One of the biggest hauls of heroin ever to be found in Bradford has been seized – thanks to eagle-eyed neighbourhood policing officers.

Suspected heroin with an estimated street value of more than a million pounds was uncovered in a garage unit on an industrial estate at East Bowling after a routine patrol struck gold.

The NPT officers were checking the industrial compound, at Lessarna Court, off Bowling Back Lane, when they spotted a man standing next to a car outside the unit.

As they approached, the man ran off. The officers found a black binliner next to the Volkswagen vehicle, which contained plastic bags.

Inside the bags were suspected class A drugs and related paraphernalia.

Police forced entry to the garage unit and carried out a search with dog units, and further suspected drugs were found.

All the items and substances were removed and are now being forensically examined.

A 28-year-old man was arrested later in connection with the find and has been bailed pending further inquiries.

The Crime Division of West Yorkshire Police is investigating the discovery, which was made at 10.30pm last Friday.

Inspector Andy Gallant, of the Bowling, Barkerend and Bradford Moor Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Our work with the local community influences the success of everything we do. We are tuned into their concerns, acting upon any information they provide. In turn, it allows us to bring dealers to the surface and to expose any illegal enterprises.

“In this latest find, the officers used their initiative and intuition to uncover a huge haul of suspected class A drugs.

“We will continue to provide a visible presence in the area, targeting those who aim to threaten our neighbourhoods through criminal activity.”

Damien Miller, Chief Inspector for Neighbourhood Policing in Bradford South, said: “We are determined to tackle drugs and the crime that is associated with its supply and possession.

“Targeting drug dealing on the streets is one of the local priorities which have been set by the Bowling, Barkerend and Bradford Moor Neighbourhood Policing Team after consultation with the community.

“This is complemented by the many pro-active operations which have taken place in recent months focusing specifically on these issues.

“Last month, Operation Smartwood saw 15 arrests made and more than £30,000 of drugs seized. In July, Operation Sabredale saw £438,000 worth of class A and B drugs recovered.

“We are having some significant success and it is in no small part down to the information supplied by residents and the support they have shown for the police.

“Our aim is to maintain the pressure on those who bring misery to the people who live and work in Bradford and this latest find on Bowling Back Lane is part and parcel of our ongoing efforts.”

Anyone with any information should contact the non-emergency number 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.