The Home Office has reversed its decision to block a trailblazing Syrian minister from visiting Scotland amid fears she might try to stay in the UK.

Reverend Rola Sleiman, the Arab world's first female pastor, is due to speak at Church of Scotland's general assembly in Edinburgh.

Her plans were thrown into doubt last week when the Home Office refused her a visa, however.

Authorities questioned Ms Sleiman's motives for travelling to the UK despite her trip being sponsored by the Kirk.

On Tuesday, the Home Office reversed its decision and gave the 42-year-old permission to visit.

Ms Sleiman, who leads a Christian congregation in Tripoli, Lebanon, described the Home Office's decision to bar her as "absurd" and "humiliating".

The minister said she was "extremely grateful and thankful" for the support she received.

"I want to thank everyone who prayed, wrote a letter, shared the news and helped in a way or another to change the decision," she added.

The Church of Scotland intends to cover Rev Sleiman's expenses during her eight-day stay, a plan which the Home Office also queried.

Dr John Chalmers, principal clerk to the general assembly, described the Home Office's decision as "disturbing and mystifying".

"This is the first time that our commitment to covering the costs of their stay has ever been questioned," he added.

Following the Home Office's U-turn he said: "It was clear from the support that we received that people felt a mistake had been made and an important voice might be missing from our assembly.

"In the end common sense prevailed and it has all happened in time for us to complete Rola's travel arrangements. We now look forward to welcoming her."