He was charged with acting as a director of Midlands Publishing Holdings while an undischarged bankrupt.

The verdict brings to a conclusion a protracted court case, brought by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which dragged on over two years.

Sentencing was heard at Birmingham Crown Court on 8 April.

"Why has he not been given the maximum disqualification of 10 years?" said Steve Mepham, partner at credit checking agency National Print Database, who thought the trial was a waste of taxpayers' money.

The DTI prepared the charges following an investigation into Humes' business activities. He was a director of Midlands Publishing Holdings, Newey Print and Midlands Print among others.

Story by Andy Scott