10 years ago Drug den: The South Tyne was described as fast becoming the drug-growing capital of the North-East, following the discovery of two more cannabis farms. Police discovered a £900,000 country house on the outskirts of Haltwhistle was being used as a cannabis resin factory. At Gilsland, 650 marijuana plants wer discovered growing in a house. JPs tribute: Tynedale magistrates paid tribute to the local community for its support in the battle to save to Hexham-based court. Despite the hard-fought campaign, the court was set to close on March 31, with all business being transferred to the courts on Market Street in Newcastle from April 1.