Body of baby girl found in Wales may have been in the water for weeks, police say

The body of a baby girl found along a north Wales shoreline may have been in the water for up to a few weeks, according to initial indications.

A member of the public found the body on the Menai Strait shoreline near Siliwen Road in Bangor, Gwynedd, on Sunday shortly before 17:00 BST.

In an update on Thursday, North Wales Police said a post-mortem examination revealed the newborn was a girl.

The force is continuing the search for the girl's mother and urged her to make contact with police.

Further tests to find more about the baby are under way, North Wales Police said.

"We understand that the mother may be fearful of coming forward but we urge her to make contact with us," Supt Llinos Davies said, adding that she wanted to reassure her that her welfare and safety was their "utmost concern".

"Anyone with concerns about a girl or a woman you think may have been pregnant or whose behaviour has been unusual or out of character over the past few months including withdrawing from friends, family or social ties, please contact us," Davies said.

She said all names received would be treated with the utmost discretion and can be eliminated as the mother without delay.

"I understand that this is a terribly sad incident for the community and I am grateful for the overwhelming support and assistance that we have received so far," Davies said.

Fiona Giraud, director of midwifery and women's services for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said her priority remained with the mother.

Addressing her, she said: "Our immediate concern remains to be your health, safety and wellbeing.

"You may feel you have nowhere to turn, or that you cannot speak to anyone about what has happened. Please do not feel that you have to face this alone," she said.

"We don't yet know all the circumstances surrounding your baby's death, but what is important right now is that we find you, make sure you are safe and ensure you receive any medical attention and support you may need.

"I am asking you personally, please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you," Giraud said.