Eleanor Donaldson's Charges Dismissal Bid Adjourned Again

An application by Lady Eleanor Donaldson to dismiss two charges against her in the ongoing historical sex offences case involving her husband, former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, has been delayed again. During a hearing at Newry Crown Court, Judge Paul Ramsey expressed his intent to keep the trial on schedule, which is set for March 24. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, 62, has pleaded not guilty to 18 charges, including one count of rape, while Lady Eleanor, 58, has entered not guilty pleas to three charges related to aiding and abetting. The application to withdraw the two charges against her was originally slated for a December hearing but was postponed due to procedural issues. Both defendants were absent from the recent court session, and the judge indicated that he would relist the application once the parties are prepared. Despite the delays, all parties are optimistic that the trial date will remain unaffected.