A cannabis farm consisting of hundreds of plants has been uncovered by police at a disused building in Ashton town centre. 

Greater Manchester Police said officers were called to a report of a cannabis farm discovery last week. 

Some 343 plants covering four floors were found at the former Shubar shop in Old Street. 

A spokesperson for GMP Tameside North and East said: "After many days of multi-agencies making the building safe after electrics had been tampered with, gathering evidence and ensuring everything was dismantled, the plants where sent for destruction.

"Cannabis farms can often lead to bigger criminality, including human trafficking and modern day slavery, help us to help them!" 

Image: Greater Manchester Police 

Police are also appealing for the public's help after it was evident that someone was staying at the premises. Officers want to find them to make sure they're okay. 

Anyone with information or any witnesses to suspicious behaviour at unoccupied properties should contact police via 101. 

Alternatively, details can be passed on via the LiveChat function at https://crowd.in/XCiyuR or via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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