POLICE say they support moves to evict a man from his council flat if he is found guilty of growing drugs in his bedroom.

Officers seized 14 suspected cannabis plants with a street value of £7,000 along with growing equipment during a raid on the home in Laxton Road, Taunton, on Monday.

A 30-year-old man arrested on suspicion of production of cannabis was later bailed pending further inquiries.

Acting Sgt James Turner, the Halcon One Team co-ordinator, said the action followed a tip-off from the public.

He added: “The man could be evicted by the council if he is found guilty.

“It sends out a clear message that the police and the local council won’t tolerate this type of behaviour.

“We are grateful to local people who provided us with the community intelligence in this case.”

Cllr Jean Adkins, housing services portfolio holder at Taunton Deane Council, said tackling antisocial behaviour on housing estates ranging from drug and alcohol misuse to neighbour nuisance was a priority.

She added: “We recognise that failing to tackle ASB can really blight people’s lives and can do lasting damage to communities.

“More and more people are coming forward with complaints about drug abuse and the council is working closely with police to prevent and put a stop to illegal drug activity.

“We will not tolerate drug abuse in our properties.

“We listen to our tenants and if their lives are being blighted by drug-related anti-social behaviour we will take positive action.

“Our officers work closely with the police to ensure we tackle problems together.”

Under the terms of council house tenancy agreements, the council makes it clear it can apply for court order for eviction if tenants use their homes for “immoral or illegal purposes or commit an arrestable offence in or near the property”.