Major update in search to find mum of newborn baby found dead in snowy field

A dog walker found the baby, which officers have named Ava, near Ashtons Field (Picture: SWNS)

The remains of a baby found covered in snow in a field last week has been identified as a newborn girl.

A dog walker found the baby, which officers have named Ava, near Ashtons Field, in Salford, on November 20.

Investigators are trying to find out identify the infant and how long she had been lying in the field behind industrial buildings.

The cause of death is not yet known and so far the baby’s mum has not been found.

Flowers, candles, teddies and cards have been laid at the scene, around 100 metres from the M61.

Detective Chief Inspector Charlotte Whalley from the GMP major incident team said: ‘We know that this case has touched the hearts of many people across Greater Manchester, and like you, we’re determined to find out what happened to this little girl.

‘As part of our inquiries, we’re working to establish who Ava’s mum is, and all the possible scenarios and circumstances which have led to Ava being separated from her mum.

‘We are continuing to appeal for her mum, who may require medical assistance, or her family to come forwards and speak to us. We believe that there is someone out there now who knows what happened.

‘You may not have felt confident to come forward yet, but please know that we have trained officers ready to support you, no matter what the circumstances are, please get in touch.

‘I would also like to thank the community for their support as we continue our appeals for information. We are now asking you to cast your minds back to previous months, perhaps you heard something, or saw something that didn’t feel right.

‘It may have seemed insignificant at the time, but knowing what you know now, come forward. It could be crucial to finding the truth for Ava.’

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