POLICE launched a drugs probe after an abandoned cannabis factory was discovered in a shared house nestled in the heart of one of Southampton's busiest student neighbourhoods.

Officers raided the semi detached-home in the city's Highfield area after the landlord found a swathe of dying cannabis plants crammed into bedrooms and the tenants had vanished.

Now the devastated property owner is urging anyone who can help police in their investigations to contact them immediately as he reveals he has been left hundreds of pounds out of pocket.

It comes as neighbours tell of their shock that the ordinary home in their quiet street was being used to harvest drugs.

Police were called to the house in Granby Grove at 11.30am on Saturday, November 5, after the landlord raised the alarm.

He had forced his way into the property after trying to chase up outstanding rents from five students who had been living there.

More than 60 dying cannabis plants were found in first floor bedrooms and the attic - plus other items which police suspect were being used to cultivate the drug.

No arrests have been made - but police have launched an investigation.

The landlord, who did not want give his name, told the Echo that he had visited property after returning from a five week trip away.

He said: "It was a big shock. I have had the house for 30 years and nothing like this has ever happened.

"I don't know who did it but I am really upset.

"The police are looking into it but how am I going to get my money back?"

A 63-year-old man, who has lived in the area for nearly 50 years, saw a police car and a riot van pull up and officers going into the house.

The man said: "It's a very big surprise and very odd. In previous years there have been students living there, but this term there has been no activity there, no lights on and the bins haven't been put out."

A 21-year-old neighbour added: "It's quite shocking. It is a quiet street and I haven't seen anyone living there or any signs that would suggest there was anything linked to drugs going on."

Neighbour Celia Diaz, 20, said: "I'm very surprised. I wasn't expecting it as I've never seen anyone go in and out of there.

"This is normally a quiet and safe area."

A spokeswoman for Hampshire Constabulary said: "Inside was evidence that the property had been used to cultivate cannabis, however the premises had been abandoned. Anyone with information should contact us."

Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting reference 44160418489.

Alternatively people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.