A police investigation is under way after the body of a newborn baby was found in a bag outside a church in Notting Hill, west London.
The Metropolitan Police has said it is “urgently appealing” for the child’s mother to come forward “for her own welfare”.
A statement from the force said: “Officers were called at 12.46pm on Tuesday, 25 March to Talbot Road, W11, following a report that the body of a baby had been found in a bag, left outside a church.
“London Ambulance Service also attended and sadly the baby was declared dead at the scene.”
Scotland Yard said the baby’s gender and exact age have not yet been established.
Superintendent Owen Renowden said: “This is an extremely sad and shocking matter and officers are working hard to establish the circumstances around what has taken place.
“This investigation is in the early stages and our immediate priority is to locate the baby’s mother, who we believe may have very recently given birth.
“If you are the baby’s mother and are reading this, please come forward to police or medical professionals.
“You must feel very frightened but please let us help – we are really worried about you and it is vitally important you get medical assistance and support. You can walk into any hospital, or a police station.”
Anyone who may have any information about the incident is asked to contact police.
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