Baby Found Dead in Lancashire Stream Was a Boy

6 October 2011, 10:17 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Lancashire Police say a baby found dead in a stream near Preston was a boy.

The child, who was initially thought to be a little girl, was found in a stream in Kirkham on Saturday by a dog walker.

Officers said that tests also found the baby boy, believed to be up to a month old, was born full term and not prematurely.

Senior investigating officer Detective Superintendent Neil Esseen said: "Today's developments underline the difficulties facing the inquiry but importantly our investigation is continuing to move forward.

Our primary focus is to trace the mother of this baby boy to ensure she is given the help and support that she needs.

I cannot emphasise enough that even the smallest pieces of information may prove crucial in finding out exactly what has happened.''

Police said they have not ruled out foul play as the death remains unexplained but it was more likely a case of child abandonment

Officers have released photographs of items found at the scene close to the body. They include two towels, one with the Union flag on and one green, and a brown fleece - which the child was wearing - that was originally blue and white and from Asda.

Tests showed the infant could have been in the stream for up to four weeks, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room at Blackpool police station on 08451 25 35 45.