Brother pays tribute to road crash victim

11:17am Friday 4th July 2008

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An aspiring West Norwood model who was tragically killed in a road crash in Clapham Common was an "outgoing and jovial" person, according to his brother.

Former Lambeth College student Ivin John was knocked down by a van in Clapham Common Westside on Friday, June 20, while on the way to meet his girlfriend. He was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

The 21-year-old who lived in Idmiston Road with his family, had just got a contract with a modelling agency, but was pursuing his dream to be an animator, having graduated from a graphic design course at Lambeth College last summer.

His brother Emran, 24, said: "He was funny, he was kind, he was always giving his friends advice. His friends meant a lot to him and he was very, very popular with them."

He said he always wanted to be called "the defined one". He really wanted to make his mark on the world, and he has certainly made a mark on all his friends.

"I have spoken to a lot of his friends, they all said how outgoing and jovial he was. One said he was like a father to him. I'm really proud of him."

Emran said his brother, who came to England from St Lucia with his family eight years ago, had always wanted to be an animator and was a very talented artist, always drawing characters from Winnie the Pooh when he was younger.

The 24-year-old said his brother's tragic death had been a big shock to his family.

He said: "I think i'm still in shock. I don't know how to react to the situation."

"My mum is trying. She has her moments when she cries," she adds. "But Ivin was such a strong and stubborn person. He would have wanted us to be the same."

He said the funeral will be held at the end of the month.

Emran and his family have joined calls from local residents for TfL to step up road safety measures at the scene of the incident.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident. Anyone with information should call 020 8941 9011.