POLICE are hunting the operators of a cottage cannabis growing business uncovered by accident in the loft of a disused house.

Cannabis plants with an estimated value of tens of thousands of pounds were recovered from the empty property in Dawdon, east Durham, following a blaze on Sunday.

The surprise discovery of what police believe was a long-standing cannabis cultivation operation was made as firefighters made a routine search of the terraced house in Embleton Street, which is scheduled for demolition.

Police in nearby Seaham were informed and officers made a full search of the building, recovering 67 skunk cannabis plants, each about 5ft tall, from the loft.

They also seized equipment used to grow cannabis, including lights, fans, transformers, electric cables, switches, and two paddling pools full of water.

The value of a single mature cannabis plant is estimated to be more than £1,000.

Acting Sergeant Alex Clarke, of Seaham Police, said: "This was quite a sophisticated operation we have come across and we are very pleased.

"This was a total fluke, but we consider it a significant find," he added.

Anyone with information is asked to call Easington division CID on 0191-586 2621.