A man who used an old bank as a cannabis farm has been jailed.

Voktot Isufaj appeared at Chester Crown Court on Monday (June 16) where he was sentenced to three years in prison.

It comes after police seized more than 700 cannabis plants from a former bank on Chestergate in Macclesfield.

Following the sentencing, Police Constable Ryan Smith, who led the investigation said: "This former bank had been converted into a sophisticated cannabis farm, with specialist lighting and ventilation systems to maximise the amount of class B drugs being cultivated inside.

"In total, the building contained 724 cannabis plants at various stages of growth, which have since been destroyed.

"While this cannabis farm has now been closed, our fight against illegal drugs continues and II urge anyone with any information about suspected drug related activity in their community to get in touch. You will be listened to, and we will investigate the matter."

Over 700 plants were found at the property (Credit: Cheshire Police)

The court heard how on Thursday (May 8) police were called to reports of suspicious activity at a former bank on Chestergate.

The caller reported witnessing suspicious men entering the disused building, along with a strong smell of cannabis in the area.

Officers were sent to the scene and after entering the premises they discovered approximately 700 cannabis plants, all at varying stages of growth, along with heat lighting, fans, irrigation systems, which were spread over three floors.

Isufaj was arrested at the scene and later charged with one count of production of class B drugs (cannabis).

Drug analysis experts estimated the plants could yield a potential street value of between £238,480 and £715,480.

"This is another great result which demonstrates the value of intelligence from the public," added PC Smith.

"As a result of the information provided, not only have we removed a significant quantity of cannabis the streets of Macclesfield, but Isufaj is now behind bars."

The plants had a potential street value of between £238,480 and £715,480 (Credit: Cheshire Police)

Isufaj, of no fixed abode but of Winsford was handed a three-year prison sentence and ordered to pay £228 in court costs.