ELO cellist killed by hay bale

A founding member of rock group Electric Light Orchestra was killed when a giant bale of hay tumbled down a hill and crashed on to his van.

Cellist Mike Edwards, 62, died on Friday afternoon after the 600kg bale careered down the side of a steep Devonshire field before it smashed through a hedge and on to the road.

Police are investigating whether the bale may have fallen from a tractor working on farmland next to the A381 in Halwell, near Totnes.

They believe the musician was killed after the loose bale gathered momentum as it rolled down the hill before landing on the front cab of his white van.

He is understood to have swerved into another van as he was struck, at around 12.30pm. The second driver was unhurt.

Sgt Steve Walker of the Devon and Cornwall traffic police, said: "This was a tragic accident and we have now identified the victim as Michael Edwards, a founder member of ELO.

"We have used photographs and YouTube footage to identify him but we now need help contacting his family for formal identification.

"We don't believe he was ever married and we have identified an ex-girlfriend but she is currently abroad."
Officers were hoping to contact a man named David in the Yorkshire area who is believed to be Mr Edward's brother.

The musician is understood to have no immediate family but may have taught cello in Devon.

Police, who are liaising with the Heath and Safety Executive, have asked his students to contact them if they have any further information about his relations.