Massive cannabis factory discovered

A LARGE scale cannabis factory has been discovered in Warrington town centre following a raid on a former nightclub.
Officers from Warrington Town Neighbourhood Policing Unit swooped on the former Club Wired premises in Mersey Street this morning.
Inside, they found cannabis plants with an estimated street value of about £1.5 million.
Inspector Richie Watts said: “This was a significant find and fortunately, we have been able to put a stop to it.
“Over 1,600 Cannabis plants of varying stages of growth have been recovered from inside the premises. This is a great result as we believe that these drugs could well have been destined for the streets of Warrington or further afield.
“This is an extremely large cannabis factory and we estimate the street value of all of the plants is approximately £1.5 million, which could generate a potential annual income of over £6 million.”
Two men, age 48 and 34, and two young persons, have been arrested in relation to the incident, and they are currently being dealt with in police custody.
Inspector Watts added: “We know what negative impact illegal drug use and supply can have on the community and it is an issue we take extremely seriously. Members of the public can rest assured that our efforts in this area will continue.
“Information from members of the public is vital in the fight against drug related crime. Drug use and supply is an issue of concern for the local community and we continue to do all we can to put a stop to this sort of activity.
“Drug related activity is not acceptable and local officers will continue to react swiftly and positively to any information in relation to drug related crime in the area. Members of the public are urged to report any suspicious activity in their area by contacting Cheshire Police on 101.”
Alternatively information can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Picture: The scene inside the former nightclub.