Three Greek doctors were convicted today over the death of British holidaymaker Christopher Rochester who died in a Rhodes hospital after falling from a balcony.

The three medics and two nurses had faced charges of manslaughter by negligence following claims that they failed to treat the seriously injured 24-year-old after he was rushed into hospital in June 2000.

The two nurses were today acquitted of the charges.

The case was brought by the island's public prosecutor following a lengthy campaign by Mr Rochester's family and North Durham Labour MP Kevan Jones to have the medics tried over his death.

Mr Rochester, of Chester-le-Street, County Durham, died in June 2000 just days after he arrived on the sunshine island to meet up with his brother Keith.

The three doctors were each sentenced to three years in prison, suspended pending an appeal.

Mr Rochester's family expressed their delight at the convictions.

His brother, Keith, said: ''These people now know if they treat anyone else in the way they have treated Christopher, they are not going to get away with it.

''This can only be good for British people visiting Rhodes and for the Greek people who visit the hospital themselves.'' His mother Pam Cummings said: ''I can't believe it, I am just so relieved.

''It's what we wanted, we have got justice.''

MP Mr Jones who has campaigned alongside the family and who was in Rhodes court for the start of the hearing on Wednesday said: ''This is a brilliant outcome and vindicates the tenacious campaign Mrs Cummings has made to get justice for her son.

''Although the legal process has been tortuous and frustrating at times, all credit has to be given to the judges for listening to the pleas of the family.''

Mr Jones now intends to highlight in Parliament the level of medical care on the island of Rhodes.