A MUCH-LOVED musician died from “traumatic compression to the abdomen” after he was hit by a car which crashed into the smoking area of a pub.

Stuart McClung, 36, died after the collision with a white Nissan Qashqai at The Spinnaker in Hythe Quay in the early hours of last Sunday.

Paramedics rushed to the scene but he was sadly pronounced dead.

A 40-year-old man arrested on suspicion of a host of offences – including murder – has since been released under investigation.

At Essex Coroner’s Court, an inquest into the death of the New Town Kings guitarist was opened and adjourned.

Coroner’s officer Liz Wood said a post mortem had revealed Mr McClung died as a result of his abdominal injuries and also suffered multiple fractures.

Senior coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray said his body could be released.

She added: “No date will be fixed for a resumption of this inquest because a criminal prosecution is envisaged.”

Tributes have poured in for Mr McClung, who lived in Colchester.

His partner Vikki Spall and sister Kelly McClung said: ““Stu was a kind and gentle soul, a talented musician, and a much loved brother, partner and friend.

“We would like to thank our family and friends for their support and kind words, and the emergency services and staff of Colchester General Hospital for all they have done for us.”

His bandmates added: “With deep sadness in our hearts we thank you all for your kind words. Stu was the best of us.

“Never in our worst nightmares could we have imagined something like this happening.

“We miss you so much already bro, words will never come close to filling chasm left in our heart and never again will any song sound the same.

“We ask you all for time to try to come to terms with this devastating reality and thank you again for your kind words.”

Ian Winter, 34, and Carl Joyner, 33, were injured in the collision as well as a 34-year-old woman.

A webpage raising money for Mr McClung’s funeral has reached nearly £9,000.

To donate visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/stuartmcclung.