Dawn raid on drugs factory

Police stormed four addresses and outbuildings on the Redlands Lane travellers' site at 7.15am and found between 250-300 cannabis plants, with a street value of thousands of pounds.

Seven men, aged from 19 to 51, were arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis.

They were questioned and have since been released on police bail until December 11.

The 51-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

Chief Inspector Heather Keating said: "Sussex Police acts on intelligence and will take positive action against anyone producing, supplying or possessing prohibited drugs.

"The information we received involves a small number of residents on the site in Redlands Lane and our overall aim is not only to crack down on illegal activity, but to work together with East Sussex County Council and Rother District Council to operate a well-managed site for the benefit of its residents and the local community."

Sussex Police remained on the site from last Friday until Monday, assisting East Sussex County Council in reinstating the boundary of the site, which has spilled over onto private land.

Councillor Bob Tidy, lead member for community services, said: "Our aim is to strike a balance between the needs of the site residents and those of the local community.

"We want to try and enable and facilitate positive relationships between both communities through effective joint working."

In a bid to reassure Robertsbridge residents, information leaflets were handed out to householders and businesses, explaining the reason for police activity in the area.

Ch Insp Keating said: "There will be officers from the local neighbourhood policing team on the site and in the area.

"Residents can speak to them if they have any concerns."