ELO cellist killed by freak hay bale accident

A former member of rock group Electric Light Orchestra was killed when a giant bale of hay tumbled down a hill and crashed onto his van, police said Sunday.

Cellist Mike Edwards died after the 600-kilogramme bale careered down a steep field before smashing through a hedge and onto the road in Devon, southwest England.

The 62-year-old died instantly in the accident Friday.

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

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

Edwards played on the group's early albums.

Newspapers reported that the cellist was known for his bizarre costumes and eccentric style, which included playing his strings with fruit.

ELO have sold more than 50 million records worldwide.