stuck broken spring

I had a spring break out of a c melody I'm repadding, but the problem is that the bit left behind in the post won't come out. I've tried gripping it and trying to pull it out and I've tried using spring removing pliers. Neither work.
Is is safe to try and tap it out or will this damage the post or body at all?
I suppose I could try it, but I'd rather not cause myself even more problems.
Thanks guys.