DRUG raids have been carried out this morning at properties in Worcestershire and Gloucestershire. 

Officers from West Mercia Police, along with Gloucestershire Constabulary and Sussex Police, carried out warrants at addresses in Cheltenham as well as two travellers' sites at Cleeve Prior and Eckington.

These were as part of investigations into a serious assault in Cheltenham, drugs offences and a burglary at a castle in West Sussex.

Beginning at 6am, the police seized a large amount of cannabis plants and thanked the public for their help.

Detective chief inspector Leighton Harding said: "A number of people have been detained to allow searches to take place at the locations and these are set to continue throughout the morning.

"West Mercia officers also uncovered a cannabis cultivation and three young men in their teens were arrested on suspicion of burglary following the discovery of stolen property, that related to an earlier burglary at a commercial property and they are both in police custody.

"A man in his 40s has also been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs.

"Successful operations such as this reflect our continued cross-border working to disrupt and destabilise organised crime and our commitment to protecting people from harm.

"We would like to thank the local community for their co-operation this morning and reassure nearby residents that there is no threat to the wider public."

Sussex Police also confirmed a man was arrested in Eckington in connection with a £1million heist at Arundel Castle.

A collection of valuable items of "irreplaceable historical significance" was stolen in a burglary on the night of Friday, May 21.

The collection, valued at more than £1million, comprised;

1. Mary Queen of Scots Rosary Beads;

2. Seven gold / silver-gilt coronation cups (George II, George III, George IV, William IV, George V, George VI and Elizabeth II);

3. Gold Earl Marshal’s baton;

4. Gold and enamel baton;

5. Other miscellaneous items including 10 silver-gilt Apostle Spoons, a silver-gilt casket with hunting and fishing scenes, and a silver-gilt mug.

Detective Inspector Alan Pack of Sussex Police said: "Our investigation into the Arundel Castle burglary remains live and this action marks a significant step in our enquiries.

"I would encourage anyone with further information about this burglary to contact us, and also remind people that the insurers have offered a substantial reward should any of the property be recovered intact."