The body of a newborn baby has been discovered along a shoreline in Wales, with police appealing for the mother to come forward.

A member of the public made the tragic discovery on the Menai Strait near Siliwen Road, in Bangor, on Sunday shortly before 5pm.

“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.”

North Wales police have said they are concerned that the baby’s mother “may not be in a position to reach out for support”, and are calling on anyone who has witnessed out of character behaviour to contact officers.

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.”

Local councillor Nick Pritchard for the Menai ward also urged people to come forward and said: “I think the biggest concern now is for the mother and the mother’s wellbeing, so if you have any information or know somebody who was pregnant recently or someone suffering with their mental health.”

Local residents are likely to see an increased police presence in the area in the coming days, while a postmortem is scheduled to take place on Wednesday afternoon.

Appealing directly to the mother, Ms 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.

“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.”

Anyone with any information should call 101 and quote Operation Melex, while a Major Incident Public Portal has been created online.

More follows on this breaking news story