Police bust cannabis farm in a barn in Wensleydale after locals report 'strange comings and goings'

Suspicious activity including large numbers of vehicles coming and going had been reported at the disused barn on farmland in Hunton, between Leyburn and Bedale.

On October 21, police visited the barn and found a large-scale cannabis 'grow' in the early stages of cultivation.

There was a 'well-organised' hydroponics system, electricity meters had been bypassed and a large quantity of cannabis plants were found.

Inspector Mark Gee said from North Yorkshire Police said: “We’re very grateful to the local community who reported their concerns and as a result we were able to act quickly and dismantle this operation.

“Often the people involved in the actual cultivation and set-up on the ground are being exploited by organised crime groups, so putting a stop to these types of operations has a far wider reaching impact than simply stopping drugs from becoming available in our communities.

“Everyone can play their part by remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious behaviour to the police so that we can take action.”

No arrests have been made.