Suspected 'cannabis factory' raided

1:00pm Tuesday 20th March 2007

A SUSPECTED "cannabis factory" was discovered at a rented house in Bourne End on Thursday.

Police say they found a substantial number of plants, believed to be cannabis, at a home in Goddington Road after an initial call about a broken window on March 15.

Neighbours had called the police when they realised a side window had been smashed.

Officers went to the house in the early evening and, after finding the plants, they immediately cordoned off the surrounding area.

Neighbours expressed their shock at the discovery.

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "There have been a few people coming and going over the last few months and the curtains are always shut.

"But this a very quiet road and you don't expect this sort of thing to happen next door and we are very shocked."

The owner of the house, who was renting it out, has also been left stunned.

He said: "It is a bit of a shock and particularly out of the blue.

"It is something that you imagine you would see in a movie but not in an area like this, especially Bourne End.

"There was no evidence to suggest any criminal activity."

Rachel McQuilliam, spokesman for Thames Valley Police, said: "Numerous plants were found and a full search of the house was undertaken."

No one has been arrested and officers are appealing for information.

Anyone who could help the police investigation is asked to contact DC Andy Powell-Williams, of High Wycombe CID, via the 24-hour police inquiry centre on 08458 505 505, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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