Police are investigating after the death of a newborn baby who was found in a Walsall canal.

The boy was found in Rough Wood Country Park, off Hunts Lane in Willenhall, on Thursday afternoon.

“Sadly it has been confirmed that the baby, believed to be a newborn, is dead,” said West Midlands Police.

“We’re now investigating these very sad circumstances to understand exactly what has happened and if anyone has come to harm.”

A member of the public spotted the baby at around 1pm.

Police are appealing for witnesses and are trying to track down the infant’s mother.

Detective Inspector Wes Martin from West Midlands Police CID said: “This is a tragic investigation and our priority is to now find the baby boy’s mum to make sure she is OK.

“She may be in need of urgent medical attention and she is our absolute priority at the moment.

“We have been speaking to members of the public and would urge anyone with information to get in touch.”

Police asked people not to speculate on what had happened, saying it hinders the investigation and “is upsetting for those involved”.

Anyone with information should phone 101, quoting log number 1963 of 20 May.

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