A judge in Northern Ireland has decided there is enough evidence for former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson to face trial over historical sex offence charges.
His wife Eleanor will also be sent for trial to face charges of aiding and abetting.
There was a large police and media presence in Newry Magistrates' Court today due to the public interest in this case.
Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife Eleanor, who is the co-accused, confirmed they understood the charges and entered no pleas at this stage.
During the brief three minute hearing Judge Eamon King said he was satisfied there is a prima facie case to answer.
He set the date of the next hearing for September 10th.
Both will be require to attend and arrangements for the crown court trial will be made.
Jeffrey Donaldson resigned as leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) in March after being charged with sexual offences.
Several social media accounts belonging to him were also deleted.
If you are affected by issues raised in this article you can contact the Rape Crisis Centre 24-Hour National Helpline on 1800 77 8888
