A founding member of rock group Electric Light Orchestra has been killed after a giant bale of hay tumbled down a hill and crashed onto his van.

Cellist Mike Edwards died after the 600-kilogram bale careered down a steep field, smashed through a hedge and onto the road in Devon, south-west England.

The 62-year-old died instantly.

"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."

ELO have sold more than 50 million records worldwide.

- AFP