Denise Clair receives legal aid for private prosecution of David Goodwillie for rape

In 2017 a sheriff in a civil case found that Mr Goodwillie and former teammate David Robertson raped Denise Clair.

Ms Clair is seeking a private prosecution and has now had an application for legal aid approved.

She told The Sunday Post: “I am elated that after all these years, I can finally begin the journey to proper justice. I have waited all this time to have the facts of this case tested in criminal court.

“It is disappointing that the Scottish government made me wait an agonising extra year for a decision they could have made in 24 hours given they agree how exceptional this case is.”

She added: “I’m determined to see this journey to the bitter end for me and every other rape victim let down by our criminal justice system.”

The funding amounts to only £2,500.

A spokesperson for the Scottish government said: “This has been a particularly unique and complex case which required detailed consideration. After careful assessment ministers have decided to award legal aid in this case.”

Counsel for Ms Clair, Thomas Ross KC, said: “The Scottish government’s delay in dealing with a simple legal aid application was merely the latest way in which this brave woman has been let down by the criminal justice system, but I am happy for her that the correct decision has been reached.”