A CANNABIS farm worth around £141,000 has been discovered at a flat in Deane.

Police officers from the Bolton Intelligence Unit visited a property in Merton Close at 7am yesterday.

While at the flat for a totally unconnected purpose, intelligence officers discovered a "sophisticated" cannabis farm consisting of 176 cannabis plants.

The value of the plants has been estimated at approximately £141,000.

PS Helen Chadwick, Intelligence Sgt at Bolton Police Station suggested that the plants were discovered just in the nick of time.

She said: "Whilst at the address regarding another matter we came across a sophisticated cannabis farm set up.

"The farm was only days away from being cropped for a substantial yield, which would have undoubtedly flooded the streets of Bolton.

"This would have only benefitted organised crime groups ,who bring misery to our communities.

"It also possibly could have involved vulnerable people being exploited for criminality."

One man was arrested on suspicion of production of cannabis.

Officers from the tutor unit then assisted the intelligence team by dismantling the farm and seizing the plants.

Already this year, police have uncovered large cannabis farms in Horwich, Halliwell, Over Hulton, and Radcliffe.

Since 2009, cannabis has been classified as a class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 - which means it is illegal to have for yourself, give away or sell.

The maximum penalty for supply and production of a class B drug is up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

To report a crime, contact police on 101 or visit gmp.police.uk. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.