NORTHERN IRELAND: Former Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson must stand trial on charges of rape and sexual offences, a judge ruled today.

Mr Donaldson faces one charge of rape, four counts of gross indecency and 13 indecent assault charges dating from between 1985 and 2008. The charges involve two alleged victims.

His wife Eleanor Donaldson is charged with aiding and abetting the alleged crimes.