A cotoneaster would fit the bill. There are evergreen and deciduous forms,
plain green or (a few) variegated, spring flowers followed by autumn
berries. I have several forms, all in heavy clay; they seem tolerant of the
clay and either sun or shade. Good for wildlife, too.
Mahonias, Hollies and Berberis will all cope, too, if you don't mind the
spines.
If you want large leaves, try Fatsia japonica.
Spider
Ray wrote in message
...
....a medium sized shrub with year round interest to go into a semi
shade/shady position which also suffers from a clay soil. Impossible ask?

TIA

Ray