THREE more Lithuanian nationals have appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged with what the prosecution described as a major drug supply conspiracy.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting said the operation involved a number of cannabis farms being set up in residential properties in the Pendle area.

He said nine defendants had already appeared charged with conspiracy to produce drugs and some with conspiring to provide drugs. All nine had been remanded in custody to appear at Burnley Crown Court.

The latest three, Thomas, Borodkinas, 19, of Pine Street, Nelson, Modestas Laurikenas, 20, of no fixed address, and Tomas Ramanauskas, 20, of Belfield Road, Accrington, were all charged with conspiring to produce and conspiring to supply cannabis and were remanded in custody to appear before Burnley Crown Court on October 14.