Body of newborn baby found on Welsh shoreline, prompting search for mother

Police are searching for the mother of a newborn baby whose body was found on a Welsh shoreline, fearing she may be ill or vulnerable.

A member of the public found the body of the child, whose age and sex have not been disclosed, close to the Menai strait in north Wales.

Fiona Giraud, director of midwifery and women’s services for Betsi Cadwaladr University health board, said there were “real concerns” for the mother’s health.

She said: “We recognise that she is likely to be extremely vulnerable. She may be fearful of seeking the support she needs through fear of identifying herself.”

Making a direct appeal to the mother, she added: “Our immediate concern is for your health, safety and wellbeing. We recognise that you may be feeling frightened, overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next. Please do not feel that you have to face this alone.

“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. You can speak to a healthcare professional, approach a police officer or attend a police station.”

North Wales police said the baby’s body had been found in Bangor shortly before 5pm on Sunday.

DS Kelly Wynne said: “We are concerned the baby’s mother may not be in a position to reach out for support, so we are appealing directly to her, the father and those who may have knowledge, such as friends, family, neighbours or colleagues.

“If you have any information regarding a woman or girl 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.

“The mother desperately needs help. Anyone with information, we need you to do the right thing to ensure this mother gets the health support she needs.

“All names received will be treated with the utmost discretion and can be eliminated as the mother without delay.”

The force said a postmortem examination was due to take place on Wednesday.