An inquisitive reporter from The Bolton News uncovered a £100,000 cannabis farm – and led police to the man allegedly responsible for running it.

Julian Thorpe came across the story by speaking to local residents after being sent out on a routine job.

When one said they had spotted a man moving between a property already uncovered as a cannabis farm and another on an adjacent street, his detective instincts kicked in.

He took her to a nearby officer and reported his suspicions. Police raided the home, discovering a second set up capable of growing 150 plants every six weeks.

A man inside saw them and tried to escape through the back door. But he was caught when a quick-witted police officer heard him climbing over a fence into a neighbouring garden. The man, believed to be Vietnamese and in his 40s, refused to speak and was taken away in a police van.

Police yesterday praised Julian’s actions. Sgt Mike Jennings, who was in charge of the operation, said: “We want to thank The Bolton News for speaking to the residents, who were forthcoming with the information and assisted in us locating the other property.”

Assistant editor James Higgins added: “Julian has a track record of thinking on his feet – and has once again proved himself as a reporter with a great deal of nous.

“The story made for a great splash – and proved once again that local newspapers are vitally important to the communities they serve.”