The night air was crisp, and a quiet darkness had settled over the neighborhood. Paul Lumber, a man known for his passionate displays of patriotism, had ventured out with a ladder and a roll of flags.
He’d spent the evening cheering on his beloved Bristol City FC, a tradition that fueled his spirit. Returning home, he’d quietly retrieved his work ladder from the van, a familiar tool for expressing his unwavering devotion.
His intention was simple: to adorn the lampposts with the St. George’s and Union Jack flags, a vibrant tribute to his country. But tragedy struck swiftly and silently. Neighbors reported a sudden, sharp bang that shattered the stillness.
Emergency services arrived to find Paul Lumber lying injured on the ground, his ladder fallen beside him. A Union flag, partially secured, fluttered from a nearby lamppost – a poignant symbol of his final act.
Paramedics worked tirelessly, but the injuries were devastating. A CT scan revealed extensive head trauma, including a fractured skull. Despite two emergency operations, Paul succumbed to his injuries.
The coroner’s report confirmed the cause of death as a traumatic brain injury sustained from a fall. It was determined that alcohol consumption had been a factor, impairing his judgment as he worked in the darkness.
His wife, Michelle, recounted a heartbreaking scene. She’d heard the sirens and rushed outside to find her husband receiving emergency care, the scene illuminated by flashing lights.
Paul Lumber wasn’t just a devoted fan; he was a storyteller. He’d penned two books, “It All Kicked Off In Bristol,” offering a raw and honest look into the world of football hooliganism – a life he’d lived and chronicled with unflinching detail.
Friends remembered him as a man whose world revolved around those he loved, a dedicated supporter of both Bristol City and England. His passion was legendary, his loyalty unwavering.
The inquest concluded with the family expressing their satisfaction with the care provided. Though grief-stricken, they found solace in knowing everything possible had been done.
The neighborhood mourned the loss of a familiar face, a man who always found a way to express his pride and passion. The flags he’d so carefully raised now stood as a silent, heartbreaking memorial.
