Officers discovered a substantial cannabis grow containing more than 400 plants after executing a warrant at a house in St Lawrence.

Members of the Maldon Town Team, the Maldon and Chelmsford community policing teams, and the Dog Section, entered an address at just after 11am Tuesday morning (November 21).

The address, on a quiet cul-de-sac in St Lawrence, had been partially converted to grow the plants.

Police discovered heat lamps, blackout blinds, and ventilation equipment installed.

Nobody was at the house, although the police believe it had been recently lived in.

Sergeant Matt Dalby of Maldon Town Team said: "This is an excellent result as the property contained a significant number of plants.

"Drugs ruin lives and damage communities and the team will continue to target those who are profiting from this illegal trade. We are sending out a very clear message to drug dealers - it will not be tolerated."

He adds: "The production of cannabis feeds into a bigger network of criminality and exploitation linked to illegal immigration and forced labour, with people often put to work and made to live in terrible conditions.

"Stopping the criminals behind the growth and sale of cannabis is vital in tackling violent crime and helps keep local communities safe."

Local residents had reported suspicious activity and the smell of cannabis coming from the property in St Lawrence.

Sgt Dalby encourages people to contact the police if they see something that concerns them.

He said: "Community intelligence is extremely important to us. If any members of the public suspect someone is growing cannabis or there is crime and drug dealing taking place, report it to us. If you tell us, we will act."