Newborn found in shopping bag, hospitalised

A newborn baby found in a shopping bag by a dog walker in east London is being cared for in hospital, the Metropolitan Police said.

The baby was discovered on Thursday night just after 9pm at the junction of Greenway and High Street South in Newham, wrapped in a towel inside a shopping bag.

Police have launched an appeal to trace the baby girl’s mother whose welfare they are extremely concerned about.

Chief Superintendent Simon Crick, who leads policing in Newham, said: “Thinking fast, that person kept the baby girl warm until London Ambulance Service paramedics arrived and checked her over before taking her to hospital.

“I am delighted to report that she wasn’t injured in any way and is safe and well in the care of hospital staff.

“I am grateful to the members of the public who stayed at the scene to speak with officers and medics – your actions contributed to saving the baby’s life.

“Our thoughts now turn to the baby’s mother; we are extremely concerned for her welfare as she will have been through a traumatic ordeal and will be in need of immediate medical attention following the birth.

“Trained medics and specialist officers are ready to support her and we urge her to get in touch by phone or walk in to the nearest hospital or police station.”

Police are in contact with local hospitals and the local authority. Anyone who knows the baby’s mother has been urged to call 999.