UPDATED: Hundreds of cannabis plants found in village chip shop

Police have discovered hundreds of cannabis plants growing above a village chip shop in the Harborough district.

Some of the plants were found in a flat above The Crispy Chip, in Uppingham Road, Houghton on the Hill, about 14 miles north of Market Harborough, on Thursday, March 9.

Subsequent investigations revealed a second cannabis growth at a nearby house.

In total, 1,800 plants were found at both places. Surprised villagers noticed a sudden police presence around the flat early on Thursday.

They then saw plants, lighting and cultivating equipment being removed from the flat by police officers.

No-one has yet been arrested but investigations are continuing.

PC Steve Winn from the Market Harborough Dedicated Neighbourhood Team, said: “If anyone has any information relating to the discovery of these plants, or suspects cannabis plants are being grown in their neighbourhood, please call us on 101.

“There are a number of signs that you can look out for that indicate a cannabis factory is operating. They include: closed window with condensation building up, curtains drawn at all times, and lights being operated by a timer switch. There may also be humming noises and strange smells coming from the property.

“You may also see intermittent visits from the occupants and large amounts of industrial electrical equipment being brought to the building.”

Anyone wishing to report anything anonymously can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.