Fourteen people who had been working at a flower farm near Manaccan until it was raided this morning have sought support from the authorities.

Following the multi-agency operation which saw a modern slavery warrant executed by the police, Cornwall Council is providing welfare and support services for 14 people who have elected to seek help through a National Referral Mechanism which is applied in circumstances like this which means that potential victims are offered support.

The council, working with partners including the police, Cornwall Housing, the British Red Cross, the Salvation Army and health services, is providing support while this process is underway.

Fourteen people believed to be aged between 20 and 40 years, 12 men and two women, have asked for additional support and have been taken to a safe location by mini bus this afternoon. They are Lithuanian and Romanian speakers.

They are not in trouble, not being detained and are free to leave at any time but will be encouraged to take up the offers of help that are available.

All agencies are working together to help the alleged victims over the next 72 hours, after which an assessment will be carried out to decide next steps.

The council and partner agencies will now work with the affected people to: find temporary safe accommodation, provide any medical treatment and link people with other work opportunities.

The council said other local farms had come forward to offer alternative employment should people want it, showing strong community support.

If anyone suspects modern slavery, if there is an immediate risk of harm, call the police on 999 or contact the Modern Slavery Helpline on 0800 0121 700.