AN award-winning BBC reporter made famous by his rant at a Scientologist is coming to East Grinstead tonight.
Best known for his work on Panorama, John Sweeney made the news himself when he lost his temper back in 2007, claiming he had been harassed by followers of the religion.
Now he is promoting his book, Church of Fear, in the national home of Scientology.
He will give a talk at the Dorset Arms at 7.30pm.
"Ifeel there is a fear talking about the church and I want to address that head on by coming to the town where there are more Scientologists than anywhere else.
"I'm not going to be picketing outside, or taking part in any demonstrations. But I think it could be therapeutic for people who are sceptical about Scientology to meet someone like me.
"And if I can, I want to sell a few books."
The former war reporter added: "I've been to some rough places but I am afraid of this thing, the Church of Scientology."
Mr Sweeney said he had invited all the East Grinstead councillors and that he had no idea how many people, if any, were likely to turn up.
Among Mr Sweeney's other high-profile stories are a four-year investigation into cases of cot death and a report on mass graves in Zimbabwe, during which he was forced to hide in the boot of a car to meet the leader of the opposition when BBC reporters faced a ban in the country.
Talking about the spat which propelled him to unwanted fame as an internet sensation, he said: "It's not something I am proud of, but if it gets people to look into this subject more, particularly young people, then it has been useful."
Asked how he had chosen to hold the meeting at the Dorset Arms on the High Street, he added: "I like a pint – and the pub was recommended."
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