Prosecution opens against Jeffrey Donaldson in sexual offences trial

Former MP is accused of rape and several counts of gross indecency and of indecent assault

Jeffrey Donaldson leaving Newry Crown Court, where he and his wife Eleanor are accused of historical sexual offences. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Two women who accused Jeffrey Donaldson of sexually abusing them claim the former DUP leader subjected them to “difficult and traumatic incidents” when they were children, his trial has heard.

The prosecution case against Mr Donaldson has been set out for the jury at Newry Crown Court.