Former NFU leader charged after cannabis raid

A Devon farmer and former NFU county chairman has been charged with producing cannabis on his Dartmoor farm.

John Shears, 70, a member of Dartmoor National Park’s planning committee, has been bailed by police to appear in court in October.

It follows a raid on his home at Lower Nattadon Farm, Chagford, in May.

Daniel Perryman, 26, of Kingsteignton, has been charged with the same offence and was also bailed.

Two other men who were questioned have been released without charge.

Mr Shears began his career working horses for Dartington Woodland and then progressed to lorry driving. He has farmed, run a cattle transport business and trained racehorses.

He was an active member of the NFU and served as chairman and vice-chairman.

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