Ryde residents have been shocked to discover what appears to be cannabis growing in their town centre’s flower beds. Island Echo has investigated reports that hemp – another description for the psychoactive, Class B drug – is growing in the beds adjacent to the Co-op off Anglesea Street. The flower beds are managed by Ryde Town Council but have been planted up by Haylands Farm, the charity for those with learning disabilities. Plant recognition technology has swiftly identified the 2 plants in question as cannabis and, although no tests have been carried out, Haylands Farm has agreed that it does appear to be the case. 
“I am disgusted to see marijuana plants in the municipal flower beds next to the Co-op Supermarket in Ryde. “I really couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw them there!
