Police continue search for mother of newborn baby found dead in Portsmouth

Here is everything we know so far:

:: The tot was found just before police were called at 6.18am on Saturday.

:: The baby was discovered near the junction of Victoria Street and Old Commercial Road in Buckland.

:: CCTV shows five people walked through Old Commercial Road between 5am and the time police were called. Officers now want them to come forward.

:: Forensics teams put a tent over the body as officers have searched the area.

:: Neighbour Anastasia Jamieson, 43, a beauty therapist, told a national newspaper help is out there for mums, and added: ‘So we are just shocked it's happened. I saw the baby - I looked out the window. I couldn't sleep. No one knows where the mother is.’

:: Search dogs have been used in the operation.

:: Police have made a direct appeal to the mother. Detective Chief Inspector Simon Baker said: ‘We are extremely concerned for the welfare of the mother of this child.’

:: Neighbours reportedly said the child was found next to a lamppost under a blanket.

:: Bunches of flowers and soft toys have been left at the scene.

:: Police would like to speak to anyone in the area who has CCTV camera at their home, or has a dash cam in their car and were in the area – particularly if the camera continues recording when the engine is off.

:: Anyone with information should call 101, quoting Operation Cravat or 44200030626. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

:: Emma Hayward, co-chair of the Portsmouth and Chichester branch of child bereavement charity Sands, told The News: ‘Anyone who is affected by the loss of a baby is welcome to approach us for any support. Our hearts go out to the family.’

:: The Sands helpline is 0808 164 3332 and the charity can be reached at [email protected]