Body of newborn baby found in river in Wales

Police are appealing for the mother of a baby whose body was recovered from a river to come forward.

The newborn baby was retrieved from the River Taff in Cardiff shortly after 6pm on Tuesday, near the junction of Penarth Road and the Taff Embankment.

South Wales Police has appealed for help in finding the mother of the baby who is believed to have been born within the last few days.

"We want to locate the mother of this baby to ensure she receives the medical attention she needs," Detective Inspector Paul Latham said.

“We appeal to her to contact us, so that we can provide her with the support and reassurance that she requires.”

He appealed to anyone who has any information concerning the incident or from anybody who may be able to assist police in identifying the mother of the baby to come forward.

“Whilst this investigation is in its early stages, I want to stress that our priority is the safety and wellbeing of the mother at this time.”

News of the discovery has been met with shock and sadness from the local community as well as among the emergency services.

Jennie Griffiths, head of South Wales Fire and Rescue control, tweeted: "Incredibly sad news at the River Taff thoughts go to all emergency service crews working at the site."

Local resident Chris Piper also wrote: "Hearing about the baby's body in the Taff is horrendous ... RIP little one."

PA