Shock at car crash tragedy (From Stroud News and Journal)

Shock at car crash tragedy

TRIBUTE has been paid to a young fitness instructor who died after his car collided with a lorry at a notoriously unsafe road junction.

Robert Brumant (31) of Kingscourt Lane, Rodborough was cut free from his VW Golf at Dunkirk on Friday morning and rushed to Frenchay Hospital where attempts to save his life failed. He was pronounced dead at 8.30pm.

His death has shocked family, friends and clients who knew him as a hard working, softly-spoken fitness fanatic.

"Highly disciplined with an excellent physique, Robert was admired by all and for many patients was a role model in their quest for fitness and health," said Richard Brown, who employed Mr Brumant at The Lansdown Clinic in Stroud until recently.

He said Mr Brumant left the post of rehabilitation supervisor and personal trainer after qualifying as a remedial and sports masseur six weeks ago. He was embarking on a promising freelance career.

"Robert's interest in training became part of his job in 2001 when he began building what became a successful personal training practice at the clinic," said Mr Brown.

"His calm, disciplined approach and uncompromising belief in his client's abilities won him respect and support.

"In addition, these clients were treated to a bizarre range of music within the gym which many had never experienced before.

"He was known to many in Stroud as a softly-spoken fitness fanatic, who worked hard and yet was able to survive on the dance floor with boundless energy until the early hours.

"His passing will be mourned by all who had the pleasure of knowing him."

The accident happened where the A433 and A46 meet at Dunkirk, near the Gloucestershire/ South Gloucestershire border.

The driver of the lorry was seriously injured.

The junction has been the scene of many fatal traffic accidents and last year Coroner Paul Forrest appealed to South Gloucestershire Council to improve road markings there. South Gloucestershire Council last month called for a 50mph speed limit on the A46 at Dunkirk towards Hawkesbury Upton.