CHARGES | 

Jeffrey Donaldson set to appear in court accused of sex offences today

His wife Lady Eleanor Donaldson (57), who is charged with aiding and abetting additional offences, is represented by a different legal firm.

Today at 06:17

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is set to appear before Newry Magistrates Court today to face historical sex offence charges.

A huge media presence is expected at the courthouse for the first sighting of the former DUP leader since his resignation last month.

Special measures have been put in place to accommodate journalists with the story securing national and international interest.

Donaldson (61) is facing 11 charges: one count of rape, one count of gross indecency and nine counts of indecent assault. The allegations relate to two complainants.

There has been speculation that the former DUP leader would apply to appear via video link but no such application was made.

It is understood that he will walk into court with his lawyer. His wife Lady Eleanor Donaldson (57), who is charged with aiding and abetting additional offences, is represented by a different legal firm.

Both Donaldsons are strenuously contesting the charges. However, it is not expected that they will be asked to enter a plea today when their appearance in court will be brief.

It will involve the charges against the Donaldsons being confirmed to the court.

Jeffrey Donaldson is expected to arrive in court around 10am with the charges put to him some time after 10.30am.

It is anticipated that the Public Prosecution Service will brief the court on the progress of the cases and request a date for review.

The Donaldsons’ cases are among around 100, including those of dissident republicans, which will be before Newry Magistrates Court tomorrow.

Since being freed, he has been living at an address in the Greenwich area of London, while she has been staying at the family home near Dromore, Co Down.

However, it is understood that he may seek to have his bail conditions varied, so the couple can resume contact.

As Donaldson transfers from police bail to court bail, sources say he wants to resume living with his wife whether in London or at the family home.

He married Eleanor Cousins in June 1987. After being knighted in 2016, he said: “I am thankful that my wife Eleanor will share in the honour as well.”

The former DUP leader previously told of buying her tickets for the F1 British Grand Prix as a surprise Christmas present, joking: “I’m still earning Brownie points for that one.