An internationally-known humanist is coming to Wanstead.

Communications director of the International Humanist and Ethical Union (IHEU), Bob Churchill, will host a talk at Wanstead Library in Spratt Hall Road on February 22 about the threats of blasphemy laws on freedom of speech.

He will also be discussing the IHEU’s end blasphemy laws campaign.

He said: “There are groups of people around the world who want to misuse blasphemy laws to stop people questioning or criticising religion.

“We need to recognise that across the globe people’s right to freedom of expression is under threat.”

Mr Churchill has been invited to talk by the East London Humanists (ELH) group.

An ELH spokesman said: “The issues Bob will be discussing are very important.

“In countries like Pakistan people are persecuted by the Taliban just for being Atheists.

“These countries are our allies, so it’s important we think about these things.”

Mr Churchill’s talk will start at 7.30pm and will be followed by an informal discussion at The George pub in Wanstead High Street.