EMERGENCY services called to reports of a fire discovered a large cannabis farm when they arrive at the scene.

Police were called to an address in Shotton Colliery following reports of a fire, on Sunday afternoon, and discovered the grow inside.

Officers from Peterlee Neighbourhood Police team subsequently dismantled the grow, from which more than 100 mature cannabis plants and a substantial amount of equipment was recovered.

A spokesperson for Durham police said an investigation is now underway and appealed to members of the public for information.

Anyone who can assist investigators is asked to contact Durham Constabulary, via the non-emergency number 101 or the Live Chat facility located on the force website.

To share any other information in relation to drugs or criminality in your area, contact police in the same way, or you can also provide information anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 0800-555111.

A police spokesperson added: "We will always act on the information you share with us."