A newborn baby girl has been found wrapped in a towel in Newham.
The discovery was made by a dog walker at 9.13pm on Thursday 18 January, at the junction of Greenway and High Street South in East Ham, within the East Ham South ward. The child was taken to hospital, without any injuries. The baby is now safe and well. Police are appealing to find the baby’s mother.
Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE said: “I was deeply worried to learn of last night’s discovery of a newborn baby girl found wrapped in towels on the Greenway, particularly because of the extremely cold weather we have been experiencing this week. That’s why I am so relieved that this precious baby girl is being looked after and doing well in hospital. I am so grateful to the resident who called the emergency services last night, as they have literally saved a life.
“Council officers are supporting the Police with their investigations, and they are working tirelessly to find the mother as all of us are concerned for her safety and wellbeing which is paramount. We are here to help, with plenty of local services available to support her with the sensitivity and care she deserves. Our thoughts are with both the mother and baby at what must be an extremely difficult time.”
Commenting on the member of the public that made the discovery, 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 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 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.
"If you are the baby’s mother please know that your daughter is well, no matter what your circumstances please do seek help by dialling 999.”
The stretch of Greenway is now open as usual.
If you believe you know who the child's mother is, please call 999 ref CAD 6876/18 Jan.