Decision likely next month on trial date

A decision is likely next month on whether the trial of former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife can proceed as scheduled in November.

Newry Crown Court has been told that medical assessments of Lady Eleanor Donaldson’s health are currently being undertaken.

The 59-year-old is a co-accused in a sex offences case involving her husband.

Both deny all charges against them.

Lady Donaldson’s lawyer Ian Turkington KC told the court: “We are doing everything we can as quickly as we can to complete the medical picture.”

Judge Paul Ramsey said he appreciated “the efforts” being made.

“We are getting very close to the trial and I’m trying to preserve the trial if we can,” he added.

He set a date of 10 October for another review of the case, when the court will likely consider whether or not the trial can commence on 3 November.

Sir Jeffrey, 62, is accused of 18 offences, including one count of rape.

Lady Donaldson faces five charges relating to aiding and abetting.

The offences were allegedly committed between 1985 and 2008.

The trial was to have taken place in March, but was put back due to Lady Donaldson’s health.