POLICE raided a quarry near Bradford on Avon yesterday and found a large cannabis factory inside.

They executed a warrant under the Misuse of Drugs Act at Bethel Quarry and inside the underground location they found the factory, the size of which is yet to be fully determined.

Two men were arrested and later charged with the production of Cannabis (Class B drug).

Alksander Shyti, 45 and Altin Deda, 39 are due to appear at Swindon Magistrates Court today.

Wiltshire Times photographer Trevor Porter was at the scene when police guarded the entry to the cave at the quarry which used to be used to grow mushrooms.

It was put on the rental market in 2011 and estate agents described it as a rare opportunity to rent space for 'unusual uses.'

But it is unlikely they expected that unusual use to be cannabis.

Up until the end of the 19th Century the large and historic stone quarry was a working pit.

But since the start of World War II it has been used for growing mushrooms.

The cave has a constant temperature, humidity and a lack of light, which estate agents said made it an ideal location for a commercial mushroom farm.

Estate agent Suzanne Drewett said it had been used by Oakfield Farm Products for a decade and before that had been used by Heinz to grow mushrooms for its mushroom soup.

Inspector Nick Mawson said: "Local residents are likely to see police presence at Bethel Quarry and surrounding area as officers carry out searches and gather evidence. This work is anticipated to carry on into next week due to the size of the location and safety issues at the site and we appreciate the patience of the community."

If you have information regarding this incident or drug use in your area please call Wiltshire Police on 101 quoting ref *91261. Or call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 anonymously if preferred.