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Huge fire tears through 150-year-old church as thick smoke engulfs city centre
Nine fire engines and about 60 firefighters battled the blaze as crews removed a church warden's coffin and the cause remained unknown.
A major fire broke out at St Andrew's Church on Jarrom Street in Leicester late Tuesday night, sending thick smoke billowing across the city on Wednesday and prompting an emergency response.
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service deployed approximately 60 firefighters from seven fire stations to combat the blaze, which caused "severe damage" to the roof of the more than 160-year-old building.
Firefighters using breathing apparatus retrieved a coffin containing a body from the church overnight, ensuring it was moved to safety ahead of a funeral service originally scheduled for Wednesday.
The Diocese of Leicester confirmed it was "deeply saddened" by the incident, which forced Wednesday's funeral relocation; officials reported no casualties and that everyone was accounted for.
Leicestershire Police have taken over the matter to determine the fire's cause, with investigators expected to begin assessing the site once it is deemed safe for entry.