THE CAREER of a world-respected spinal expert from Hampshire is today in ruins after he was found guilty of indecently assaulting a young patient.

David Holmes, pictured, slumped in the dock with his head in his hands as a jury at Southampton Crown Court returned the verdict. Loud gasps and weeping were heard from the public gallery.

The 60-year-old, who was cleared on a further three charges of indecent assault, could now face a jail sentence.

Holmes, from Gudge Heath Lane, Fareham, worked as an orthotist - a spinal specialist - at Southampton General and Princess Anne hospitals when all of the assaults were alleged to have taken place over a ten-year period.

He has worked in the specialised area for 40 years, during which time he pioneered a revolutionary spinal brace in this country - known as the Boston Brace - on which he is now a world authority.

He has also lectured on his profession across the world and has numerous publications to his name.

Holmes was convicted of indecently assaulting a girl who was 12 at the time and lives in the Bournemouth area. She cannot be named for legal reasons.

Police were called to investigate Holmes after the victim told her boyfriend and his mother what had happened.

During the trial, the girl told how Holmes had slipped his hands inside her bra and underpants as he took measurements for a back brace in a room at the Princess Anne.

In his defence, Holmes claimed that an examination of these areas was necessary to gauge her physical development and make a brace that fitted her.

A spokeswoman for both hospitals said it was unlikely that Holmes would return to either.

Marilyn Kay said: "Mr Holmes was not a direct employee but worked for a company which the hospitals use. He has not been back to the hospital since the complaints against him were made and it is unlikely he will return."

After the verdict Judge David Griffiths said: "I haven't begun to decide what punishment would be appropriate in the circumstances I didn't foresee."

In his summing up Judge Griffiths had spoken of Holmes' good character, saying: "We know he is 60 and is distinguished in his career, he has a high reputation in that field and we have heard from witnesses who he has treated and they speak very highly about him and his integrity."

Sentencing will take place on June 20 after reports are prepared for the court.