A baby girl whose body was found on a shoreline in North Wales may have been in the water for several weeks, police have said.
The infant was discovered by a member of the public in Bangor, Gwynedd, on Sunday afternoon, prompting an urgent search for her mother.
Post-mortem findings
A post-mortem examination confirmed the baby was a girl, while initial findings suggested she may have been in the water for up to a few weeks, according to North Wales Police. Further tests are now being carried out.
Superintendent Llinos Davies urged the mother to come forward, saying her welfare and safety were the force's “utmost concern”.
She said: “We understand that the mother may be fearful of coming forward but we urge her to make contact with us.
“I’d like to reassure her that her welfare and safety is our 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.
“Please 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.
“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.”
Investigation ongoing
Police are understood to be keeping an open mind about where the baby entered the water and are taking advice on currents from oceanographers.
House-to-house inquiries are continuing in the area where the body was found.
A North Wales Police spokesman said a number of calls had been received from members of the public following an appeal earlier this week, adding that all information would be taken seriously.
Health board appeal
Fiona Giraud, director of midwifery and woman’s service for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, also appealed directly to the mother.
She said: “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.
“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.”
Anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting Operation Melex, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Information can also be submitted through the public portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/60NWP26G07-PO1.
