'Dismantling of cannabis farm leaves whole town stoned'
Last updated 7th Feb 2025
There was "high" drama in a close-knit Scots community this week as a cannabis farm was unearthed in a town centre hotel which had lain empty for more than a year.
But it wasn't until police got inside the 16-bed property and began dismantling it that it began to cause a real stink.
Windows were opened as what appeared to be a complex ventilation system was ripped apart and plants dumped in a skip outside.
The strong smells emanating from the Hawick Hotel - in the Scottish Borders town of the same name - had locals complaining of being stoned several streets away.
One said: "It's smelt like Bob Marley's bedroom the past two days in Hawick."
Another added: "Bourtree Place round to Mart Street absolutely stinking today. High as a kite before ee got ti work."
A third replied: "It brings a whole new meaning to the term 'high' street."
The value of plants seized in Tuesday's raid is estimated to be over £289,000.
And police have spent a third night guarding the North Bridge Street venue.
It's the latest in a series of grows seized in the town, which has a population of around 13,000 people and is renowned for its knitwear and rugby.
Sixteen months ago, cannabis plants worth up to £771,000 were found just yards away in the former Buccleuch Hotel in Trinity Street - which has 20 bedrooms.
Two Albanians have since been jailed in connection with that seizure.
Two more Albanians are due to appear in court in the Borders on Monday in connection with a cultivation estimated to be worth up to £105,000, which was found at a former carpet warehouse in nearby Havelock Street last June.
It's understood no arrests have been made in connection with the latest cannabis farm.
Police say enquiries are "ongoing".
Detective Sergeant Andrew Loughlin said: “This is a significant recovery and is an example of our efforts to disrupt the trade in illegal drugs in Scotland.
“Drugs cause misery in our communities and the public has an important role to play in helping Police Scotland target those responsible for the cultivation, supply and sale of illegal substances.
“Our enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances and we are appealing for anyone with any information to contact us.”
WATCH: Click on the link below to view our video from the scene...
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