A former DUP councillor was today ordered to stand trial accused of attempting to sexually communicate with what he believed were two children.
Although William Walker was originally charged with the offences six months ago, Thursday was the first time the 60-year-old has actually appeared in court. Standing in the dock of Downpatrick Magistrates Court in an open necked white shirt and black suit jacket, Walker confirmed he had received the papers and statements to allow the Preliminary Enquiry to proceed and that he had no objection to the PE, necessary to elevate any case to the Crown Court.
The court clerk told Walker, who served on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council before his resignation, that although not obliged to, he had the right to comment on the charges and to call both evidence or witnesses on his behalf.
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here.To sign up to our FREE newsletters, see here.