A founding member of ELO has been killed after his van was crushed by a bale of hay.

Mike Edwards, who played cello in the band, was driving along a road in Halwell, Devon on Friday when the incident happened.

Police believe the 600kg bale fell from a tractor in a nearby field and then rolled onto the road.

The 62-year-old collided with another vehicle as he swerved to avoid the bale. The other driver was not hurt, reports BBC News.

Police identified Edwards using photographs and YouTube footage, and have launched an appeal for help contacting his family.

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

Edwards was a member of ELO from 1972-1975. The Birmingham band's hits include 'Xanadu' and 'Roll Over Beethoven'.

(by Jason Gregory)