Northern Ireland's strict abortion law breaches the UK's human rights commitments, the High Court in Belfast has ruled.

Sarah Ewart was denied an abortion in 2013, despite doctors saying her unborn child would not survive outside the womb.

MsEwart, who sought the procedure across the Irish Sea after receiving the diagnosis of fatal foetal abnormality, took a case to the High Court in Belfast arguing that the law contravenes her human rights.

Ms Ewart said: "It is a massive emotional relief.

"This has not been an easy journey."

She added: "It is a massive victory.

"It has been a massive stress emotionally on the family but six years later let's enjoy today."

Mrs Justice Siobhan Keegan said: "In my view her personal testimony is compelling."

The judge followed the ruling of the Supreme Court that abortion law in Northern Ireland was incompatible with Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

She said Ms Ewart had legal standing to challenge the law.

The judge will hear further submissions before deciding what action to take.

She said Ms Ewart had been affected by the current law.

The judge said: "She has had to modify her behaviour in that she could not have medical treatment in Northern Ireland due to the risk of criminal prosecution.

"She may be actively affected in the future.

"In my view her personal testimony is not disputed."