ONE of the biggest cannabis factories ever seen by police was discovered in Stourport today.

Fourteen people have been arrested after police discovered thousands of plants at various stages of development.

Growing equipment was also discovered in the unit on the Sandy Lane industrial estate in the early hours of this morning.

The plants were discovered by police after a member of the public reported people acting suspiciously just before 2.30am.

Nine men were arrested in the Sandy Lane area, followed by a further four in Vauxhall Astra travelling along the Hagley Road West, Quinton.

Most of the 13 men, whose ages range from late teens to mid 30s, live in the Birmingham area. They were arrested on suspicious of various drugs-related offences, including production of cannabis, being concerned in the production and supply of cannabis, and conspiracy to cultivate cannabis.

They remain in custody at Worcester, Kidderminster and Redditch police stations.

Carl Moore, Detective Inspector of West Mercia Police, said: "This was a massive cannabis factory, one of the biggest we have ever seen.

"It was discovered purely by chance, thanks to the vigilance of a member of the public, who reported what he thought was a fuel theft.

"Credit also needs to go to first police officers on the scene, who upon discovering there was no evidence of a fuel theft, looked around and came across the cannabis factory.

"The plants will need to be tested, but we believe this seizure has prevented a large quantity of cannabis, possibly worth several million pounds, ending up on the streets.

"Drugs are a priority for West Mercia Police and we will take positive action against anyone involved in their production, use and supply."