THE number of cannabis factories discovered in the borough is continuing to rise as criminals are going to desperate lengths to protect their crops.

Police confirmed that they are uncovering factories at a rate of one-a-day with 112 closed down since April.

Those cultivating crops of powerful Skunk cannabis have taken to setting traps after a spate of break ins by local criminals attracted by the plant's potent odour.

Bowls of acid and bleach have been placed above doors and electricity has been rewired to give any unsuspecting visitor a nasty shock.

Police say no-one has been hurt but fear it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured.

The factories, which are capable of cultivating £500,000 worth of Skunk a year, are believed to be set up by Vietnamese criminals who smuggle slave labour into the country to run them.