In a heartbreaking incident, a local man has lost his life in a freak accident while displaying his support for his beloved football club. Paul Lumber, a 61-year-old painter and decorator from Bedminster, Bristol, passed away after falling from a ladder while attempting to tie a Union Jack flag to a lamppost near his home.
The inquest held at Avon Coroner’s Court heard that on the evening of November 22nd last year, Lumber had been drinking alcohol after watching a Bristol City football match. He then decided to go out and attach flags around the neighbourhood, a common practice among local fans. Tragically, as he was working on a ladder, he lost his balance and fell, sustaining severe head injuries, including a skull fracture.
Paramedics were called to the scene, and Lumber was rushed to Southmead Hospital, where he underwent two operations. Sadly, the extensive trauma proved too much, and he succumbed to his injuries on December 6th.
Coroner Dr Simon Fox KC recorded a conclusion of accidental death, noting that Lumber’s consumption of alcohol had contributed to the tragic incident. In a statement, Coroner’s officer Andrew Eastwood relayed that Lumber’s wife, Michelle, had informed him her husband “had been to watch Bristol City play football and had consumed several alcoholic drinks” before the accident.
Lumber, a well-known fan of Bristol City FC, had authored two books about his experiences with football hooliganism, titled “It All Kicked Off In Bristol.” His passion for the sport and his community was evident, and his untimely passing has left a deep void among his loved ones and fellow supporters.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of safety and caution, even when engaging in seemingly harmless activities. The community of Bristol has lost a beloved figure, and our thoughts are with Lumber’s family and friends during this difficult time.