The mother of a dead premature baby found dumped in a field has been found safe following a public appeal, police have confirmed.
Officers were called on Thursday to reports of a human foetus being found on Canford Heath in Poole, Dorset.
A cordon was put in place as initial enquiries were carried out by police officers and NHS Dorset.
Police said finding the mother had been an "absolute priority" and she was being given support and the medical help she required.
The harrowing find of the unborn baby was made by a dog walker, who immediately alerted the authorities yesterday.
A hunt was launched for the tragic child's mother over concerns for her welfare.
Now, Dorset Police have announced they have tracked down the woman, who is currently receiving specialist care.
It is not being treated as a criminal matter, it has been confirmed.
Police also requested the privacy of the mother and her family be respected.
A statement read: "The mother of a foetus found in Poole has been identified following a public appeal and is safe and well.
"At 3.50pm on Thursday 2 March 2023 Dorset Police received a report that a deceased human foetus had been found on Canford Heath near to Culliford Crescent.
"An investigation was carried out by Dorset Police and NHS Dorset and a cordon was in place while enquiries were conducted in the area. The priority of everyone involved was to locate the mother and ensure she received the appropriate care.
"Following the appeal, the mother has been identified and officers have ensured she is receiving all the support she needs.
"This is not being treated as a criminal matter and our thoughts are with the mother at this extremely difficult time.
"We would like to thank the public who provided information in response to our appeal, as well as the local community for their support while there was an increased emergency services presence in the area.
"There will be no further information released and we would ask the public not to speculate on the circumstances.
"We would request the privacy of the mother and her family is respected."
The sad discovery has led to an outpouring of grief from several people on social media.
One said: “I feel sorry for mum having to go through this ordeal on her own and not knowing there were people to support and help her in this situation as it isn’t uncommon.
“I also feel for the person who found and reported to the police!"
