Cannabis Factory Found In World War Bunker

Police have unearthed a cannabis farm found hidden underground in a series of tunnels once used as a nuclear bunker during the Cold War.

Hundreds of plants and growing equipment were found in the historic Drakelow Tunnels near Kidderminster, Worcestershire, in a raid.

Police seized more than 400 plants and estimated the farm could have been worth around £650,000.

"While executing the warrant at Drakelow Tunnels we discovered a large and sophisticated cannabis growing operation," said North Worcestershire Superintendent Kevin Purcell.

A 45-year-old man was also arrested in a related raid on an address in Kidderminster, on suspicion of money laundering and being concerned in the production and supply of controlled drugs.

The Drakelow site was used to manufacture machine parts during the Second World War and later earmarked by the Home Office as a regional seat of government in the event of a nuclear attack.

The tunnels measure 285,000sq ft and stretch for around three miles underground. In the 1950s they were also used by the Ministry of Supply for storage.

Mr Purcell said the officers who carried out the raid were briefed on the site's historical significance and took due care.

He said the investigation is still ongoing and they are appealing to the public for information.

He added: "While we have made an arrest in connection with this I would stress that this is a dynamic, ongoing investigation and we would very much like to hear from anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity near the tunnels."