PENSIONER Christine Ratcliffe has been convicted of assaulting her husband.

Ratcliffe, 72, admitted attacking Kenneth James Ratcliffe at their home in Tees Farm Road, Colden Common, on August 5, magistrates heard.

She initially denied the charge but changed her plea.

Ratcliffe, now of The Crossways, Chandler's Ford, received a community order with a rehabilitation activity requirement for up to 15 days.

A restraining order bars her from contacting Mr Ratcliffe save through solicitors to arrange the divorce. The order lasts until October 2 2018.

She was also told to pay an £85 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

No evidence was offered on a second assault on August 12 and the charge was dismissed at the hearing at Basingstoke Magistrates Court.