The historical sex offences trial of former Democratic Unionist Party leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson reached its final stage on Monday as the defence confirmed it would present no further evidence.

Donaldson, 63, was the only witness called in his own defence and spent two days in the witness box at Newry Crown Court last week. He has pleaded not guilty to 18 charges, including one count of rape, four counts of gross indecency and 13 counts of indecent assault. The alleged offences involve two complainants who say they were abused as children between 1985 and 2008.

The co-accused, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, 60, of Dublinhill Road, Dromore, Co Down, denies five charges of aiding and abetting her husband. She is not participating in the trial after being deemed unfit on mental health grounds and faces a trial of the facts, which cannot result in a criminal conviction. Her barrister told the court she was incapable of giving evidence and no further witnesses would be called.

Judge Paul Ramsey informed the jury of seven men and five women that all evidence had been completed and reminded them not to discuss the case outside the courtroom. The remainder of Monday’s hearing was taken up with legal argument.

Closing submissions are due to begin on Tuesday with the prosecution, followed by defence lawyers on behalf of both accused. The speeches are expected to conclude on Wednesday. The judge will then provide legal directions to the jury on Thursday before they retire to consider their verdicts.