A SOUTHAMPTON man raped and sexually abused a young girl, a court heard.

Phomnarin Harawan, 20, was sentenced to eight years in prison for sexual assault offenses.

Southampton Crown Court heard that Harawan pinned his victim down during the attacks and promised her money not to report the abuse.

The victim, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, reportedly tried to kick out at Harawan when he launched his sexual attacks.

Harawan, of Portchester Road, was arrested in January last year. During a police interview, he told officers that he assumed his victim was "fine" with what happened.

He denied having any sexual gratification from the offenses and claimed it was a way of expressing the anger he felt about various aspects of his life.

Harawan was charged with rape, assault by penetration, and two counts of attempted rape. He pleaded guilty to all offenses.

Defense barrister Gemma White told the court that Harawan had admitted to his crimes and should be given appropriate credit in his sentence. She added that there had been an 18-month delay in dealing with the case.

Ms White also said Harawan's early days at school had been difficult, impacting his social development.

The court recorder, Adam Feest QC, said that Harawan's victim had shown remarkable courage and strength of character.

Harawan will serve at least two-thirds of his eight-year sentence and will be on licence when he is released. He has been made the subject of a sexual harm prevention order until further order is made.