THE remains of plant used to create a Class B drug have been flytipped on a lane near Whixall.

The cannabis plant leaves and equipment used to grow the plants was discovered in Maltkiln Lane last Thursday evening by the landowner who reported it to the police.

But it was later reported again after the shocking find was discovered by a Whixall resident, who did not initially realise the nature of the discovery.

“It’s quite bizarre really,” said the resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “It must have been flytipped the previous night.

“I recognised the hydroponics kit right away, I passed it on the way out of the village.

“I thought it was vegetables, but then the smell hit me. There must have been about 15 bin bags.

“I’m guessing someone has got panicked and dumped the bags.

“The police responded, but they only removed the bags of cannabis.”

Hydroponics are a type of irrigation system used to grow plants without soil.

The find was reported to police by the landowner as well as the Whixall resident.

Police confirmed the landowner initially reported the find on Thursday, June 13, with the resident reporting the following day.

Inspector Tracy Ryan of the Whitchurch Safer Neighbourhood Team confirmed the presence of cannabis, saying: “We’ve had two reports of flytipping, the land owner contacted us along with a member of the public.

“There were lots of plastic bags full of plant pots and the remains of plants.

“Nothing you could smoke or plant though.”

Those guilty of producing of cannabis for sharing or selling can face a maximum penalty of up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

And those who are found in possession can face up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

Shropshire Council have been made aware of the flytipping.