Wiltshire Police would like to extend their gratitude to the local community who helped officers discover two cannabis factories in Swindon.

Following information received from members of the public, officers were able to apply for drug warrants and raid two properties in Stratton and Haydon End.

On Wednesday 15^th June 2011, officers discovered 30 plants in a derelict bungalow in Swindon Road, Stratton, thanks to a tip off from a local person.

On Friday 17^th June, officers discovered approximately 400 cannabis plants, thought to be worth in the region of £160,000 at a house in White Eagle Road, Haydon End.

Hydroponics equipment valued at hundreds of pounds had been set up to grow the plants at the property, and the offenders had also illegally tapped into the electricity supply.

Enquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible as neither property was occupied at the time of the raids.

Barry Reed, the Acting Police Sergeant for the Swindon North Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We rely on information we receive from members of the public to stop the cultivation and supply of illegal drugs in Swindon.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the public and to urge them to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police. They can be assured that any information we receive will be treated in the strictest of confidence.”

Anyone with information about illegal drugs is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 0845 408 7000. Alternatively they can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information may be left anonymously if preferred.