Thieves have broken into a funeral parlour - and made off with two coffins.

The burglars struck at Cathedral Funeral Services, in Framwellgate Moor, on the outskirts of Durham, after getting through locked gates and into the coffin workshop.

They stole two oak coffins, bearing the family firm's distinctive nine-inch square engraved cross.

A spokesman for Durham Police said: "Thankfully, both coffins were empty except for some white plastic sheeting.

"We are puzzled to say the least as to why anyone would want to steal two coffins."

The coffins were among about nine being stored in the workshop when the theft occurred, sometime between 10pm on Friday and 4.30pm on Monday.

They were specially made for their intended occupants.

One was about average size, measuring 5ft 7ins by 1ft 4in, and the other larger than usual, at 6ft 1in by 1ft 8in.

Christopher Westcott, who owns the business, said he had never encountered a similar theft. "It's very unusual because the workshop is very secure," he said.

"We've been there for about two years but I've been in funeral directing for 19 years, and I've never had a coffin stolen."

Mr Westcott said the thieves may have broken into the workshop thinking the building was part of an adjacent hairdressers, then taken the coffins, worth £360 each, to make into something else.

Anyone with information should contact Durham Police on 0191-386 4222 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.