The father-of-four, believed to be in his 40s, has been named locally as Malachy O'Neill.

The tragic accident happened at a farm on the Tirgan Road at Moneymore, Co Derry, some time before 7pm yesterday.

Mr O'Neill is understood to have four daughters aged between eight and two. Emergency services were alerted after he was discovered at the scene by his 18-year-old nephew.

Desertmartin priest Fr Peter Martin said the family and neighbours were trying to come to terms with the awful tragedy.

"Malachy was a lovely, lovely gentleman," he said.

"He was completely dedicated to his family. This is an awful tragedy. The family and neighbours are shocked."

SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone said: "The whole area is in serious shock."

Fire crews were called to free the man, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police confirmed they were investigating the circumstances.