Northern Ireland

Rugby rape trial: Paddy Jackson 'is always very considerate in his interactions with people' says character witness

Paddy Jackson on the way into court in Belfast for a previous hearing. Picture by Hugh Russell
Paddy Jackson on the way into court in Belfast for a previous hearing. Picture by Hugh Russell Paddy Jackson on the way into court in Belfast for a previous hearing. Picture by Hugh Russell

Rugby star Paddy Jackson has been described as a "good guy" by a lifelong family friend.

Dr Katie Donaldson, a registrar in intensive care, was called as a character witness for Jackson during his rape trial at Belfast Crown Court on Wednesday.

Ms Donaldson, who said she had known Jackson for 15 or 16 years, told the court she had never seen him lose his temper.

"Paddy is always very considerate in his interactions with people. He is calm, very friendly and enjoys making people laugh. He's a good guy," she said.

"I don't think his character has changed in the time I have known him. It is always the same - kind, caring and very generous," Ms Donaldson said.

She told the court that Jackson's sporting success has "never been driven by people admiring him."

"I don't think privilege or accolade have ever driven him.

"He has had a likeable lack of self-importance during the time I have known him.

"His interactions with me, my friends, my brother and sister is always calm, considerate, caring and polite," she added.

When asked by his defence team if she ever saw him lose his temper, she replied: "No I haven't."

At hearing.

Read more:This morning's court report

This afternoon's court report

Paddy Jackson denies friends colluded to cover up woman's claims