A 29-year-old woman died when she was crushed by a falling ceiling at a Spiritist centre just after she had finished praying.

The incident, which left 10 others injured, took place at the religious centre in Chapeco, Brazil, just after prayer time.

Civil Defence workers said the collapse happened on 23rd January during a storm that saw wind speeds of up to 90 kph (56 mph).

According to reports, the wall of a neighbouring building under construction fell onto the roof of the Spiritist centre, which had about 30 people inside at the time.

The construction company in question has said it is “available to provide whatever assistance is necessary”.

Victim Helena Bordignon, 29, was a teacher and volunteer at the centre. She leaves behind a husband.

Eight other women and two men aged between 29 and 66 were injured. They were taken to hospital and, at the time of reporting, six had already been discharged.

Civil Police are investigating the case.

Spiritism was founded by the French teacher, educational writer, and translator Hippolyte Leon Denizard Rivail in the 1850s.

Brazil is the country with the greatest number of adherents.