Jury in Donaldson trial resumes deliberations

The jury in the Jeffrey Donaldson sex offences trial has resumed considering its verdict.

They were sent out at lunchtime yesterday and spent three hours and ten minutes in the jury room before being sent home for the day.

They are deciding whether the former DUP leader should be convicted or acquitted on 18 sex offences including one count of rape.

The allegations have been made by two complainants who alleged he abused them as children.

Mr Donaldson has denied the charges.

The alleged offences span the years 1985 to 2008.

Mr Donaldson arrived at Newry Crown Court this morning as usual where he was met by his solicitor.

The jury is also being asked to decide whether his wife, Eleanor Donaldson, committed acts she has been accused of.

She is a co-defendant in the case but is subject to a non-criminal process due to concerns about her mental health.

She is accused of five charges of aiding and abetting her husband's alleged offending. She has also denied the charges.

She cannot be found guilty, but can be found to have committed the acts on the charge sheet.

She can also be acquitted.

The case continues.