A desperate search is underway to trace a woman after a foetus was found.

The tragic discovery was made at 3.50pm this afternoon.

Dorset Police received a report that a deceased human foetus had been found on Canford Heath near to Culliford Crescent.

Police are concerned for the mother's welfare and are appealing for the public's help to find her so she receives appropriate care. 

Chief Inspector Gavin House, of Dorset Police, said: “This is a very sad discovery and our absolute priority now is to locate the mother of the child to ensure she receives the appropriate care.

“I would also ask anyone who witnessed anything in the area of Canford Heath on Thursday 2 March 2023, or from anyone with any information to help us find and support the mother.

Dr Paul Johnson Chief Medical Officer with NHS Dorset said: “I am appealing directly to her to please contact medical services or the police as soon as possible so that we can ensure she is safe.

“I would also appeal to anyone who may have concerns about a family member, loved one, or friend to make contact.”

In the event of a medical emergency please call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting incident number 02:495. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.