Husband in court charged with drugging and raping ex-wife

A former councillor has appeared in court accused of a string of sexual offences against his ex-wife over a 13-year period.

Philip Young, 49, is charged with 56 offences, including multiple counts of rape and administering a substance with intent to stupefy his former spouse Joanne Young.

Mr Young, formerly of Swindon but now living in Enfield, confirmed his name and address at Swindon Magistrates' Court. He did not enter a plea.

Five other men are also charged with offences against Ms Young, 48, who has waived her legal right to anonymity.

Norman Macksoni, 47, Dean Hamilton, 47, Conner Sanderson Doyle, 31, Richard Wilkins, 61, and Mohammed Hassan, 37, are due to appear at Swindon Magistrates' Court later.

Mr Young served as a Conservative Swindon borough councillor for Covingham and Nythe between 2007 and 2010.

He was remanded into custody earlier and is next due to appear at Swindon Crown Court for a hearing on 23 January.