'We had clients going around the salon trying to smell and sniff out where this smell had come from'
We can reveal police were warned about drugs being grown at the former NatWest building in Crewkerne around six months before this week's fire.
Last updated 25th Feb 2021
The smoke on Monday afternoon could be seen for miles around and 14 fire engines were called to help fight the flames.
Once inside investigators found cannabis plants being grown.
Nearby salon owner Hollie Price says she suspected that plants were being grown last Summer and reported it to police because she was worried it could damage her business.
She said: "I phoned police last Summer and said that there was quite a significant smell and that it wasn't just somebody smoking.
"It was so strong it was in the salon.
"We even had clients going around the salon trying to smell and sniff out where this smell had come from.
"I actually got quite paranoid at one point that they thought it was us.
"As a business you do get a bit worried that they think it's you that smells like that - or that you have been smoking it, because it is quite a strong smell.
"It brings anxiety up as a business owner."
In response Avon and Somerset police said in a statement: "An investigation is ongoing and officers are currently carrying out enquiries in the local area, which will involve speaking to residents.
"We’d encourage anyone with any information, or any concerns regarding this incident to contact 101 quoting reference 5221038694.”
On Tuesday police confirmed they were 'carrying out searches and a forensic investigation after suspected cannabis plants were discovered being grown in the property'.
To report an incident to Avon & Somerset Police click here
You can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.