New November date set for Donaldson trial

A new November date for the trial of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife Lady Eleanor Donaldson on historical sexual offences has been set by a court in Newry.

The trial had originally been scheduled to begin in March but that was delayed due to Lady Donaldson's ill health.

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

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

The offences were allegedly committed between 1985 and 2008.

Both deny the charges.

On Friday, Newry Crown Court heard that Lady Donaldson continues to receive treatment for her condition, with an update expected in the coming days which will help determine the future progress of the case.

To that end Judge Paul Ramsey has set a proposed new trial date of 3 November with a review scheduled for 5 June.

Neither defendant is required to appear on this date.