More than 300 cannabis plants were discovered by police after they raided a property in Farnworth this morning.

Officers forced entry to the property in Sheldon Close where a total of 328 plants were being farmed.

Police officers have warned that there was a significant fire risk in the building as the electricity meter had been bypassed.

Greater Manchester Police said that they are following up on enquiries and they thanked the public for their help.

In a statement GMP said: "Another morning and another door goes in by the Intelligence Unit. This time officers forced entry to an address on Sheldon Close in Farnworth.

"Inside were a total of 328 plants at various stages of growth.

"The electricity had been bypassed and when you consider the electrics in general at this address, this as a fire waiting to happen.

"Officers are continuing with enquiries along with the hard work of dismantling this farm.

"We couldn't do this without the help of the public. Thank you."

Across England and Wales drugs offences have risen by 27% during lockdown.

Between March 23 and May 25 this year 26 forces responded to 25,665 offences related to banned substances, compared to 20,220 in the same period in 2019.