Tributes to Midlands driver killed by tree fall

A man who was killed when his car was crushed by a falling tree uprooted by high winds was a much-loved musician, friends said today.

He has been named as married father-of-two Steve Cutler.

The 51-year-old was travelling on the A458 Bridgnorth Road, Stourton, near Stourbridge, when the tree hit his Mercedes Vaneo.

Mr Cutler, of Kinver, worked at Frontline Tools on Brettell Lane in Amblecote and performed on the lead guitar and vocals in band The Picture.

He leaves wife Alison and two sons, Alex and Jack, who were both in their 20s.

Speaking at his family home on Hillboro Rise, family friend Jenny Darby said: "He was loved and our best friend. Alison was his life."

The road was closed for five-and-a-half hours following the crash near the junction with Hyde Lane at 11.30pm on Thursday .

Forecasters predict the strong winds were likely to remain strong today but will subside tomorrow before returning on Monday.