227 migrants have been rescued by the Italian coastguard and taken to Lampedusa. Their boat was spotted some 70 miles off the coast of the Italian island.

The migrants included 41 women and four young children.

Two men who said they are French journalists were also on board.

Italian media said another boat, carrying 80 migrants, had also been spotted some 80 miles south-east of Lampedusa.

Pope Francis is due to visit Lampedusa on Monday to see the migrants.

During his visit  he will lay a wreath in the sea in memory of thousands of migrants who have died attempting the perilous crossing from Africa to Europe.

He will also celebrate a Mass in the island's migrant reception centre.

 

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