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Lady Donaldson to appear in court in December

PA Media Lady Eleanor Donaldson, a woman with shoulder length blonde hair, wearing a grey top and black jacket. She is surrounded by police officers and there are two cameras pointing at her. PA Media
Lady Donaldson arriving at Newry Magistrates' Court in April

Lady Eleanor Donaldson is to appear in court in December regarding an application to have two charges against her withdrawn.

The hearing at Newry Crown Court is to take place on 17 December.

Her husband, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, who pleaded not guilty to historical sex offence charges, is not required to attend.

Lady Donaldson, 58, previously pleaded not guilty to three charges related to aiding and abetting.

The date for her next appearance was set by Judge Paul Ramsey at a review hearing today, which the couple were not required to attend.

PA Media Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, pictured from the shoulders up, wearing a dark blue suit, light blue shirt and spotty blue tie. He has a tight grey beard and grey hair and is wearing glasses. PA Media
The case facing Sir Jeffrey Donaldson involves two alleged victims

Former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Sir Jeffrey, is accused of 18 offences, which allegedly occurred between 1985 and 2008.

The case facing the former Lagan Valley MP involves two alleged victims.

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

The pair’s trial date is set for March 2025.