A new possible witness has been identified by police investigating the worrying discovery of a human placenta on a wooded path in Southampton.

Since the discovery on Wednesday, 21 June by a schoolboy near Holly Brook Park, officers have trawled large amounts of CCTV footage from the area over the span of several days.

As part of their latest appeal, they have now expanded the timeframe of when the woman involved may have given birth to Saturday, June 17 at the earliest.

READ MORE: Everything we know after human placenta found in Southampton

The investigating team have now identified a man as being someone who may have witnessed what happened.

Officers believed he was in the Dale Road and Holly Brook Park area on Saturday, 1 July at around midday - ten days after the discovery - and that he 'may have information to assist police'.

He has now been identified and has spoken to police.

Daily Echo:

Officers also reiterated their earlier appeal for anyone to come forward 'who has concerns for someone close to them who may have recently given birth, whether it be a friend, family member, co-worker or anyone within their local community'.

A 30-year-old woman was arrested in connection with this incident but has since been released with no further action to be taken.

Detective Chief Inspector Elizabeth Pirie is leading the enquiry.

She said: “We remain extremely concerned for the welfare of the mother who recently gave birth, we believe between June 17th and 21st in the Holly Brook Park area.

“Our number one priority is the welfare of both the mother and child involved, and as such we need anyone with concerns for a girl or woman they know to make contact with us.

“We recognise that the mother may be fearful of identifying herself and she needs your help to get the care she and her baby desperately need.

“The trauma experienced by giving birth alone will continue to affect her unless she receives the appropriate support as soon as possible, even if she believes she is ok.

“If you have information regarding a woman or girl you think may have been pregnant, or whose behaviour has been unusual or out of character over the past few months, including withdrawing from friends, family and social ties, please forward their name to any of the contacts below.

"All names will be treated with the upmost discretion and can easily be discounted from enquiries without delay, if they are not the mother we are seeking.

“The mother and child desperately need help. Please help us to help them.”

Police are advising anyone with information to call 101, quoting reference number 44230246419.

They can also call Crimestoppers to give information anonymously on 0800 555 111 or they can make contact with their local hospital, GP or walk-in centre.