A MAN from Swanley has been arrested in connection with the discovery of a suspected cock-fighting ring.

The 20-year-old and a 47-year-old man from Teynham were detained on suspicion of animal cruelty, money laundering, possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply and a series of theft offences.

Up to 170 birds were found in a converted barn in Raspberry Hill Lane, Iwade, near Sittingbourne on January 12.

A number of dead cockerels with their combs removed were also found indicating they may have been bred for fighting.

A suspected fighting ring, known as a cockpit, was also found at the site and paraphernalia connected with the training of birds for fighting and veterinary drugs were discovered and seized.

Further searches of the farm uncovered about 100 wraps of a suspected Class A drug, which has been sent off for testing while a substantial quantity of cash was also seized.

Police made a further arrest of a 21-year-old man from Upchurch on suspicion of supplying a controlled drug. All three men have been bailed to April 9 pending further enquiries.