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The case follows the death of Stephen Hall, aged 43, from pancreatic cancer.

Officers from the Borough of Poole's Consumer Protection Services carried out the investigation, which was supported by medical experts and the Medical Devices Agency (A body which controls the safety and efficacy of medical equipment). Charges were brought under the Trade Descriptions Act and related to the supply of a briefcase-sized machine that Mr Gill claimed could cure cancer. Mr Gill sold the machine for £2500.

Councillor Jonathon Pethen, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: "This prosecution was important as it related to the exploitation of people who were already suffering in desperate circumstances. Reputable complementary medicine can play an important supportive part in the treatment of some conditions. Sadly Mr Gill's treatment was not proven and patients need to conduct thorough research before stepping outside mainstream medicine."

Peter Pawlowski, Head of Poole's Consumer Protection Services, said: "Clearly this equipment was neither designed nor manufactured to play any part in cancer treatment. It is difficult to think of a more despicable crime than preying on the natural desperation of those suffering from terminal cancer. Particularly when this is for personal financial gain.

He added: "I must thank the Hall family for their brave decision to personally give evidence in this case. It will have been extremely difficult to revisit these events following Mr Hall's death but without their help this man may have continued to prey upon innocent victims."

The judge has adjourned the case in order to obtain a pre-sentence report. She indicated that she was considering a custodial sentence. Mr Gill will be sentenced on a date to be fixed in January 2004.