CANNABIS resin seized by police from a hotel near Southampton International Airport had an estimated street value of up to £40,000.

First reports indicated that the haul was worth about £20,000 but now it is thought to be double that value.

Police officers made two arrests after the drugs and about £5,000 in cash were discovered in a room at the Premier Travel Inn, as reported earlier on the Daily Echo's website.

Hotel staff alerted police after finding three suitcases that had been left behind in a room. The cases were examined by forensic officers.

Yesterday Simon Harris, 31, of no fixed address, appeared before Southampton magistrates charged with possession with intent to supply cannabis resin. He was remanded in custody for seven days.

A 26-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries and is due to report at Eastleigh police station on January 17.