The parents of a baby boy who died a day before his first birthday after being crushed by a falling lamppost today said they were "utterly devastated".

The family of Tommy Hollis also thanked the community for its support following his death in the early hours of yesterday.

A statement, released on behalf of Tommy's parents on what would have been his first birthday, said: "It is with very sad hearts that we confirm the tragic death of Tommy Hollis who would have celebrated his first birthday today.

"The family is utterly devastated by the loss and thanks the community and friends for their love and prayers and request that their privacy is respected and upheld."

"We would like to thank in particular the emergency services, London Air Ambulance, police and hospital staff for the care and kindness we received."

Tommy's parents have asked not to be identified.

Tommy died in hospital after a 32ft lamppost fell on to his push chair, crushing him inside.

The force of the impact was such that the pram broke in two.

A female carer who had been pushing the pram escaped injury.

An unrelated 62-year-old-woman, who was pinned under the lamppost, was taken by paramedics to Charing Cross Hospital with suspected spinal injuries. She was discharged yesterday.

A Met Police spokesman said today a postmortem examination would take place on Monday at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

An inquest is expected to be opened on Tuesday at West London Coroner's Court.

A joint investigation is under way by officers from Hounslow CID and the Specialist Crime Directorate, and the Health and Safety Executive, a Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said.

The Homicide and Serious Crime Command is taking the lead on the baby boy’s death.

It is possible that corporate manslaughter charges could be brought.

A Hounslow Council spokeswoman said the incident was an “awful tragedy” and added: “The council is cooperating fully with the police and Health and Safety Executive investigations.”

Yesterday, the flag above Hounslow Council’s headquarters was flying at half mast as a mark of respect to baby Tommy.

Several books of condolence have been opened at Chiswick Town Hall - the site of Tuesday’s incident. A council spokesman said books would also be left at outside locations in the near future.

Scores of parents and children have been visiting to write tribute messages and leave flowers and cards at the scene.