TWO men were arrested after more than 500 cannabis plants were seized during a raid at a house in Winsford on Friday.

Police smashed their way into a property off Swanlow Lane and discovered the plants in two specially constructed cellars. A 46ft HGV trailer, farming equipment and other items believed to have been stolen were also found.

Insp Dave Snasdell, head of Winsford Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: “This is a great result for us – and for everyone in Winsford. It means a large scale cannabis production site is now off-line for good.

“We received intelligence that cannabis was being grown, but we didn’t expect the setup that was uncovered.

“We found a static caravan and a metal storage container with young plants in them, but a more thorough search revealed two underground concrete chambers, each around 20m long and four metres wide, which were also filled with cannabis plants in a more advanced stage of growth.

“We are still awaiting forensic analysis of the plants, but there is no doubt that this warrant represents a significant victory as we seek to tackle illegal drugs and their supply in Winsford.”

A 35-year-old from Crewe and a 36-year-old from Winsford, were arrested following the raid, and are currently on police bail pending further enquiries.

Insp Snasdell added: “This warrant clearly demonstrates we are committed to tackling all forms of criminal behaviour in Winsford and will act upon intelligence and information which is provided by members of the public.”