A ‘MUCH loved’ son and husband died instantly after a tree fell on his car a coroner has heard today.

The inquest, held at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court today, heard how David Hoyle, 48, of Crondall, was driving in his silver Citroen Xsara Picasso on the A287 between Rye Common and Ewshot on Tuesday, June 6, when a tree fell on his car, killing him instantly.

The inquest heard how Mr Hoyle was driving in stormy weather, when a cherry tree fell on to the vehicle, causing Mr Hoyle to suffer severe head trauma and fractured skull.

Recording a verdict of accidental death, North East Hampshire coroner Andrew Bradley said: “He did not drive into the tree it fell on top of him.

“David was crushed by the tree and he died instantly.”

A statement from Mr Hoyle's family said: “The family would like to thank the coroner Mr Bradley for the way he conducted the inquest into David’s death.”

A full report of the inquest will be in this week’s Gazette