Fire uncovers 'cannabis factory'

More than 200 cannabis plants were recovered

Army crews fighting a house fire in Liverpool discovered a suspected cannabis factory.

Six Green Goddesses and a reserve red fire engine were sent to the home in Elm Terrace, Kensington, Liverpool, on Thursday night.

A Merseyside Police spokesman said military officers discovered the suspected drugs factory on the top two floors of the three-storey house.

More than 200 cannabis plants were recovered and an investigation is now under way.

Plants destroyed

The police spokesman said: "Police have launched an investigation into the discovery, but have not yet been able to enter the property due to the unstable nature of the building.

"Officers will investigate the scene later today (Friday) with health and safety officials."

The Army stayed at the house until 0730 GMT on Friday, because part house collapsed.

The fire is not being treated as suspicious.

Police station

The police spokesman added: "A large quantity of cannabis plants is believed to have been destroyed in the fire.

"The remaining plants - identified to be of the 'skunk' variety and each between 12 to 15 inches tall - have been taken to a police station on Merseyside for examination.

"Scenes of crime officers are currently at the scene of the fire carrying out investigations while work is under way to stabilise the building."