AN INVESTIGATION launched following a drugs best at a derelict building in Barrow back in May has now been closed due to a lack of evidence.

Materials used to grow cannabis had been discovered by police at Abbey Tavern earlier this year.

Officers uncovered a small number of lamps and seeds used to grow the drug at the unused building.

A police spokeswoman has confirmed this week: “The Abbey Tavern case did not result in any arrests and has been closed.

“The case was closed due a lack of evidence.”

The Grade II listed building ceased trading in 2017 and was acquired by English Heritage in 2014 whilst in a dilapidated state.

Alan Pemberton, councillor for the Hawcoat ward, who said he was ‘shocked’ to learn the building was being used for the cultivation of cannabis back in May said the building has unfortunately found itself in a state of disrepair.

“I know that Abbey Tavern was supposed to be a lovely pub at one time but I don’t know what has happened to it recently,” he said.

“I think it is currently unoccupied and left rotting away.”

Bill McEwan, councillor for Ormsgill, also commented at the time saying he was glad the cannabis operation had been found out, said it was a shame there wasn't more information.

He said: “It is a shame that there is no more information that can be found.

"But if there is no evidence there is not really at lot they can do is there.”

Following the end of the investigation being closed, police confirmed: "As per policy the materials were destroyed."