POLICE have launched an investigation after a long-serving Cleobury Mortimer postwoman died when her car hit a tree.

Edith Lloyd, 55, was killed instantly when the Volkswagen Golf she was driving towards Mawley Oak on the B4202 left the road and collided with a tree about 300 yards from the junction with the A4117.

Mrs Lloyd, who had 25 years service with Royal Mail, was the only occupant of the car at the time of the crash at 2.40pm last Thursday. She leaves a husband, Kingsley, and four children.

A Kidderminster Police spokeswoman said the car had veered to the right before hitting the roadside tree.

A Royal Mail spokesman said Mrs Lloyd was a "very popular member of the team" at Cleobury, which is the base for 12 postmen and eight office workers. Her death had provoked "deep shock".

Cleobury postmaster Gwilym Butler said due to her job Mrs Lloyd, of Ronhill Crescent, had been well known around the town.

"It's a big shock," he added. "She was a great person, totally reliable and trustworthy and held in great respect.

"She will be sadly missed - everyone's just devastated."

Mrs Lloyd's family was too upset to speak.

Dave Sands, delivery manager at Kidderminster's Royal Mail officer in Kidderminster and manager of outlying offices, including Cleobury, described her as "such a nice lady".

"She was very fit - she cycled 15 to 20 miles a day on her bike. It's very sad because where she died was actually on her delivery route."

Sgt Stacey Cockburn, of Kidderminster Police, said the reason for the car leaving the road was unknown and an investigation would be carried out.

Anyone who saw anything leading up to the collision is asked to call Kidderminster Police on 01562 820888.

An inquest into Mrs Lloyd's death was opened at Ludlow on Tuesday and was adjourned until February 26.