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Donaldson trial on schedule to begin next week

Julian O'NeillCrime and justice correspondent, BBC News NI
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Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is accused of 18 offences allegedly committed between 1985 and 2008, including one count of rape

The trial of former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife Lady Eleanor Donaldson on sex abuse charges is on schedule to begin next week.

A short pre-trial hearing took place at Newry Crown Court on Tuesday.

Judge Paul Ramsey was told a medical report on Lady Donaldson has been completed and he will hear evidence on it on Wednesday.

The judge said it would "clear the way" for the trial to proceed with jury selection on 26 May.

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Lady Donaldson faces five charges relating to aiding and abetting

Both prosecution and defence lawyers told him they are ready for the case to commence.

Sir Jeffrey, 63, is accused of 18 offences allegedly committed between 1985 and 2008, including one count of rape.

The charges include four counts of gross indecency and 13 counts of indecent assault.

Lady Donaldson, 59, faces five charges relating to aiding and abetting his alleged offending.

The couple deny all the charges against them.

Neither defendant was required to attend Tuesday's hearing.

The couple were arrested at their County Down home more than two years ago.