A paedophile clergyman has failed in his second bid to remain anonymous following a reporter’s successful court challenge.

Matthew Simpson, who admitted three counts each of possessing and distributing indecent images of children, has been named after his defence lawyers failed in a second bid to keep his identity secret.

HTFP reported last month how freelance court reporter Tanya Fowles had successfully applied to reveal the identity of the former Presbyterian Church in Ireland minister – but was subsequently blocked from doing so after Dungannon Magistrates Court received notification from his defence counsel indicating his intention to judicially review the judge’s decision.

Ahead of the case’s latest hearing, Tanya contacted both the Office of the Lady Chief Justice in Northern Ireland and the defence lawyers, enquiring as to the judicial review position.

OLCJ replied stating no application had been received while the defence said no date had been allocated.

At the pleas hearing, the defence’s second attempt to keep the defendant’s identity was dismissed by Judge Brian Sherrard QC.

Tanya told HTFP: “Having heard arguments from both sides, he ruled in favour of press.

“The case has been adjourned while pre-sentence reports are prepared.

“Simpson was ordered to sign the sex offender register ahead of being remanded on bail until next month.

“The judicial review has been abandoned and the defence have confirmed no further applications will be made for anonymity.”