The trial of former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife Lady Eleanor on charges relating to alleged historical sex offences is to be delayed.
At Newry Crown Court on Friday, Judge Paul Ramsey granted an adjournment application on medical grounds after being told Ms Donaldson is currently “unfit to stand trial”.
The trial had been due to start on March 24.
No new trial date has been set.
Lady Eleanor Donaldson is facing charges of aiding and abetting (Liam McBurney/PA)
Donaldson (62) who also did not attend the hearing on Friday, has pleaded not guilty to 18 alleged offences.
The charges include one count of rape as well as allegations of indecent assault and gross indecency.
The charges span a time period between 1985 and 2008, and there are two alleged victims
Eleanor Donaldson (58) of Dublinhill Road, Dromore, is facing charges of aiding and abetting which she denies.