A MASSIVE cannabis factory has been uncovered in an industrial unit.

The drugs farm, on the outskirts of Blackburn town centre, had more than 1,000 plants with a street value of around £150,000.

It is one of the biggest cannabis factories found in the town.

Police officers discovered the crops and sophisticated growing equipment when they swooped on premises at Unity Mill, Pearson Street.

Police said one room at the Pearson Street site close to the old St. Wilfrid’s school site, was filled with potted seedlings and smaller plants kept under artificial lights to encourage growth.

Used compost had been dumped on the floor after its nutrients had been exhausted.

In a second room, marked Main Office, rows of plants, up to 3ft high, were kept warm with lights and other cultivating equipment. Foil lined insulated boards separated the crop from the steel shutter which led out onto the street.

Stacks of plastic plant pots and cans of energy drinks were also found inside.

The single-storey unit, which stands amongst a mixture of industrial and former mill buildings, had been privately rented for several months, police said.

Acting on intelligence, officers the support unit, neighbourhood policing team and CID arrived at the property, formerly Ashleigh Industrial Supplies Ltd, at 11am yesterday morning. A hydraulic door opener was used to break a lock and gain access to the building.

A worker at one of the nearby businesses, who asked not to be named, said: "Once the police officers had opened the doors the smell was pretty pungent but I hadn't noticed anything before.

"Most people around here just work normal hours so people are always coming and going.

“I had seen a van once or twice and just assumed the unit was being used by builders."

Two men, aged 47 and 45, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of cultivating cannabis, and possession with intent to supply the drug.

Detective Inspector Claire Holbrook said: "This was a significant seizure which has clearly disrupted the supply of cannabis on the streets of East lancashire .

"People who illegally grow cannabis need to understand that this is not a way to make a quick buck because Lancashire Constabulary will ensure that they are always one step ahead to disrupt their plans and bring them to justice.

"I urge anyone with info about drugs to contact the police on."

Contact police on 0845 1 25 35 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.