A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of drugs offences following discovery of a cannabis farm in Widnes.

Drugs were found after local police community support officers spotted suspicious activity at an address on Holkham Close.

Following their concerns, the PCSOs reported the activity to their colleagues from the Widnes Beat Team who attended the address and discovered a large quantity of cannabis plants.

A 49-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of production of Class B drugs (Cannabis).

He has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Ian Whiley said: “This is a great result as we believe that these drugs could well have been destined for the streets of Widnes.

“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."

Police say the following signs could indicate that a property is being used as a cannabis farm:

• A strong and sickly sweet smell.

• Equipment to grow cannabis being taken into a house, for example, lighting and ventilation equipment.

• Constantly covered or blocked-off windows. Cannabis factories often have constantly closed curtains, black-out blinds or foil coverings.

• People coming and going at all hours or neighbours you never see.

• Strong and constant lighting day and night.

• High levels of heat and condensation. Cannabis factories often give off heat and the windows stay misted up.

• Constant buzz of ventilation. A whirring sound can often be heard as the growers try to create an ideal climate for the plants to grow.

• Lots of power cables. Gangs dig underground to lay cables that hook up to things like lamp posts so they don’t have to pay for the enormous amounts of electricity they use.