TWO men have been arrested on suspicion of drug manufacturing after police raided a derelict garage and found a suspected cannabis factory.

Police were called to the garage on Church Road in Cinderford after two men were acting suspiciously in the area. When they arrived at the former commercial premises on Monday at 7pm they found approximately 100 plants.

The garage remains guarded by officers who are waiting for the area to be made safe before beginning a thorough search and seizing the plants and related equipment.

The two men aged 36 and 30 were arrested on suspicion of drugs manufacture in connection with the investigation and are currently in police custody.

Forest Superintendent Phil Haynes said: "We're still working out what we have here but it is likely to be a significant criminal enterprise.

"From what we have seen so far the plants are mature and have the potential to deliver a significant yield, so they could be worth tens of thousands of pounds.

"Our Operation Rapier has already had great results combating drug crime in the Forest.

"While this was not the result of a proactive warrant, our swift response and action should highlight to the community that we are determined to disrupt those supplying drugs in the Forest."

Anyone with information on drugs can ring police on 101. Alternatively information can be given anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org">www.crimestoppers-uk.org. In some cases Crimestoppers offer rewards of up to £1,000 where information leads to a conviction.