An organiser of pilgrimages to Medjugorje has challenged popular TV presenter Peppi Azzopardi to visit the place and only then make statements about it, rather than express sceptical views.

Writing on Facebook, Alfred Grech - whose page is littered with news, information and adverts about pilgrimages to this town located in the Herzegovina region of Bosnia-Herzegovina, where apparitions by Our Lady are said to have occurred – says that he is ready to pay for the expenses if Mr Azzopardi cannot afford to do so.

“Instead of trying to appear more intelligent than experts, scientists and theologians, why don’t you take a crew there”, Mr Grech says. “You’ve been to Libya and other places, so why not Medjugorje? If you cannot afford it I will pay for you and come with me.”