700 plants seized at two Rossendale cannabis farms (From Lancashire Telegraph)

700 plants seized at two Rossendale cannabis farms

5:10pm Friday 5th March 2010 in

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MORE than 700 cannabis plants have been seized by police from two ‘farms’ in Rossendale.

Officers made the first discovery of 700 plants at an industrial unit at Vale Mill, Haslingden, at around 1.30pm yesterday.

Then, a few hours later, they found 69 plants inside a building at Carrbridge Mill, in Bacup.

Apart from the drugs, police also seized a “sophisticated” system of lighting and heating equipment.

Inspector Judith Finney, from Rawtenstall Police, said: “This is an industrial unit posing as a martial arts centre and forensic inquiries are continuing.

“It is a sophisticated set-up and the investigation is ongoing follow-ing the removal of this significant cultivation site.

“I hope this find demonstrates our continued efforts to reduce drug- related activity in Haslingden and support the communities that we serve.

“I would like to reassure residents that we will continue to tackle such issues in our fight against drugs, anti-social behaviour and crime.”

Police discovered the second cannabis farm in a building just off Burnley Road, at Carrbridge Mill, following reports of a burglary in progress.

Scales and lighting equipment were taken away from the premises and an investigation is now underway.

Chief Inspector Ian Sewart, from Rossendale Police, said: “It is unacceptable that this is going on in the borough and we are pleased that we intervened.

“It was a valuable amount of cannabis which we prevented from going on the streets.

“We are currently targeting alcohol and drugs misuse in Rossendale, so this is a very successful operation for us.”

Police would not disclose how they knew the property had illegal substances in it.

No arrests have been made, but an investigation is underway.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the police on 0845 1 25 35 45, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.