59 'giant' cannabis plants discovered following tip-off from public: Bathpool
(TA2 - Friday, 19 August, 2011)

Police found giant cannabis plants at an address on Bridgwater Road near Bathpool on Wednesday August 15, 2011.

Officers had received information from the public about suspected cannabis plants being grown in the garden of the property.

When officers from the Taunton East Neighbourhood and Wellington teams searched the premises they found 59 plants, all between 6 - 8ft tall, growing in the garden.

A 62-year-old man was arrested at the property on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a controlled drug and possession with the intent to supply a controlled drug.

He has been released on bail until September pending further investigation and forensic testing.

Officers also found a further 60 seedlings and hydroponics equipment in an outbuilding.

All the plants and equipment were seized.

Beat Manager, PC Andrew Beake, said:

"We carried out this search warrant after information was supplied to one of our officers by a member of the public.

"Cannabis is an illegal drug and anyone growing it, particularly in large quantities, is opening themselves up to prosecution, a criminal record and potentially a prison sentence.

"The plants in the garden were really big, some of the biggest I have seen but because they weren't grown in a hydroponic environment - they weren't particularly strong or "good quality".

"This doesn't detract from it still being a criminal activity however.

"I want to thank the public for coming forward with this information and encourage others to get in touch if they have information about suspected illegal activities in their communities. We will listen and take action."

Anyone with information about criminal activity can contact either the police on 0845 456 7000.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: Avon and Somerset

Address:
Bridgwater Road
Bathpool
Taunton
SOMERSET
TA2