A court in Belfast has heard that an evangelical preacher who called Islam "satanic" and "heathen" should have every right to criticise other religions.

Pastor James McConnell appeared in court on charges relating to the internet broadcast of a sermon he gave at a Belfast church last year.

Pastor McConnell (78), of Shore Road in Newtownabbey, is charged with improper use of a public electronic communications network.

He is also charged with causing a grossly offensive message to be sent by means of a public electronic communications network.

Belfast Magistrates' Court was told Pastor McConnell will be denying "moral or legal culpability" on the charges.

Several hundred people gathered outside the court in support of the preacher.