Compost seized from cannabis raid given to local groups

MORE than 120 bags of compost seized from a cannabis factory in Westbury Leigh have been donated to local community groups and schools, including the Westbury Station Project and Edington and District Gardening Club. 

When officers cleared the large-scale illegal operation at a three-storey building in The Maltings back in January they discovered a large quantity of high-quality compost. 

Once it had been cleared as no longer required for the investigation, the local Community Policing Team was able to reach out to local groups, clubs and organisations to see if it could be put to good use.  

In total, 121 bags have now been distributed to various groups, including town and parish councils, gardening and allotment clubs and schools in the local area. 

Also, just over 340kg of food and other items found at the site were donated to the Warminster Food Bank. 

Acting Sergeant Vicky Howick, from the neighbourhood team said, “Due to the scale of the operation at The Maltings we were able to seize a large quantity of compost, as well as other items, and it only feels right that we use this to give something back to our local communities. 

“We didn’t want this to all go to waste, so, as they are no longer needed for the investigation and have no evidential value, we were able to reach out to these local organisations and see them put to good use. 

“We had a fantastic response and this week people were able to come in and collect it.” 

Police are continuing to investigate the discovery of the cannabis plants on 7th January.