Pastor McConnell to address conference with Muslim leaders

Pastor McConnell, who had charges brought against him over his controversial remarks about Islam, is expected to speak at the 'Meeting of People of Influence' event in Rostrevor.

The outspoken Evangelical Christian cleric provoked outrage when during a sermon at the Whitewell Metropolitan Tabernacle in north Belfast, he described Islam as "heathen", "satanic" and "a doctrine spawned in hell".

During the sermon, Pastor McConnell said he did not trust Muslims.

While he later apologised, the Public Prosecution Service brought charges against him.

He was later acquitted in court after a judge found his remarks did not amount to being "grossly" offensive under the law.

The preacher will be joined at the event on March 9 by Muslim cleric and Irish traditional singer Sheikh Dr Muhammad Al Hussaini, who testified on behalf of Pastor McConnell's right to free speech.