Body of musician found in car in water-filled ditch

Nick Smith played bass in a Genesis tribute band

The body of a man has been found in a car submerged in a water-filled ditch.

Nick Smith, 54, from Mansfield Court, Peterborough, was discovered in his car at North Bank, Whittlesey, on 23 January.

Cambridgeshire Police said his death was not being treated as suspicious.

Mr Smith, the bass player in Genesis tribute band Genesis Connected, was described by his bandmates as "like family" and they said his death had left a "massive void" in their lives.

Nick Smith's bandmates said "his presence on stage, and in our lives, can never be replaced"

Posting a tribute to Mr Smith on Facebook, members of Genesis Connected wrote that they had "lost our brother and bass player, Nick Smith. He was more than just a bandmate - he was family".

"We are all struggling to comprehend this loss and the massive void it leaves in our lives," they wrote.

"His talent, humour and friendship brought us together in ways that only brothers on stage can understand.

"He lit up every room he walked into, and his presence on stage and in our lives can never be replaced.

"Nick... we will carry your spirit with us always, mate."

'Passion'

The band said they had played a gig a few days after Mr Smith's death "with the blessing of Nick's family".

Mr Smith's family also released a tribute to him: "Nick was a naturally gifted self-taught musician who established an amazing reputation across the UK and further afield within the bass guitar world.

"[A] born and bred local lad from Newark village in Peterborough, Nick attended Newark Hill primary and Deacon's senior school.

"He moved away from a career in IT to follow his passion as a full-time musician, he has taught many local children and adults and will be missed very much."

Police but have appealed for any witnesses to contact officers.