A man, who died after trying to move a tree caught in power lines, has been named as Roger Winston Hayward, 71, from Bremhill, Calne.

The incident in which he died occurred yesterday off Bencroft Hill, between Bremhill and Stanley.

It is believed Mr Hayward tried to move a fallen tree, which had also brought down power cables, when he was electrocuted.

Wiltshire Police were called at just after 3.10pm to initial reports of the fallen tree.

While police were on the way, at around 3.20pm, they were called again on 999 with reports of a man injured at the scene.

The ambulance service also attended but Mr Hayward was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed and formal identification has taken place.

Wiltshire Air Ambulance also attended in a rapid response vehicle but were unable to fly the helicopter because the weather was so severe.

A spokesman for Southern Electric Power Distribution said: “Yesterday we were, unfortunately, made aware of a fatality in the Bremhill area of Wiltshire.

“We were called to site and made the situation safe and although we cannot speculate on the cause we can say the police were on site with our team. We will continue to assist the police with their enquiries.”

Police Inspector Nick Mawson said: “Our thoughts are with Roger’s family at this difficult time. We cannot imagine how they must be feeling having lost him so suddenly.

"I would like to remind the public to be extremely careful with any fallen trees, particularly if power lines are involved.

"Please call 999 so that we can come and secure the area, and with the help of partners make it safe to remove any debris.

"The public should be careful not to underestimate the threats to safety that this weather brings, whether this is moving a fallen tree or driving through a flood.

"It is imperative that the public take the right precautions and do not take any risks that might threaten their safety.”

A local investigation is underway by Wiltshire Police to prepare a file for the coroner.