Cannabis plants worth thousands of pounds have been found in two containers at Tilbury Docks.

Docks' police say they have smashed a major cannabis-growing operation in a remote area of the sprawling container port.

The drugs were found a few days after the bizarre discovery of animal bones.

Three people were arrested and released on police bail after the discovery of dope plants in two specially converted metal containers at berth 34. This area of the port is operated by DHL.

The area where the cannabis growing operation was only yards away from the main lock gates.

Two 20ft white containers - specially converted to allow the plants to be grown inside ultra-violet light - were moved by police.

A man who telephoned the Echo said that he had seen inside the two containers when the indoor drug plantation was first rumbled.

A police spokesman at Tilbury docks said an ongoing operation was in progress at Tilbury.

"Three people from Essex were arrested and are now out on police bail," he added.

The officer said Port Customs officers and Essex Police were also involved in the operation.