THE search is on to locate a woman and the newborn baby it is believed she gave birth to.

Evidence of a birth was discovered by a dog walker on the morning of Monday 19th October near Penhow, and has been forensically and medically examined by officials.

Gwent Police and their partners in health and social care are appealing for information to find the woman and child in question. It is believe she will have given birth sometime between Sunday 18th October and Monday 19th October.

Indications are that the baby is female. Experienced healthcare staff have given an opinion about the possible age of the baby, which suggests that she is capable of surviving, but would require expert and immediate medical support. The mother may also need medical and emotional support.

?The baby may have been taken to a doctor or hospital for care, but has not been seen by one in the Gwent area.?The agencies involved want to emphasise that their primary objective is the wellbeing of the woman or girl and her baby, and that information provided to them will be treated in confidence.

Anyone with information that could assist is asked to contact Gwent Police on 101 quoting log 126 19/10/15.