A property that had its door forced open before police arrived had over 400 cannabis plants growing across the first floor and loft.

On Thursday 31 October, South Yorkshire Police received reports of a suspicious man outside of a property in Psalters Lane, Ferham. 

After being confronted by a neighbour, the man escaped. 

Rotherham Central Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector John Crapper said: “Drugs are a scourge on our societies and cannabis farms are often linked to organised crime.

“Cannabis is not a harmless drug. It funds criminality which wreaks misery on our local communities and this needs to stop.”

The plants, estimated to be worth around £1,000 each, have since been seized and destroyed. 

Inp Crapper said: “We urge the public to be vigilant and report any concerns to us.” 

The property housing the factory has now been secured, and enquiries into the incident remain ongoing. 

If you are concerned about crime in your area, you can report it to the police via 101, or in the case of an emergency, via 999. You can also submit information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.