Plea to mother of baby found on roadside

Forensic experts are examining a bag and a bloodstained blanket recovered by police in Edenfield, Lancashire.

Officers found the items after being informed on Tuesday that a girl had given birth and then left the baby wrapped in a blanket in a bag by the side of Rochdale Road.

It is not known whether the mother had given birth at full term or suffered a miscarriage.

Police said they were “extremely concerned” for her safety and have appealed for her to come forward for help and support.