POLICE discovered 17 fully-grown cannabis plants while searching a property.

Officers attended a house in Barrons Way, in Burnhope, County Durham on Friday night after receiving reports that the occupants may be involved in the misuse of drugs.

The 41-year-old occupant co-operated with police and handed over a small amount of cannabis which he said was for personal use.

However, officers then searched the property and discovered the plants, said to have a street value of approximately £15,000, in an upstairs bedroom.

The man was later interviewed by police and issued with a caution.

PC Scott Crowhurst said "We will continue to target drug misuse by identifying and targeting offenders and seizing drugs from them.

"Drug misuse and supply will not be tolerated in our area".