An investigation has been launched following the discovery of a baby’s body.

Searches are ongoing to locate the mother of the baby, who has not yet been identified.

North Wales Police say were contacted by a member of the public who discovered the body of the newborn along the shoreline near the Siliwen Road in Bangor, Gwynedd, shortly before 5pm on Sunday, 27 September.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board director of Midwifery and Women's Services, Fiona Giraud, said, is concerned 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,” she said

Appealing directly to the mother, she 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.

“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, to please get in touch with us. You can speak to a healthcare professional, approach a police officer or attend a police station.

“If you are watching or listening to this appeal, please know that we want to hear from you. Please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you.”

Detective Sergeant 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.

“We appreciate coming forward is difficult, but inaction is not an option.

“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 coroner is aware and a Home Office postmortem is scheduled to take place on Wednesday afternoon.

Residents of Bangor may see an increased police presence in the area in the coming days while officers carry out their duties.

If you have any immediate concerns, please contact us on 101, quoting Operation Melex.

A Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been created where anyone with information that could help our enquiries can directly contact police here https://mipp.police.uk/operation/60NWP26G07-PO1.

You can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously.

Alternatively, contact the health board’s Peoples Enquiry and resolution service between Monday-Friday 10am-4pm on 03000 851 234.