THIRTEEN people have been arrested after a huge cannabis factory - possibly worth millions of pounds - was discovered in Stourport.

Several thousand plants at various stages of development, plus associated growing equipment, were discovered in a unit on the Sandy Lane industrial estate in the early hours of this morning.

It was found by police after a member of the public reported people acting suspiciously just before 2.30am.

In the Sandy Lane area nine people were arrested, followed by a further four who were travelling in a Vauxhall Astra along the Hagley Road West in Quinton, Birmingham.

Most of the 13 men, whose ages range from late teens to mid 30s, have addresses in the Birmingham area.

They were arrested on suspicion 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 Kidderminster, Redditch and Worcester police stations.

Det Insp Carl Moore, 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 the 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.”