POLICE discovered a stash of cannabis after sniffing out a pungent scent as they carried out street patrols.

While on routine patrols last week police said an inspector and sergeant 'noticed an extremely strong smell of cannabis' in Easington Road, Banbury.

They followed the trail to an address and arrested a man on suspicion of drug supply.

Writing on the TVP Cherwell Facebook page on Saturday, the force said a 'significant quantity of Class B' was seized.

ALSO READ: Witney cannabis dealers sent to prison 

Officers defended their action when one man commented saying cannabis-related arrests are a 'waste of police resources'.

In response, TVP Cherwell wrote: "Whilst I can see your point to an extent when it is cases of simple possession, we do need to look at the bigger picture when it comes to the dealers. 

"The ongoing ASB [antisocial behaviour] that drug dealing attracts impacts on the local community and their quality of life. 

ALSO READ: Man arrested after cannabis found growing in woodland

"Local children are being exploited to sell drugs, and whilst this may be seen as 'only cannabis' it does lead on to more serious drugs and puts the sellers (and the users) at risk of harm.

"The inherent link to knife crime and more serious violence also cannot be ignored."

Commenting on recent related stories, several Oxford Mail readers have also criticised police for cracking down on cannabis.

Responding to an article about Witney cannabis dealers being jailed, one reader said: "Hardly a major bust. They are fighting a losing battle, cannabis is too readily available.

"Not that i agree with it being a non user, but it might as well be legalised, and the time spent on Class A drugs."