A HEARSE carrying a coffin caught fire on its way to a funeral, putting a mourning family through added pain on an already tragic day. 

Dramatic pictures show the extent of the damage of the burnt-out car that happened in Church Stretton, Shropshire, on Monday (December 11). 

Hereford Times: The fire service tackling a hearse fire in Church StrettonThe fire service tackling a hearse fire in Church Stretton (Image: Church Stretton Fire Service)

Posting on its Facebook page, Church Stretton Fire Station said: "Staff and the public managed to get the coffin out of the vehicle before that became involved, so well done to everyone there.

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"Can we just say our thoughts and prayers go out to the all the family which would have been a sad enough day as it is without this additional sad news added to the day."

Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said it received a call reporting a car fire at 1.19pm.

"Two fire appliances were mobilised from Church Stretton and Craven Arms," said a spokesperson.

"Crews used breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets and a main jet to tackle the fire."

Firefighters left the scene shortly before 2.30pm.