The prosecution has concluded its cross-examination of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson at Newry Crown Court, with the barrister telling the former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader that his denials of sexual abuse amount to "sinful and deceitful lies".

Donaldson, 63, faces 18 charges including rape, gross indecency and indecent assault involving two alleged victims, both of whom say they were abused as children between 1985 and 2008. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts.

On Friday, prosecution barrister Rosemary Walsh KC focused on a letter Donaldson sent to one complainant in June 2020. The letter expressed regret for "hurt, pain and distress" and referred to "deep wounds" caused by "sinful and selfish actions". Walsh suggested the language was about sexual abuse of a child. Donaldson rejected that interpretation, stating the letter was written in the context of Christian teaching on sin.

The cross-examination also addressed a meeting in the late 1990s at the Christian Family Centre in Armoy, County Antrim. The court heard that one complainant disclosed alleged abuse to a church pastor, after which centre founder David Hoy arranged a meeting with Donaldson. The prosecution put it to Donaldson that he attended to "nip in the bud" the allegations. Donaldson denied this, saying no allegation was mentioned to him beforehand and that he went willingly.

The complainant has testified that Donaldson apologised during that meeting. Donaldson told the court he expressed sorrow if he had ever made her feel uncomfortable, but maintained that no specific allegations were raised. Evidence from David Hoy and his wife Linda indicated the complainant cried and spoke of forgiveness. Donaldson said he did not recall tears and denied taking control of the meeting.

Walsh also questioned Donaldson about an allegation from the other complainant that he used a light to look at her genitals. He denied shining a light on any part of her body and rejected the suggestion he had been "caught in the act". He further denied claims of touching the complainant or putting his tongue in her mouth.

Donaldson said he received many phone calls from strangers due to his political work and did not filter his calls. He stated he did not know why the two complainants approached police at the same time.

His wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, 60, denies five charges of aiding and abetting. She is not attending the trial after being found unfit to stand trial on mental health grounds and will face a trial of the facts.

The trial continues.