Jeffrey Donaldson faces further seven sexual offence charges

The number of historical sexual offences being faced by former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson has increased before his latest court appearance.

Donaldson, 61, is expected to appear at Newry magistrates court on Wednesday for a preliminary enquiry hearing to establish if there is sufficient evidence to send him for trial.

Donaldson had faced 11 holding charges brought by police.

An evidence file has since been reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service and he will now face 18 charges: one of rape, four of gross indecency and 13 charges of indecent assault.

Donaldson has previously stated that he will strenuously contest the charges.