HUNDREDS of cannabis plants worth more than £400,000 have been discovered growing in a “large-scale industrial size farm” in a North-East home.

Around 476 plants at various stages of growth have been seized after neighbourhood police officers were called to the address in Hartlepool following a possible break-in.

Cleveland Police officers investigating the scene have also seized electrical equipment used to grow the substantial cannabis farm.

PC Simon Lowther said: “This farm is a significant find, with plants grown across five rooms within the property.

“The electricity was being bypassed at the address and the wires and equipment meant that it was only a matter of time before it caused a fire.

“Our communities want us to work to tackle drugs on the streets, and we work on intelligence from local people to assist us in our operations.

“I would urge anyone who has information on drug dealing or drug use in their neighbourhood to contact us.”

  • Officers are appealing for anyone with information on the cannabis farm to contact the confidential drugs hotline by calling 08000-929702.