Police and health officials in North Wales are urgently searching for a mother after the body of a newborn baby was discovered on the shoreline of the Menai Strait on Sunday evening.

A member of the public made the discovery near Siliwen Road in Bangor shortly before 5pm. North Wales Police launched an investigation under the name Operation Melex and immediately notified the coroner.

The force is working in partnership with the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to establish what happened. Right now, authorities say their priority is locating the mother, who they believe is in an extremely vulnerable state and in urgent need of medical support.

Fiona Giraud, Director of Midwifery and Women's Services at the health board, addressed the mother directly during a press conference today, urging her not to let fear prevent her from asking for help.

"We have real concerns for the health of the mother," Ms Giraud said. "We recognise that she is likely to be extremely vulnerable. She may be fearful of seeking the support she needs through fear of identifying herself." She added: "We don't yet know all the circumstances surrounding your baby's death but what is important right now is that we find you, make sure you are safe, and ensure you receive any medical attention and support you may need."

Police are also broadening their appeal to the baby's father, relatives, and friends. Detective Sergeant Kelly Wynne explained that the mother may be unable to reach out on her own, making information from the wider community vital.

"If you have any information regarding a woman or girl you think may have been pregnant or whose behaviour has been unusual or out of character over the past few months including withdrawing from friends, family or social ties, please contact us," Det Sgt Wynne said, noting that "inaction is not an option." She confirmed that all names provided will be treated with discretion and eliminated without delay if appropriate.

What we do not know yet are the specific details regarding the baby's sex or age, as police have declined to release that information. A Home Office post-mortem examination is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon to determine the cause of death.

People living in Bangor can expect to see an increased police presence over the coming days while extensive searches and investigative work continue.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, referencing Operation Melex, or submit details online via the Major Incident Public Portal. Anonymous reports can be made through Crimestoppers, and the health board has opened its People's Enquiry and Resolution Service on 03000 851 234 between 10am and 4pm.

Ms Giraud reiterated that the mother can approach any healthcare worker, walk into a police station, or speak to an officer directly. I'll be following this one closely as the investigation continues — check back for updates.