A Devonshire farmer and former County NFU Chair has been arrested and questioned in connection with a cannabis farm.

John Shears, a 69 year old from Chagford, is reportedly one of four men arrested following a police swoop on a farm.

Police are understood to have raided barns and outbuildings at a farm near Chagford and found almost 200 plants, with an estimated street value of £75,000. Plants and growing equipment have been sent for testing.   

Following the raid on the morning of 7th May four arrests were made, with the arrestees later released on bail. Devon and Cornwall police said Mr Shears was helping them with their enquiries. A spokesperson said arrests were made in connection with the production and supply of cannabis. The four will face further questioning in August.

Mr Shears, who is also a member of other organisations in the Dartmoor area, including the Dartmoor Park Authority and Dartmoor Commoners' Association, is the oldest of the four men arrested, the youngest of whom is aged 25.