A suspected cannabis farm that spans four rooms of a derelict north east Manchester pub was uncovered last night.
It was discovered at what was The Gibraltar pub, previously also known as The Kippax, on Grimshaw Lane in Newton Heath and which closed several years ago.
Police say they were first called to the area shortly after midnight, in the early hours of this morning (Wednesday) following reports of a group of men 'acting suspiciously' nearby.
An eyewitness described how officers were then seen putting through a door connected to the building.
He also said he saw officers cutting a lock on a fence at the rear of the former pub.
Officers today said they discovered what is believed to be a large cannabis farm inside.
The number of plants or street value has not yet been established however GMP confirmed it spanned four rooms of the building.
Officers remained at the scene with officers standing guard all night.
And Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said today a scene remained in place as officers continue their investigations.
They are appealing for anyone with any information to get in touch.
"At around 12.20am this morning (Tuesday 13 April 2021) police were called to reports of a group of men acting suspiciously on Bower Street in Manchester" a force spokeswoman said.
"On arrival, officers discovered what is believed to be a cannabis farm which spans across four rooms of a property.
"The offenders made off prior to police arrival.
"No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.
"A scene is in place as officers continue their investigation. "
The pub is understood to have closed its doors around eight years ago.
The city council's planning portal shows an application was made in April last year to convert the building into five self-contained flats.
However, it appears the application was withdrawn earlier this year.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 1146 quoting incident number 53 of 13/04/2021.
Reports can be also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
