Police are offering a £50,000 reward for information to solve the mystery of a baby girl whose body was found in a park in Salford, Greater Manchester, one year ago. The baby, named Ava by officers, was discovered by a dog walker on November 20 last year in Ashtons Field, Little Hulton.
Her body was buried in a 12cm deep grave but was found on top of snow-covered grass, likely brought to the surface by a badger, fox, or large bird. The location near a busy road and motorway suggests the person who left her may have done so in panic.
After 12 months of intensive work, police can now pinpoint the 20-day period when Ava was left, between November 1 and November 20. It is thought her body may have been kept elsewhere for a substantial period before being moved to the field.
Detective Inspector Louise Kelly said: 'We are still no closer to identifying who Ava's parents are or how she came to be in Ashtons Field. But now we have secured the £50,000 reward, we hope will encourage people to come forward with information.'
Police have engaged with more than 20 experts and investigated 200 pieces of information from the public. Ava was wrapped in a distinctive pair of women's pink and beige briefs with a donkey design, size large, which may have been worn by the mother when pregnant.
Greater Manchester Combined Authority has offered the reward. Deputy Mayor Kate Green said: 'Our thoughts remain with Baby Ava and those affected by this tragic case. This reward reflects our determination to encourage anyone with information to come forward.'
