in Askam in Furness. Building begun in 1955 on a site near to Askam Railway. An existing building on the site, called York House was repaired and adapted to make a Closing Room. Initially hoping to employ 40 or 50 people the factory expanded and within a few years became a large operation employing more than 600 people.

It is thought that a building on the Factory site was used as a place for staff to consume their own food etc. and also as a leasure facility (Clarification of this would be welcome)

This building eventually became the K. Shoes Sports and Social Club.

This club was run by a Committee of Members overseen by a selected body called the K Shoes Sorts and Social Club Association. Factory Workers became Members by having subscriptions taken from their wages and The Factory Contributed to the club depending on the number of members contributing. Non workers could become Social Members by paying a fee decided on by the Committee.

In 1980 a company called 'Ward White' made an Unwelcomed Take-Over Attempt which eventually ended with a merger with C & J Clark. When C & J Clark made the decision to close the Askam Factory the Committee of K Shoes Sports & Social Club engaged in regular discussions regarding the future of the club. Various option were suggested but eventually the Club was purchased outright, with assistance from The Clark Foundation Trust and became

DUDDON SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB