The body of a newborn baby has been discovered along the shoreline in Bangor, North Wales. The tragic find was made by someone walking by the water's edge near Siliwen Road last Sunday evening.
Urgent appeal to find the mother
Doctors and detectives have now launched an urgent appeal to find the infant's mother, stating that she 'desperately needs help'. Fiona Giraud, Director of Midwifery and Women's Services for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, expressed deep concern: 'We have real concerns for the health of the mother. 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.'
Appealing directly to the mother, Giraud said: 'First, I want you to know that 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. 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.'
Police and health officials urge contact
Detective Sergeant Kelly Wynne also appealed for information: '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 coroner has been informed, and a Home Office postmortem is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. Residents of Bangor may see an increased police presence in the area in the coming days while officers carry out their duties.
Anyone with immediate concerns is urged to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Melex. A Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been created for those with information to contact police directly. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously, or the health board's People's Enquiry and Resolution service can be reached between Monday-Friday 10am-4pm on 03000 851 234.
