At least 41 people were killed in Morocco when a minaret collapsed at a mosque in the central town of Meknes, officials say.

More than 60 people were injured in the accident at the Berdieyinne mosque in Meknes' old city during prayers, according to Moroccan state television.

The TV report said that the collapse came after heavy rains which lashed the region for several days.

The minaret is said to have been four centuries old.

Many people are said to be buried under the rubble of the collapsed tower.

A resident, Khaled Rahmouni, told reporters that about 300 worshippers had gathered inside the mosque for Friday afternoon prayers.

"When the imam was about to start his sermon, the minaret fell down," he said.