THE sentencing of a couple who robbed a woman in Southampton has been pushed back to allow for a legal argument.

Lorraine Smith and Darren Hampton both admit robbing their victim of cash at the victim's home in the city on May 24, 2017.

But barristers are set to argue over how much force was used in the incident.

Prosecutors say Hampton put his victim in a headlock.

But in a basis of plea, which sets out what Hampton accepts took place, representatives for the 39-year-old say simply grabbed the victim.

A trial of fact, otherwise known as a Newton Hearing, will now take place, in which a court will make a judgement on the difference in argument between the two sides.

The hearing will take place on February 26.

Both Hampton, of HMP Portland, and Smith, 33, of no fixed address, will be present at the hearing.

The pair were remanded in custody until the hearing.