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 shallow 12cm grave but was brought to the surface by animals, possibly a badger, fox or large bird, just hours or days after being left. The location near a busy road and industrial estate suggests the person who left her may have acted in panic.
After 12 months of intensive work, police have narrowed down the period when Ava was left to between November 1 and November 20. They believe her body may have been kept elsewhere for some time before being placed in 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 over 20 experts and investigated 200 pieces of public information. They are continuing familial DNA checks and forensic testing. Ava was wrapped in a distinctive pair of pink and beige women's briefs with a donkey design, which may have been worn by the mother during pregnancy.
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.'
