A MASS of cannabis plants were uncovered by police as they raided a suspected drug factory in Thorpe’s High Street.

Officers secured a warrant and launched a raid on the High Street property last week.

A special operations team hit the home and made a major discovery, finding a large cannabis production set-up in a rear outbuilding.

They found 130 mature cannabis plants, as well as a large quantity of dried out cannabis.

The walls of the outbuilding were covered with light-reflecting foil, while tangles of electrical wires were hoisted up to power hanging lights and fans.

Inspector Lee Devall, of Essex Police, said: “It was quite a sophisticated setup in there. They had good lighting and ventilation.

“The drugs and suspected substances were seized by the officers and taken off to Clacton police station for testing.”

Three people were arrested at the scene in connection with the discovery. They have been released on bail until March 17 while police investigate further.

Read more in the Clacton Gazette, out now.