A GRIEF-STRICKEN family were today trying to come to terms with the death of a father-of-two killed in a freak work accident.

Tree surgeon Neil Cooper, 33, of Longridge, died instantly when he was struck by a tree he was felling while working at a site on the Wirral, on Monday.

He was discovered by colleagues at the Plantation Road, Bromborough, site. Colleagues working with him cut the tree away and attempted to resuscitate him.

An inquest held in West Kirby on Tuesday, revealed he had suffered a broken neck as well as chest and head injuries.

The former Longridge High School pupil worked at Ribble Valley Tree Surgeons and Forestry Contractors, based in the town, for 11 years.

He lived with wife Michelle and their two daughters, Jessica-Leigh and Kayleigh-Jo, at their family home in Wheatsheaf Avenue, Longridge.

He also leaves parents Anne and John Cooper, and daughter-in-law of Joan and son-in-law David Hutchinson.

His funeral will take place on Monday, June 25, at Grimsargh Parish Church, followed by committal at Preston Crematorium.

A statement issued by Denis Lambert, his employer, described Mr Cooper as being a man who had 'had a love for the countryside life.'

He said: "Known for his love of life and his lively sense of humour, Neil was a devoted family man."

Mr Cooper's family asked not to comment when approached yesterday. Mrs Cooper is being comforted, along with her daughters, by relatives.

The family has requested family flowers only for the funeral.