Harvested cannabis was found at a business during a police raid.

Officers searched the firm in Benfleet Road in Benfleet today following concerns from residents about a cannabis farm. The police said the cannabis was being dried out ahead of dealing in the borough.

Officers say nobody was found at the business.

A spokesman for Castle Point Policing Team said: "The Community Policing Team executed a raid today at a commercial property in Benfleet after we received numerous reports from members of the public of a possible cannabis cultivation.

"Our team discovered that the plants had been recently harvested and the bud was in the process of being dried out for onward supply. We have seized a considerable quantity of cannabis along with the cultivation equipment.

"Nobody was found at the location, however our enquiries continue. If you suspect drug dealing or drug cultivation in your area, you can report on 101, online or via Crimestoppers completely anonymously on 0800 555 111."