Officers from Cumbria police targeted two lorries entering the UK from Holland at the port of Harwich in Essex.

The force said it is one of the biggest seizures ever made on the UK mainland.

Detectives revealed the operation is the result of a "major" intelligence gathering operation led by the Cumbria constabulary, with assistance from Lancashire police and HM Customs.

So far, seven British men have been arrested and police say raids are taking place at private and business addresses across the UK.

Among those arrested are a 49-year-old man from the Kendal area.

Detective Chief Inspector Jeff Ashton, of Cumbria CID, said his force is now working with other police forces as follow-up raids take place in Lancashire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and others.

He said: "The cocaine was discovered when two vehicles were stopped and searched as they entered the UK from mainland Europe.

"There are now on-going operations with about five other forces to trace others suspected of being involved. A number of private and business addresses across the UK are being raided."

He added: "I am absolutely delighted with the success of this operation and the fact that we have prevented such a large quantity of cocaine from reaching the streets of Britain."