Philip Young in court charged with drugging and raping ex-wife

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

Philip Young, 49, is accused of 56 offences, including multiple rapes and drugging his ex-wife 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 defence.

Five other men are also accused of crimes against Ms Young, 48, who waived her legal right to anonymity.

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

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

He was remanded in custody and will next appear at Swindon Crown Court on January 23.