Human placenta found in Southampton: What we know so far

A cordon was in place at the path leading to Holly Brook off Dale Road, following the discovery on Wednesday morning.

Police said they are still in the early stages of enquiries.

UPDATE: Search continues for missing mum and newborn baby

Here’s what we know so far:

Heightened police presence after afterbirth found near Holly Brook (Image: Newsquest)

Police have found what they suspect to be a human placenta in the Holly Brook area off Dale Road in Shirley on Wednesday morning.

Enquiries are still in the early stages and a cordon was put up at the entrance to the path leading to Holly Brook.

Hampshire Search and Rescue Team is involved in the search, along with police dogs and drones.

'Extremely concerned'

Southampton Chief Inspector Marcus Kennedy said the force is “extremely concerned” for the welfare of the woman who may have given birth.

He said: “I am making a direct appeal for her to get in touch with us.

"I know this must be a very distressing time for you, but I want to make sure you are getting the right help and care.

“I understand you may be frightened; it is important that you get in touch with us.”

CI Kennedy has appealed for anyone with information to come forward and speak to the force if they have any concerns for anyone who was recently pregnant.

He said: “We want to speak with anyone who has concerns about someone who has recently been pregnant, that you think may have been pregnant or may have given birth recently without support.”

He added: “If you have any concerns, however insignificant you may believe them to be, please do not hesitate to approach an officer or to call us.”

'I can’t imagine what she must be going through'

Hampshire Search and Rescue were on the scene on Thursday evening to help with the search (Image: Newsquest)

The finding has shocked residents in the area.

One woman said: “This is dreadful. I can’t imagine what the woman must be going through.

“That path is not maintained properly. I feel really sorry for her. I wonder what she must be going through.”

Another woman said: “Around midday, I was walking my dog when I saw the police in the area.

"The pathway is quite narrow but it leads up to a big wooded area.

"This is not the most well-known area but yes, we don’t know what’s happened.”

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting reference 44230246419.