Police have launched an investigation after a newborn baby was found dead inside a bag outside a church in west London.
The tragic discovery was made just before 1pm today along Talbot Road in Notting Hill as officers launched an urgent appeal to find the baby's mother, who they believe may need medical attention.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed paramedics attended the scene but sadly the baby was pronounced dead.
Officers have remained in the area as urgent enquiries continue into the "extremely sad and shocking" incident.
Police are investigating after a newborn baby was found dead inside a bag outside a church in west London
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At this stage, police have not established the baby's gender or exact age.
Superintendent Owen Renowden said Scotland Yard's immediate priority is to locate the baby's mother, whom authorities believe might have very recently given birth.
The superintendent said: "This is an extremely sad and shocking matter and officers are working hard to establish the circumstances around what has taken place.
"This investigation is in the early stages and our immediate priority is to locate the baby's mother, who we believe may have very recently given birth."
Officers are appealing directly to anyone who might have information about the incident.
In a direct appeal to the mother, Superintendent Renowden said: "If you are the baby's mother and are reading this, please come forward to police or medical professionals."
The police are urgently appealing for the mother to come forward "for her own welfare".
Officers are appealing directly to anyone who might have information about the incident
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"You must feel very frightened but please let us help – we are really worried about you and it is vitally important you get medical assistance and support. You can walk into any hospital, or a police station."
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference CAD 3431/25March.
The Metropolitan Police are treating the matter with urgency as they continue their investigation in the Notting Hill area while residents with any knowledge of the situation are encouraged to come forward.