AN UTILITY inspector unexpectedly found a cannabis farm while investigating a high electricity bill.

British Gas, which monitors accounts as a utility company, visited Three Crowns Road, in Colchester, after noticing a high reading at one of the houses.

When an inspector visited the property, he noticed cannabis was being grown and immediately took steps to shut down the meter before calling the police.

The high electricity use is down to powering halogen lamps which are used to grow cannabis.

A 63-year-old man from Clacton was arrested on suspicion of drug cultivation and was later released under investigation.

Andy Norman, a spokesman for British Gas, said: “We cannot comment on the individual currently under investigation by the police.

“However, we can confirm that we visited the property, which was unoccupied, and discovered a case of energy theft.

“We alerted the police and left the property secure.

“We are supporting the police with their ongoing investigations.

“Energy theft is a crime which puts lives at risk and adds unnecessary costs to people’s bills.”

Residents living in the quiet street was shocked to hear of the drugs raid.

They had been worried when they saw a number of police cars and a forensics team enter a house.

Police were at the house from 4pm on Thursday until about 5am the following morning.

One resident said: “It felt like something wasn’t quite right.

“There wasn’t anything in particular we noticed, but you just don’t know what happens.”

Another neighbour said the house had always looked empty during the day.

They said: “I have seen quite a few people going to the house late at night.

“The house is always very dark, the windows and blinds are never open.”

Colchester councillor Darius Laws was notified of the incident by a concerned neighbour after they noticed “people in white suits” and believed “something bad” had happened.

He said: “If any residents were alarmed during the incident, at least they know it is all over.”

Anyone suspecting energy theft can contact the British Gas tip-off line on 0800 587 2737.

If you believe drugs are being grown, call Essex Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.