A former regional NFU chair has appeared in court charged with growing cannabis plants as part of a sophisticated growing operation at his Dartmoor farm.

John Shears, of Lower Nattadon Farm in Devon, was arrested and questioned in May along with three other men following a police raid. The raid uncovered almost 200 plants, with an estimated street value of £75,000, along with growing equipment, all of which was seized and sent for testing.

Shears and another man, Daniel Perryman of Kingsteignton, were charged with producing cannabis and released on bail late last month. The other two arrested following the raid in May were released without charge.  

Appearing before Exeter Magistrates Court on Wednesday, Shears and Perryman both entered 'no plea.' The case has been referred to Exeter Crown Court and will be heard on 31^st October.