MEMBERS of the jury currently presiding in a rape trial involving two Irish rugby players were taken to the scene of the alleged attack today.
The group, which consists of nine men and three women, were taken by bus to the home of one of the accused, Paddy Jackson, who lives in south Belfast.
They were transported to his house in Oakleigh Park, from Laganside Court, where the trial is underway, the Belfast Telegraph reports.
Prior to the visit, Judge Patricia Smyth told the jury the purpose of it was so they can get a true feel for the layout and size of the house where the 21-year-old woman claims she was subjected to a sex attack.
"We have made arrangements for you to visit Mr Jackson's home,” she said.
“The purpose of this visit is simply so you can see the layout of his house, the size of his house, and the proximity of the rooms in the house," she added.
The jury was split into two groups of six to be taken to Mr Jackson’s bedroom, where the attack is alleged to have taken place.
Mr Jackson, 26, and his team-mate Stuart Olding, 24, are both standing trial at Belfast Crown Court, accused of raping the woman at the same time following a night out in the city in June 2016.
Both men have denied the charge.
Mr Jackson has also been charged with, and denies, a further charge of sexual assault.
Blane McIlroy, 26, from Royal Lodge Road in Belfast, has been charged with exposing his genitals, while Rory Harrison, 25, from Manse Road, is facing charges of perverting the course of justice and withholding information.
Today’s visit to the alleged crime scene came at the end of the second week of the trial, which is due to resume on Monday.
Following the visit, the jury returned to Laganside Court, where the judge reminded them not to discuss the proceedings of the case with anybody.
