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Coroner Rules Bristol Man’s Ladder Fall While Tying Union Flag Was Accidental

The hearing recorded a traumatic brain injury caused by a night-time fall after alcohol consumption.

Overview

  • Paul John Lumber, 61, fell on November 22 on Duckmoor Road in South Bristol while fixing a Union Jack to a lamppost and died on December 6 at Southmead Hospital.
  • CT scans showed a skull fracture and extensive head injuries, and surgeons operated twice before his condition deteriorated.
  • Evidence at Avon Coroner’s Court said he had returned from a Bristol City match after several drinks, collected his work ladder, and left to put up flags.
  • Neighbours reported a loud bang, found him beside his ladder, and paramedic notes recorded he had gone out to hang flags around the neighbourhood.
  • Coverage notes he helped run a ‘Raise the Colours’ fundraiser that drew over £1,000 for Union and St George flags, and his family raised no concerns about his care.