A FARM worker died when the tractor he was driving overturned while he was ploughing a field at Great Witley.

David Phillips, 58, died while working on the tractor in a field near Witley Court at Witley Park Farm, Worcester Road on Monday at about 6.35pm.

Describing Mr Phillips of Upper Strand Cottages, Dunley, as a "dedicated" employee, the co-owner of the 1600-acre farm Alan Pain said Mr Phillips was a "highly experienced" farm worker of some 35 years and well used to driving tractors.

Mr Pain said: "Mr Phillips has worked for us for over 30 years and was like one of the family. He will be sorely missed by us."

He added: "He was a good family man, dedicated to his job and irreplaceable.

"We are extremely upset and my thoughts are with Mr Phillips' wife."

In a statement Mr Phillips' family described the married, father of three and grandfather as "devoted to his family, hard working and very loyal". He had lived locally all his life, they added.

The tragic scene of the upturned tractor had been discovered by Jim Pain, Alan Pain's father, and his uncle, Pat, on Monday evening while carrying out their nightly routine of checking the farm's stock and workmen.

Firefighters from Stourport and Kidderminster had attended the scene, along with a specialist fire brigade support unit from Droitwich, and were involved in stabilising the tractor and recovering the body. Police were also in attendance.

An investigation is now being carried out by South Worcestershire Police and the Health and Safety Executive.

An inquest is expected to open and be adjourned tomorrow.