WORRIED Swindon church leaders have voiced fears about a new law targeting "incitement to religious hatred".

They believe the law will curtail their freedom of speech and lead to them being prosecuted if they criticise the ideas or beliefs of others.

Three of the town's parsons and two lay preachers met North Swindon MP Michael Wills to state their opposition to the proposals and to voice concerns about plans to introduce mega-casinos and 24-hour drinking.

They said the liberalising proposals could lead to soaring numbers of binge drinkers and gambling addicts.

Parson Ron Williams of the Elim Pentecostal Church, Parsons Andrew Coulthard and Malcolm McQueen from the Swindon Assemblies of God and two lay preachers met Mr Wills, who supports the proposed changes.

Mr Williams said: "Our biggest concern is the bill about religious hatred. Our main concern is that someone could say they're offended and then seek to prosecute."

Speaking before the meeting Mr Wills said the legislation "was well thought out."

He said: "The Licensing Act has been designed to prevent binge drinking while the Gambling Act is about controlling gambling and managing it.

"The incitement to religious hatred law is about protecting people in the same way. When you look at these proposals it is just about creating a sound legal framework for society."