An independent financial adviser from Deal has pleaded guilty to 16 offences following an investigation by Kent Police's serious economic crime unit.

Gordon Benville, 50, from Wellington Parade, Walmer, had business premises at Limes Business Centre in Deal and traded under the name Kingsfield Commercial Funding.

Kent Police say two members of the public reported concerns to them in February, 2007, regarding their mortgage and financial status following guidance given by Benville.

As a result of investigations into Benville's bank accounts, he was suspended by the Financial Services Authority in October, 2007, and his assets frozen.

At Canterbury Crown Court, Benville pleaded guilty to 16 offences, 12 of obtaining a money transfer by deception totalling £440,637.64 and four fraud offences.

Police say many victims, who include a 74-year-old man and a 72-year-old woman, have been left with financial problems following Benville's actions.

Benville will be sentenced later.