A MAN has been arrested after a cannabis farm, described as the largest ever seen by one police officer, was uncovered in Bishop Auckland.

The raid happened on Friday morning after police officers executed a warrant at a large, detached house in Durham Road.

"There was intelligence suggesting the property was being used for the cultivation of drugs and when officers entered the house, they discovered all four bedrooms had been converted into a large cannabis farm," said a force spokesman.

"We estimate around 300 plants were in various stages of growth, and the electricity supply had been tampered with. Around 50 electrical junction boxes were in operation, with wires running throughout the building.

"Engineers have been called out to ensure the property is safe and officers will be at the scene for some time, bagging up the plants and removing them from the house."

One man has been arrested for drugs offences.

Insp Andy Reeves said: "This is the biggest cannabis grow I have seen in my police service.

"It appears to be a very professional set-up and I am really pleased we have been able to stop these drugs circulating in the area."