An 'exceptional' jazz musician who played in the house band at Ronnie Scott's has been named as the victim of a fatal scooter accident on the Westway this morning.
Chris Dagley, who was just 38, was killed instantly when he lost control on the A40 near Wood Lane at around 4am.
The management of Ronnie Scott's, the legendary West End venue where Mr Dagley had been a fixture for the last four years, immediately paid tribute to the player, who was highly regarded for his 'vibrant and propulsive' style.
He regularly performed there alongside pianist James Pearson and bass player Sam Burgess, and also worked as a sought-after session musician for everyone from Ella Fitzgerald and Van Morrison to Eric Clapton, Take That, Jamiroquai and Will Young.
Managing director Simon Cooke said: "Chris was a great guy, part of the heart and soul of the club. His contribution and dedication to the continuing musical legacy of Ronnie Scott’s was hugely significant.
"He was very popular with both the staff and the audiences and his passing is a massive loss to us all. He will be greatly missed by both those who knew him and the legions of musicians whom he inspired through his music. Our deepest condolences go out to his family at this time."
It is thought Mr Dagley was heading eastbound towards central London when the accident happened. No other vehicles are believed to have been involved.
A spokeswoman for the ambulance service said he died at the scene.
The A40 was closed for several hours while investigations were carried out.
