British police seek mother of newborn found in carrier bag

Police in Britain have today releaased a picture of a newborn baby found abandoned in a carrier bag in a park in an effort to trace her mother

West Midlands Police described the girl as "alert, happy and contented" as she continues to recover in hospital.

Baby Jade, named by hospital staff after the dog walker who found her in a community park yesterday afternoon, is being monitored around the clock by doctors.

The baby, who weighs six pounds, was taken to hospital after she was found wrapped in a blanket in a carrier bag in a park off Stuarts Road in the Stechford area of Birmingham at around 2pm yesterday.

Birmingham East chief inspector Ian Green said: "It is fantastic news that baby Jade is recovering well in hospital.

“I’m told she’s very alert and a contented, happy baby. She’s doing well and should make a full recovery over the next couple of days — but of course what she really needs is to be in her mother’s arms.

“I’d urge Jade’s mum to make contact with us on the 101 police number so we can reunite them and get her medical attention and emotional support.”

Officers are continuing to make house-to-house inquiries around the park where the baby was found.

Checks are also being made with regional hospitals, medical centres and care homes in a bid to trace the baby’s mother.

West Midlands Police said the carrier bag and towel which the baby was found in have been sent away for forensics tests. DNA samples have also been taken from the baby, which will help officers to identify the parents.

Mr Green added: “Paediatricians have confirmed the baby was lucky to be found when she was as even just a few more hours exposed to the elements could have had fatal consequences.

“Thankfully, we now know she’s safe and well — and our priority is very much on finding her mum to ensure her safety and to provide whatever support she needs.

“We’re still keen to hear from witnesses who were in the park yesterday — especially anyone who saw somebody with a carrier bag from The Entertainer toy shop — or anyone who believes they could have information that will lead us to identify the mother.”

The baby’s mother or anyone with information about the baby’s birth is urged to call West Midlands Police.

PA