Second hand iPhone 3GS won't activate?

I just bought a second hand 3GS as a gift and I've been trying to set it up so it's all ready to hand over. I have a sim in it, and I'm struggling to activate it. I'm getting "could not activate iPhone" errors when I try and do it over Wi-Fi and via iTunes.

Any ideas?

Added (1). It's saying the activation server is "currently unavailable", is this in line with it being blocked.
Can I fix it with the IMEI code, I have the box and everything so in theory I should have that too.

Probably blocked.

Sounds like it has been locked or deactivated - prossibly because it was reported as stolen

Server Not Available - means
you have not enabled the Wi-Fi,
or
that the SIM data settings are not correct

Catch 22, until you have SIM and the Phone enabled, you won't get the Network Data settings texted to you (so it can't connect)

So you will need to use Wi-Fi (set it up on the phone)
or ensure that you are using the same Network SIM as was used before in it.

The other possibility, is that this phone is network locked (almost all iPhones are) and you have the wrong network SIM in it. Is this unlocked?

you could always talk to the local Apple store/Genius center to check what the current status (which network, if it is stolen or not)

I really am sorry but why?
And why a moribund IPhone 3GS which is DISCONTINUED

It came out in June 2009 (LAST DECADE) 3.5 years ago that is nearly 2 FULL CONTRACTS ago so preowned a gift wow

The IP 3GS has a 3MP camera NO flash, NO FM radio, No stereo speakers, NO!

Carphone warehouse are SELLING SAMSUNG GALAXY ACE FOR £75.00 + £10 TOP UP NEW, Warranty) whose feature are 5MP Camera + Flash faster processor etc and show the IP 3GS for what it is proof ( here and NO hassle in setting it up)
http://www.gsmarena.com/...hone2=3724
http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/mobiles/choose-tariff/SAMSUNG_GALAXY_ACE/PPAY?viewDealForAll=false&colourCode=&modelName=Samsung%20Galaxy%20Ace

The price paid or tariffs commanded (no demanded) by iPhones… On any every network defy logic and gravity

and that is not just me saying it paragraph 4 All IPHONEs ARE OVERPRICED.
"The fact that Apple managed to sell a 3-year old device for more than three times the price of comparable devices (like the Windows Phone-based Nokia Lumia 710) is a testament to the power of Apple's branding."
http://www.itproportal.com/2012/09/06/8gb-iphone-4s-version-be-introduced-iphone-5-launch/

This is what happens when you stay in the orchard, you seriously overpay for a logo
If its NOT too late you should return it as even Apples go off