A SALTCOATS church had to pay for a replacement jacket after a man's coat caught fire from a lit candle at a service.

The congregation member had been attending Mass on Sunday, January 31 at St Mary's Church when he stood against a candle stand, which damaged his coat.

Canon Martin Poland, of St John's in Stevenston, was conducting the Mass in the Saltcoats church when the incident happened. He said: “It was an accident. The gentleman stepped back against the candle stand so his coat was singed. He was ok though. We've replaced his coat so he was quite happy. We've tried to do the best we can in the situation.”

A nurse was present at the service and was available to provide assistance to the congregation member. The incident was recorded in the parish incident book and a review of the use of candles in the church has been carried out.

Canon Poland told the Herald that the church candle stands have since been removed and replaced with electric ones.

A spokesperson for St Mary's Parish Office said: “The health, safety and welfare of our parishioners is our primary concern and it has been decided that candle stands with naked flames will not be used in the church. Suitable alternatives are being sought and it is hoped that these will be available soon.”