Tributes have been paid to a popular musician who died when hit by a tractor while walking down a busy city centre road in the morning rush hour.
Accident details
Local musician and dad Nathan Smith, 45, was hit by the tractor on a busy city centre road in Cliffe Vale, Stoke-on-Trent last Wednesday at 8.20am. West Midlands Ambulance Service and Midlands Air Ambulance also attended the scene but Staffordshire Police said the pedestrian was taken to hospital by ambulance and was pronounced dead a short time later.
Now the family of Nathan, of Hartshill, Staffordshire, have paid tribute to the bass player, who starred in a number of local bands.
Family tribute
His family said: "Nathan was a self-taught electric bass player, who played in various Stoke bands and ran the UTC recording studio in Longton with his friend and fellow Big Cash Prizes band member, Tom Bath.
"He was supremely talented and in recent years enjoyed success with a new Stoke band MFK, culminating in supporting the Wombats at Trentham Gardens."
"Nathan was so much more though. A wonderful son, grandson and an incredible father. He charmed everyone he met and was universally adored.
"He will be missed enormously by so many people."
Father's grief
Grieving father Wayne Halket Smith shared similar sentiments on Facebook saying: "It is with enormous sadness that we must announce the untimely passing of our son Nathan Wayne Smith following a road traffic accident.
"He was an immensely talented musician, a wonderful father, and an incredible human being who was adored by his family and friends. He was the light of our lives and we are absolutely broken-hearted. Wayne and Jill Smith."
Community outpouring
Tributes have poured in from friends and those who knew Smith, and his neighbours left roses on his car in the village where he lived.
Ernie Searle wrote: "His legacy lives on through his music."
While Matt Jones posted on social media: "Unfathomable, devastating news. What a guy. So sorry for yours and the family’s loss, sending love, Wayne X."
And Elle Adam penned: "We’re all absolutely devastated. I’m so sorry for your loss and sending you and Jill all my love. He was a wonderful and hilarious person who we all loved very much."
Melinda-Jane O’Brien wrote: "This is devastating news. Nay was so lovely in the old days and recently made my very old nana so happy in his work. I’m so sorry for all of you."
Another friend wrote on social media: "What a great man he was. Charm, integrity, talent and a sincere desire to help anyone in need. It was a pleasure to know you, Nath. My sincerest of condolences to your family and friends. RIP."
One person said: "Sad news. Used to go to Fenton sixth form with Nath and hung out with him at gigs and many a night out. Always had a friendly word for everyone. Rest in peace mate. Thoughts are with his family and friends."
Police appeal
Staffordshire Police said: "Nathan’s next of kin are being supported by specialist officers at this difficult time."
"Our inquiries are ongoing."
"Anyone who saw what happened or who may have relevant CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage should call us on 101 quoting incident number 186 of 5 August."
"You can also get in touch with collision investigators directly by emailing ciu@staffordshire.police.uk."
