Police appeal to mother after newborn's body discovered on Menai Strait shoreline in Bangor

North Wales Police have issued an urgent public appeal for a mother to come forward after the body of a newborn baby was discovered on a shoreline in Bangor. The grim find was made by a member of the public on Sunday shortly before 17:00 BST along the Menai Strait, near Siliwen Road. The force has confirmed that a post-mortem examination is scheduled to take place on Wednesday afternoon as investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding the infant's death.

The discovery has prompted a major response from both policing and healthcare agencies, with officials expressing deep concern for the wellbeing of the mother, who they believe may be in an extremely vulnerable position. During a press conference held in the wake of the discovery, Fiona Giraud, director of midwifery and women's services for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, made a direct and emotional appeal to the mother to make contact with authorities.

"I want you to know that our immediate concern is for your health, safety and wellbeing," Giraud said, addressing the mother directly. She acknowledged that the woman may be experiencing overwhelming fear and uncertainty, adding: "We recognise that you may be feeling frightened, overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next." Giraud emphasised that healthcare professionals and police alike are focused first and foremost on ensuring the mother receives any medical attention and support she may require.

Giraud went on to describe the mother as likely being "extremely vulnerable," noting that she may be avoiding seeking help because of a fear of identifying herself. "You may feel you have nowhere to turn, or that you cannot speak to anyone about what has happened. Please do not feel that you have to face this alone," she said. The midwifery chief stressed that while the full circumstances of the baby's death remain unknown, the priority at this stage is locating the mother and making certain she is safe.

She continued by urging the mother to take the first step toward getting help, suggesting she could speak with a healthcare professional, approach a police officer, or attend a police station. "If you are watching or listening to this appeal, please know that we want to hear from you. Please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you," Giraud said. Her remarks underscored a coordinated effort between health services and law enforcement to handle the situation with sensitivity and care.

Detective Sergeant Kelly Wynne reinforced the appeal, stating that police were concerned the mother "may not be in a position to reach out for support." In addition to appealing directly to the mother, Wynne reached out to the baby's father as well as the mother's family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues who might possess relevant information. She asked anyone who might have noticed a woman or girl who appeared to have been pregnant or whose behaviour had become unusual or out of character in recent months to come forward.

Wynne specifically highlighted signs that could indicate someone in distress, including withdrawing from friends, family, or social ties. "We appreciate coming forward is difficult, but inaction is not an option," she said, making clear that even small pieces of information could prove critical to the investigation. The appeal reflects a broader investigative strategy aimed at piecing together the mother's movements and circumstances in the weeks and months leading up to the discovery.

The force confirmed that residents in the Bangor area should expect to see an increased police presence over the coming days as the investigation continues. Officers have been deployed to the area around Siliwen Road and the Menai Strait shoreline, where the newborn's body was found. The additional patrols serve both to gather evidence and to provide reassurance to the local community, which has been shaken by the nature of the discovery.

Authorities have urged anyone with information that could assist the inquiry to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Melex. In addition, a Major Incident Public Portal, known as MIPP, has been established to allow members of the public to submit information directly to the investigation team. The portal provides a confidential channel for those who may be hesitant to speak with officers by phone but who nonetheless hold details that could help move the case forward.

The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of support available to women in crisis, particularly those who may feel isolated or unable to seek help during or after pregnancy. Health officials involved in the appeal have sought to emphasise that confidential assistance exists and that the priority is the safety and wellbeing of the mother, not punishment. Their repeated assurances that the mother will be treated with care are intended to lower barriers that might otherwise prevent her from coming forward.

As the post-mortem examination approaches, investigators remain focused on determining how the newborn died and under what circumstances the body came to be on the shoreline. The results of the examination, expected following Wednesday afternoon's procedure, could provide crucial details that shape the direction of the inquiry. Until then, police continue to appeal for witnesses and anyone with knowledge of the situation to step forward without delay.

The location of the discovery, along the Menai Strait near Siliwen Road, is a scenic coastal area that is typically quiet, making the find particularly shocking for local residents. The involvement of multiple agencies, including the health board and North Wales Police, highlights the seriousness with which the case is being treated. Officials have stressed that the investigation remains in its early stages and that further details will be released as they emerge.

For now, the central message from both police and health professionals is a plea for the mother to make contact and to understand that help is available. The appeal is not framed as an accusation but as an urgent invitation for a vulnerable person to receive the support she may desperately need. Investigators are also asking the public to remain vigilant and to report anything that might seem relevant, no matter how insignificant it may appear.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call 101 and reference Operation Melex, or to use the Major Incident Public Portal to contact the investigation team directly. The force has said it will continue to update the public as the inquiry progresses, and residents in Bangor can expect to see an ongoing police presence in the area while officers work to establish the full facts of this tragic case.